I spent the months of March, April, May wrestling with a book that will be my horror until the end of time.
Consumer.ology by Philip Graves.
I think I was fooled by its funky title when I agreed to translate it. (I was also fooled by the purple prose. I think when I read it before I accepted it, I was reading it on autopilot mode, so the book superficially appeared to be interesting.) I regretted it for a whole three months.
The book on the surface was supposed to be about consumer behaviour, which to be honest wasn't a subject that came to me easily when I did it at university. I actually got a decent mark in it but it was hard. But I thought I'd at least have some background on it and would be able to do it, though it might be a little harder than Brand New World.
Oh boy, I was wrong. The basic gist of the book is: market research is popular, but it doesn't work, because people don't know what they want and they say one thing but want something else. Sounded simple enough, except that the book was laced with about 80% pure, academic psychology, which, let's just say, I don't have enough background to even understand in English. But that actually wasn't the problem.
The problem was that this book just read like a very, very long piece of discouragement. The author went on and on and on about how market research is faulty, lists reasons a, b, c about why market research is terrible, based on these x, y, z theories of psychology, but doesn't tell you what the alternative to it is. It was extremely repetitive, like someone took a hammer and was beating the message into my head. There came a point in the book where I literally banged my head down on the keyboard and wanted to scream, "Fine, I get it, market research sucks! Now tell me what to do differently!"
And I've finished the book, but I still don't know what the alternative is.
Actually, no, I do. The author says that instead of asking people (market research) what they want, you should see (observe) what people do and base your market decisions on that. Except that when he finally got to this alternative method, it was like he ran out of steam, having spent 200 pages talking about how faulty the talking method is. So he sort of waffles through a couple of examples of the observation method and say that this is the best method.
Except I have a feeling the author rather misses the point of the whole concept of market research in the first place. He defines market research (very narrowly) as going around talking to people and having people telling you what they want. Then he spends the whole book shooting it down, saying this is horrible. Yet his alternative is just another aspect of market research. I thought the idea was rather obvious. Of course you can't base your decisions on what people say alone, you have to observe what they do.
I don't think any undergrad student who took MARK2012 (Marketing Research) at my university really thought that the company we did our research project for should definitely sell rainbow lollies because a bunch of UNSW students who came to our focus groups say so. Even applied to real life, isn't it rather obvious that yes, people do change their mind, and yes, if people are in a focus group being filmed, they're going to act not themselves, so you shouldn't take everything they say at face value? (That's his entire argument against market research, basically.)
So I guess in the end, I just don't know what the point of the book was. It was rather like proving the obvious, yet in a very long-winded, discouraging, repetitive manner.
It didn't help the translation process that I wasn't convinced by many of the author's arguments in the first place, and his writing style was...weird. It was like reading an academic piece of Conrad (I can't stand Joseph Conrad's writing style.) My editor wasn't too fond of this book either so I'm not sure what state it will be in when it finally hit the printers. I have a feeling it'll be a lot shorter.
PS: I have absolutely no idea why my ISP has decided to block the domain blogspot.com. I have to use a proxy to actually view blogspot. How fun.
Showing posts with label english. Show all posts
Showing posts with label english. Show all posts
Lowongan Kerja Guru - Native English Teacher
Advertised: 31-12-2008 | Closing Date: 29-1-2009
The Sacred Heart International School seeks to foster a close partnership between students, teachers, administrative staff and parents. This partnership is achieved through mutual respect, honesty, fairness, supportive relationship and teamwork. The role of Sacred Heart International School in the community is to foster links with the wider community and show an active concern for the less fortunate.
We are inviting NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER for secondary level
The Sacred Heart International School seeks to foster a close partnership between students, teachers, administrative staff and parents. This partnership is achieved through mutual respect, honesty, fairness, supportive relationship and teamwork. The role of Sacred Heart International School in the community is to foster links with the wider community and show an active concern for the less fortunate.
We are inviting NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER for secondary level
Requirements:
- Teaching college graduates are preferred
- Minimum 2 year of experience in related field
- Pleasant personality
- Team player, strong commitment
Please submit your comprehensive resume & credentials to email:
info@sacredheart.web.id
Lowongan Kerja Guru - Native English Teacher
Advertised: 31-12-2008 | Closing Date: 29-1-2009
The Sacred Heart International School seeks to foster a close partnership between students, teachers, administrative staff and parents. This partnership is achieved through mutual respect, honesty, fairness, supportive relationship and teamwork. The role of Sacred Heart International School in the community is to foster links with the wider community and show an active concern for the less fortunate.
We are inviting NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER for secondary level
The Sacred Heart International School seeks to foster a close partnership between students, teachers, administrative staff and parents. This partnership is achieved through mutual respect, honesty, fairness, supportive relationship and teamwork. The role of Sacred Heart International School in the community is to foster links with the wider community and show an active concern for the less fortunate.
We are inviting NATIVE ENGLISH TEACHER for secondary level
Requirements:
- Teaching college graduates are preferred
- Minimum 2 year of experience in related field
- Pleasant personality
- Team player, strong commitment
Please submit your comprehensive resume & credentials to email:
info@sacredheart.web.id
The Differences Between American, British, And Australian English
Australia, Great Britain, and America all speak the same language, but you simply have to visit each country to realize that, while they all speak English, it is far from a universal language. The English spoken in Great Britain, America, and Australia has many similarities, but a surprising number of differences as well. The main reason for this is the vast distance between each country. Here are some of the common differences you will find between these three versions of English.
Pronunciation Differences
Pronunciation between the three types of English is very dissimilar. In American English the "r" at the end of the word almost always affects its pronunciation, whereas in Australian and British English the "r" is often silent. Also, the emphasis placed on the syllables of the word varies from British, Australian, and American English. In Britain, the world adult has the emphasis on the first syllable, whereas in America it is placed on the second half of the word. Australian English is unique in the fact that many words have sounds that are eliminated. Instead of saying good day, the Australian speaker says g'day. The main pronunciation difference between the three, however, is the pronunciation of the vowel sounds.
Differences in Spelling
Not only do the three types of English sound different, but they are also spelled differently. In some ways, the spelling reflects the difference in pronunciation. For instance, Americans use the world airplane to refer to a flying mode of transportation. In Great Britain, the word is aeroplane, and it is pronounced with an audible "o" sound. Another common difference in spelling is aluminium, which is the UK spelling, and aluminum, the US spelling. Again, the difference shows the difference in pronunciation of the two words. In this instance the Australian spelling is the same as the UK spelling.
Another common spelling difference between UK English and American English is the use of -our verses -or at the end of the word. For instance, in the UK, colour, flavour, honour, and similar words all end in -our, whereas in America they are spelled with the -or ending (color, flavor, honor). In Australia, the -our spelling is almost universal.
Similarly, the endings -re and -re are different between the different English dialects. In America you will go to the theater or fitness center, whereas in Britain you will visit the theatre or fitness centre. Again, Australian English follows the British pattern.
There are other common spelling differences as well. For instance, in American English, words that sound as though they end with an -ize will always end in an -ize. However, in UK English, they typically end in ise (i.e. realize, realise). Also, British English often doubles consonants when adding a suffix when American English does not, such as in the world traveller.
Interestingly, the three languages also have distinct vocabularies. For instance, the "hood" of a car is called the "bonnet" in Australia and Britain. Australia has several terms that are not used in either of the other countries, such as "bloke" (man) and "arvo" (afternoon). Also, Australians use some phrases that are combinations of British and American terms, such as "rubbish truck." Rubbish is commonly used in the UK, and truck is commonly used in America.
Grammar Distinctions
Besides spelling and pronunciation differences, British, American, and Australian English all have some subtle grammar differences as well. For instance, in Great Britain, it is perfectly acceptable to use a collective noun (such as army) as a plural word ("the army are coming"), whereas in America collective nouns are almost always singular ("the army is coming"). British English also uses the irregular form of the past participle of several verbs (learnt rather than learned). Also, British English tends to drop the definite article in some situations. For instance, British English speakers may refer to being "in hospital" instead of "in the hospital." Australian grammar tends to follow British rules.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/
Pronunciation between the three types of English is very dissimilar. In American English the "r" at the end of the word almost always affects its pronunciation, whereas in Australian and British English the "r" is often silent. Also, the emphasis placed on the syllables of the word varies from British, Australian, and American English. In Britain, the world adult has the emphasis on the first syllable, whereas in America it is placed on the second half of the word. Australian English is unique in the fact that many words have sounds that are eliminated. Instead of saying good day, the Australian speaker says g'day. The main pronunciation difference between the three, however, is the pronunciation of the vowel sounds.
