Studying foreign language– the process is not simple, but very necessary. Many people now need to know English. For example, this is relevant for travel, moving abroad, communicating with foreign colleagues and friends, and work. There are many representative offices of international companies in Moscow that require excellent knowledge of English from their employees. To improve your language proficiency, you need to attend classes. They are held in special schools, of which there are a whole lot in Moscow. Some of them are designed for children, others for any age. Such schools differ in many factors, including:
- Number of people in groups. It is believed that the fewer students study at the same time, the more effective training. You have more opportunities to ask a question and get the teacher's attention. There are schools where the maximum number of people reaches 4, and somewhere it can be 20.
- Intensity of classes depends on the chosen course and goals. For example, many centers offer 2-month summer programs or 1-2 week programs during the holidays.
- Schedule. The ability to choose the most convenient schedule is a very important factor. There are places where there is no strong connection to groups, and the student can study in different groups at a convenient time. Some schools give new students the opportunity to join at any time, others only at the beginning of the course.
- Methodology. The most effective are considered to be communicative ones, which facilitate the assimilation of information while speaking in English. Traditional methods also deserve attention, because... suitable for a large number of people. Many linguistic centers develop their own proprietary teaching methods.
- Teachers. The most important person in the educational process, of course. The teacher appears. The assimilation of information, the effectiveness of classes and the interest of students depend on it.
- Price. This indicator can vary greatly from school to school. Choose courses based on your capabilities. The average price of an academic hour in Moscow is 600 rubles.
We found out which English language schools are considered the best in Moscow. When compiling the rating, the following characteristics were taken into account:
- effectiveness of training;
- student reviews;
- location;
- price.
Top 10 English language schools in Moscow
10 BigWig
The most interesting events in English
Website: bigwig-moscow.ru
On the map: Moscow, per. Sivtsev Vrazhek, 44/28
Rating (2019): 4.5
BigWig Language Center offers effective English language courses that allow you to achieve maximum results. There is a standard program to choose from, costing only 6,000 rubles. per month, English club - speaking practice, individual lessons, as well as corporate lessons for companies. Lessons here are taught in English (90% of the time), which ensures high efficiency. New words are easily learned with the help of special techniques from the center’s teachers. 
All students can attend interesting events - the game "Mafia" in English, a film club, etc. The center regularly holds a conversation club, where discussions of the most current and the right topics completely in English. At the end of the course you receive a special certificate. The cost of classes starts from 9,000 rubles. per month. Reviews indicate the rapid overcoming of the language barrier and complete immersion in the language environment during classes. Advantages: parking, located in the center of Moscow, interesting events, high performance, good feedback. Disadvantages: none found.
9 Windsor
The best school for preparing for IELTS, convenient flexible learning system
Website: windsor.ru
On the map: Moscow, Komsomolsky Prospekt, 7
Rating (2019): 4.5
Windsor is an English school that has existed for over 15 years and is recognized as one of the best for preparing for the IELTS exam. Experienced teachers take into account individual characteristics each student, create the most effective programs and improve methods. The teachers here are native speakers from the most different countries: Canada, USA, Great Britain, etc. The qualifications of each of them are confirmed by international certificates. The school annually organizes intensive English courses in the Canary Islands. 
The lessons are based on lexical method learning, which involves learning not individual words, but expressions, which allows you to effectively develop spoken language and improve your knowledge of grammar. The Flexible system makes it possible to join a group at any time, because... each new topic starts every two weeks. Main advantages: you can join at any time, flexible class schedule, foreign teachers, a unique methodology, several course options to choose from for children and adults. No deficiencies found.
8 ILS
Classes for children from 3 years old
Website: ils-school.com
On the map: Moscow, Mitinskaya st., 36, building 1
Rating (2019): 4.6
International language school ILS has 16 branches in Moscow and the Moscow region. Having existed for more than 15 years, the center has developed and improved unique methods of learning English. With their help, students can quickly and efficiently improve their level of knowledge, become familiar with the cultural environment of other countries and use their skills in practice. By the way, almost all students of the school successfully pass the Cambridge exams every year. 
