5 questions for a language learner in later life

Keiko is from Japan and has lived in New Zealand for 30 years. As a busy homemaker raising four children, she learnt English organically from TV and the radio, from church friends and with her children once they started school.

Keiko’s English is good enough for everyday life. But now she has more time for herself, she’d like to develop her speaking skills.

1. How do you feel about learning English?
   I make many mistakes when I talk. I want to talk and not worry about mistakes. I hope not too old to become better.

2. What’s the hardest thing about learning English?
   I never learnt grammar. It is hard to change mistakes.

3. How do you overcome this?
   I practise speaking with Christina who helps me say the right way. When I understand why, it is better for me. She gave me a grammar book where I did tests, then exercises for my mistakes, but only my mistakes. No need to do all the exercises so not boring. And I read books every day.

4. What are your goals?
   I want to do volunteer work in church. I want to talk in church meetings. So I need confidence to talk in a group.

5. What’s your advice for older people who want to learn a language?
   It is hard to remember so you must work every day. Then you will get better too.

See more about learning a language in later life here, here and here.

Need a hand to set up and stick to your DIY language project? I can help.

© Christina Wielgolawski