When we were kids, especially in large classrooms, speaking English felt like a hurdle. We spent a lot of time on grammar and reading comprehension, but practicing spoken English, not so much!
As adults, learners rightfully focus on improving their English-speaking skills as a way to compensate for the lack of practice when they were students, but often forsake writing skills as they underestimate the impact it can have on them.
The truth is, speaking and writing are two sides of the same communication coin, and learning both skills will make a big difference to their overall level in English.
English Speaking vs. Writing, Thinking Fast vs. Thinking Deep
Speaking and writing operate on different landscapes.
Speaking is all about spontaneity. You need to think on your feet, using simpler sentence structures and readily available vocabulary. Imagine a lively discussion – the words flow quickly, fueled by the conversation’s energy.
Unlike writing, there’s no time for meticulous planning. Words tumble out, fueled by emotions and shaped by the dynamic flow of the moment. Sentences tend to be simpler, peppered with informal phrases and the occasional “um” or “uh” as we navigate the conversation. Nonverbal cues like body language, facial expressions, and tone become essential partners, adding layers of meaning beyond the spoken word.
The beauty of spoken English lies in its immediacy. Feedback is instant – a raised eyebrow, a confused laugh, or a hearty grin guide our next phrase. We can adjust our approach on the fly, clarifying points and ensuring understanding. This interactive nature fosters connections, allowing us to build rapport and share ideas in a more personal way.
On the other hand, expressing yourself in writing allows for more deliberate thought. You can craft complex sentences, refine your word choice, and even correct mistakes before finalizing your writing. Think of a well-researched report – the writer carefully builds their argument, ensuring clarity and precision.
As a language learner, you have the time to meticulously plan, revise, and refine your thoughts. Sentences can be intricately crafted, with a wider vocabulary at your disposal. Formality takes center stage as you strive for clarity and precision. Slang generally takes a backseat, replaced by more precise terms.
The permanence of the written word is both a strength and a challenge. Your words remain on the page, creating a lasting record. This necessitates careful editing and proofreading – a meticulous process that ensures your message is clear and error-free. Writing allows you to delve into complex topics, present detailed arguments, and create a polished product that can withstand scrutiny. Imagine a well-researched report or a heartfelt letter; the writer takes time to craft each phrase, ensuring the intended impact is achieved.
English Grammar and Vocabulary: The Foundation of Both
While the pace differs, both speaking and writing rely heavily on a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary. As you improve these core skills, you’ll naturally enhance both your spoken fluency and written clarity.
Think of grammar as the framework for both speaking and writing. Understanding verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and proper sentence structure allows you to arrange words and sentences in a clear and understandable way. Imagine trying to have a conversation or write a compelling essay with incorrect verb conjugations or sentence fragments – the message becomes muddled and difficult to follow.
Here’s how to strengthen your English grammar:
Focus on the basics: Master the fundamentals like verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and common sentence structures. There are numerous online resources and grammar books that offer clear explanations and exercises.
Practice, practice, practice: Regularly complete grammar exercises to solidify your understanding. Many online platforms offer interactive quizzes and games that make learning grammar engaging.
Pay attention to native speakers: Listen attentively to how native speakers use grammar in everyday conversation and written materials. This will help you develop a natural ear for correct usage.
English Vocabulary: Expanding Your Expressive Range
A strong vocabulary allows you to express yourself with nuance and precision in both speaking and writing. It empowers you to move beyond basic words, selecting the most appropriate terms to convey your exact meaning. Envision a lively conversation where you can effortlessly describe your emotions or a persuasive essay brimming with vivid language – both require a diverse vocabulary to truly shine.
Here are some tips to expand your English vocabulary:
Read extensively: Immerse yourself in different types of writing, from news articles to novels. Pay attention to new words and their context.
Actively engage with new vocabulary: Don’t just skim over new words. Look them up in a dictionary, understand their different meanings and usage examples.
Incorporate new words into your daily life: Try using the new words you learn in conversation or writing exercises. The more you use them, the more comfortable you’ll become with them.
By consistently working on your grammar and vocabulary, you’ll be laying the groundwork for success in both spoken and written English. Remember, fluency and clarity come through dedication and consistent practice.
The Nuances of English Writing
Don’t be fooled by the perceived ease of writing. While it offers time to plan, written communication has its own set of rules. There’s a whole world of formality and informality to navigate, depending on the context and audience. Knowing how to address someone appropriately can be crucial, especially in high-stakes situations like a job interview or a formal email.
While speaking and writing operate on distinct levels, they are not isolated skills. In fact, improving both can make you a more well-rounded communicator in English.
English Writing as a Practice Ground: The luxury of time in writing allows you to experiment with vocabulary and grammar structures. This newfound confidence can translate into smoother and more articulate spoken English. As you refine your writing, you’ll find yourself using more precise and varied vocabulary in your conversations as well.
Technology as Your Ally: Struggling with a word during writing? No problem! Online dictionaries and translation tools are readily available, helping you find the perfect word and improve your understanding of context. You can even leverage grammar checkers to identify and correct errors, refining your writing skills. These tools can also be used to analyze written English and improve your ear for natural-sounding spoken language.
Reading Aloud: Reading your writing aloud allows you to hear it as others would. This can help you identify areas that may sound awkward or unclear when spoken, allowing you to refine your writing for readability. This practice can also boost your confidence in speaking by familiarizing you with the flow and rhythm of natural English sentences.
Speaking and writing are complementary skills. By understanding their differences and focusing on building a strong grammar and vocabulary base, you’ll be well on your way to mastering both. Remember, even if classroom conversation time is limited, you can still practice speaking by finding conversation partners online or simply narrating your day in English.
To Go Further
– Live English Writing Workshop: 3 sessions to unlock your English writing skills
– Spoken English classes: 1-on-1 and group lessons to enhance your English-speaking skills