The basis used here is communication technique, which through spoken language promotes memorization of new words and understanding of grammar. The learning process excludes the Russian language, and lessons are often taught by native speakers. Special programs are designed for children from 2 to 17 years old and adults. Teenagers are sent to English boot camps. Advantages: courses for any age, individual needs taken into account, 16 schools to choose from, native speakers among teachers, interesting form of education. Disadvantages: none found.
7 Globus International
Preparation for exams, interviews
Website: globus-int.ru
On the map: Moscow, st. Makarenko, 5
Rating (2019): 4.6
The Globus International linguistic center was opened in Moscow 13 years ago. It includes many courses for learning English, including intensive (twice a year for 2 months), standard, using unique proprietary methods, a business course, preparation for interviews, as well as for international exams and tests. At school you can improve your knowledge before moving abroad or traveling, improve your communication skills in classes with a native speaker, learn to think in English, remove the language barrier and much more. 
Globus International has a large teaching staff, which includes the most professional teachers. Students leave positive feedback and confirm the effectiveness of the classes. There is a course for children, teenagers and adults, as well as corporate courses for companies. Main advantages: many options for classes to choose from, quick results, effective techniques, comfortable classes, interval testing, low prices (a standard course costs 5,500 rubles per month). Cons: none found.
6 Denis" School
An effective approach to teaching
Website: dschool.ru
On the map: Moscow, Malaya Dmitrovka street, 25, building 1
Rating (2019): 4.7
The international network of foreign language schools Denis "School is represented in different cities of our country, including Moscow. There are 5 branches located close to the metro. The methodology is based on systematic approach, which touched on all aspects of the school’s original methodology. Denis School teachers believe that a student should develop a certain general “picture” of the language, and not a set of individual rules. Only a system in studying will help you quickly and easily understand the language and learn to use it. 
The goal is to teach students communication skills with native speakers, easy acquisition of grammar and maximum expansion vocabulary. The characteristics of each individual student are taken into account here, so the methodology may be slightly adjusted as classes progress. The school teaches both in groups (maximum 10 people) and individually. Pros: a lot practical classes, experienced teachers, author's methodology, speaking practice every lesson, interactive games, high efficiency. Cons: none found.
5 VKS-International House
VKS-International House is a network of schools for the study of foreign languages, founded more than 25 years ago. During this time, their own teaching methods were invented and traditional ones were refined. The school's teachers are experienced specialists with extensive experience who constantly make adjustments and improve the effectiveness of classes. The process is controlled by the director of education and 20 head teachers. There are many different courses to choose from: standard for adults on weekdays or weekends, theater + English, intensive, conversation, children's, for beginners, etc. 
The school organizes English camps for children and teenagers. The classic course lasts six months and costs about 13 thousand rubles. By the way, this center is the only one in Moscow that has the ability to host all prestigious international exams. There is even a teacher training course. The advantages include innovative methods, experienced teachers, versatility of the school, and the effectiveness of teaching. Disadvantages: prices are above average.
4 American Club of Education
Excellent teaching staff
Website: english-language.ru
On the map: Moscow, Merzlyakovsky lane, building 13/3
Rating (2019): 4.8
There are 4 American Club of Education English language schools in Moscow. According to experts, it is one of the most effective. Classes here are conducted in courses of 4 months and consist of 2 lessons per week for three academic hours. In one course, students move to the next level. The teaching staff includes experienced Russian-speaking teachers, native speakers and bilinguals. Groups are formed depending on the level of knowledge and are divided into 4-9 people. 
Classes are equipped with modern equipment and allow you to watch video materials and use Wi-Fi. Classes are held in a fun way using a methodology that combines traditional teaching methods and communicative methods. Each student is entitled to a free trial lesson. Advantages: discount system, good prices, interesting classes, intensive courses, convenient location, preparation for international exams. Disadvantages: none found.
3 Big Ben
Best price, convenient location
Website: big-ben.ru
On the map: Moscow, st. Dmitry Ulyanov, 36
Rating (2019): 4.8
The Big Ben School of Foreign Languages provides training in an interesting format using games, cards, but most importantly, two teachers are present at each lesson. One of them is a native speaker, the other is a Russian speaker. Each lesson is taught entirely in English. There are both group and individual lessons to choose from. The center prepares for international exams and organizes training abroad. In Moscow there are 13 branches of the network near metro stations. 
