When and where you learnt English will have influenced how you were taught. There are many different methodologies in use around the world. This, and how much you have used English, will influence your language proficiency. Have you noticed differences between what you learnt and how language is used in the UK? Then these resources will be a useful starting point for you.
We run interactive workshops to help you develop your academic skills. Find out more on the Skills for Learning Workshops page.
We have online academic skills modules within MyBeckett for all levels of university study. These modules will help your academic development and support your success at LBU. You can work through the modules at your own pace, revisiting them as required. Find out more from our FAQ What academic skills modules are available?
Reflect on your language strengths and weaknesses. You can book an appointment to discuss this in more detail. Common issues can be areas such as vocabulary, fluency or pronunciation. It is important to remember that there are many aspects to language proficiency. Identify areas for improvement and follow the guidance on this page. You will soon feel more confident. Many of the activities have been adapted from this book on learning languages:
Nation, P. (2014) What do you need to know to learn a foreign language?
To study at a British university, you need to be proficient in using English. All aspects of this are important for your studies.
Academic English is a more specialised use of language for studying. It builds on your general language proficiency and any weaknesses can affect your studies. For example, if you have pronunciation issues, an academic presentation might be difficult. Apply these language learning principles to the aspects of your English you would like to improve.
Choose the aspect you want to improve and follow the guidance. Set yourself regular goals and keep records so that you can see your progress.
Listen to this advice from the British Council about learning vocabulary.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your vocabulary.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your grammar.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your pronunciation.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your fluency when speaking.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your fluency when listening.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your fluency when reading.
Download this worksheet to help you improve your fluency when writing.
Before using any generative artificial intelligence or paraphrasing tools in your assessments, you should check if this is permitted on your course.
If their use is permitted on your course, you must acknowledge any use of generative artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT or paraphrasing tools (e.g., Grammarly, Quillbot, etc.), even if you have only used them to generate ideas for your assignment or for proofreading.
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