Differences in Spelling
Not only do the three types of English sound different, but they are also spelled differently. In some ways, the spelling reflects the difference in pronunciation. For instance, Americans use the world airplane to refer to a flying mode of transportation. In Great Britain, the word is aeroplane, and it is pronounced with an audible "o" sound. Another common difference in spelling is aluminium, which is the UK spelling, and aluminum, the US spelling. Again, the difference shows the difference in pronunciation of the two words. In this instance the Australian spelling is the same as the UK spelling.
Another common spelling difference between UK English and American English is the use of -our verses -or at the end of the word. For instance, in the UK, colour, flavour, honour, and similar words all end in -our, whereas in America they are spelled with the -or ending (color, flavor, honor). In Australia, the -our spelling is almost universal.
Similarly, the endings -re and -re are different between the different English dialects. In America you will go to the theater or fitness center, whereas in Britain you will visit the theatre or fitness centre. Again, Australian English follows the British pattern.
There are other common spelling differences as well. For instance, in American English, words that sound as though they end with an -ize will always end in an -ize. However, in UK English, they typically end in ise (i.e. realize, realise). Also, British English often doubles consonants when adding a suffix when American English does not, such as in the world traveller.
Interestingly, the three languages also have distinct vocabularies. For instance, the "hood" of a car is called the "bonnet" in Australia and Britain. Australia has several terms that are not used in either of the other countries, such as "bloke" (man) and "arvo" (afternoon). Also, Australians use some phrases that are combinations of British and American terms, such as "rubbish truck." Rubbish is commonly used in the UK, and truck is commonly used in America.
Grammar Distinctions
Besides spelling and pronunciation differences, British, American, and Australian English all have some subtle grammar differences as well. For instance, in Great Britain, it is perfectly acceptable to use a collective noun (such as army) as a plural word ("the army are coming"), whereas in America collective nouns are almost always singular ("the army is coming"). British English also uses the irregular form of the past participle of several verbs (learnt rather than learned). Also, British English tends to drop the definite article in some situations. For instance, British English speakers may refer to being "in hospital" instead of "in the hospital." Australian grammar tends to follow British rules.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/
The Differences Between American, British, And Australian English
Australia, Great Britain, and America all speak the same language, but you simply have to visit each country to realize that, while they all speak English, it is far from a universal language. The English spoken in Great Britain, America, and Australia has many similarities, but a surprising number of differences as well. The main reason for this is the vast distance between each country. Here are some of the common differences you will find between these three versions of English.
Pronunciation Differences
Pronunciation between the three types of English is very dissimilar. In American English the "r" at the end of the word almost always affects its pronunciation, whereas in Australian and British English the "r" is often silent. Also, the emphasis placed on the syllables of the word varies from British, Australian, and American English. In Britain, the world adult has the emphasis on the first syllable, whereas in America it is placed on the second half of the word. Australian English is unique in the fact that many words have sounds that are eliminated. Instead of saying good day, the Australian speaker says g'day. The main pronunciation difference between the three, however, is the pronunciation of the vowel sounds.
Differences in Spelling
Not only do the three types of English sound different, but they are also spelled differently. In some ways, the spelling reflects the difference in pronunciation. For instance, Americans use the world airplane to refer to a flying mode of transportation. In Great Britain, the word is aeroplane, and it is pronounced with an audible "o" sound. Another common difference in spelling is aluminium, which is the UK spelling, and aluminum, the US spelling. Again, the difference shows the difference in pronunciation of the two words. In this instance the Australian spelling is the same as the UK spelling.
Another common spelling difference between UK English and American English is the use of -our verses -or at the end of the word. For instance, in the UK, colour, flavour, honour, and similar words all end in -our, whereas in America they are spelled with the -or ending (color, flavor, honor). In Australia, the -our spelling is almost universal.
Similarly, the endings -re and -re are different between the different English dialects. In America you will go to the theater or fitness center, whereas in Britain you will visit the theatre or fitness centre. Again, Australian English follows the British pattern.
There are other common spelling differences as well. For instance, in American English, words that sound as though they end with an -ize will always end in an -ize. However, in UK English, they typically end in ise (i.e. realize, realise). Also, British English often doubles consonants when adding a suffix when American English does not, such as in the world traveller.
Interestingly, the three languages also have distinct vocabularies. For instance, the "hood" of a car is called the "bonnet" in Australia and Britain. Australia has several terms that are not used in either of the other countries, such as "bloke" (man) and "arvo" (afternoon). Also, Australians use some phrases that are combinations of British and American terms, such as "rubbish truck." Rubbish is commonly used in the UK, and truck is commonly used in America.
Grammar Distinctions
Besides spelling and pronunciation differences, British, American, and Australian English all have some subtle grammar differences as well. For instance, in Great Britain, it is perfectly acceptable to use a collective noun (such as army) as a plural word ("the army are coming"), whereas in America collective nouns are almost always singular ("the army is coming"). British English also uses the irregular form of the past participle of several verbs (learnt rather than learned). Also, British English tends to drop the definite article in some situations. For instance, British English speakers may refer to being "in hospital" instead of "in the hospital." Australian grammar tends to follow British rules.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/
Pronunciation between the three types of English is very dissimilar. In American English the "r" at the end of the word almost always affects its pronunciation, whereas in Australian and British English the "r" is often silent. Also, the emphasis placed on the syllables of the word varies from British, Australian, and American English. In Britain, the world adult has the emphasis on the first syllable, whereas in America it is placed on the second half of the word. Australian English is unique in the fact that many words have sounds that are eliminated. Instead of saying good day, the Australian speaker says g'day. The main pronunciation difference between the three, however, is the pronunciation of the vowel sounds.
Differences in Spelling
Not only do the three types of English sound different, but they are also spelled differently. In some ways, the spelling reflects the difference in pronunciation. For instance, Americans use the world airplane to refer to a flying mode of transportation. In Great Britain, the word is aeroplane, and it is pronounced with an audible "o" sound. Another common difference in spelling is aluminium, which is the UK spelling, and aluminum, the US spelling. Again, the difference shows the difference in pronunciation of the two words. In this instance the Australian spelling is the same as the UK spelling.
Another common spelling difference between UK English and American English is the use of -our verses -or at the end of the word. For instance, in the UK, colour, flavour, honour, and similar words all end in -our, whereas in America they are spelled with the -or ending (color, flavor, honor). In Australia, the -our spelling is almost universal.
Similarly, the endings -re and -re are different between the different English dialects. In America you will go to the theater or fitness center, whereas in Britain you will visit the theatre or fitness centre. Again, Australian English follows the British pattern.
There are other common spelling differences as well. For instance, in American English, words that sound as though they end with an -ize will always end in an -ize. However, in UK English, they typically end in ise (i.e. realize, realise). Also, British English often doubles consonants when adding a suffix when American English does not, such as in the world traveller.
Interestingly, the three languages also have distinct vocabularies. For instance, the "hood" of a car is called the "bonnet" in Australia and Britain. Australia has several terms that are not used in either of the other countries, such as "bloke" (man) and "arvo" (afternoon). Also, Australians use some phrases that are combinations of British and American terms, such as "rubbish truck." Rubbish is commonly used in the UK, and truck is commonly used in America.
Grammar Distinctions
Besides spelling and pronunciation differences, British, American, and Australian English all have some subtle grammar differences as well. For instance, in Great Britain, it is perfectly acceptable to use a collective noun (such as army) as a plural word ("the army are coming"), whereas in America collective nouns are almost always singular ("the army is coming"). British English also uses the irregular form of the past participle of several verbs (learnt rather than learned). Also, British English tends to drop the definite article in some situations. For instance, British English speakers may refer to being "in hospital" instead of "in the hospital." Australian grammar tends to follow British rules.
Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/
Lowongan Kerja Guru Bahasa Inggris
We are an educational franchise unit from UK (United Kingdom) looking for qualified individuals to join us for the following positions:
English Teacher
(Jakarta Raya - Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta)
English Teacher
(Jakarta Raya - Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta)
Requirements:
- Candidate must possess at least a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics/Languages, Education/Teaching/Training or equivalent.
- Working experience min. 1 year in educational institutions would be an advantage
- Required skill(s): MS Office, Ms Excel, Ms Word.
- Required language(s): English.
- Fluency in Spoken and Written English is a MUST with clear pronunciation.
- Friendly, warm personalities and creative
- Professional and customer oriented
- Entry level applicants are encouraged to apply.
- Full-Time and Part Time positions available.
- Applicants should be Indonesian citizens or hold relevant residence status.
- This position is not open to citizen of other nationalities where English is not their official Native language.