All teachers have prestigious certificates and are developing new programs. The maximum number of people in groups is 8. The school guarantees that after just a few lessons even a beginner will be able to speak English. Advantages: affordable prices (from 5,000 rubles per month), excellent reviews, convenient location of centers, teachers include native speakers, flexible class schedule. No deficiencies found.
2 Alibra
Maximum efficiency in the shortest possible time
Website: alibra.ru
On the map: Moscow, st. B. Tulskaya, 13
Rating (2019): 4.9
Alibra is one of the largest networks of English schools in Moscow (24 centers). Students are guaranteed to achieve maximum results in just six months, but subject to intensive training. A unique proprietary technique allows you to reduce the duration of the course, but maintain its effectiveness. Students note that the program really makes it easy to learn English. Much attention is paid here to associations, spaced repetitions, logical study of grammar and conversational training. 
Special mobile applications and online courses for additional study have been developed for students. Many classes take place in game form and allow you to quickly memorize new words. The average cost of courses per month is about 10 thousand rubles. The maximum number of people in groups is 12. Main advantages: optimal cost, unique methodology, promotions and special offers, high efficiency, quick results, large network of 24 schools. No cons found.
1 Wall Street English
Mini-groups up to 4 people, flexible schedule
Website: wallstreetenglish.ru
On the map: Moscow, Prospekt Mira, 33, building 1
Rating (2019): 4.9
Wall Street English is an international network for learning English with offices in many countries. The school in Moscow offers training in small groups of up to 4 people, divided by level of knowledge. Lessons can be interactive and taught in the style of popular Hollywood TV series. The emphasis is on improving communication skills. It is believed that speaking can lead to a better understanding of grammar. Each student is guided by a mentor who monitors achievements and progress. You can also contact him with any questions. 
The school organizes training in other countries. Lessons and communication with mentors are conducted entirely in English, which perfectly immerses you in the environment. The program is selected individually for each person and the cost accordingly. There is no strong connection to groups, so the student can choose the most convenient schedule. The network in Moscow includes 6 schools. Advantages: effective proprietary learning method, guaranteed results, taking into account personal needs, flexible schedule, mini-groups, certified teachers. Cons: none found.
Hints for those who find it difficult to decide :)
Thinking about which English courses to choose? Let's try to solve this problem together.
The advantage is that all the information is presented “on a silver platter”. A professional will help you master the material and correct your mistakes. During classes, you will immediately practice the acquired knowledge in practice. But here a problem may arise: there are many language schools, and each of them offers a wide variety of courses.
Let's look at the types of courses and what they teach.
Courses for language learning purposes
We have repeatedly said that setting the right goal is the most important thing before starting to learn a language. Before you start looking for a school and choosing a course, decide what exactly you need the language for. Based on your goal, begin to think about which course will be most effective in achieving it.
Classics of the genre (classical course)
Such classes allow you to improve your knowledge step by step. Attention is paid to the development of each skill. The teacher does not place much emphasis on improving students' vocabulary, grammatical structures or phonetics, but tries to give equal attention and time to each aspect. In this way, the student will confidently move towards his goal, gradually mastering various skills and improving his command of a foreign language.
Spoken English
This course is suitable for those who need to master spoken English in a short time. In such classes, the main emphasis is on learning colloquial phrases and expressions. Particular attention is paid, of course, to the practice of communication skills. Grammar is learned during direct communication. Also, in the classroom, after a brief explanation of the topic, students immediately move on to consolidating the learned structures in practice. Students are encouraged to practice communication skills using specific examples, artificially creating typical situations in which English skills could be useful. Also, since communication is not only the ability to speak, but also to understand the speech of the interlocutor, much attention is paid to listening. In good schools, such a course necessarily offers practice in speaking English with a native speaker.
Preparation courses for international exams
(TOEFL, IELTS, FCE, CAE, etc.)
