Mastering English for Academic Success: A Guide for International High School Students

Why You Need to Take Academic English

For many international students, studying in an English-speaking environment opens the door to new opportunities — but it can also present serious challenges. If you’re in Grade 9 or above and you’ve recently moved to Canada, the U.S., or the U.K. as an English-as-a-Second-Language (ESL) learner, you’ve probably already felt the pressure: understanding what your teachers are saying, keeping up with fast-paced lessons, and writing essays that meet academic standards.

It’s not easy. And you’re not alone.

Thousands of international students face the same struggles. But there’s a path forward — one that leads to confidence and long-term success. Whether you’re just beginning to learn English as a Second Language or want to take your academic performance to the next level, enrolling in an academic English course or English tutoring program can help you make major progress — and fast.

Why Academic English Is Different from Everyday English

You might already feel comfortable speaking English with friends or ordering food at a restaurant. But academic English is a whole different skill set. It’s the formal language used in schools, textbooks, lectures, presentations, and tests. And if your goal is to succeed in school — and eventually go to university — mastering this type of English is essential.

Academic English Requires Different Components

• Reading comprehension – understanding complex texts and analyzing key information
• Essay writing – organizing ideas logically, citing evidence, and writing clearly
• Listening skills – following lectures and taking accurate notes
• Speaking skills – presenting ideas with clarity and confidence in discussions and presentations
• Grammar and mechanics – writing accurately and using advanced sentence structures

It’s not enough to “get by” — you need to thrive. That’s where structured academic English classes come in.

Common Struggles for International Students and How to Solve Them

Adapting to an English-speaking high school environment can be overwhelming, especially if English is your second language. Many international students encounter the same challenges — but with the right strategies and support, these obstacles can be turned into opportunities for growth.

1. Falling Behind in Class

The Challenge of Academic English:

Even highly motivated students can struggle to keep up when they don’t fully understand the language used in lessons. Teachers may speak quickly, use academic vocabulary, or refer to cultural concepts that aren’t familiar. This can cause students to fall behind across multiple subjects — not just English.

How to Enhance English Level:

• Structured english tutoring support helps bridge the gap by reinforcing key concepts in a clearer, more personalized way.
• Preview and review strategies — an English tutor can introduce vocabulary and ideas before a class and go over what was missed afterward.
• Active listening techniques such as note-taking templates and keyword tracking can make lectures easier to follow.
• Myls Tutoring offer focused lessons that align with school curriculum, so students receive help that directly supports what they're learning in class.

2. Struggling with Essay Writing

The Challenge of Academic English Essay Writing:

Essays are a core part of high school and university. Most competitive university programs require at least one written submission as part of their supplementary application process. However, many international students have never been formally taught how to write essays in English — from outlining arguments to citing sources properly.

How to Improve Essay Writing:

• Learn academic english essay structures, such as the five-paragraph format, thesis statements, and transitions. These are often unfamiliar but critical in English-language schools.
• Practice planning and brainstorming techniques to organize thoughts before writing.
• Use English tutor feedback to identify patterns in grammar or argument development and work on revisions.
• Enroll in an English course or English tutoring program focused specifically on academic English writing skills. At Myls Tutoring, students get real-time feedback on actual school English assignments, so their practice immediately applies to their grades.
• Build a writing habit — even journaling or writing about daily topics helps improve grammar and fluency over time.

3. Limited Vocabulary

The Challenge of English Vocabulary:

Conversational English is very different from academic English. Subjects like science, history, and literature require specialized vocabulary that’s rarely covered in general ESL programs. Without this vocabulary, students may struggle to understand readings or express themselves clearly in writing.

How to Increase Vocabulary:

• Focus on subject-specific vocabulary. Tutors can introduce words commonly found in school textbooks and help students learn them through context.
• Use vocabulary-building tools like flashcards (e.g., Anki), word maps, and digital quiz platforms (like Quizlet) to retain new words.
• Practice using new words in sentences. Memorizing is not enough — tutors can encourage students to apply new vocabulary in writing and speaking exercises.
• Read a variety of academic texts, such as news articles, science blogs, or book reviews, to naturally expand word knowledge.
• At Myls Tutoring, vocabulary-building is tailored to each student’s academic subjects so that new words are both relevant and immediately useful.

4. Low Speaking Confidence

The Challenge of Non Native English Speakers:

Even students who understand the material might hesitate to speak up in class due to fear of mispronunciation, grammar mistakes, or judgment from peers. This often leads to reduced participation and missed opportunities to practice oral communication.