JSA(spasi) APPLY(spasi) EJDTVM
Send to 9333
more: job information
Lowongan Kerja Guru Bahasa Inggris
We are an educational franchise unit from UK (United Kingdom) looking for qualified individuals to join us for the following positions:
English Teacher
(Jakarta Raya - Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta)
English Teacher
(Jakarta Raya - Kelapa Gading, North Jakarta)
Requirements:
- Candidate must possess at least a Bachelor's Degree in Linguistics/Languages, Education/Teaching/Training or equivalent.
- Working experience min. 1 year in educational institutions would be an advantage
- Required skill(s): MS Office, Ms Excel, Ms Word.
- Required language(s): English.
- Fluency in Spoken and Written English is a MUST with clear pronunciation.
- Friendly, warm personalities and creative
- Professional and customer oriented
- Entry level applicants are encouraged to apply.
- Full-Time and Part Time positions available.
- Applicants should be Indonesian citizens or hold relevant residence status.
- This position is not open to citizen of other nationalities where English is not their official Native language.
JSA(spasi) APPLY(spasi) EJDTVM
Send to 9333
more: job information
Get Started Learning English Online Free
If you do not have any knowledge of English or if your exposure to the language has been minimal, you can avail of an English online free course. The course starts with the basics for beginners so that even a child (with the help of an adult) can take this course and become a fluent speaker and writer. It is not enough to be able to speak the language. You have to be able to write English as well so that you can correspond and communicate in many different ways. This will be advantageous to you if you plan to love or travel to an English speaking country and especially if you want to do business in such a country.
The beginning grammar lessons in an online English course start off with the basics. You will learn how to use one of the main verbs in the English language ?to be. In this lesson, you will hear and read short presentation dialogues and then receive instruction as to how to use these verbs. There will also be a list of vocabulary words used in the lesson and the grammar exercises provide short sentences for which you have to fill in the correct verb. Then you can take the quiz to see how well you have done in the lesson. Even though the focus of the lesson is on the conjugation of the verb be? you receive exposure to other facets of the language, such as the placement of verbs in a sentence, the pronouns used with the verbs and the punctuation at the end of the sentence.
The lessons in an online English course are like building blocks. Each one builds on the previous lesson, so that what you learn in one lesson will help you in the subsequent ones. You can review the material as often as you wish and complete the practice exercises and quizzes as many times as you feel you need to until you are comfortable that you understand the concept. There are listening exercises to go along with the topics as well, so in this way you get a double dose of the material as well as exposure to listening to native English speakers.
Learning online is also fun with the many games and other resources available to you. Games are a part of learning English, even with native speakers. Through vocabulary and word games you increase your vocabulary with the thousands of words used in these ways.
As you advance through the course, you can utilize many other resources, such as reading short books in English at your own pace. You can even test yourself with how you speak the language by recording your speech and them comparing it with the speakers for the passages. Read newspapers, learn how to write an essay or do research and gain important information about daily conversations about the weather, aspects of campus life and talking about your family.
There is no doubt that when you complete an online course in English you will be very knowledgeable about the language and how to use it properly in your interactions with others. However, you do have to be motivated to keep studying, so whatever reason you have for learning English should be uppermost in your mind.
The lessons in an online English course are like building blocks. Each one builds on the previous lesson, so that what you learn in one lesson will help you in the subsequent ones. You can review the material as often as you wish and complete the practice exercises and quizzes as many times as you feel you need to until you are comfortable that you understand the concept. There are listening exercises to go along with the topics as well, so in this way you get a double dose of the material as well as exposure to listening to native English speakers.
Learning online is also fun with the many games and other resources available to you. Games are a part of learning English, even with native speakers. Through vocabulary and word games you increase your vocabulary with the thousands of words used in these ways.
As you advance through the course, you can utilize many other resources, such as reading short books in English at your own pace. You can even test yourself with how you speak the language by recording your speech and them comparing it with the speakers for the passages. Read newspapers, learn how to write an essay or do research and gain important information about daily conversations about the weather, aspects of campus life and talking about your family.
There is no doubt that when you complete an online course in English you will be very knowledgeable about the language and how to use it properly in your interactions with others. However, you do have to be motivated to keep studying, so whatever reason you have for learning English should be uppermost in your mind.
Author: Warren Wong
Get Started Learning English Online Free
If you do not have any knowledge of English or if your exposure to the language has been minimal, you can avail of an English online free course. The course starts with the basics for beginners so that even a child (with the help of an adult) can take this course and become a fluent speaker and writer. It is not enough to be able to speak the language. You have to be able to write English as well so that you can correspond and communicate in many different ways. This will be advantageous to you if you plan to love or travel to an English speaking country and especially if you want to do business in such a country.
The beginning grammar lessons in an online English course start off with the basics. You will learn how to use one of the main verbs in the English language ?to be. In this lesson, you will hear and read short presentation dialogues and then receive instruction as to how to use these verbs. There will also be a list of vocabulary words used in the lesson and the grammar exercises provide short sentences for which you have to fill in the correct verb. Then you can take the quiz to see how well you have done in the lesson. Even though the focus of the lesson is on the conjugation of the verb be? you receive exposure to other facets of the language, such as the placement of verbs in a sentence, the pronouns used with the verbs and the punctuation at the end of the sentence.
The lessons in an online English course are like building blocks. Each one builds on the previous lesson, so that what you learn in one lesson will help you in the subsequent ones. You can review the material as often as you wish and complete the practice exercises and quizzes as many times as you feel you need to until you are comfortable that you understand the concept. There are listening exercises to go along with the topics as well, so in this way you get a double dose of the material as well as exposure to listening to native English speakers.
Learning online is also fun with the many games and other resources available to you. Games are a part of learning English, even with native speakers. Through vocabulary and word games you increase your vocabulary with the thousands of words used in these ways.
As you advance through the course, you can utilize many other resources, such as reading short books in English at your own pace. You can even test yourself with how you speak the language by recording your speech and them comparing it with the speakers for the passages. Read newspapers, learn how to write an essay or do research and gain important information about daily conversations about the weather, aspects of campus life and talking about your family.
There is no doubt that when you complete an online course in English you will be very knowledgeable about the language and how to use it properly in your interactions with others. However, you do have to be motivated to keep studying, so whatever reason you have for learning English should be uppermost in your mind.
The lessons in an online English course are like building blocks. Each one builds on the previous lesson, so that what you learn in one lesson will help you in the subsequent ones. You can review the material as often as you wish and complete the practice exercises and quizzes as many times as you feel you need to until you are comfortable that you understand the concept. There are listening exercises to go along with the topics as well, so in this way you get a double dose of the material as well as exposure to listening to native English speakers.
Learning online is also fun with the many games and other resources available to you. Games are a part of learning English, even with native speakers. Through vocabulary and word games you increase your vocabulary with the thousands of words used in these ways.
As you advance through the course, you can utilize many other resources, such as reading short books in English at your own pace. You can even test yourself with how you speak the language by recording your speech and them comparing it with the speakers for the passages. Read newspapers, learn how to write an essay or do research and gain important information about daily conversations about the weather, aspects of campus life and talking about your family.
There is no doubt that when you complete an online course in English you will be very knowledgeable about the language and how to use it properly in your interactions with others. However, you do have to be motivated to keep studying, so whatever reason you have for learning English should be uppermost in your mind.
Author: Warren Wong
Learning English Online is Free and Enjoyable
With the convenience and the technology of the Internet, when you want to learn to speak, read and write English you no longer have to take regular classes or travel to an English speaking country to do so. You can stay at home and take English online and study at you own pace without paying the costly tuition and other expenses that would otherwise be involved. The courses are designed to be very comprehensive and include listening passages, reading materials and games in addition to instruction, grammar exercises and quizzes.
The beginning course consists of lessons on:
- subject pronouns
- asking questions
- using the negative in sentences
- contractions
- prepositions of place
- nouns
- articles
- pronouns
- singular and plural
As you take this course, you will also have access to an instructor if you need any help other than that provided in the lessons. You are able to communicate with others taking the same course and these may be people in another country, which gives you a chance to make new friends online. In this way you are able to communicate in English to enhance your learning. You also have a study buddy with whom you can learn from and with each other.
The main focus on learning English is to learn the spelling rules , which include where and when to use capital letters, the different forms of punctuation and how to add suffixes and prefixes. The use of double consonants in English is different than in other languages because there are no double letters in the English language alphabet. You will learn which letters must be doubled when you add endings onto words. such as added ing to hit ?hitting.
