Every intermediate level English student needs a few important resources. Each student should have a learner's dictionary, a grammar and exercise book and a vocabulary building resource, as well as pronunciation CDs or software. This guide provides recommendations on top quality resources for each of these categories for both learners of American English and learners of British English.
1. Understanding and Using English Grammar
The classic in North American English intermediate to advanced level grammar books. Betty Schrampfer Azar provides clear grammar instruction while allowing for lots of exercises to practice what you have learnt.
2. English Grammar in Use
This is the classic British English self-study reference and practice English grammar guide which provides detailed but precise grammar help immediately followed by exercises.3. Oxford Picture Dictionary
A picture is worth a thousand words! This illustrated dictionary has more than 3,700 words selected for English learners. This is the best and most fun way to go about building vocabulary in my opinion.4. Longman Learner's Dictionary of American English
Longman is the very best for students learning English to study, live and work in North America. This dictionary provides lots of handy refernce materials, special in-depth looks at issus such as idioms, phrasal verbs and more.5. Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary
Even though advanced, this is an excellent investment for intermediate level learners to grow into. The standard in British English, the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary provides the ideal tool for English learners who wish to take any of the Cambridge advanced exams (FCE, CAE and Proficiency). Dictionary includes a learning CD-ROM with helpful resources and exercises.