Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How do I improve my English in Santa Monica, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with special programs, you have several key options for learning English interactively in Santa Monica, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, check centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are a little more affordable.) Your other option can be local commercial language academies that are cheaper and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, international learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can opt for a private English tutor in Santa Monica, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Santa Monica, CA and online English tutors.
🎟 Is it affordable to learn English and how much should English tutors ask?
For university and college courses you can estimate English course cost as one-tenth of the yearly tuition (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for 45-48 course hours each semester. Language centers and private English tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the most budget-friendly English tutors can be found online, with costs on Preply averaging 13 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor geography, ratings and student demand. Customer review average for English lessons on Preply is 4.92 out of 5 stars.
📚 How much English do I need to know to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared demonstrate proof of your current level. 'Canned' classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework level and graded tasks, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal English tutors you can read real feedback for whom the tutor is effective with and which other specializations they make available (like classes for adults, etc.) For better flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is English so challenging and are there ways to learn it more effectively?
Standardized language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn English. According to experts, you can gain basic English fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback several hours a week you will be able to understand everyday phrases, speak on some level, shop and place orders in about a year. Finding native speakers is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and enjoyable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of English. After gaining basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have English tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced level practitioners.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking English?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in English will require at least 600 hours of study. The amount of time can differ significantly depending on your already acquired level of English or familiarity with other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch news and movies, write by hand and online using your new language skills, find native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in English out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational English classes online.
🤳 Can I choose my own English teacher?
In language learning academies, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, certainly! The largest selection of approved English tutors with video profiles and customer reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What time of day and on which days are classes available?
Colleges as a rule structure classes two times weekly over a semester (75-day period). Language schools typically give shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, you can take as few as one lesson a year, as many as several a day - and as many (or as few) as you want during any time of day, on weekdays and/or weekends.