Learning a language takes a whole lot of process. Building foundations is needed before going into the basic and complex ones. Likewise, a language requires macro skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. It is difficult to learn all these macro skills quickly, so the question is, “How long will it take to learn a new language?”
Consider oral proficiency.
Among the four macro skills in a language, speaking is one of the most challenging aspects you need to learn. The reason is that it results from combined reading, writing, and listening. Likewise, it will define how well you can use the language to respond and interact in your environment. Oral proficiency usually takes three to five years to develop. However, it depends on the learner’s exposure to the target language. The more you are exposed to the language, the more your brain can adapt.
Moreover, using your native language also affects learning a new language. It would be better to try using the target language and set aside your native language first while conversing to practice your speaking skills. Exposure is the key to oral proficiency, and if you are looking for ways to speed up your improvement orally, there are spoken English classes that can assist your language learning. These classes have various activities requiring you to use the target language as much as possible.
Keep an eye on academic language proficiency as well.
Aside from oral proficiency, learning a language also includes academic language fluency. It encompasses written, auditory, and visual language proficiency for effective communication. Although visionary, it applies in business and other formal settings worldwide. It takes four to seven years to achieve academic language proficiency. But just like oral proficiency, you might want to expose yourself more to the target language to speed up the acquisition.
The importance of time and exposure
If you try to search for an answer regarding how long it will take to learn a new language, you would normally get an average of six months if you are enrolled in a structured and formal lesson. However, you might want to make extra learning effort to become proficient in the target language. Time and exposure contribute a lot to language learning. The more time you allot to studying and practicing the language, the higher the chances you can master it immediately. Likewise, the time comes with exposure. Suppose you surround yourself with materials written in your target language and people with the same goal as you; your language learning will be more active and effective.
Challenge yourself!
Planning to enroll in a formal language class is a smart move. However, if your time is limited but you still want to learn a new language, spoken English classes can be your go-to resource this time. Challenge yourself by doing self-paced learning and see what you can do!