How to Become a Native Speaker:

• Create safe spaces for practice. A tutoring session offers a low-pressure environment where students can practice speaking without fear of embarrassment.
• Use structured speaking exercises, such as mini-presentations, debate practice, or role-play, to build fluency and comfort.
• Record and listen to yourself. Hearing your own voice helps you notice pronunciation or tone issues and track progress.
• Focus on communication, not perfection. Students are encouraged to speak freely, even with mistakes — confidence builds from experience.
• Join extracurriculars like debate clubs or student groups where English is the primary language.
• Myls Tutoring often incorporates guided speaking practice as part of its sessions, helping students grow more confident with academic vocabulary, classroom expressions, and presentation skills.

How Academic English Course Helps

The Academic English Course (L1–L4) is one of the most popular programs for students in Grades 9–12. It’s specifically designed to help international students build academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills that align with what’s expected in high school and university.

Course Highlights:

• Placement by level (L1–L4) to ensure students start at the right stage
• Academic-focused material, including real high school texts and writing tasks
• Small online class sizes for personalized attention
• Experienced tutors who understand international learners
• Convenient online format that fits student schedules

The course gives students the structure, feedback, and practice they need to thrive in class — and beyond.

How Myls Tutoring Supports Your Academic English Journey

In addition to formal courses, many students need personalized help to apply what they learn and stay on track. That’s where Myls Tutoring comes in — an AI-driven online tutoring platform built specifically for high school and university students, including international learners.

Whether you're preparing for an English exam, writing a personal statement, or simply trying to keep up with school readings, Myls Tutoring provides tailored one-on-one tutoring and group tutoring support to help you succeed. Myls Interview provides a mock interview platform that helps improve your performance and strengthen your application.

How Myls Tutoring Helps:

✅ Customized Learning Plans
Based on your current skill level and school needs, our AI-drive online tutoring platform build a plan that targets your gaps — grammar, comprehension, essay writing, or test prep.

✅ Expert English Tutors
Our English tutors will review the AI-generated learning plans before class. Myls Tutors are trained to teach ESL and academic English and are experienced with Ontario, British Columbia, AP, and IB curricula.

✅ Real-Time Assignment Help
Got a confusing assignment or unclear feedback? Myls online tutors can walk you through it step-by-step.

✅ Flexible Online Format
All lessons are virtual and can be scheduled after school or on weekends to fit your availability.

✅ University Prep Support
For older students, we also help with TOEFL, IELTS, and university application essays — ensuring your English meets admissions standards.

✅ Risk Free Lesson
See how much progress you can make with the right tutor by your side. Try a session today — no commitment required. You can subscribe or cancel anytime. It's flexible, student-friendly, and built to fit your goals.

Daily English Practice Tips

Even with great English tutors and Academic English courses, daily practice accelerates your progress:

• 📖 Read 15–30 minutes per day — school books, news articles, or blogs
• 🎧 Watch TED Talks or documentaries with subtitles
• ✍️ Keep a daily English journal
• 🎙️ Record yourself summarizing what you read or watched
• 📘 Learn 5 new academic words a week — and use them in writing

Academic English: Your Bridge to Success

Think of academic English as your bridge to the future. Without it, you might struggle to cross into success. But with the right support — a strong course like Academic English courses and personalized English tutoring from Myls Tutoring — you’ll walk across confidently.

Academic English Courses unlock:

• Better school performance
• Stronger essays and assignments
• Higher test scores (IELTS, TOEFL, OSSLT)
• Confidence in class discussions
• Stronger university applications
• A brighter academic and career future

Ready to Get Started?

💬 Get Personalized Help with Myls Tutoring

Build structured academic English skills in small classes tailored to your level. Book a trial lesson and see how we can support your academic success.
👉 Book Your Trial Lesson Now

All-in-one Learning Experience with Myls Online Tutoring Platform

At Myls Tutoring, we go beyond just lessons — we give you the tools to take control of your learning. With personalized knowledge graphs, organized course drives, and expert tutors, everything you need to succeed is at your fingertips. Whether you're catching up or aiming ahead, Myls Online Tutoring Platform offers a seamless, all-in-one experience built for your academic goals.
👉 Join now and unlock your full potential — your first step to smarter learning starts here.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. With the right guidance, you’ll not only keep up — you’ll stand out.