English skills for bright futures

English is an essential skill required at school and in the working world, as it is entwined in our daily lives. We use and speak English on a daily basis, whether it’s communicating or interacting with others, writing, influencing or persuading, reading, self-expression, or for entertainment. As your child grows up and begins their working life, they will learn that their first jobs or part-time work will require basic English skills, which is why it is important to learn and master English from a young age. Read on to discover the 4 core English skills that can help set your child up for success and a bright future.

1. Listening

The passive skill of listening is considered to be the initial stage of learning English. Listening comprehension is the ability to understand the meaning of words when heard, memorise them, and discuss or relate to what is said. It is important for children to enhance their listening skills and learn to listen to other people speak, as it builds upon their vocabulary and listening comprehension, which are the building blocks of literacy and learning. The ability to actively listen is the foundation of effective communication and is a vital skill for children to develop and possess in and out of the classroom. 

2. Speaking

Speaking is often connected with listening, and it is a productive skill in which we are required to use our voices to communicate. As we communicate on a daily basis, speaking is a skill that is continuously being practised. The ability to speak and communicate effectively helps children build relationships with others, increase their confidence, ask for help, and be listened to, which are all expected in a workplace. For example, future careers your child may pursue could include public speaking, presenting or leading workshops, and team-building, which all require high levels of speaking skills and confidence.

3. Reading

Reading is another important English skill which involves gaining and retaining information through visual interpretation. Whether it’s reading stories or texts, it tests and improves our ability to comprehend information visually. Reading skills are crucial to have in the workplace, for instance, reading instructions or procedures, corresponding with colleagues, and reading documentation are common tasks. There is more to reading than learning to read as it comes with a breadth of benefits, which includes enhanced vocabulary, spelling, writing, and knowledge about the world. To help your child practise and master their reading skills, plan a trip to your local library and encourage them to pick out their favourite books to read or offer a reward for each book your child reads. 

 4. Writing

Writing is utilised in many aspects of our lives. It involves the knowledge and ability to express ideas through written language and visually communicating information using the alphabet, phonics, and grammar. Whether it’s writing a shopping list, text message, or an email, we use written language every day. Having sharply honed writing skills will benefit your child in the classroom and their future career. For example, your child’s future job might include writing emails, articles, blogs, or reports, drawing on their writing skills. 

English skills are transferable and will carry your child through their schooling, higher education, and future careers. Help your child foster their learning and development by mastering the basic skills of English. At NumberWorks’nWords, we offer tailored English tutoring programmes that cover all areas of English, including the school curriculum. Our proven approach to maths and English tuition helps young learners build confidence and achieve better school results. Get in touch to find out how we can help your child develop foundational skills, by contacting your local centre, or book a free assessment today!