The Best TED Talks for Learning English

October 17, 2024
ted talks for learning english

Many English language learners tune into TED Talks as a fun way to improve speaking skills; it’s a unique opportunity to learn from some of the world’s most inspirational speakers.

But with so many popular TED Talks out there, how do you choose the right ones to watch? Here is a handy list of some of the best TED talks for English learners that will help you master the language and become a more confident public speaker.

#1 — ‘The Secrets of Learning a New Language’ by Lýdia Machová

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to mastering a new language, look no further than Lýdia Machová’s TED Talk. As someone who can speak several languages, Machová shares her personal tips and techniques to help you become fluent in any language you want to learn.

Practical tip

Lýdia highlights how important it is to find joy in your learning process. Try adding fun activities into your routine, such as watching a funny TV show in English or listening to your favourite English songs. The key thing is to enjoy the journey, which will naturally help keep you motivated.

#2 – ‘The Power of Vulnerability’ by Brené Brown

Brené Brown is no stranger to the TED stage, and her talk on vulnerability is a treasure trove of tips if you want to improve your English and communication skills. Her talk is a mix of storytelling and raw emotion, making it one of the best TED talks for learning how to express yourself in English.

Practical tip

Notice how Brené Brown uses clear, simple language to discuss complex feelings. Try this approach for your English practice by telling personal stories but focusing on expressing yourself simply and clearly.

#3 – ‘Your Body Language Shapes Who You Are’ by Amy Cuddy

Amy Cuddy’s TED Talk is all about how your body language can affect your confidence—and yes, this even extends to your English-speaking skills! Whether you are preparing for a presentation, or you just want to feel more at ease in conversations, this talk is a must-watch.

Practical tip

As you watch, try copying some of Amy Cuddy’s recommended “power poses”. Not only will you feel more confident, but you may also find that your words come out more naturally, helping to boost your confidence.

#4 – ‘How to Speak So That People Want to Listen’ by Julian Treasure

It’s not just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. Julian Treasure hits the nail on the head with his talk on making your voice heard. If you are looking to improve your public speaking or simply expand everyday conversations, this talk has some great advice.

Practical tip

Pay attention to Treasure’s advice on the “seven deadly sins of speaking” and how to avoid them. Practice speaking English while avoiding them. Record yourself speaking and play it back to see where you can improve. You’ll be amazed by how small changes can make your speech more impactful.

#5 – ‘The 110 Techniques of Communication and Public Speaking’ by David JP Phillips

Don’t let the title worry you, this talk is full of practical advice that’s perfect for both beginners and seasoned English speakers alike. David JP Phillips spent 7 years studying 5,000 speakers, amateurs and professionals to detail these 110 techniques, so he definitely knows what he’s talking about!

Practical tip

One tip we loved was the power of pauses—don’t shy away from them. Use pauses to gather your thoughts and give yourself a moment to breathe. The main thing is to focus on the techniques that resonate most with you. You don’t have to apply all 110 techniques at once—start small and build up as your confidence grows.

Tips to help you get the most out of TED Talks

  • Active listening: Don’t just sit back—grab a notebook and write down any new words or phrases you like. Then, try to use these words in your own sentences.
  • Shadowing: Pick a section of the talk and mimic the speaker. Match their tone, pace, and accent. This technique is a great way to improve your pronunciation and fluency.
  • Discuss and share: After watching a TED Talk, summarise the talk in your own words and share your thoughts with a friend or in an online community. The more you discuss, the more you learn.
  • Apply what you learn: Don’t just watch these talks—apply the tips in real life. Use Amy Cuddy’s power poses before a meeting or keep Julian Treasure’s speaking tips in mind during your next presentation. The more you use these tips into real life, the more natural they’ll become.

The learning never stops

These five popular TED talks are just the beginning. Whether you’re drawn to Brené Brown’s wisdom on vulnerability or Amy Cuddy’s insights into body language, there’s a whole world of knowledge waiting for you.

And if you’re serious about learning English, why not explore our British Council English Online courses? They’re tailored to suit your lifestyle and help you hit your personal language goals.

Explore our courses >

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