Improve Your English with Books, Films and TV: My Top Picks for Intermediate Learners
Learning English doesn't have to mean spending hours studying grammar or memorising vocabulary. Reading a good book, watching a film or enjoying your favourite TV programme can help you improve your English.
If you already have some English knowledge and want to build your confidence, these are some of my favourite recommendations for intermediate (B1) learners.
I've included a guide to help you choose:
Easier: A good starting point if you're building your confidence at B1 level.
More challenging: Ideal if you're a confident B1 learner or ready to move towards B2.
Books to Build Your Vocabulary
Reading is a great way to discover new words, understand sentence structures and improve your English at your own pace.
Wonder by R.J. Palacio | Easier
A moving story about a boy starting a new school. The language is generally straightforward, with lots of useful vocabulary about family, friendships and everyday life.
The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne | Easier
A moving historical novel with relatively simple language, but difficult and upsetting subject matter.
Graded Readers: Penguin Readers and Oxford Bookworms | Easier
If full-length novels feel too difficult, graded readers are an excellent alternative. These books are adapted for different English levels, allowing you to enjoy reading without constantly reaching for a dictionary. Look for editions marked B1 or intermediate.
Matilda by Roald Dahl | More challenging
A funny and imaginative story with plenty of dialogue. A good choice for building vocabulary, although some of the playful language may be challenging.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon | More challenging
An unusual and engaging story told from a teenager's point of view. The direct writing style makes parts of it accessible, although some vocabulary and themes are more advanced.
The Giver by Lois Lowry | More challenging
A thought-provoking story that's particularly useful for learning how to describe ideas, feelings and emotions.
Films to Improve Your Listening
Watching films helps you hear how English is spoken naturally, including different accents, expressions and pronunciation.
Paddington | Easier
A lovely introduction to British English, with clear pronunciation and useful vocabulary about food, travel and everyday life.
Finding Nemo | Easier
An entertaining film with lots of everyday expressions and relatively clear dialogue.
The Intern | More challenging
A modern American film with plenty of workplace conversations. Particularly useful if you want to improve your English for work.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone | More challenging
Great for hearing different British accents and learning vocabulary about school, friendship and family. Some scenes may be challenging for intermediate learners.
TV Shows to Help You Speak More Naturally
TV programmes are particularly useful because you can practise regularly without committing to a whole film.
Extra English | Easier
Created specifically for English learners, this series uses clear, slower conversations and everyday situations. An excellent starting point for B1 learners.
Friends | More challenging
Short, entertaining episodes full of everyday American English, idioms and expressions. The dialogue can be fast, so try watching with English subtitles.
The Great British Bake Off | More challenging
A brilliant way to hear different British accents and natural conversations, while learning vocabulary about food, hobbies and describing things. The spontaneous conversations can be tricky, but the action on screen helps you follow what's happening.
How to Get More from Your Reading and Watching
Here are four simple ways to make these activities more useful:
Choose something you enjoy. You're much more likely to keep going.
Use English subtitles. They help connect spoken words with written English.
Write down useful expressions. Focus on phrases you might actually use.
Practise saying things aloud. Repeat short sentences to improve your pronunciation and confidence.
Remember, you don't need to understand every word. Focus on the general meaning and enjoy the experience.
Want to Improve Your English Further?
Books, films and TV are wonderful ways to practise, but sometimes you need a little extra help to turn what you've learnt into confident conversation.
At The Language Cabin, I offer personalised English lessons for non-native speakers, helping you develop your speaking, listening, grammar and vocabulary at a pace that suits you.
Whether you're learning English for work, everyday life or simply want to feel more confident communicating, I'd be delighted to help so please get in touch.
Justine Burnett
The Language Cabin
