If you’re a Bangla medium student looking to improve your English, you might feel a bit overwhelmed at first. English can seem like a completely different world, especially if you’ve been taught primarily in Bangla. But let me tell you, learning English is possible, and it can actually be fun! Here’s how you can start improving your English using simple and enjoyable methods like movies, series, lectures, books, and even a mirror!

1. Start Watching English Movies and Series

One of the best and easiest ways to improve your language skills is by immersing yourself in English-language media. Watching movies and TV series is not only fun but also a great way to learn new vocabulary, slang, and expressions.

How to do it:

• Start with movies or shows that you enjoy. Whether it’s action, drama, or comedy, pick something that keeps you engaged.

• Use subtitles in English to match the words with how they’re said. You’ll improve your listening skills and spelling at the same time.

• Don’t be afraid to pause the movie and repeat phrases that sound interesting or useful. Practice makes perfect!

“Pro Tip: Watching shows like Friends, The Office, or even children’s shows like Peppa Pig can help you get used to conversational English and everyday vocabulary.

Sharmin Sultana

Author

2. Listen to English Lectures or Podcasts

Another great way to immerse yourself in English is by listening to lectures or podcasts. There are tons of free resources online that cater to all interests, whether it’s business, science, or personal development. By listening to these, you get exposure to formal English while also learning new topics.

How to do it:

• Try listening to TED Talks or educational YouTube channels that are in English. Start with short ones, and gradually increase the length as you become more comfortable.

• Podcasts are a great option because they can be played in the background while you do other tasks, like cooking or commuting.

• Take notes while listening. This will not only help you understand but also reinforce new vocabulary.

Pro Tip: Podcasts like BBC Learning English or The English We Speak are fantastic for learners at all levels.

3. Read Books in English

Yes, I know—reading a whole book in English can sound like a big task. But trust me, it’s one of the most effective ways to improve your English. The key is to start small.

How to do it:

• Begin with children’s books or young adult fiction. These books are written in simpler language, making it easier to follow along.

• Don’t be afraid to look up words you don’t understand. Make a habit of writing them down and revisiting them later.

• As you get better, move on to novels and non-fiction books.

 Pro Tip: Reading out loud will also help you improve   your pronunciation and fluency. Don’t worry about   sounding perfect—just keep reading!

4. Talk to Yourself in the Mirror

This may sound silly, but talking to yourself in front of the mirror is a game changer. It helps you practice speaking confidently and improves your fluency. When you’re alone, there’s no judgment, so it’s a perfect place to start.

How to do it:

• Describe your day in English to the mirror. Start with simple sentences: “I woke up at 7 a.m.”, “I had breakfast”, etc.

• Try to form new sentences based on the vocabulary you’ve learned from movies, books, or lectures.

• As you get more comfortable, try holding short conversations with yourself. Practice asking and answering questions in English, as if you were speaking to someone.

Pro Tip: If you don’t want to feel too self-conscious, practice in front of a phone or computer camera. You’ll get used to speaking English without feeling nervous.

5. Keep a Journal in English

Writing in a journal is another fantastic way to improve your English. The great thing about journaling is that it’s for you—you don’t need to worry about grammar mistakes at first. The goal is to get into the habit of expressing yourself in English.

How to do it:

• Write a few sentences every day about what you did, what you’re thinking, or your goals.

• Focus on expressing yourself rather than worrying about perfect grammar. The more you write, the more natural it will become.

• Over time, you’ll notice your vocabulary and sentence structure improving.

Pro Tip: Try to write about topics you’re passionate about. If you love food, write about your favorite recipes in English. This will keep you motivated!

6. Practice with Language Apps

There are plenty of apps that are great for improving English, especially when you’re on the go. Apps like Duolingo, Babbel, and HelloTalk can help you with vocabulary, grammar, and speaking practice.

How to do it:

• Use these apps during your free time to do quick lessons or practice speaking.

• Set a daily goal for yourself to stay consistent, even if it’s just 10–15 minutes a day.

Pro Tip: Set your phone to English. This simple change helps immerse you in the language every day.

Final Thoughts

Improving your English as a Bangla medium student may seem challenging at first, but remember that consistency is key. Whether it’s watching English movies, listening to podcasts, reading books, or talking to yourself in the mirror, every small effort adds up.

Stay patient, enjoy the process, and most importantly, have fun with it! You’ve got this!