Published: Tuesday August 10, 2010 MYT 12:05:00 PM
Updated: Tuesday August 10, 2010 MYT 12:06:50 PM
Daring parents fight off armed assailants' bid to kidnap daughter
MALACCA: Plucky response by the parents of an 11-year-old girl saved her from being kidnapped by four armed men in front their home in Taman Malim Jaya here Monday.
The incident unfolded around 6.50am, when the child's mother, a government servant in her 40s, was about to send her to school in Batu Berendam.
They had just got into the car in their porch, with the gate wide open, when four men in ski-masks and armed with parangs suddenly emerged from a black Toyota Harrier parked nearby and rushed towards them.
One assailant smashed the driver's window while another grabbed the girl from the front passenger's seat and bundled her into the Harrier.
The shocked woman began screaming loudly while blaring her car horn, which drew the attention of her husband and two teenage sons.
They immediately rushed out to her aid and a short scuffle ensued between them and the assailants, during which the girl managed to slip out of the Harrier.
The four men took off when they realised they were unsuccessful in their bid to kidnap the girl.
State CID Chief ACP Mohd Adnan Abdullah told reporters Tuesday that police were still investigating the motive of the incident.
He said quick thinking by the girl's mother and the daring challenge by her father, also in his 40s and a manager in a private firm, help thwart the kidnap bid.
Fortunately, no one was injured, he said, adding that the case has been classified as attempted kidnapping of a person from her guardians.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
A character I like in the novel The Prisoner of Zenda
In the novel , the Prisoner of Zenda, there is one character whom I like very much. He is Rudolf Rassendyll. I like him because of his physical characteristics. He is very handsome, has blue eyes, red hair and long nose. He is also well educated. He has finished a German University and is able to speak French and German as perfectly as he speaks English.
Another reason why I like him very much is because he is very brave. He is bold enough to impersonate the King and willing to risk his life in order to save the King. He is also very brave to go after Rupert of Hentzau even though he is badly hurt. During the coronation procession, he commands his guards to ride fifty yards ahead of him . He dares to ride alone even though he knows that it is very dangerous for him to do so.
Rudolf Rassendyll is also a honourable person and very loyal to his duty. For instance, he initiates rescue plans to save the King even though he is in love with Princess Flavia and wants her for himself. In other words, he could just let Black Michael kill the King instead of helping him so that he would be the King and Princess Flavia his Queen but his honour would not let him do so. He feels that it is his responsibility to save the King.
In addition, Rassendyll is also very loyal to his duty and willing to sacrifice whatever he owns. Despite loving Princess Flavea very much , he is willing to sacrifice his love because he knows he must put honour before love. Because of these reasons, I definitely like this character the most compared to other characters.
Another reason why I like him very much is because he is very brave. He is bold enough to impersonate the King and willing to risk his life in order to save the King. He is also very brave to go after Rupert of Hentzau even though he is badly hurt. During the coronation procession, he commands his guards to ride fifty yards ahead of him . He dares to ride alone even though he knows that it is very dangerous for him to do so.
Rudolf Rassendyll is also a honourable person and very loyal to his duty. For instance, he initiates rescue plans to save the King even though he is in love with Princess Flavia and wants her for himself. In other words, he could just let Black Michael kill the King instead of helping him so that he would be the King and Princess Flavia his Queen but his honour would not let him do so. He feels that it is his responsibility to save the King.
In addition, Rassendyll is also very loyal to his duty and willing to sacrifice whatever he owns. Despite loving Princess Flavea very much , he is willing to sacrifice his love because he knows he must put honour before love. Because of these reasons, I definitely like this character the most compared to other characters.
