Surviving the Holidays - A Guide for ESL Students

So, you’re in the US to work or study English, and you’re not going home for the holidays. Although it is typically a time to be with your loved ones, don’t let this get you down. Take the opportunity to experience the holiday season the American way! You will have the chance to not only learn a great deal about American culture, traditions, and customs, but also practice what you’ve been learning in your ESL classes.

Take the time to enjoy the holiday season, but also focus on improving your speaking skills. Get yourself an invite to a Christmas or New Year’s Eve party and get ready to mingle. There are some essential points you should bear in mind:

1) Be patient
Most Americans have a hard time understanding foreign accents. You may be asked to repeat or clarify what you’ve said. Don’t let this discourage you. Remember you are learning, and you are not expected to speak perfectly. Just do the best you can. You may also have a hard time understanding their accent, especially if they happen to be southern. Don’t be afraid to ask them to repeat their question; request clarification if needed.

2) Chose the right topics
When engaging an American in conversation, it is best to steer clear from topics related to politics, race, religion, or any other controversial issue. “So, what do you think about the health care crisis in the U.S.?” is NOT a good way to start a conversation, least of all on a holiday! Americans like to talk about sports, for example. If you’re not at all familiar with how football (“American” football as opposed to soccer) is played ask someone about it. They’ll be glad to fill you in on the rules. Another great topic is work. Don’t be surprised if the first question you’re asked is, “What do you do?”. They also love to talk about travel, remote locations, and exotic countries. This is a great opportunity to tell them where you’re from and share a little of your culture.

3) Go for informal
Americans prefer first names and informal greetings in general, but especially so if you are at a social gathering or celebration. There is no need address someone as Mr., Mrs. or Ms.

4) Don’t get too “touchy”
It’s perfectly acceptable to shake hands, but hold off from other forms of physical contact. Americans don’t greet each other with kisses as people do in other countries. Also, refrain from holding hands or putting your arms around people.

5) Do your homework
It is recommended that you do some research into what the typical holiday celebration might entail. Most things are not so different from what people do in your own country, but food and drink might be completely different. Find out about the typical foods and drinks and be prepared to sample holiday favorites like roast turkey, egg nog, or mulled wine.  If your beliefs prevent you from eating certain foods like red meat or drinking alcohol, try to let your host/hostess know beforehand, so as to avoid any embarrassing situations.

Remember these tips and enjoy your Christmas break. When your ESL classes resume, you’ll have lots to share with your classmates and teachers.

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Tags: american holiday traditions, american traditions, ESL Classes, esl students, holiday tips, spending holidays with americans, tips for esl students