These courses are suitable for those who are planning to study abroad, move to another country, or for those who need a certificate for work. During the courses, you not only learn the language, but also learn how to perform various tasks from the test you have chosen. After all, most exams include specific tasks, which often require not only knowledge of the language at a certain level, but also the ability to think logically. The specifics of a particular test, the nuances of completing tasks are analyzed: for example, how to write a letter correctly in a formal style, and how to write an informal one, tips on how to correctly perform exercises from the sections “reading”, “writing”, “grammar”, etc. d. The teacher will give useful tips upon passing the exam of your choice, while simultaneously giving you the necessary knowledge of English.
Business English
In these courses you will learn the English you will need to be as successful as possible in your work life. You will learn the vocabulary necessary to communicate with colleagues and clients, learn how to correctly write business letters and documents. Also during classes, the teacher will introduce you to the rules of business etiquette. The main thing is not to be confused with the courses described in the paragraph below :)
Technical courses
These courses are aimed at people of a particular profession. These courses focus on learning highly specialized vocabulary in various fields: medicine, law, programming, journalism, etc.
Intensive courses
Such classes are conducted for people who need to complete a level or several levels in a short time. Lessons are usually held 4-6 times a week, and in most cases the lesson itself lasts longer.
Teaching methods
English by level
This technique, which is considered classic, involves dividing students into groups according to knowledge levels. In total, there are 6 levels as standard: from Beginner to Advanced. Sometimes the levels are designated by letters: A1-C2. It's also worth considering that a really good school will probably have sub-levels. For example, B1+, B1++. The advantages of dividing into sublevels are that more time is devoted to completing one level, and accordingly, more in-depth knowledge is given for each level. In addition, this way you are more likely to be placed in a group with other students whose level is closest to yours, and you will not have to re-learn much of what you have already covered. To fully complete the entire level, it takes from 4 to 9 months (depending on the duration/frequency of classes, as well as on how in-depth one level is covered in a particular school).
This technique is suitable for students who want to gain fundamental knowledge of the language, fully develop all skills and know the language in depth, and not gain only superficial knowledge for everyday communication.
Flaws:
- Since you study the language in more detail, you, as it were, put together a puzzle of small parts, this technique requires a lot of time and money. However, this disadvantage can be smoothed out if you also do independent work at home - then you will learn the language faster.
- You will be able to maintain a full-fledged conversation on everyday topics using simple vocabulary only at the third level (Pre-Intermediate). At the levels below, you will “fill” the base, learn simple constructions, learn how to build elementary sentences using basic vocabulary.
Levelless techniques
This option is suitable for people who want to gain basic knowledge, including spoken English, in a short time. For those who do not have the time (or desire) to study various aspects of the language by going deeper into it. Maximum attention in such classes is paid to conversational speech and the study of simple, frequently used vocabulary. During classes, the teacher will teach you how to write sentences without errors and communicate with classmates. Students will also role-play various life situations.
Flaws:
- Learn a language in a few months high level unreal. You will only know basic vocabulary and grammar; you will not be able to describe your thoughts and emotions in more precise words. However, you can compensate for this shortcoming by continuing to study on your own.
We hope this information helped you figure out which English courses to choose.
English courses- a great way to improve your knowledge. In order to get the highest possible results, you need to choose the right company that offers such services. Today we will try to figure out how to find a really worthwhile language school and professional teachers.
Purpose of study
First of all, you should decide why you want to learn English. Depending on this, the type of courses is selected. Let's look at the most popular options offered by most organizations:
- Classic courses. This type of class allows you to gradually improve your knowledge and pay attention to every aspect of a foreign language. The teacher does not focus on vocabulary, grammar or phonetics, but tries to equally develop students' skills.
- Conversation English courses. Suitable for people who want to learn how to communicate freely with an interlocutor live or over the phone. During the learning process, the teacher focuses on the development of communication skills. A lot of time is spent creating typical situations for students and listening to audio recordings. A good school will definitely offer you the opportunity to communicate with a native English speaker.
- Specialized courses to prepare for international exams. If you want to continue your studies in another country or are thinking about moving, you will definitely have to take one of the tests: IELTS, TOEFL, CAE, GMAT, GRE, etc. Many language schools offer students courses aimed at preparing for a specific type of exam.
- Business English courses. During the training process, the teacher will introduce you to the rules of business etiquette, help you expand your vocabulary with appropriate terms, and teach you how to write letters correctly. As a result of completing high-quality courses, you will be able to communicate freely with foreign partners and conduct your business as successfully as possible.