What have you learnt from the novel
I have learnt a lot from the novel “The Prisoner of Zenda”. Firstly, we should be loyal to our king and to our country even to the extent of sacrificing our lives. The doctor and Josef ,the servant were very brave and loyal to the King. They tried to protect the King and sacrificed their lives in doing so. Josef was only a servant when he was asked to protect the King when the latter was drunk and could not attend his own coronation. While Colonel Sapt, Fritz and Rudolf Rassendyll attended the Coronation in Strelsau, Josef was asked by Sapt to guard the senseless King with his life. Unfortunately, Duke Michael's men came to find the King and killed Josef who was guarding the King. Poor Josef, he died while protecting the King.
The doctor was also very loyal to the King. The King would have been dead if the doctor had not defended him. He had thrown himself on Detchard when Detchard was running to kill the King. Consequently, he was able to hold Detchard back for a moment just in time for Rudolf to reach the room where the King was held. When Detchard freed himself, he drove his sword into the doctor's chest and killed the doctor.
Rudolf Rassendyll was also very loyal to his duty. He initiated rescue plans to save the King even though he was in love with Princess Flavia and wanted her for himself. If it was not for Rudolf, Black Michael would have succeeded in his evil plan to depose the King. Rudolf Rassendyll fought with Detchard who was a better swordsman and was nearly killed if the King had not helped him.
Col. Sapt and Fritz were also very loyal. They performed their duty with utmost devotion and obedience. They took full responsibility to protect the King’s throne. Colonel Sapt was the one who suggested that Rudolf Rassendyll impersonate the King so that Black Michael would not be crowned. Many things could have happened if the Black Michael was crowned. The King might be killed or put into prison. They did their best to protect their King.
This novel also taught us to be brave and confident. Rudolf Rassendyll was very brave and confident of himself. He was very bold to impersonate the King. He was also very brave to go after Rupert of Hentzau even though he was badly hurt. Rupert of Hetzau was trying to escape after he had killed Duke Michael.
I also learn that honour must come first in any situation. Princess Flavia put honour before love. Even though she loved Rudolf Rassendyll very much , she was willing to sacrifice her love . She was a very loyal and honourable person .
In conclusion, I would say that there are many lessons that one can learn after reading this novel such as loyalty, bravery and honour.
The doctor was also very loyal to the King. The King would have been dead if the doctor had not defended him. He had thrown himself on Detchard when Detchard was running to kill the King. Consequently, he was able to hold Detchard back for a moment just in time for Rudolf to reach the room where the King was held. When Detchard freed himself, he drove his sword into the doctor's chest and killed the doctor.
Rudolf Rassendyll was also very loyal to his duty. He initiated rescue plans to save the King even though he was in love with Princess Flavia and wanted her for himself. If it was not for Rudolf, Black Michael would have succeeded in his evil plan to depose the King. Rudolf Rassendyll fought with Detchard who was a better swordsman and was nearly killed if the King had not helped him.
Col. Sapt and Fritz were also very loyal. They performed their duty with utmost devotion and obedience. They took full responsibility to protect the King’s throne. Colonel Sapt was the one who suggested that Rudolf Rassendyll impersonate the King so that Black Michael would not be crowned. Many things could have happened if the Black Michael was crowned. The King might be killed or put into prison. They did their best to protect their King.
This novel also taught us to be brave and confident. Rudolf Rassendyll was very brave and confident of himself. He was very bold to impersonate the King. He was also very brave to go after Rupert of Hentzau even though he was badly hurt. Rupert of Hetzau was trying to escape after he had killed Duke Michael.
I also learn that honour must come first in any situation. Princess Flavia put honour before love. Even though she loved Rudolf Rassendyll very much , she was willing to sacrifice her love . She was a very loyal and honourable person .
In conclusion, I would say that there are many lessons that one can learn after reading this novel such as loyalty, bravery and honour.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Perlis To Open 2010 Merdeka Month Celebration
July 28, 2010 16:11 PM
By Adnan Jahaya
KANGAR, July 28 (Bernama) -- As for a paddy planter, Salleh Morad, 65, the Jalur Gemilang is very meaningful to him because he had lived under the British occupation before the nation gained independence on 31 August 1957.