The next sections on the online English course will take you further into your learning with easy introductory lessons to a wide variety of concepts. Each of these lessons starts with a dialogue based on the concept that you can listen to and read along with the printed version of the dialogue. The lesson also contains key vocabulary words that will increase your level of English vocabulary.
For students English as a second language, when they first start the course they find it slow going because they have to try to translate the English words into their native language. For this reason, they have access to a dictionary in which they can look up English words and find what that word is in just about any language, including Chinese and Korean.
There is also an audio course offered online in which you listen to short passages at first and answer comprehension questions to make sure you understand what the passage is about. These start off with very simple topics and gradually increase in length and the complexity of the topic.
In order to attend college or university in English speaking countries or to immigrate to take a job, you do have to show that you are proficient in the language by taking a test in the basic skills required in speaking, reading, writing and listening. This type of course will prepare you to take this test and give you study tips as well as tips to help you write the required essay.
- subject pronouns
- asking questions
- using the negative in sentences
- contractions
- prepositions of place
- nouns
- articles
- pronouns
- singular and plural
As you take this course, you will also have access to an instructor if you need any help other than that provided in the lessons. You are able to communicate with others taking the same course and these may be people in another country, which gives you a chance to make new friends online. In this way you are able to communicate in English to enhance your learning. You also have a study buddy with whom you can learn from and with each other.
The main focus on learning English is to learn the spelling rules , which include where and when to use capital letters, the different forms of punctuation and how to add suffixes and prefixes. The use of double consonants in English is different than in other languages because there are no double letters in the English language alphabet. You will learn which letters must be doubled when you add endings onto words. such as added ing to hit ?hitting.
The next sections on the online English course will take you further into your learning with easy introductory lessons to a wide variety of concepts. Each of these lessons starts with a dialogue based on the concept that you can listen to and read along with the printed version of the dialogue. The lesson also contains key vocabulary words that will increase your level of English vocabulary.
For students English as a second language, when they first start the course they find it slow going because they have to try to translate the English words into their native language. For this reason, they have access to a dictionary in which they can look up English words and find what that word is in just about any language, including Chinese and Korean.
There is also an audio course offered online in which you listen to short passages at first and answer comprehension questions to make sure you understand what the passage is about. These start off with very simple topics and gradually increase in length and the complexity of the topic.
In order to attend college or university in English speaking countries or to immigrate to take a job, you do have to show that you are proficient in the language by taking a test in the basic skills required in speaking, reading, writing and listening. This type of course will prepare you to take this test and give you study tips as well as tips to help you write the required essay.
Author: Ling Tong
Learning English Online is Free and Enjoyable
With the convenience and the technology of the Internet, when you want to learn to speak, read and write English you no longer have to take regular classes or travel to an English speaking country to do so. You can stay at home and take English online and study at you own pace without paying the costly tuition and other expenses that would otherwise be involved. The courses are designed to be very comprehensive and include listening passages, reading materials and games in addition to instruction, grammar exercises and quizzes.
The beginning course consists of lessons on:
- subject pronouns
- asking questions
- using the negative in sentences
- contractions
- prepositions of place
- nouns
- articles
- pronouns
- singular and plural
As you take this course, you will also have access to an instructor if you need any help other than that provided in the lessons. You are able to communicate with others taking the same course and these may be people in another country, which gives you a chance to make new friends online. In this way you are able to communicate in English to enhance your learning. You also have a study buddy with whom you can learn from and with each other.
The main focus on learning English is to learn the spelling rules , which include where and when to use capital letters, the different forms of punctuation and how to add suffixes and prefixes. The use of double consonants in English is different than in other languages because there are no double letters in the English language alphabet. You will learn which letters must be doubled when you add endings onto words. such as added ing to hit ?hitting.
The next sections on the online English course will take you further into your learning with easy introductory lessons to a wide variety of concepts. Each of these lessons starts with a dialogue based on the concept that you can listen to and read along with the printed version of the dialogue. The lesson also contains key vocabulary words that will increase your level of English vocabulary.
For students English as a second language, when they first start the course they find it slow going because they have to try to translate the English words into their native language. For this reason, they have access to a dictionary in which they can look up English words and find what that word is in just about any language, including Chinese and Korean.
There is also an audio course offered online in which you listen to short passages at first and answer comprehension questions to make sure you understand what the passage is about. These start off with very simple topics and gradually increase in length and the complexity of the topic.
In order to attend college or university in English speaking countries or to immigrate to take a job, you do have to show that you are proficient in the language by taking a test in the basic skills required in speaking, reading, writing and listening. This type of course will prepare you to take this test and give you study tips as well as tips to help you write the required essay.
- subject pronouns
- asking questions
- using the negative in sentences
- contractions
- prepositions of place
- nouns
- articles
- pronouns
- singular and plural
As you take this course, you will also have access to an instructor if you need any help other than that provided in the lessons. You are able to communicate with others taking the same course and these may be people in another country, which gives you a chance to make new friends online. In this way you are able to communicate in English to enhance your learning. You also have a study buddy with whom you can learn from and with each other.
The main focus on learning English is to learn the spelling rules , which include where and when to use capital letters, the different forms of punctuation and how to add suffixes and prefixes. The use of double consonants in English is different than in other languages because there are no double letters in the English language alphabet. You will learn which letters must be doubled when you add endings onto words. such as added ing to hit ?hitting.
The next sections on the online English course will take you further into your learning with easy introductory lessons to a wide variety of concepts. Each of these lessons starts with a dialogue based on the concept that you can listen to and read along with the printed version of the dialogue. The lesson also contains key vocabulary words that will increase your level of English vocabulary.
For students English as a second language, when they first start the course they find it slow going because they have to try to translate the English words into their native language. For this reason, they have access to a dictionary in which they can look up English words and find what that word is in just about any language, including Chinese and Korean.
There is also an audio course offered online in which you listen to short passages at first and answer comprehension questions to make sure you understand what the passage is about. These start off with very simple topics and gradually increase in length and the complexity of the topic.
In order to attend college or university in English speaking countries or to immigrate to take a job, you do have to show that you are proficient in the language by taking a test in the basic skills required in speaking, reading, writing and listening. This type of course will prepare you to take this test and give you study tips as well as tips to help you write the required essay.
Author: Ling Tong
10 Best Ways to Learn English in a Non-English Country
Even in countries in which English is not the primary language, it is important to learn English for a number of reasons. First of all, many English-speaking individuals tour other countries and they may not speak the native language of that country, so it is necessary for them to speak to others who can speak English. Then again, many wish to learn English because they are hoping to visit or even live in an English-speaking country someday.
However, learning how to speak English in a non-English country can be quite challenging. Where those learning how to speak English in English-speaking countries have a lot of resources to their disposal such as television, radio, and libraries that are packed full of books written in English, the resident of a non-English country does not have that luxury. That is why it is important to explore other options.
Below are the 10 best ways that an individual wishing to speak English can learn in their own country:
Below are the 10 best ways that an individual wishing to speak English can learn in their own country:
- The Internet is going to be your best friend. It is packed full of resources, reading materials, sound recordings, and so much more that can help you learn the meaning of the words that you read and speak.
- Check out your local video store and see if there are movies in English. There may be a few. Don't worry about the entertainment value of the title. You are watching it so you can stop it and replay it in order to focus on your English speaking skills.
- Record yourself when you speak English. After you are finished recording, play it back and see what you sound like. If you are not clear, then you can simply try again. This is a great way to see how others hear you.
- Go to your library and pick out titles that are written in English. Try to read those titles. Just be mindful of the difficulty level and even practice writing some of the sentences.
- Find an English CD and listen to it. Decipher the words and even try to sing along. This can be a lot of fun. If you want to, you can record yourself doing this and really have a lot of fun.
- Try to surround yourself with as many English materials as possible. Not just books, movies, and CDs, but magazines and any products that you can find in the store that may have English written on them. Some major brands service many countries and have multiple languages written on their packaging.
- Practice with a friend. This friend may not know English, but impress them with your skills. You may even try to teach what you have learned because you will be less likely to forget by repeating the information to another.
- If you hear a word and you don't know what it is, write it down and do research on what it means. In your research you'll encounter many more English words for you to ponder over.
- Keep a diary in English. The things you write can be as simple as what day it is and what the weather is like outside.
- And the most important to learn English is to consider is online ESL courses. These online courses help you learn at your pace and provide you with materials that will have you speaking English in no time. All of the other steps can be used outside of your courses to make you proficient in the language.
Author: Amy Nutt
10 Best Ways to Learn English in a Non-English Country
Even in countries in which English is not the primary language, it is important to learn English for a number of reasons. First of all, many English-speaking individuals tour other countries and they may not speak the native language of that country, so it is necessary for them to speak to others who can speak English. Then again, many wish to learn English because they are hoping to visit or even live in an English-speaking country someday.
