The Successful English Student

Always remembers and understands that language is speech above all else and that ears are more useful than eyes in acquiring a foreign language.

Speaks English in class at all times - with the teacher and with fellow students; tries to speak English with the secretaries and other teachers, too, as a way to get even more practice and help to create a rich learning environment.

Is self-confident. Reaches beyond his capacity, risking mistakes when trying to convey an idea but is receptive to corrections.

Tries to reproduce pronunciation as close as possible, taking advantage of the teacher's performance model.

Tries to infer the meaning of new words rather than translating and flipping the pages of the dictionary.

Does not question the irregularities of the language in search of grammar rules. Tries to learn more inductively than deductively.

Is a player rather than a spectator. Participates as fully as possible in classroom activities; helps to build the English atmosphere; analyzes his or her difficulties and errors to understand language differences.

Asks questions; takes full advantage of the teacher's knowledge of language and culture, and joins all extra activities that the school offers.

Has perseverance rather than expectations.

Communicates his or her needs, suggestions and ideas directly to the teacher; a good teacher is always ready to improvise, helping each student achieve his/her specific language objectives.

Takes charge of his or her learning and commits time and efforts to it. For example, dedicates time outside class to English (watching English TV or movies, listening to English music, searching the Internet or reading in English, etc.).

from: http://www.sk.com.br/sk-gdstu.html