The English Brain

You don't have to go far to find a service or program that offers English lessons.

But how much English can you learn by going to class? Of course you can pick up the basics and even push yourself to higher levels, but most of the time that isn't good enough. Students across the globe to search for the ultimate English program or "all English" environment.

However, as the world begins to migrate to English speaking countries, institutions are having trouble creating and running authentic "all English" environments because your classmates are from the same country.

The best situation is a homestay, however, the quality of the hosting family will vary which may increase the chances of isolation and loneliness. If the individual is able to find a good host family, the experience will be life changing.

Another popular option is for students to join camps usually located at universities, colleges or out of high schools.

The international presence at most of these camps is significant and even though the instruction is in English, many students still rely on their mother tongue to communicate throughout the day with their fellow traveling tour group.

This kind of experience exposes the student to an all English program but doesn't meet the requirements of acquiring the English Brain.

There are several clues into knowing whether you have an English Brain or are beginning the process of acquiring the language.

Having dreams and first thoughts in English are key indicators or clues. 

Our brain is very complicated making it difficult to navigate or understand especially for the everyday student or teacher who is interested in improving language. How does emotion, attitude, perspective, background and the list goes on to contributing to language?

We do know that dreams are real. They are processed in brain and have the ability to take everything we do and experience and somehow send us messages or pictures unconsciously. 

There is purpose in dream but before we dive deep into the human psyche, we can simply take notice whether a student has used English to some capacity in their dreams. 

This doesn't happen to all, but a great majority of ESL learners who have gained a certain level of language have had English dreams.

Another indicator or clue is being conscious of how you have a conversation. The question is, "do you think in your mother tongue first before translating it into English?".

Higher Language leveled students will say they don't, but for new learners, this is usually a 'yes'.

By starting your day with English thoughts, this will increase the probability of gaining or training the English Brain.

Specific exercises used on a daily basis helps to train this region of the brain.

Struggling to reach new levels of language is frustrating and finding help can be troublesome.

Check out Dragons Abroad summer program for a unique 'all English' environment and learn from the experts in language acquisition.