The challenges of learning English for Brazilian students

I’ve been teaching English for over 15 years to Brazilian students—and as a Brazilian student myself, I understand the struggle from both sides. One thing I notice again and again is how many people feel frustrated trying to speak English perfectly—even though most of us don’t speak perfect Portuguese!

Aimee

6/7/20251 min read

woman sitting on the chair
woman sitting on the chair

What can we realistically expect from the learning experience?

First of all, we need to ask ourselves: Why do we want to learn English? Learning a language just because we “should” or because it’s “useful” isn’t enough to keep us motivated in the long run. Think of 5 reasons why you truly WANT to learn English. Maybe it’s to understand your favorite songs, watch movies without subtitles, travel more confidently, or even get a better job. The more personal your reasons are, the more meaningful your journey will be.

Once you have identified your “why,” consider how to make the most of the process. What types of practice feel fun and natural to you?
If you love music, listen to lyrics and try to sing along. If you’re into social media, start following creators who speak English. Learning doesn’t have to be boring!

Another key point is how you practice. Learning isn’t just about understanding—it’s about using the language. That means speaking, writing, and making mistakes along the way. Mistakes aren’t failures—they’re signs that you’re learning and growing.

One simple yet powerful habit I encourage my students to adopt is journaling. Every day or once a week, they write or record a short message about what they’ve been doing, and I help them improve it. It’s not just about correcting grammar—it’s about building confidence and fluency.

Key Points to Remember:

You don’t need to be perfect—just consistent.

Find personal reasons to learn, not just external pressure.

Enjoy the process—use music, shows/series, games, or travel dreams to stay motivated.

Practice speaking and writing often, even if you make mistakes.

Keep a journal (written or audio) to track your progress and reflect on it.