However, learning how to speak English in a non-English country can be quite challenging. Where those learning how to speak English in English-speaking countries have a lot of resources to their disposal such as television, radio, and libraries that are packed full of books written in English, the resident of a non-English country does not have that luxury. That is why it is important to explore other options.
Below are the 10 best ways that an individual wishing to speak English can learn in their own country:
Below are the 10 best ways that an individual wishing to speak English can learn in their own country:
- The Internet is going to be your best friend. It is packed full of resources, reading materials, sound recordings, and so much more that can help you learn the meaning of the words that you read and speak.
- Check out your local video store and see if there are movies in English. There may be a few. Don't worry about the entertainment value of the title. You are watching it so you can stop it and replay it in order to focus on your English speaking skills.
- Record yourself when you speak English. After you are finished recording, play it back and see what you sound like. If you are not clear, then you can simply try again. This is a great way to see how others hear you.
- Go to your library and pick out titles that are written in English. Try to read those titles. Just be mindful of the difficulty level and even practice writing some of the sentences.
- Find an English CD and listen to it. Decipher the words and even try to sing along. This can be a lot of fun. If you want to, you can record yourself doing this and really have a lot of fun.
- Try to surround yourself with as many English materials as possible. Not just books, movies, and CDs, but magazines and any products that you can find in the store that may have English written on them. Some major brands service many countries and have multiple languages written on their packaging.
- Practice with a friend. This friend may not know English, but impress them with your skills. You may even try to teach what you have learned because you will be less likely to forget by repeating the information to another.
- If you hear a word and you don't know what it is, write it down and do research on what it means. In your research you'll encounter many more English words for you to ponder over.
- Keep a diary in English. The things you write can be as simple as what day it is and what the weather is like outside.
- And the most important to learn English is to consider is online ESL courses. These online courses help you learn at your pace and provide you with materials that will have you speaking English in no time. All of the other steps can be used outside of your courses to make you proficient in the language.
Author: Amy Nutt
Four Tips For Learning English
If you have decided that you want to learn English, you are about to start on a fairly difficult journey. While English is one of the most widely spoken languages, particularly in the western hemisphere, it is also one of the most difficult to learn. If you have committed yourself to learning the language, here are some tips you can use to make it a little easier.
Tip 1 - Identify Your Motivation and Desire
Before you start down the path of learning English, make sure you really want to. If you cannot say that you truly want to learn the language, you are going to struggle, particularly if you are trying to learn English online. Remember, it is a challenging language and will take a measure of dedication to learn.
Also, you need to identify your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to learn English. Understanding your motivation, whether it be to help qualify for a better job or to communicate with someone you know, will help you stick to your goal of learning English.
Tip 2 - Set Realistic Goals
You are not going to learn English overnight, even if you are highly motivated, are a great student, and are attending the best online English school you can find. You need to set realistic goals that you can work toward as you master the language.
Your goal for the first week may be to master some basic vocabulary. Then you may wish to tackle an important grammar rule. If you already have a basic understanding of English, you can set goals to improve your pronunciation or listening comprehension. You need to know your basic goals before you begin attending English school so that you can choose the best program to help you meet them.
Tip 3 - Set Aside Time to Practice
Learning any language takes practice, and lots of it. Knowing how to practice a language is important. You can't simply sit at home and talk to yourself. Even if you are trying to learn English online, you need to find native speakers to talk to. You can use the telephone or online chats to talk to people who know English well, but you need to find someone to talk to.
You can also practice by writing English. Write letters, emails, and notes in English whenever the recipient can understand English. Your English lesson at school will probably have you writing as well, but practical writing in the real world is the best way to discover whether or not you know the language well enough to communicate.
Tip 4 - Immerse Yourself in the Language
The best way to train your brain to think and understand in another language is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Subscribe to publications in English, and read them. Read books in English, and listen to recordings made in English. Speak the language whenever you have someone near you who can understand it, especially when that person is a native speaker who can help you with your pronunciation.
Watch television programs in English. This is one of the best ways to help yourself learn English, because you will have a visual reference to help you understand the spoken word. If your television has closed captioning capabilities, turn this on. Then you will also have a written reference to reinforce what you are learning.
The best thing about the immersion approach is that it gets you used to the proper pronunciations of the words. Also, by immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds the English language, you can pick up on slang words and words that are not quite used correctly, but sound right to English speakers. You will pick up on phrases that are commonly used, and phrases that are best left untouched. So, whenever you have the chance to practice speaking, writing, or listening to English, take advantage of it. You will soon learn English as well as any native speaker, or perhaps even better!
Before you start down the path of learning English, make sure you really want to. If you cannot say that you truly want to learn the language, you are going to struggle, particularly if you are trying to learn English online. Remember, it is a challenging language and will take a measure of dedication to learn.
Also, you need to identify your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to learn English. Understanding your motivation, whether it be to help qualify for a better job or to communicate with someone you know, will help you stick to your goal of learning English.
Tip 2 - Set Realistic Goals
You are not going to learn English overnight, even if you are highly motivated, are a great student, and are attending the best online English school you can find. You need to set realistic goals that you can work toward as you master the language.
Your goal for the first week may be to master some basic vocabulary. Then you may wish to tackle an important grammar rule. If you already have a basic understanding of English, you can set goals to improve your pronunciation or listening comprehension. You need to know your basic goals before you begin attending English school so that you can choose the best program to help you meet them.
Tip 3 - Set Aside Time to Practice
Learning any language takes practice, and lots of it. Knowing how to practice a language is important. You can't simply sit at home and talk to yourself. Even if you are trying to learn English online, you need to find native speakers to talk to. You can use the telephone or online chats to talk to people who know English well, but you need to find someone to talk to.
You can also practice by writing English. Write letters, emails, and notes in English whenever the recipient can understand English. Your English lesson at school will probably have you writing as well, but practical writing in the real world is the best way to discover whether or not you know the language well enough to communicate.
Tip 4 - Immerse Yourself in the Language
The best way to train your brain to think and understand in another language is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Subscribe to publications in English, and read them. Read books in English, and listen to recordings made in English. Speak the language whenever you have someone near you who can understand it, especially when that person is a native speaker who can help you with your pronunciation.
Watch television programs in English. This is one of the best ways to help yourself learn English, because you will have a visual reference to help you understand the spoken word. If your television has closed captioning capabilities, turn this on. Then you will also have a written reference to reinforce what you are learning.
The best thing about the immersion approach is that it gets you used to the proper pronunciations of the words. Also, by immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds the English language, you can pick up on slang words and words that are not quite used correctly, but sound right to English speakers. You will pick up on phrases that are commonly used, and phrases that are best left untouched. So, whenever you have the chance to practice speaking, writing, or listening to English, take advantage of it. You will soon learn English as well as any native speaker, or perhaps even better!
Author: Amy Nutt
Four Tips For Learning English
If you have decided that you want to learn English, you are about to start on a fairly difficult journey. While English is one of the most widely spoken languages, particularly in the western hemisphere, it is also one of the most difficult to learn. If you have committed yourself to learning the language, here are some tips you can use to make it a little easier.
Tip 1 - Identify Your Motivation and Desire
Before you start down the path of learning English, make sure you really want to. If you cannot say that you truly want to learn the language, you are going to struggle, particularly if you are trying to learn English online. Remember, it is a challenging language and will take a measure of dedication to learn.
Also, you need to identify your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to learn English. Understanding your motivation, whether it be to help qualify for a better job or to communicate with someone you know, will help you stick to your goal of learning English.
Tip 2 - Set Realistic Goals
You are not going to learn English overnight, even if you are highly motivated, are a great student, and are attending the best online English school you can find. You need to set realistic goals that you can work toward as you master the language.
Your goal for the first week may be to master some basic vocabulary. Then you may wish to tackle an important grammar rule. If you already have a basic understanding of English, you can set goals to improve your pronunciation or listening comprehension. You need to know your basic goals before you begin attending English school so that you can choose the best program to help you meet them.
Tip 3 - Set Aside Time to Practice
Learning any language takes practice, and lots of it. Knowing how to practice a language is important. You can't simply sit at home and talk to yourself. Even if you are trying to learn English online, you need to find native speakers to talk to. You can use the telephone or online chats to talk to people who know English well, but you need to find someone to talk to.
You can also practice by writing English. Write letters, emails, and notes in English whenever the recipient can understand English. Your English lesson at school will probably have you writing as well, but practical writing in the real world is the best way to discover whether or not you know the language well enough to communicate.
