Leaning English, with its many rules and contradictions, regional accents and dialects, requires lots of effort over a long period of time. When you think about learning a new language, consider the time it took to learn your native tongue; the process is ongoing. Be patient. Start small and follow these steps to build solid skills.
1. Listen to the BBC World Service radio. Check the schedule for programs geared specifically to beginners in English.
2. Tune in to American and U.K. television broadcasts. Watch with subtitles turned on at first and listen for subtleties in phrasing, slang, regional pronunciation and colloquialism.
3. Pick up English-language magazines and newspapers. Expect some magazines to be more complex than others. Consider "People" magazine for fairly solid, basic writing on celebrities and human interest stories.
4. Practice speaking whenever possible. Join a conversation group or take noncredit classes through the adult education program of the local school system. Get together weekly with a friend for coffee and agree to speak only in English. Critique each other.
5. Keep a small notebook with a running list of new words. Check the definition and pronunciation, and try to work the word into a conversation. Keep a journal in English.
6. Start reading a book series intended for preteens or teens. Visit the bookstore or the library and ask about series like Goosebumps, Sweet Valley Twins, Babysitter's Club, Hardy Boys, Nancy Drew and similar works.
7. Check out the "Discovery" books. Although they're intended for children, expect to find beautifully detailed illustrations. Observe the clear, well-written prose on dozens of diverse topics such as the weather, astronauts, snakes and baseball.