When you move to a new country, knowing how to speak their language is beneficial as it can help you adapt better. Most newcomers in Canada want to improve their English language skills for the following reasons: to find a job, pursue higher education, or better integrate into the new society.

Speaking in a language you don’t use every day can be challenging. However, with practice, you will gain improvement and confidence. Other than joining an English class, there are many ways to improve your English language skills.

Join English Conversation Circle

Since the pandemic started, many community programs transitioned online to continue offering their services, including us. The YMCA Newcomer Information Centre offers a fun, friendly, and welcoming English Conversation Circle with the opportunity to socialize with other immigrants, improve your spoken English and broaden your knowledge of Canadian culture. An experienced facilitator will guide you through the discussion about topics on life in Canada and current situations.

We have three interactive English Conversation Circle that you can join from the comfort of your home:

• LSP – English Conversation Circle – Canada My New Home
• LSP – English Conversation Circle – Steps to English Fluency
• LSP – English Conversation Circle – Let’s Speak English

Please check our event calendar here for more details on how you can join our English Conversation Circle.

Volunteering

Spare a bit of your time to volunteer in a cause you support or events you enjoy. While doing so, you can also meet new people and practice your English communication skills. There are many opportunities available, from one-day events to long-term volunteering. Find out what other benefits you can get with volunteering from this blog post! You can also speak with our Information and Referral Specialist to get information on finding volunteer opportunities.

Learning English with movies

Watching movies could be a fun way to improve your English, but make sure to watch English movies with English subtitles. You can learn the daily spoken words native speakers use to improve your pronunciation and expand your vocabulary. Pick a movie that interests you, prepare a notebook and dictionary, and write down new words or sentences from the movie. If you are at a beginner level, you could start by watching animation movies, because they are using English that is easy to understand.

Read books

Reading books could also be a way to learn grammar, improve your reading and writing skills. If you are at beginner level, you could start with reading children’s books. There are many books you can borrow at your local public library and start reading. Same with movies, you should also pick a book that interests you to make the learning more enjoyable. 

Remember to have fun and enjoy the process of learning a new language. When you feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to take a short break. That way, you will feel more refreshed and ready to continue your learning process.