Internships: how they improve language skills

an intern sat at a table surrounded by monitors talking to a co-worker

Internships and work experience can help in numerous ways, improve someone's workplace skills, add extra value to a resume or even help a person realize if a workplace/profession is for them. They are also very helpful in developing language skills. Language development is an ongoing process that extends far beyond the classroom. While language courses and textbooks are often needed, real-world experiences like internships and work placements also play a crucial role in shaping a person's language proficiency. Whether you're a student or graduate deciding to take a placement or someone who just wants to reskill, it can be beneficial and help your language proficiency. Today we explore how internships and work experience can aid a person's language learning skills.

How internships help language skills
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Real-life immersion

Learning a language through immersion is one of the most effective methods. By participating in internships or work experiences in an environment where the target language is spoken regularly, students and professionals can be exposed to authentic language use. According to Stephen Krashen, a renowned linguist, immersion in a language-rich environment can greatly improve language acquisition.

Practical application

Participating in internships and work experiences can be incredibly beneficial for individuals looking to improve their language skills. Not only does it provide them with practical, real-world scenarios to apply their skills, but it also forces them to use language for specific tasks, such as writing reports, conducting meetings, or communicating with colleagues and clients. This type of hands-on experience creates an ideal learning environment where individuals can practice and improve their language abilities in a professional setting.

Industry-specific terms

Various fields and industries have their own set of terms and phrases that are specific to them. These specialized terminologies are important for effective communication within the industry. When individuals participate in internships or work experience programs, they are exposed to these unique language nuances. This exposure enables them to become more familiar with the specific language used in these industries and expand their vocabulary. Moreover, familiarity with industry-specific vocabulary enhances their comprehension of technical language, which can help them in their future career growth.

Communication skills

Clear and effective communication is a crucial aspect of any profession. Work experiences offer individuals numerous opportunities to hone their business English in diverse communication contexts. This involves engaging with colleagues, supervisors, and clients, which facilitates the growth of interpersonal and soft skills. With the after-effects of the pandemic still having a large impact onÌý,Ìýit’s important to not overlook the importance of this advantage.

Cultural understanding

Language and culture are closely intertwined. When individuals participate in internships or work experiences, they not only acquire the language but also gain an understanding of the customs and culture associated with it. This cultural awareness enhances their language skills, making them more effective communicators, especially in cross-cultural settings. For those who do not have the opportunity to mingle and interact with people of different backgrounds in their everyday life, the workplace provides an excellent opportunity to learn about different cultures.

Internships and work experiences are amazing opportunities for people to develop their language skills. They give you a chance to dive into real-life language contexts and learn industry-specific terminology, which can help you improve your communication skills and gain a better understanding of cultures. By actively participating in these experiences, you can significantly enhance your language proficiency and prepare yourself for a successful career in today's modern world. So, if you're considering an internship, take the leap and don't miss out on these wonderful opportunities to improve your skills. You can find lots of listings online and on websites like Ìýand .

References/sourcesÌý

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  • A teacher stood at a table of students helping them

    Tips for keeping learners studying over the holiday season

    By Nicolas Chaparro
    Reading time: 3.5 minutes

    Nicolas Chaparro is a Colombian language teacher with a bachelor's degree in basic education, specializing in humanities and languages. After spending five years working as a systems technician, he discovered the potential of technology to enhance learning, which ignited his passion for dynamic, tech-driven education. He has the privilege of working at one of Colombia's most prestigious English institutions, where he currently leads a team focused on education, creativity and motivation.Ìý

    The holiday season is a magical time and the perfect moment to spark a teacher's creativity. I've always believed that learning a language isn't just about studying—it's about living it. As a learner, I loved the resources my teachers and institutions provided, but what truly captivated me was the opportunity to engage with the world using the language skills I had acquired.

    As a teacher, I strive to give my students that same experience. I didn't expect the holiday season to become the perfect setting to turn my teaching philosophy into reality. This blog post shares a personal story of how I used a creative activity to keep my students learning and practicing English during the holidays with the support of the Global Scale of English (GSE).

    The challenge I faced: Mixed levels and ages

    The activity I designed, Christmas Carols, presented two main challenges:

    1. Diverse proficiency levels: My group included students ranging from beginners to advanced learners, all participating in the same activity. I wanted to have them all working together; that's what language means to me.Ìý
    2. Varied age groups: The students also spanned different age ranges, which required an effective approach to engage everyone. It was a Christmas gathering meeting with all the institution's students.

    Basic students worked on identifying vocabulary that is similar to their native language and then used it in a short text. Intermediate students solved riddles to guess words that could be included in the lyrics. Advanced students completed questionnaires to build sentences and find synonyms to refine the text. The carol was divided into three sections: the first paragraph was for basic students, the second for intermediate students and the third for advanced students. I also included French students in the activity, which was designed for both languages.

    After the students completed their tasks in separate groups, I mixed them so they could explain the vocabulary they had learned to one another. To facilitate communication without relying on Spanish, I used pictures and Christmas props to help them express themselves visually.

    Finally, we all came together and sang the carol as one group.

    Turning challenges into opportunities with the GSE

    For me, a successful language activity needs three essential components: clear instructions, engaging resources and opportunities for interaction. With these principles in mind, I crafted an inclusive and dynamic activity, using the GSE to guide my planning.

    Step 1: Defining the goal

    I realized that most of my students didn't know specific Christmas-related vocabulary or any traditional English carols. This activity was also an opportunity to learn by myself and then share with them. This gap was my opportunity to introduce them to the holiday spirit in English.

    Step 2: Planning with the GSE

    I identified suitable goals for each proficiency level using the GSE Learning Objectives. These objectives helped me design tasks that targeted key skills—listening, speaking, reading and writing—while considering the ages and abilities of my students.

    Step 3: Preparing a scavenger hunt

    To make the activity interactive and fun, I organized a scavenger hunt. Students had to solve riddles and follow clues to find words essential for completing a Christmas song. The GSE objectives ensured that the tasks were appropriately challenging for each level.

    Step 4: Pairing students effectively

    Knowing my students well, I paired them strategically based on their proficiency and age. This pairing encouraged collaboration and allowed them to support each other throughout the activity.

    Making language visible and memorable

    One of my priorities was to make the language come alive. I brought visual aids like cards, games, and even a Christmas tree and a nativity scene—elements that most students recognized but had never explored in English. These visuals became valuable tools for teaching vocabulary in a tangible, engaging way.

    To add another layer of interaction, I used my guitar to sing along with the students. By the end of the activity, not only were we singing, but they also understood the meaning behind every word. Watching them take pride in their learning was incredibly rewarding and I knew this vocabulary wouldn't stop there; they would take it home and make it real for them, for the season, for their life.

    Reflections and an invitation

    This experience reminded me of the power of teaching through real-life experiences. Holidays provide a unique opportunity to teach without teaching and to help students study while living the language. Tools like the GSE make it easier for us as educators to plan meaningful and impactful activities.

    My invitation to fellow teachers is twofold:

    1. Explore the GSE resources to enrich your teaching strategies.
    2. Share your ideas and activities with the teaching community. Together, we can create opportunities for our students to use the language in real and virtual contexts that inspire learning and cooperation.

    Let's make 2025 the year we bring language to life in every classroom.