NUMBERS - Learning Strategies

LEARNING NUMBERS IN ENGLISH?

THESE THINGS CAN HELP YOU

MULTIMEDIA - ENGLISH
November 19, 2021

English is the most spoken language in the world. Therefore, most people will always find themselves in situations where they have to speak the language. It could be while on vacation, online, or in other places. Whatever the case is, knowing the language benefits you tremendously.
Learning English numbers is also very helpful. For instance, you may find yourself on vacation in an English-speaking area. You’ll need to know how to count to maneuver restaurants, hotels, etc.
So, how can you make learning English numbers a fast and seamless experience? Here are a few tips to help you out.

1. Use Number Rhymes

This is a simple yet fun technique used in kindergarten. The idea here is to use some easy-to-memorize rhymes that incorporate English numbers. And as you learn the rhymes and memorize them, you start to learn how to count and use the English numbers.
Take the 1,2,3,4,5 Once I Caught A Fish Alive rhyme, for instance (click HERE to take a look at the previous post). It incorporates numbers in an entertaining rhyme making it easier to learn. It’s even more entertaining and educational when watching the animated video that shows you how to write the numbers.
The good news is there are countless number rhymes available on the internet for free. Just type “number rhymes” on Google, and you will find them. Most of them are also available in video formats on YouTube.

2. Use Drawings To Improve Your Counting

The other engaging method of learning numbers is through drawings. This is a great option when you already have a basic understanding of numbers, and you just want to test your arithmetic skills.
To get started, you can write down the numbers that you want to add, subtract, divide, or multiply. Next, make a drawing representing each number. So if you are trying to add 1 and 1, you make drawings for each number.
The drawings could be literally anything from fruits to clothes, books, and so on. Then you just count the number of drawings, and that’s the result of your addition.
This is a pretty straightforward technique, so you should be able to learn to count the smaller English numbers in no time.

3. Find Learning Partners

You don’t have to learn English numbers alone. Make the experience even more exciting by finding a learning partner. And you don’t have to worry about their skill level that much.
If they are more skilled than you, they’ll challenge you and give you a guideline. If you’re more knowledgeable than them, you’ll get to master the numbers by teaching your friend.
So, you don’t stand to lose anything. You could even add a spinning wheel in the learning process to make it more interesting. Have your names added to the wheel, spin it, and the person whose name is picked gets to do a number or counting quiz.

4. Gamify The Experience

Make your learning experience even more exciting through number games. Many websites provide free number games for learners. The games are also available for pretty much all learning levels. So whether you are looking for entry-level number games or advanced options, you will find the perfect fit for you.
The games get even better if you play with a few friends. This can add a sense of competition which may challenge you to learn better and faster.

5. Include Numbers In Your Everyday Tasks

One of the best ways of learning anything is through regular practice. The more you practice, the more those principles will stick with you.
Therefore, to ensure you’re learning and practicing at all times, try and include English numbers in as many of your daily tasks as possible.
For example, when setting your table at home, count the number of plates, spoons, etc., you’re using in English. When writing down your grocery shopping list, write those numbers in English. Even when you are interacting with someone, try to use English numbers whenever possible.
Doing this regularly will help you learn and master the numbers pretty fast.

6. Utilize Online Resources

The internet is full of learning resources that can enhance your learning process significantly. I’ve already pointed out that YouTube is a goldmine of counting rhymes. But in addition to the rhymes, you can also find tutors on the platform.
You can also search Google for English learning websites. Some websites provide free lessons. In other cases, you will have free access to a few resources, but you may need to pay a subscription to access premium content.
There are also some English learning podcasts. This is a great way of learning even on the move. You can switch on a podcast while doing some chores at home or driving to work. These will help you learn some fundamentals of numbers and English as a language.
Lastly, look for English learning applications like Duolingo. There are dozens of such apps on Google Play Store and Apple’s App Store. Like websites, you will find some apps are free while others will ask for a subscription.
As you can see, there are lots of resources to help you out. And the best part is you can find the right resources for your budget and current skill level.

7. Ask Questions

Some people find it hard to learn by themselves, so they invest in an English course. This is a smart move because having a tutor is one of the best ways of expediting your learning process.
However, a few students tend to shy away from asking questions. Maybe it’s because you feel you are too old not to know numbers and counting. Or perhaps you’re in a class with other students and don’t want to be the laughing stock.
Do not be that student. Ask your teachers as many questions as is necessary to grasp the subject. You’ve paid for the classes, after all, so get your money’s worth.

8. Be Patient With Yourself

Don’t be too harsh on yourself. Learning is a process, so you shouldn’t expect to grasp everything overnight.
Also, understand that different people have different learning speeds. So do not beat yourself down simply because someone else seems to do better than you. No, focus on yourself and take your time to learn.
Oh, and instead of comparing yourself to other students, why don’t you invite them for a brief learning session every once in a while? There’s so much you can learn from a partner.

Learning numbers in English is not as hard as it may sound. You just need the right resources and a little bit of patience. Hopefully, the above tips have opened your eyes to what you can do to make this process seamless for you.

Adapted from: https://multimedia-english.com/blog/learning-numbers-in-english-these-things-can-help-you-84. Accessed on November 29, 2021. © Angel Castaño 2008-2021 Salamanca / Poole-free videos to learn real English online. All rights reserved.