English isn’t just the most-studied language in the world, it’s also one of the most difficult to learn. From its confusing idiom to its sometimes bizarre pronunciation (there are no less than eight different ways to pronounce “-ough”), learning English as a second language is as challenging as it is essential.
That’s where Cambridge Coaching comes in. Our trained ESL instructors love working with students who are beginners in the language, as well as those who are further along. We draw our ESL tutors from Harvard’s School of Education, NYU’s language programs, as well as the Columbia Teacher’s College. Most of our tutors speak multiple languages, so they know what’s like to learn a new language, and they are realistic (yet optimistic!) about helping you meet your English speaking goals.
We offer ESL tutoring at all levels, from beginners who need grounding in grammar, to professionals who are looking to improve their spoken and business English. Working with our tutors is far more efficient than attending a class, because our tutors will work with you to craft a unique curriculum that focuses on the things that you want to learn. Our goal is to give you the skill and confidence you need, whether it’s for work, school, or travel.
Select the focus that is right for you to learn more about how we can help you improve your English.
Academic Business Enrichment Test Preparation Cultural Exploration
Suggested Approaches
We have 5 approaches to teaching ESL, and they encompass all linguistic goals from grammar heavy test preparation and translation to conversational enrichment and business packages. While each of the methods below can be effective, your specific goals will impact which method we select for your tutoring.
Resources
Because we are not invested in selling proprietary materials, we’re able to pick and choose the best textbooks. Here are some of our favorites:
- The Blue Book of Punctuation & Grammar
- Practice Makes Perfect: Intermediate English Grammar for ESL Learners
- Practice Makes Perfect: Advanced English Grammar for ESL Learners
- The Elements of Style
Daily Immersion: Newspapers & Music
In addition to what you study during your tutoring session, one of the most fun aspects of learning a new language is exploring the culture that it comes from! Podcasts are a great way to supplement your language classes. Immerse yourself as you stroll through Harvard Square, or as you walk down Lexington Avenue.
- BBC Podcasts
- NPR Podcasts
- English Class 101
- All Ears Podcast
Local & regional newspapers are a great way to follow current events in your new language, while advancing your reading comprehension. We’ve listed out some of our favorite news sources below, but since you’re in the States, just read whatever you can get your hands on!
- New York Times
- Los Angeles Times
- Wall Street Journal
- Huffington Post
- The Guardian
There are also tons of newspapers published in the United States that cater to bilingual populations. Find these daily publications around NYC or Boston to get local news in your target language.
Tip: Highlight or make a list of the words you do not recognize as you read. Don’t stop to look them up immediately. Finish the article and see how much you can understand without the dictionary. Then, look up the words, and re-read. This process may seem repetitive, but it asks your brain to work a bit more actively, and will yield results!
Don’t miss out on English music! Some musicians are particularly easy to listen to in their native tongue. Listening to music will get you comfortable hearing your target language and help your comprehension. While you’re at it, you’ll expand your knowledge of colloquial vernacular and regional slang.
- Chuck Berry
- Maroon 5
- Taylor Swift
- The Lumineers
- Edward Sharpe
- Van Morrison
- Vampire Weekend
- Or, just turn on the radio!