Whether you’re enrolled in an our English Academy in Manchester or simply learning English on your own, English teachers often recommend a variety of resources and teaching methods, with movies and TV shows being especially popular. This approach not only boosts your speaking and listening skills by exposing you to natural accents and expressions, but also provides a fun, interactive learning experience.
In 2018, research by Albiladi and Abdeen examined how watching films and TV shows can enhance English proficiency. A learner shared, “Sometimes, when my teacher introduces new vocabulary, I realize I already know it from a movie—especially in science fiction, since I enjoy watching sci-fi films.” This highlights the value of authentic learning, giving you real-world language examples and improving vocabulary retention.
Why Watching Movies and TV Shows is Beneficial
Listening Skills
One of the biggest hurdles in learning English is developing strong listening skills. Movies and TV shows let you hear English used naturally, helping you build comprehension and overall auditory proficiency.
English Pronunciation
Pronunciation can be tricky when you don’t hear words in context. Films and TV series can improve speaking fluency by providing authentic examples. A handy tip is to repeat new words aloud a few times to refine pronunciation, which significantly boosts fluency over time.
Expanded Vocabulary
Another key benefit is the chance to grow your vocabulary. You’ll encounter a variety of new words, phrases, and expressions. Keep a notebook handy to jot down unfamiliar terms; later, you can ask your teacher at your English Academy in Manchester for clarification.
Recommended Shows and Movies
If you’re unsure where to begin, Friends is a classic choice for learners, thanks to its straightforward dialogue and relatable content. For movies, Toy Story is an excellent option. While it’s created for children—meaning the vocabulary is generally simpler—it’s also entertaining for adults, featuring humor that appeals to all ages.
Whether you’re learning in Manchester or looking to study English in the UK generally, remember to keep your notebook close when watching Friends or Toy Story. You’ll be amazed at how much new vocabulary you pick up. Happy watching and learning!