Learn English Grammar

Learn English Grammar Without Memorizing Grammar Rules

You've studied for several years, but trying to learn English grammar puts you to sleep. You are starting to feel comfortable with the language. You understand most conversations and can follow the thread when watching movies; you can carry out your day-to-day activities and can interact with native speakers, but your English grammar needs work.

You've tried all the grammar books but haven't made any progress. This article teaches you how to learn grammar without studying grammar rules. It assumes that you are surrounded by native English speakers. (You can still apply these tips if you are not, but you'll have to work harder to create language opportunities.) Let's get started: how to learn English grammar without memorizing grammar rules.

Lay the foundation: Read

How much do you read in English? Do you do any pleasure reading in English? If not, start there. Ask the librarian at your local library to select books in English that match your current abilities. For example, if your conversational skills are at an intermediate level, i.e. you can speak on familiar topics, ask and answer simple questions, initiate and respond to simple statements, and carry on face-to-face discussions, I'd recommend that you start with children's picture books. The pictures are engaging, and the stories entertaining. They are short enough for you to not get discouraged, and the language is varied enough to expose you to a rich pallet so you can learn English grammar and vocabulary.

I love Cinderella stories; many variations on this tale exist. Some of my favorites are Ella's Big Chance: A Jazz-Age Cinderella by Kate Greenaway, Fanny's Dream by Caralyn Buehner, and Bubba the Cowboy Prince by Helen Ketteman. Speaking of Helen Ketteman, I also love her Aunt Hilarity's Bustle; besides being an entertaining story, this has a rich set of vocabulary.

If your English skills are at the advanced level, for example, you are able to participate freely in most casual and some work conversations, able to give simple directions or explanations at work, and able to talk about past and future events, then you might want to try young adult literature.

Keeping with the Cinderella theme, one of my favorites is Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine. I also love serial books -- books that have more than one book in the same series -- the Little House on the Prairie series is a timeless classic. The Harry Potter books have taken the world by storm; I've enjoyed them. If you undertake this series, you will certainly learn English grammar since some of the books have more than 500 pages.

If your skills are still at a beginner level, don't fret. For example, if you are able to ask questions and make simple statements based on memorized sentences, understand conversation fragments and simple commands, then look for beginning readers. Beginning readers are designed for children just learning to read. These books have simple vocabulary and short sentences.