Hi there, English learners!
It’s Janet here from English with Janet, and I’m so excited to talk about one of my favorite times of the year—Black Friday! While this day is famously known for massive sales on electronics and gadgets, it’s also the perfect time to invest in yourself. For English learners, Black Friday offers incredible deals on courses that can help you achieve your language goals without breaking the bank.
Whether you want to boost your speaking confidence, ace an English exam, or sharpen your grammar skills, there’s something for everyone. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the best types of English courses to look out for this Black Friday, along with tips to choose the right one for you.
Let’s dive in!
Why Black Friday is the Best Time to Invest in English Courses
Black Friday is when many language learning platforms offer their best deals of the year. Here’s why it’s an unmissable opportunity:
- Deep Discounts: Many courses are slashed by 50% or more, making even premium programs affordable.
- Bundles and Bonuses: You’ll often find course bundles or free add-ons like practice materials, eBooks, or tutoring sessions.
- Access to Premium Tools: Black Friday deals often include access to features that are usually behind a paywall, like mock exams or personalized feedback.
- Motivation Boost: Starting a new course during a sales event feels like a fresh start, and it can motivate you to stay committed to your learning goals.
Types of English Courses to Look for on Black Friday
1. Speaking and Pronunciation Courses
If you struggle with speaking fluently or confidently, speaking and pronunciation courses are a must. These courses focus on real-life conversations and help you fine-tune your accent.
What to Look For:
- Courses with interactive speaking exercises.
- Feedback on your pronunciation from native speakers or AI tools.
Recommended Platforms:
- FluentU: Known for its real-life video lessons that teach English through context.
- Preply: Offers one-on-one lessons with professional tutors to improve speaking skills.
2. Business English Courses
Want to climb the career ladder? Business English courses teach you the language skills needed for professional communication, such as writing emails, participating in meetings, and making presentations.
What to Look For:
- Courses with practical, work-related vocabulary and phrases.
- Lessons focused on industries like tech, healthcare, or finance, if applicable.
Recommended Platforms:
- Coursera: Look for their “English for Business and Entrepreneurship” course.
- Udemy: Offers affordable options with lifetime access to materials.
3. Exam Preparation Courses (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
If you’re preparing for a test like IELTS, TOEFL, or Cambridge English, Black Friday is the best time to grab a structured prep course. These courses guide you through each section of the exam and include mock tests to build your confidence.
What to Look For:
- Practice tests and personalized feedback.
- Clear strategies for improving scores in each section.
Recommended Platforms:
- Magoosh: Known for its user-friendly and budget-friendly IELTS and TOEFL courses.
- Cambridge English: Offers excellent resources for Cambridge exams.
4. Grammar and Writing Courses
Improving grammar is essential for both speaking and writing, and grammar-focused courses can help you polish your skills. Black Friday discounts can make even comprehensive grammar courses affordable.
What to Look For:
- Step-by-step lessons that start with basics and progress to advanced topics.
- Practical writing exercises, like essays or reports.
Recommended Platforms:
- Coursera: Offers courses like “Advanced Grammar and Punctuation.”
- Perfectly Spoken: Great for clear and concise grammar lessons.
5. Vocabulary-Building Courses
Do you often feel stuck searching for the right word? Vocabulary courses focus on teaching new words and phrases, often in categories like travel, work, or everyday life.
What to Look For:
- Courses that include interactive flashcards or spaced repetition tools.
- Lessons that teach words in context, not just definitions.
Recommended Platforms:
- Memrise: Known for fun, gamified vocabulary lessons.
- WordUp: Focuses on teaching words that are most useful in conversations.
6. Listening and Comprehension Courses
Listening to native speakers can be challenging, but listening courses can help you improve comprehension while exposing you to different accents.
What to Look For:
- Courses with a variety of accents (e.g., American, British, Australian).
- Exercises that combine listening and speaking practice.
Recommended Platforms:
- Elsa Speak: Focuses on pronunciation and listening comprehension.
- BBC Learning English: Offers free listening resources and courses.
7. All-in-One English Learning Subscriptions
If you’re looking for an all-round solution, consider platforms that offer subscriptions with access to multiple courses. These are great for learners who want flexibility and variety.
What to Look For:
- Access to speaking, grammar, vocabulary, and exam prep courses.
- A mix of live and self-paced lessons.
Recommended Platforms:
- Rosetta Stone: A classic platform for comprehensive language learning.
- Babbel: Offers personalized lesson plans and real-world scenarios.
How to Choose the Best English Course on Black Friday
With so many great deals, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you choose the best course for your needs:
- Define Your Goals: Are you aiming to improve speaking, prepare for an exam, or enhance your professional skills? Choose a course that aligns with your goals.
- Check Reviews: Read reviews from past students to gauge the quality of the course.
- Look for Flexibility: If you have a busy schedule, opt for self-paced courses or ones that offer recordings of live sessions.
- Try Free Trials: Many platforms offer free trials or sample lessons. Use these to test the teaching style and content.
- Compare Prices: Take time to compare deals across platforms to get the best value for your money.
Bonus Tips for Black Friday Shopping
- Start Early: The best deals may sell out quickly, so start browsing as soon as sales begin.
- Bundle Up: Look for course bundles that offer multiple topics at a discount.
- Sign Up for Newsletters: Many platforms send exclusive Black Friday offers to their subscribers.
- Don’t Forget Free Resources: While paid courses are valuable, platforms like YouTube and Duolingo also offer free learning tools that complement paid programs.
My Top Picks for Black Friday
To save you some time, here are a few of my personal favorites to watch out for this Black Friday:
- Preply: Perfect for learners who want one-on-one lessons with professional tutors.
- Magoosh: A budget-friendly option for test prep courses.
- Coursera: Great for academic and professional English.
- FluentU: Ideal for immersive learning with real-world videos.
- Perfectly Spoken: Offers clear and structured lessons at affordable prices.
Final Thoughts
Black Friday is the ultimate opportunity to invest in your English learning journey. With the right course, you can unlock new skills, boost your confidence, and achieve your language goals faster. Remember, learning English is not just about buying a course—it’s about commitment and consistent practice.
So, get ready to grab those deals, and let me know which course you choose! I’d love to hear about your experience and progress.
Happy learning and happy Black Friday shopping!
Warm wishes,
Janet
English with Janet
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