Tip 4 - Immerse Yourself in the Language
The best way to train your brain to think and understand in another language is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Subscribe to publications in English, and read them. Read books in English, and listen to recordings made in English. Speak the language whenever you have someone near you who can understand it, especially when that person is a native speaker who can help you with your pronunciation.
Watch television programs in English. This is one of the best ways to help yourself learn English, because you will have a visual reference to help you understand the spoken word. If your television has closed captioning capabilities, turn this on. Then you will also have a written reference to reinforce what you are learning.
The best thing about the immersion approach is that it gets you used to the proper pronunciations of the words. Also, by immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds the English language, you can pick up on slang words and words that are not quite used correctly, but sound right to English speakers. You will pick up on phrases that are commonly used, and phrases that are best left untouched. So, whenever you have the chance to practice speaking, writing, or listening to English, take advantage of it. You will soon learn English as well as any native speaker, or perhaps even better!
Before you start down the path of learning English, make sure you really want to. If you cannot say that you truly want to learn the language, you are going to struggle, particularly if you are trying to learn English online. Remember, it is a challenging language and will take a measure of dedication to learn.
Also, you need to identify your motivation. Ask yourself why you want to learn English. Understanding your motivation, whether it be to help qualify for a better job or to communicate with someone you know, will help you stick to your goal of learning English.
Tip 2 - Set Realistic Goals
You are not going to learn English overnight, even if you are highly motivated, are a great student, and are attending the best online English school you can find. You need to set realistic goals that you can work toward as you master the language.
Your goal for the first week may be to master some basic vocabulary. Then you may wish to tackle an important grammar rule. If you already have a basic understanding of English, you can set goals to improve your pronunciation or listening comprehension. You need to know your basic goals before you begin attending English school so that you can choose the best program to help you meet them.
Tip 3 - Set Aside Time to Practice
Learning any language takes practice, and lots of it. Knowing how to practice a language is important. You can't simply sit at home and talk to yourself. Even if you are trying to learn English online, you need to find native speakers to talk to. You can use the telephone or online chats to talk to people who know English well, but you need to find someone to talk to.
You can also practice by writing English. Write letters, emails, and notes in English whenever the recipient can understand English. Your English lesson at school will probably have you writing as well, but practical writing in the real world is the best way to discover whether or not you know the language well enough to communicate.
Tip 4 - Immerse Yourself in the Language
The best way to train your brain to think and understand in another language is to immerse yourself in the language as much as possible. Subscribe to publications in English, and read them. Read books in English, and listen to recordings made in English. Speak the language whenever you have someone near you who can understand it, especially when that person is a native speaker who can help you with your pronunciation.
Watch television programs in English. This is one of the best ways to help yourself learn English, because you will have a visual reference to help you understand the spoken word. If your television has closed captioning capabilities, turn this on. Then you will also have a written reference to reinforce what you are learning.
The best thing about the immersion approach is that it gets you used to the proper pronunciations of the words. Also, by immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds the English language, you can pick up on slang words and words that are not quite used correctly, but sound right to English speakers. You will pick up on phrases that are commonly used, and phrases that are best left untouched. So, whenever you have the chance to practice speaking, writing, or listening to English, take advantage of it. You will soon learn English as well as any native speaker, or perhaps even better!
Author: Amy Nutt
Intonation and Stress in English Pronunciation
Speakers and learners of English are interested in improving their ACCENT. They quite properly give importance to their pronunciation. However, making the correct English sounds is only a part of a correct accent. A native accent also depends on proper links between parts of the expressions spoken, and also the proper intonation or stress on the parts of the words in the spoken utterance.
It is necessary to have the proper "music" or rhythm of the language that is spoken. You all know the following word game. What is a "zookee"? Ask this of a native born English speaker and they will not know what you mean. If you say, "It is used to open the gate to a place where animals are kept". He or she will know that you are saying "zoo key". You may have pronounced the sounds perfectly but your link between the two parts of the word caused your listener to not hear "zoo key".
The same thing happens with word stress. A native speaker of English knows whether you mean the place where the president of the United States lives, or a house that is painted white when you say "white house". Similarly when you say "dark room", you mean either a room with no lights on, or the place where a photographer develops film. It is the word stress (which has certain rules that you will learn in other articles) that makes the difference.
This article will present an example of and the reasons for the importance of proper word stress.
A. Read the following sentences aloud timing how long each one takes to read.
Then count the syllables in each sentence.
The beautiful Mountain appeared transfixed in the distance.
(How long did it take to read? ______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
He can come on Sundays as long as he doesn't have to do any homework in the evening.
(How long did it take to read? (______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
B. Learn the following facts concerning pronunciation.
C. Practice and Keep it up
D. Tips:
The same thing happens with word stress. A native speaker of English knows whether you mean the place where the president of the United States lives, or a house that is painted white when you say "white house". Similarly when you say "dark room", you mean either a room with no lights on, or the place where a photographer develops film. It is the word stress (which has certain rules that you will learn in other articles) that makes the difference.
This article will present an example of and the reasons for the importance of proper word stress.
A. Read the following sentences aloud timing how long each one takes to read.
Then count the syllables in each sentence.
The beautiful Mountain appeared transfixed in the distance.
(How long did it take to read? ______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
He can come on Sundays as long as he doesn't have to do any homework in the evening.
(How long did it take to read? (______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
- Notice that the first sentence actually takes about the same time to speak well!
- Even though the second sentence is approximately 30% longer than the first, the sentences take the same time to speak. This is because there are 5 stressed words in each sentence.
B. Learn the following facts concerning pronunciation.
- English is considered a stressed language while many other languages are considered syllabic.
- In other languages, such as French or Italian, each syllable receives equal importance (there is stress, but each syllable has its own length).
- English pronunciation focuses on specific stressed words while quickly gliding over the other, non-stressed, words.
- Stressed words are considered content words: Nouns e.g. kitchen, Peter - (most) principle verbs e.g. visit, construct - Adjectives e.g. beautiful, interesting - Adverbs e.g. often, carefully
- Non-stressed words are considered function words: Determiners e.g. the, a - Auxiliary verbs e.g. am, were - Prepositions e.g. before, of - Conjunctions e.g. but, and - Pronouns e.g. they, she
C. Practice and Keep it up
- Write down a few sentences, or take a few example sentences from a book or exercise.
- First underline the stressed words, then read aloud focusing on stressing the underlined words and gliding over the non-stressed words.
- Be surprised at how quickly your pronunciation improves! By focusing on stressed words, non-stressed words and syllables take on their more muted nature.
- When listening to native speakers, focus on how those speakers stress certain words and begin to copy this.
- Now, do some listening comprehension or go speak to your native English speaking friends and listen to how they concentrate on the stressed words rather than giving importance to each syllableStressed words are the key to excellent pronunciation and understanding of English.
D. Tips:
- Remember that non-stressed words and syllables are often "swallowed" in English.
- Always focus on pronouncing stressed words well, non-stressed words can be glided over.
- Don't focus on pronouncing each word. Focus on the stressed words in each sentence.
Author: Frank Gerace
Intonation and Stress in English Pronunciation
Speakers and learners of English are interested in improving their ACCENT. They quite properly give importance to their pronunciation. However, making the correct English sounds is only a part of a correct accent. A native accent also depends on proper links between parts of the expressions spoken, and also the proper intonation or stress on the parts of the words in the spoken utterance.
It is necessary to have the proper "music" or rhythm of the language that is spoken. You all know the following word game. What is a "zookee"? Ask this of a native born English speaker and they will not know what you mean. If you say, "It is used to open the gate to a place where animals are kept". He or she will know that you are saying "zoo key". You may have pronounced the sounds perfectly but your link between the two parts of the word caused your listener to not hear "zoo key".
The same thing happens with word stress. A native speaker of English knows whether you mean the place where the president of the United States lives, or a house that is painted white when you say "white house". Similarly when you say "dark room", you mean either a room with no lights on, or the place where a photographer develops film. It is the word stress (which has certain rules that you will learn in other articles) that makes the difference.
This article will present an example of and the reasons for the importance of proper word stress.
A. Read the following sentences aloud timing how long each one takes to read.
Then count the syllables in each sentence.
The beautiful Mountain appeared transfixed in the distance.
(How long did it take to read? ______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
He can come on Sundays as long as he doesn't have to do any homework in the evening.
