Language Fluency

Let me tell you about a day in the life of an English teacher who gets invited by students to hang out. Picture this: I'm in China, far from family, feeling a bit lonely sometimes, but that's not what we're focusing on today. 

I was reminded of a dear experience I had a few years ago when a good friendship developed at English Corner activities, turn out to be such a win-win outcome for me and the student involved. I suppose we enjoy each others company while learning at the same time. I got to go to places I would not go without a chaperone and she got to share China with me while practicing her English. We remain friends today, but we don’t talk that much anymore, life gets busy and we don’t live in the same city anymore. 

I did remember that experience above because today I had a similar beginning of what it could be the same kind experience I had with my friend before. This last week I had made a few new friends at the canteen and they invite me to spend Saturday together going out of the university to eat and visit some places with her and her friends. 

I accepted the invitation and we had a nice “Huo Guo” for lunch, we walked at the park and we went to a few places where it we could not get in because it was full of people (no more bookings available) like the KTV for karaoke singing. But we manage to do other fun stuff, like riding the swing on the park. 

Now here is the point I want to emphasize, when I met those girls, specially Lou Yike (the one I spend more time talking) she was not so confident to talk, what I mean by that is that she was not very confident in her abilities to express herself, and to be honest she needed to look in her phone to find words she wanted to say, I will not lie to you and say that by end of the day she did not needed to keep searching for words, but I will say, that after a few hours together she forgot about being nervous and we as a group was just enjoying going out, and when that happen her fluency got so much better, by the end of the day it was palpable how much she did improve in just one day of practice. AND THAT IS WHAT I TELL ALL MY STUDENTS ALL THE TIME, AND THEY SEEMS NOT TO BELIEVE IT, BECAUSE THEY DON’T PRACTICE ENOUGH. 

As my other friend from few years ago got so much better in speaking English because of the practice, I feel the same could be accomplished with anyone who practices. The cool thing about it is that we are having so much fun together and it did not fell like studying (but it is studying). I am saying this because I know some students would feel guilty for NOT studying, but in the situation of learning a language only studying hard as in reading books and doing grammar exercise may not produce the best results if you do not include the use of the language in real life communication as did have today while having so much fun in doing it.

I am always hoping to make a difference in the lives of my students and friends I made here in China, and today reaffirmed the power of genuine connection and shared experiences. As I reflect on the day spent with Lou Yike and her friends, I'm reminded once again of the transformative potential inherent in human interaction. 

Through our shared adventures, laughter, and conversations, I witnessed Lou Yike's confidence grow, her English fluency blossoming with each passing moment. What began as hesitant exchanges soon evolved into fluid communication, demonstrating that immersion and practice truly are the keys to language mastery. 

Just as my previous friendship flourished through mutual exploration and learning, today's experience underscores the importance of stepping outside the confines of traditional study methods. Language acquisition isn't solely about memorizing vocabulary or conjugating verbs; it's about engaging with the language in real-world contexts, embracing the spontaneity of conversation, and forging meaningful connections along the way. 

So, as I bid farewell to another fulfilling day in China, I carry with me not only cherished memories but also a renewed sense of purpose. Through our shared experiences, I am reminded that teaching isn't just about imparting knowledge—it's about empowering individuals to unlock their full potential and navigate the world with confidence. 

As I continue on this journey, I am committed to fostering moments of connection, growth, and discovery, knowing that each interaction holds the promise of transformation—for both my students and myself. Together, we'll navigate the intricacies of language, culture, and friendship, weaving a tapestry of experiences that enrich our lives and transcend borders. And in these moments, I find my greatest fulfillment — knowing that I've made a difference, one conversation at a time. 

2024-03-02 Saturday out: YouKu / YouTube.