One of the more difficult things for someone learning English as a second language to do is answer questions without sounding silly. Let me help with that.

When learning English, to be able to speak as an American, you want to avoid repeating what the person asked. You want to avoid asking, "What did you say?" Try using these two things:

1) Listen carefully for key words in the question. These would be words that you probably already know. They would be the main words in the question that convey the idea.

2) Ask, "Could you rephrase that question, please?" The word rephrase is somewhat of a challenge, but what it means is to re-word something. Or, to ask the question again, but using different words or changing the order of the question being asked. This question makes you sound less like a new person learning the language. And, even though the person asking the question probably already knows that you are learning English, asking that question will get their attention, as we as show that you respect them.

What is a benefit of applying this to your learning English? Well, what you have done is bought yourself time. How so? You probably already understood some of the words in the question that was asked, but as you ask a question, you are allowing yourself time to position yourself to LISTEN to the question again.

Remember; never be embarrassed as you learn a language. People are usually very understanding in how they respond to you. Loosen up! When you relax and have fun learning English your brain functions better, it absorbs better. That's why they call me the English Sponge, right?

Yours,

Mike Wilson
The English Sponge

Mr. Wilson is a teacher and trainer who has over 25 years in the education field. As a double certified TESOL Instructor he has volunteered much of his time over the years to help people learn language and better their lives. He now teaches language live over the internet in both an individual and group format. He has engrossed himself in the study of heightening memory capability while grasping a new language.

Find a complete album of videos for learning English for ESL learners on my YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/englishsponge.