(How long did it take to read? (______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
B. Learn the following facts concerning pronunciation.
C. Practice and Keep it up
D. Tips:
The same thing happens with word stress. A native speaker of English knows whether you mean the place where the president of the United States lives, or a house that is painted white when you say "white house". Similarly when you say "dark room", you mean either a room with no lights on, or the place where a photographer develops film. It is the word stress (which has certain rules that you will learn in other articles) that makes the difference.
This article will present an example of and the reasons for the importance of proper word stress.
A. Read the following sentences aloud timing how long each one takes to read.
Then count the syllables in each sentence.
The beautiful Mountain appeared transfixed in the distance.
(How long did it take to read? ______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
He can come on Sundays as long as he doesn't have to do any homework in the evening.
(How long did it take to read? (______ seconds.) (How many syllables does it have? ________)
- Notice that the first sentence actually takes about the same time to speak well!
- Even though the second sentence is approximately 30% longer than the first, the sentences take the same time to speak. This is because there are 5 stressed words in each sentence.
B. Learn the following facts concerning pronunciation.
- English is considered a stressed language while many other languages are considered syllabic.
- In other languages, such as French or Italian, each syllable receives equal importance (there is stress, but each syllable has its own length).
- English pronunciation focuses on specific stressed words while quickly gliding over the other, non-stressed, words.
- Stressed words are considered content words: Nouns e.g. kitchen, Peter - (most) principle verbs e.g. visit, construct - Adjectives e.g. beautiful, interesting - Adverbs e.g. often, carefully
- Non-stressed words are considered function words: Determiners e.g. the, a - Auxiliary verbs e.g. am, were - Prepositions e.g. before, of - Conjunctions e.g. but, and - Pronouns e.g. they, she
C. Practice and Keep it up
- Write down a few sentences, or take a few example sentences from a book or exercise.
- First underline the stressed words, then read aloud focusing on stressing the underlined words and gliding over the non-stressed words.
- Be surprised at how quickly your pronunciation improves! By focusing on stressed words, non-stressed words and syllables take on their more muted nature.
- When listening to native speakers, focus on how those speakers stress certain words and begin to copy this.
- Now, do some listening comprehension or go speak to your native English speaking friends and listen to how they concentrate on the stressed words rather than giving importance to each syllableStressed words are the key to excellent pronunciation and understanding of English.
D. Tips:
- Remember that non-stressed words and syllables are often "swallowed" in English.
- Always focus on pronouncing stressed words well, non-stressed words can be glided over.
- Don't focus on pronouncing each word. Focus on the stressed words in each sentence.
Author: Frank Gerace
5 Ways to Improve Your English Without Even Trying
Learning a second language can be a very stressful and arduous task if you let it. Somehow, the words you learn in the books don't seem to apply very well to real life situations. Those small and seemingly un-important elements the show a person to be in command of not only the language, but the culture of the people who speak it cannot be adequately expressed by words on paper.
So, how do you learn these little secrets of mastering the ability to articulate yourself in another language?
Here are 5 proven techniques that will help you improve your English without even trying, if you are learning to speak English as a second language. Do they really work? Yes. I've tried them myself as I've had opportunity to live somewhere where English wasn't the primary language. I found it to be a fun, exciting, and painless way to learn both the language and the culture. The culture is simply learning the way the natives express their own words. The genuine accent, facial expressions, hand gestures, sighs, moans, groans, laughter, smirks, and other things that go along with everyday conversation.
Regardless of how extensive or not your vocabulary is, if you master the ability to "sound" like you know the language and can speak it, people will be more than generous to assist you.
1. Watch Movies!
Watching movies is always a fun thing to do. In order to get the most out of your movie watching experience, if your vocabulary is limited, watch a movie in English that you are very familiar with in your own language so you always know what's going on. Try not to translate as you go because you lose blocks of conversation this way. Instead, watch the picture and listen. Hear all the words, but determine what's going on by the pictures you see and the words you're hearing that you already know. Believe it or not, other words will sink in too, and so will the accent and everything else that went with what you saw and heard.
As your vocabulary grows, expand your movie selections to other movies you'd like to see but are only available in English. Try to be able to see the film more than once if possible.
According to the location and type of film you intend to view, you will be able to experience different accents, and other cultural expressions of the English language. Pick and choose the things that you think will suit you best. If it doesn't work out, pick and try something else! Have fun with yourself and your efforts.
2. Watch Soap Operas
The place where extreme expression and limited vocabulary meet! This is such a fascinating way to learn a foreign language. Every accessory that goes with the expression of a word is demonstrated on a soap opera. "Outrage" expressed with a word, facial expression or two, and perhaps even a subsequent face slap, all of that being understandable in any language. "Love", another universal subject, or violence, good versus evil can all be discerned quickly and easily on a soap opera. Plus, soap operas are naturally designed to allow anyone just tuning in to pick up the story quickly. The characters are easily loveable and deliciously "hate-able" so you turn to it again and again to see what's going on, and not only improve your English each time, but reinforce what you've already learned.
3. Read the Comics/ Funny Papers
Very non-stressful! Pictures with words, or words with pictures, however you want to look at it, it's a great way to learn! For each thought presented there are words that match a picture, and vice versa. It doesn't matter if you read comic books, or the comics in the Sunday newspaper, read whatever will make you laugh and cause you to enjoy learning at the same time.
4. Read Children's books
If you know any little kids between the ages of 5-8, try reading one of their books to them. Usually little kids know their favorite books by heart, so if you stumble a little, they'll be able to help you.
If you enjoy this method of improving your English, and you find yourself to be pretty good at it, then try reading a few Dr. Seuss books. The rhyming will challenge you, but once you master it, your pronunciation of English, and your delivery will have been considerably refined and improved.
5. Take a service job like waiter or waitress; bartender, or sales person.
This type of job can be done if you have a decent vocabulary of verbs, and know how to say "I, we, she, he, they", etc. The only other thing necessary is a working vocabulary of things relevant to your specific tasks and goals.
For example, as a breakfast waitress, you want to be able to ask if they want their eggs, "scrambled or fried", if they want "more coffee", if everything is "alright", do they want "anything else", and the total of their bill in their own language!
If you sell real estate, you'll want to incorporate words like "mortgage, loan, co-sign, 30 year fixed", etc. If you sell shoes, you need words like "how does that feel", are they "too tight, too loose, to short in the toe, to big", etc. The longer you work at your job, the more your working vocabulary will improve. learn more..
So, how do you learn these little secrets of mastering the ability to articulate yourself in another language?
Here are 5 proven techniques that will help you improve your English without even trying, if you are learning to speak English as a second language. Do they really work? Yes. I've tried them myself as I've had opportunity to live somewhere where English wasn't the primary language. I found it to be a fun, exciting, and painless way to learn both the language and the culture. The culture is simply learning the way the natives express their own words. The genuine accent, facial expressions, hand gestures, sighs, moans, groans, laughter, smirks, and other things that go along with everyday conversation.
Regardless of how extensive or not your vocabulary is, if you master the ability to "sound" like you know the language and can speak it, people will be more than generous to assist you.
1. Watch Movies!
Watching movies is always a fun thing to do. In order to get the most out of your movie watching experience, if your vocabulary is limited, watch a movie in English that you are very familiar with in your own language so you always know what's going on. Try not to translate as you go because you lose blocks of conversation this way. Instead, watch the picture and listen. Hear all the words, but determine what's going on by the pictures you see and the words you're hearing that you already know. Believe it or not, other words will sink in too, and so will the accent and everything else that went with what you saw and heard.
As your vocabulary grows, expand your movie selections to other movies you'd like to see but are only available in English. Try to be able to see the film more than once if possible.
According to the location and type of film you intend to view, you will be able to experience different accents, and other cultural expressions of the English language. Pick and choose the things that you think will suit you best. If it doesn't work out, pick and try something else! Have fun with yourself and your efforts.
2. Watch Soap Operas
The place where extreme expression and limited vocabulary meet! This is such a fascinating way to learn a foreign language. Every accessory that goes with the expression of a word is demonstrated on a soap opera. "Outrage" expressed with a word, facial expression or two, and perhaps even a subsequent face slap, all of that being understandable in any language. "Love", another universal subject, or violence, good versus evil can all be discerned quickly and easily on a soap opera. Plus, soap operas are naturally designed to allow anyone just tuning in to pick up the story quickly. The characters are easily loveable and deliciously "hate-able" so you turn to it again and again to see what's going on, and not only improve your English each time, but reinforce what you've already learned.
3. Read the Comics/ Funny Papers
Very non-stressful! Pictures with words, or words with pictures, however you want to look at it, it's a great way to learn! For each thought presented there are words that match a picture, and vice versa. It doesn't matter if you read comic books, or the comics in the Sunday newspaper, read whatever will make you laugh and cause you to enjoy learning at the same time.