- Intensive English courses. Designed for people who want to learn English in a short time. Classes are held 5-7 times a week. Schools also offer students longer lessons.
- Technical courses for representatives certain professions. Such classes allow you to study the terminology that is used in the field of medicine, journalism, law, etc.
English courses: teaching methods
The modern market for English language courses offers both traditional and alternative teaching methods. Let's look at the advantages and disadvantages of each of them.
1. Classic or level method. Training takes place according to the principle of dividing the material into six levels (from Beginner to Advanced). This approach is considered the most effective, because the student can devote sufficient quantity time to all aspects of language. He will learn to freely express his own thoughts, speak without a significant accent, write correctly and perceive the speech of his interlocutor. As a rule, it takes from 3 to 9 months of intensive work to complete one level. Consequently, you can learn English almost from scratch in 2-2.5 years.
Flaws:
- Duration of training. Not suitable for people who want to learn a language in a short time.
- Absence large quantity language practice. As a rule, you can begin to communicate fluently in English only from the 3rd level (“Below Intermediate” - Pre-Untermediate), that is, after a few months.
- Big costs. The longer the courses, the more you will have to pay for training.
2. Levelless technique. This option is worth choosing if you do not have time to comprehensively study English. Such techniques are often called communicative. During the learning process, the teacher will focus on developing communication skills. First, you will learn to formulate sentences accurately, conduct a conversation with other course participants, and then you will even be able to think in English. Another advantage of such classes is that they are much more interesting than traditional lessons.
Flaws:
- It is simply impossible to thoroughly learn a language in a few months. You will only learn how to maintain oral communication with foreigners.
- Poor knowledge of grammar. In such a short period of time, you can only become familiar with the basic rules of the English language. This is not enough to, for example, pass international exams.
- Limited vocabulary. Much depends on what level of English you come to the language school with. Beginners will learn to communicate in English from the first lessons, but their vocabulary will differ significantly from more advanced students.
How to choose the right English language courses?
Having decided on the purpose and methods of training, you can begin to search for a suitable language school. After choosing several options, ask if this organization offers free lesson. Note! Trial lesson is a lesson that takes place in a group of students who are already studying at the chosen school. Public lesson held exclusively for new students. It is worth giving preference to the first option, which will help you reliably assess the quality of teaching and learning methods.
Requirements for teachers
1. Availability of a profile higher education. Be sure to ask potential teachers to show you a certificate of graduation from a university with a degree in English teaching. Many schools offer teaching services to students who have not yet received their diploma. Try to avoid such courses.
2. Having your own methodological developments. A good teacher devotes a sufficient amount of time scientific activity. The interested teacher is probably the author of several books or manuals for learning English.
3. Use of various teaching methods. Find out which textbooks are used by a particular teacher. A competent specialist gives preference to books written by foreign authors. One-sidedness in teaching is not welcome: a wise teacher tries to take advantage of different methods and knows how to correctly combine classical and modern approaches.
4. Availability great experience. Find out how many years the teacher worked at the chosen school and what he did before. Parallel work at a good university is a big plus, which speaks volumes about the professional experience of the teacher.
5. Ability to present material correctly. By attending a free class, you will immediately understand whether this teacher is right for you. Pay attention to how he explains the rules and works on mistakes. It is important that he does all this competently and, at the same time, as simply and clearly as possible.
6. Friendly attitude towards students. Only a pleasant atmosphere is conducive to effective group classes. A wise teacher will make you feel as free as possible in a new team.
Number of people in the group
The optimal number of students present in classes is from 4 to 8 people. In a small group you can develop your communication skills very well. Also, many students note the appearance of additional motivation: they want to achieve results faster than others.
If you are going to take an international exam, give preference to mini-groups of up to 4 people. In this case, the teacher will be able to devote a sufficient amount of time to each student.
What English courses should not be like
How not to make a mistake in choosing a language school and not become a victim of scammers?
1. First sign bad school- this is the lack of state registration of the organization.
2. Red flag agreement. When signing a contract, you must be as careful as possible. Find out if you are entitled to get your money back if you have to stop your classes unexpectedly.
