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Studying English with video games

Gem C

Learning languages should be a fun experience. But many students want to give up on English after studying boring textbooks in school. I'm an English tutor myself, but I really understand that feeling!

Using your hobbies as a study method can make it more fun. Personally, I'm really into video games and sometimes use them to study Japanese. I'll show you how you can use your favourite games as a study tool, based on your English level.

Here is my advice below:

1) Write sentences about your favourite game (Beginner)
Practice grammar by writing original sentences about your favourite game or character. You can ask a teacher to check your writing or put sentences together to make a short speech. Recommended for kids, too!
Example: He's a prince from a kingdom. He has blue hair and blue eyes. I like him because he's kind and strong.


2) Practice writing with social media comments (Low Intermediate - Advanced)
Did you see a cool gaming video made by an English speaker? Or a really good drawing of your favourite game character? Why don't you try writing a comment? Creators love to recieve positive comments. In English, it's okay to comment suddenly even if you don't follow the creator.
Let's check some examples:
  • Commenting on a gaming video: "After watching your video, I was finally able to defeat the boss. It was really helpful. Thank you!"
  • Commenting on a drawing of a game character: "Wow, this is great. I love [character's name]. Your colouring is wonderful!"
TIP: Check the English names of characters, weapons and monsters before you comment. Sometimes it changes depending on the language.

 
3) Change the game language for reading practice (High Intermediate - Advanced)
Many popular games recieved an international release. This means there's a language menu at the start of the game. If you try selecting "English" instead of your native language, you can practice reading all the game menus and text in natural English. Many modern games have voice acting so you can get listening practice too.

 TIP: If you're worried it might be too difficult, consider:
  • The game's main audience: Games popular with children will use easier language.
  • The game's genre: For example, action games usually have less text to read than RPGs.
  • Repeating a game you played before: If you already played the game in your native language and understand the story, it will be easier to understand when you change it to English.
4) Try voice chat with international players (Advanced)
Online games often use voice chat so players can communicate. This is good for speaking practice. Actually, there are also lot of non-native speakers who use English for game chat because it's easy to find more teammates or trade items using a popular international language. So, it's okay if your English isn't perfect! The key point is to communicate necessary information for the game. 

TIP: In action games, quick and clear communication is important. So, we don't use formal speech or complex grammar. Short sentences in the imperative form are very useful. For example: "Come here." or "Defend the base!" or "Watch out! Bomb!"


So, that was my advice for studying English using your favourite video games. I hope it was helpful. If you'd like to chat about video games or other hobbies while recieving tutor feedback, I have a free talk lesson available. Older children who can hold simple, daily conversations in English are also welcome. 

Let's keep finding different ways to make learning English more interesting and fun!

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This column was published by the author in their personal capacity.
The opinions expressed in this column are the author's own and do not reflect the view of Cafetalk.

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