4. Read Children's books
If you know any little kids between the ages of 5-8, try reading one of their books to them. Usually little kids know their favorite books by heart, so if you stumble a little, they'll be able to help you.
If you enjoy this method of improving your English, and you find yourself to be pretty good at it, then try reading a few Dr. Seuss books. The rhyming will challenge you, but once you master it, your pronunciation of English, and your delivery will have been considerably refined and improved.
5. Take a service job like waiter or waitress; bartender, or sales person.
This type of job can be done if you have a decent vocabulary of verbs, and know how to say "I, we, she, he, they", etc. The only other thing necessary is a working vocabulary of things relevant to your specific tasks and goals.
For example, as a breakfast waitress, you want to be able to ask if they want their eggs, "scrambled or fried", if they want "more coffee", if everything is "alright", do they want "anything else", and the total of their bill in their own language!
If you sell real estate, you'll want to incorporate words like "mortgage, loan, co-sign, 30 year fixed", etc. If you sell shoes, you need words like "how does that feel", are they "too tight, too loose, to short in the toe, to big", etc. The longer you work at your job, the more your working vocabulary will improve. learn more..
by: Kim Rogers
5 Ways to Improve Your English Without Even Trying
Learning a second language can be a very stressful and arduous task if you let it. Somehow, the words you learn in the books don't seem to apply very well to real life situations. Those small and seemingly un-important elements the show a person to be in command of not only the language, but the culture of the people who speak it cannot be adequately expressed by words on paper.
So, how do you learn these little secrets of mastering the ability to articulate yourself in another language?
Here are 5 proven techniques that will help you improve your English without even trying, if you are learning to speak English as a second language. Do they really work? Yes. I've tried them myself as I've had opportunity to live somewhere where English wasn't the primary language. I found it to be a fun, exciting, and painless way to learn both the language and the culture. The culture is simply learning the way the natives express their own words. The genuine accent, facial expressions, hand gestures, sighs, moans, groans, laughter, smirks, and other things that go along with everyday conversation.
Regardless of how extensive or not your vocabulary is, if you master the ability to "sound" like you know the language and can speak it, people will be more than generous to assist you.
1. Watch Movies!
Watching movies is always a fun thing to do. In order to get the most out of your movie watching experience, if your vocabulary is limited, watch a movie in English that you are very familiar with in your own language so you always know what's going on. Try not to translate as you go because you lose blocks of conversation this way. Instead, watch the picture and listen. Hear all the words, but determine what's going on by the pictures you see and the words you're hearing that you already know. Believe it or not, other words will sink in too, and so will the accent and everything else that went with what you saw and heard.
As your vocabulary grows, expand your movie selections to other movies you'd like to see but are only available in English. Try to be able to see the film more than once if possible.
According to the location and type of film you intend to view, you will be able to experience different accents, and other cultural expressions of the English language. Pick and choose the things that you think will suit you best. If it doesn't work out, pick and try something else! Have fun with yourself and your efforts.
2. Watch Soap Operas
The place where extreme expression and limited vocabulary meet! This is such a fascinating way to learn a foreign language. Every accessory that goes with the expression of a word is demonstrated on a soap opera. "Outrage" expressed with a word, facial expression or two, and perhaps even a subsequent face slap, all of that being understandable in any language. "Love", another universal subject, or violence, good versus evil can all be discerned quickly and easily on a soap opera. Plus, soap operas are naturally designed to allow anyone just tuning in to pick up the story quickly. The characters are easily loveable and deliciously "hate-able" so you turn to it again and again to see what's going on, and not only improve your English each time, but reinforce what you've already learned.
3. Read the Comics/ Funny Papers
Very non-stressful! Pictures with words, or words with pictures, however you want to look at it, it's a great way to learn! For each thought presented there are words that match a picture, and vice versa. It doesn't matter if you read comic books, or the comics in the Sunday newspaper, read whatever will make you laugh and cause you to enjoy learning at the same time.
4. Read Children's books
If you know any little kids between the ages of 5-8, try reading one of their books to them. Usually little kids know their favorite books by heart, so if you stumble a little, they'll be able to help you.
If you enjoy this method of improving your English, and you find yourself to be pretty good at it, then try reading a few Dr. Seuss books. The rhyming will challenge you, but once you master it, your pronunciation of English, and your delivery will have been considerably refined and improved.
5. Take a service job like waiter or waitress; bartender, or sales person.
This type of job can be done if you have a decent vocabulary of verbs, and know how to say "I, we, she, he, they", etc. The only other thing necessary is a working vocabulary of things relevant to your specific tasks and goals.
For example, as a breakfast waitress, you want to be able to ask if they want their eggs, "scrambled or fried", if they want "more coffee", if everything is "alright", do they want "anything else", and the total of their bill in their own language!
If you sell real estate, you'll want to incorporate words like "mortgage, loan, co-sign, 30 year fixed", etc. If you sell shoes, you need words like "how does that feel", are they "too tight, too loose, to short in the toe, to big", etc. The longer you work at your job, the more your working vocabulary will improve. learn more..
So, how do you learn these little secrets of mastering the ability to articulate yourself in another language?
Here are 5 proven techniques that will help you improve your English without even trying, if you are learning to speak English as a second language. Do they really work? Yes. I've tried them myself as I've had opportunity to live somewhere where English wasn't the primary language. I found it to be a fun, exciting, and painless way to learn both the language and the culture. The culture is simply learning the way the natives express their own words. The genuine accent, facial expressions, hand gestures, sighs, moans, groans, laughter, smirks, and other things that go along with everyday conversation.
Regardless of how extensive or not your vocabulary is, if you master the ability to "sound" like you know the language and can speak it, people will be more than generous to assist you.
1. Watch Movies!
Watching movies is always a fun thing to do. In order to get the most out of your movie watching experience, if your vocabulary is limited, watch a movie in English that you are very familiar with in your own language so you always know what's going on. Try not to translate as you go because you lose blocks of conversation this way. Instead, watch the picture and listen. Hear all the words, but determine what's going on by the pictures you see and the words you're hearing that you already know. Believe it or not, other words will sink in too, and so will the accent and everything else that went with what you saw and heard.
As your vocabulary grows, expand your movie selections to other movies you'd like to see but are only available in English. Try to be able to see the film more than once if possible.
According to the location and type of film you intend to view, you will be able to experience different accents, and other cultural expressions of the English language. Pick and choose the things that you think will suit you best. If it doesn't work out, pick and try something else! Have fun with yourself and your efforts.
2. Watch Soap Operas
The place where extreme expression and limited vocabulary meet! This is such a fascinating way to learn a foreign language. Every accessory that goes with the expression of a word is demonstrated on a soap opera. "Outrage" expressed with a word, facial expression or two, and perhaps even a subsequent face slap, all of that being understandable in any language. "Love", another universal subject, or violence, good versus evil can all be discerned quickly and easily on a soap opera. Plus, soap operas are naturally designed to allow anyone just tuning in to pick up the story quickly. The characters are easily loveable and deliciously "hate-able" so you turn to it again and again to see what's going on, and not only improve your English each time, but reinforce what you've already learned.
3. Read the Comics/ Funny Papers
Very non-stressful! Pictures with words, or words with pictures, however you want to look at it, it's a great way to learn! For each thought presented there are words that match a picture, and vice versa. It doesn't matter if you read comic books, or the comics in the Sunday newspaper, read whatever will make you laugh and cause you to enjoy learning at the same time.
4. Read Children's books
If you know any little kids between the ages of 5-8, try reading one of their books to them. Usually little kids know their favorite books by heart, so if you stumble a little, they'll be able to help you.
If you enjoy this method of improving your English, and you find yourself to be pretty good at it, then try reading a few Dr. Seuss books. The rhyming will challenge you, but once you master it, your pronunciation of English, and your delivery will have been considerably refined and improved.
5. Take a service job like waiter or waitress; bartender, or sales person.
This type of job can be done if you have a decent vocabulary of verbs, and know how to say "I, we, she, he, they", etc. The only other thing necessary is a working vocabulary of things relevant to your specific tasks and goals.
For example, as a breakfast waitress, you want to be able to ask if they want their eggs, "scrambled or fried", if they want "more coffee", if everything is "alright", do they want "anything else", and the total of their bill in their own language!
If you sell real estate, you'll want to incorporate words like "mortgage, loan, co-sign, 30 year fixed", etc. If you sell shoes, you need words like "how does that feel", are they "too tight, too loose, to short in the toe, to big", etc. The longer you work at your job, the more your working vocabulary will improve. learn more..
by: Kim Rogers
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