3. After talking with people you know, you find out that they have never heard of this school. There is also no information about this organization on the Internet. Don't take risks: give preference to well-known schools that have existed for at least several years.
4. The teacher does not offer you to diagnose your level of knowledge. From the very beginning, the teacher should understand what gaps in your knowledge you have. It is unacceptable for people with completely different levels of language proficiency to study in the same group. This can lead to problems and misunderstandings in the future.
5. Fraudulent English courses will force you to pay immediately for the entire training period. Remember: good schools offer weekly or monthly fees. If you don't like something, you can finish your studies without financial loss.
6. If you decide to study at a language school for a long time, find out in advance whether you will be given an unpleasant surprise in the form of a change of teacher in the next semester. The entire course should be taught by one teacher, to whom you are already accustomed. After all, it is quite possible that after a qualified specialist, an illiterate person without a diploma will come to your lesson.
Find good ones English courses simple enough. The main thing is to trust only proven recommendations and exercise maximum caution when signing an agreement. We wish you success!
It would seem that foreign language courses remain an effective way to imitate natural communication and immersion in the environment, and the help of a qualified teacher will always give the right direction. But is it always?
Today, in almost every city there are many schools and studios that invite everyone to study with them. Unfortunately, not every one of them meets high requirements. What to consider when choosing a language school? How to choose the right course? What do you need to know to avoid disappointment? Today we invite you to talk about the most important points in choosing an educational program.
1. Goals and deadlines. What exactly would you like to study and practice (grammar, conversation practice, specialized courses in preparation for international exams or Unified State Examinations, professional (technical) English, business English, intensive English courses, corporate English, English courses for preschool/school children).
2. Time is money. Classic foreign language courses offer an average of 2-3 hours per week (academic hour for children and schoolchildren / double academic hour for adults). The course usually lasts 8 months. Here, as in sports, regularity and systematicity are important.
Due to the peculiarities of the rhythm modern life and the catastrophic lack of time for those wishing to study, some schools offer less frequent visits - once a week. In this case, you should take into account the peculiarities of your perception. A week is a long time and new information can simply be forgotten without practice and repetition.
There are intensive training courses where students attend classes 5 - 7 days a week. Of course, the duration of the course is also compressed to 2-3 months.
3. Trial lesson. After you have successfully set a goal, calculated the time you can allocate for learning the language, chosen a direction, we move on to action. Most modern studios offer their students a free trial lesson, during which everyone can get an idea of the teacher’s style, get to know the group, and practically evaluate the advantages of the language school described on the website. Unfortunately, not all companies offer this class, but if they do, be sure to take it. It's important to consider the slight difference between trial lesson And open lesson. The first is usually held in a group of students already studying the course, and you are invited to join the conversation. Most often on open lesson you will meet people who, like you, are coming to class for the first time.
4. Testing. All competent language classes They will definitely ask you to take a test to determine your level of knowledge.
The fact is that most schools conduct diagnostics of their students in order to prevent the formation of a group where people with different levels of knowledge will study. In the future, such an omission can lead to misunderstanding of some and boredom of others, language conflicts and the disintegration of the group itself.
5. Choice of teacher. It is very important that the learning process gives you pleasure and joy. When choosing a teacher, pay attention not only to his certified qualifications (this is not discussed), but also to his friendly attitude and ability to present the material correctly. 
Many teachers are highly qualified specialists in the theoretical field, have many articles, but are absolutely unable to explain the difference between, for example, in an accessible and logical manner. Past Simple and Present Perfect.
6. Group size. The ideal group consists of 5 - 8 people, but if you want to undergo specific preparation (for example, for exams), we advise you to choose more intimate groups. In such conditions, the teacher will be able to pay more personal attention to each of the listeners.
7. What is the course about?
The first thing you must understand is the choice of methodology - classical or communicative.
Classical technique involves classes in accordance with the level of material (Beginner/Elementary - A1, Pre-Intermediate - A2, Intermediate - B1, Upper-Intermediate - B2, Advanced - C1, Proficiency - C2).
The advantage of this technique will be the step-by-step logical study of grammatical and lexical categories. You will be able to pay sufficient attention to both phonetics and the spelling of words, learn to express your thoughts, and enter into dialogue. One of the main disadvantages of this process is the lengthy period of basic training if you start learning English from the basics. After all, a student will be able to get a sufficient amount of practice only at the Pre-Intermediate/Intermediate stage.
The classical teaching method involves long-term training, since each course lasts several months.
Communication technique focused on communication and maintaining dialogue. A significant advantage of such an organization educational process is a focus on developing communication skills. Classes are built on the principle of “minimum theory, maximum speaking practice.” Having mastered the basic tools for constructing sentences, students will be able to engage in dialogue and express their opinions from the very first lessons. This technique is ideal for those who cannot allocate enough time to study a foreign language. However, the disadvantage of such a course will be the insufficient concentration on the development of lexical and grammatical aspects. Having mastered elementary schemes, students will hardly budge in terms of vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures. Here online resources and sites for self-study English language, for example, Begin English. In addition, the communicative technique is more interactive and interesting.
8. Signing the contract. In conclusion, we would like to give advice on the legal side of the issue. When signing the contract, pay attention to all points, especially the conditions for refunds if you miss classes (for a good reason). You should not agree to a course if the school forces you to pay the entire tuition fee at once. You always have the choice of splitting your payment monthly or in installments. Some schools hold promotions in the form of free lessons or discounts, which you can find out about if you ask about them yourself or look on the website!
An important point is the presence of state registration of the language school and permission to educational activities. Be sure to ask whether diplomas or certificates are issued upon completion of training.
Feel free to find out as much useful information as possible. Competent administrators will not get annoyed and will tell you with a smile about all the lucrative offers if they want to get you.
We wish you success and never question your abilities!
Victoria Tetkina
But, unfortunately, not every school can boast of the effectiveness of its methods. Often, after completing the courses, the student feels a lack of knowledge and language skills necessary for live communication. How not to make a mistake with your choice and take courses that will help you achieve your desired level? In the article we provide useful tips and recommendations compiled by high-class practicing linguists.
Define your goals
The choice of group and thematic accents will depend on this. If you want to improve your English, you will be offered a program based on your basic knowledge. A professional language reboot is required - business English courses are at your service.
The task is to prepare for entrance exams to a foreign university - the methods should include materials that will help you pass all the tests and assignments with the highest scores. You should talk about your goals from the very first minutes of meeting a representative of the language school. This is very important information on which the further direction of your studies depends.
We designate deadlines
There is time left and you are not in a hurry - sign up for classical courses with a standard program that will gradually reveal more and more new knowledge and skills. Squeezed into a framework, you need to immerse yourself in English quickly and at the same time efficiently - choose intensive methods that allow you to learn a foreign language from scratch in two to three months.
Frequency of classes
The classic and most acceptable option is twice a week. The information is well absorbed, you do not get tired and do not have time to forget the material covered in the last lesson. There are schools that offer a once-a-week classroom schedule for very busy people. But, as practice shows, such exercises do not give good results. Even if the lessons are paired and there are several of them, in six days the memory of what was covered in the courses is erased.
Price
When choosing a school, look at the cost of courses. In order to understand the adequacy of the price offer, first do monitoring. Find out how much courses cost at different language centers. This way you will see the average indicators and understand what amount you need to focus on. If you are told the cost of courses is one and a half to two times higher, ask what is behind these figures. Perhaps the administrator is offering an increased intensity program.
School authority
If you want to choose the best for yourself, find out more about the school before signing the contract. On the Internet you can find forums and websites with reviews and objective recommendations, without any advertising background. The best option is to trust the advice of acquaintances and friends who took language courses and were satisfied with the results.
And another way: for an introductory lesson, find a good tutor who will determine your level of knowledge and recommend a linguistic center or language school with decent language training.
Trial lesson
Most schools offer students who have not yet decided on their choice to attend a lesson and understand whether the classroom format is suitable or not. Typically this feature is provided free of charge. You become part of the class, take part in the discussion of the topic, and maintain a dialogue with the teacher. Get to know the group, see educational materials, and get involved in the process. If you like it, sign up and continue learning.
Teacher's choice
In this matter, the decisive factor is human factor, however, as in other communications. When meeting new people, after some time we understand whether we are comfortable in dialogue or whether communication is reaching a dead end. A teacher can be very strong in theory, but behind him there are scientific works, dissertations, but in practice - problems with explanation elementary rules. If after several classes you begin to understand that information is passing by, raise the question of moving to another group.
Mandatory testing
You shouldn’t be afraid of him, much less refuse. It is necessary in order to determine your initial level of knowledge. How else will the teacher understand which group to classify you in - an ace or a beginner? You don't even need to know the results - they don't affect anything. The next step will be the first lesson, the start of your educational process.
Number of students in the group
The ideal composition is six to eight people. When a group includes more than 8 students, the teacher does not have time to pay attention to everyone. Intensive programs are limited to five people.
Methodology
When choosing language courses, you must find out what method you will use to study. Let us highlight the two most common: classical and communicative.
Classical involves a gradual immersion in the rules and linguistic laws of English. Step by step, vocabulary, grammar, phonetics are revealed to the student, and pronunciation is gradually practiced. Much attention is paid to the introductory part, theory. Active practice begins after the student has a language base. One of the disadvantages of the classical method is its duration.
This is the difference from the communicative method - learning is faster and more dynamic. It is based on a live dialogue with the teacher and communication with other students in the group. The topic is revealed using specific examples from life and is actively discussed in free form. The classes are lively and interesting, suitable for all age groups. The emphasis is on practicing pronunciation, logical stress and intonation. Minus - the theory is presented weaker than according to the classical method. Most often you have to reinforce the material independent work at home or additional lessons with a tutor.
School location
This is a very important point on which your desire to learn will depend. Getting to the other side of the city is long and uncomfortable. Therefore, one of the key factors in the choice should be territorial proximity to home.
Availability of all necessary documents
To ensure that the diploma or certificate you receive at the end of your education carries weight, choose a school that is accredited, licensed, and has all the required registration paperwork. You might say it’s bureaucracy, but you can’t do without it yet.
How to choose English courses for children
English is required in modern world. It is spoken in all countries on the planet and used in various professional communications. And the earlier a person starts learning a language, the stronger his skills become over the years. One of the questions that worries modern parents is what time to start teaching English to children and what courses to choose. We answer and give useful advice.
When to start learning English
Here opinions are divided. One camp of linguists recommends starting training at the age of three, gradually introducing new material, introducing the child to the basics of English in a playful way. There are special development centers with a language focus, which become a kind of preparation for linguistic school. Classes are held in small classes. Format - musical, theatrical, interactive. Nothing in common with classical lessons. The task is to attract and retain attention, to help assimilate new information.
The second camp of teachers considers purposeful learning of English from the age of three to be extreme. If a child does not grow up in a linguistic environment - for example, a Russian mother and an English father - there is no need to rush. The ideal age is 6 years. The child develops a conceptual consciousness, he perceives the material systematically, in an orderly manner, thinks logically, remembers well, and makes associative series. Schoolchildren know what discipline is; classroom lessons in courses will not become something new and incomprehensible.
English courses for children. Making the right choice
Now about how to choose good school, which will give your child decent knowledge, teach him to express his thoughts in English, write and read, understand the interlocutor and communicate freely in a new language.
- Teaching Staff. Teachers who work with children must have a certificate such as TKT according to the YLE program and level of language knowledge (according to minimum requirements) Advanced. This means that the teacher has successfully passed the qualification exam and received professional permission to teach children.
- Convenient schedule. Follow the lesson schedule at school. Classes on courses should not be closely spaced - right after the last bell, upon hearing which the child dreams of quickly running out of class and going home. You need time to rest. The ideal time for English classes is not late in the evening, from 16.00 to 19.00.
- Close to home. It makes no difference whether you are driving or not. If the journey to the language school takes more than 30 minutes, the process is tiring and takes away extra time. Give preference to language centers located near you.
- Effective and understandable program. First, study the offers of other schools, read about different teaching methods, their pros, cons and features. Who knows their child better than parents? After familiarizing yourself with the characteristics and study expectations, you will understand what is suitable and what is better to refuse.
We hope our tips will help you do right choice. And remember that learning English should, above all, be enjoyable. It is also a proven fact: what we do with pleasure quickly bears fruit.