"I don't want the flag to change again. Let the Jalur Gemilang fly everywhere. Jalur Gemilang will be meaningless if we are to be colonised again," he said.
"Don't feel shy to fly the national flag. We are an independent nation. Because of independence, we are better off now," he said referring to Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign in conjunction with the 2010 Merdeka Month Celebration.
Come August 1, Perlis' landscape will be inundated with Jalur Gemilang in numerous ways as the smallest state in Malaysia has been chosen to launch the 2010 Merdeka Month Celebration.
PEOPLE CAN'T WAIT TO SHOW THEIR PATROTISM
Like Salleh, the people in Perlis highly appreciate the spirit of independence with some already putting up the Jalur Gemilang at their homes while the Perlis state government has made preparations for the inaugural launch.
The main stadium here is set to see 20,000 people, mostly from Perlis, for the launching of the event by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on August 1.
"This is an honour for Perlis," said the Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Md Isa Sabu who hopes that the people will truly appreciate this year's national day celebration theme "1Malaysia Transforming the Nation".
He is confident the 53rd anniversary of Merdeka will further strengthen race relations in the country.
THE 1MALAYSIA SYMBOL
As a symbolic representation of the 1Malaysia concept, a total of 53 ethnic representatives are to parade the 1Malaysia symbol into Stadium Utama during the launch.
Simultaneously the Fly Jalur Gemilang Campaign will be launched, whereby the public will wave or fly the Jalur Gemilang at Stadium Utama or at their respective locations.
However, those living in Perlis are encouraged to fill in Stadium Utama located at the fringes of Kangar for the launch.
The Merdeka Month Celebration will end with Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu, on Sept 16 while the National Day celebration is to be held on August 31 at Stadium Putra Bukit Jalil.
Throughout the Merdeka Month celebration, the Jalur Gemilang hoisted or festooned creatively anywhere in the nation will be rewarded through the Creative Jalur Gemilang contest.
JALUR GEMILANG
The Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim notes that the contest is open to building owners, shoplots and schools, and the creativity in decorating using Jalur Gemilang will be based on their number used, the size, and the cheerful or merriment atmosphere it creates.
In Perlis there are several events to make the Merdeka Month celebration merrier including the state level Semarak Merdeka Jalur Gemilang 1Malaysia programme.
Perlis' Information Director Sobki Saad noted that on the morning of August 1 the Semarak Merdeka Jalur Gemilang run will take place at the Simpang Empat town located at the middle of Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) area.
More than 500 participants will participate in the three kilometer run, that signifies the start of the Merdeka Month celebration.
MERDEKA POETRY
Other than the run, the Simpang Empat town is to host the eminent Merdeka veteran's talk who will touch on their past struggles and their future hopes.
The Perlis Culture and Arts Department with the cooperation of Perlis Writers Association (3P) will be holding the `Gema Puisi Kemerdekaan' programme participated by poets and leaders in Perlis on August 8.
The event will take place in a leisurely atmosphere at the Taman Budaya complex.
RURAL DWELLERS PART OF THE CAMPAIGN
Like in the previous Merdeka month celebration, the spirit of patriotism is not only seen in towns but also at the rural and coastal areas.
The Jalur Gemilang will definitely be flying at paddy fields and fruit orchards apart from the fishing and merchant boats.
Though his house is located at the middle of the paddy field within the Mada area, farmers like Salleh are ready to fly the Jalur Gemilang at their homes in conjunction with the Merdeka Month celebration.
As for Johan Senapi, 43, a coastal fisherman, he is all out to fix a Jalur Gemilang on his small boat though probably there is no one going to look at it.
"I'm proud of the Jalur Gemilang. Even if there is no one to look at it, I will still fly it. I'm sure if the fish could think, they will definitely be proud of the flag," said the fisherman.
No matter what, the 230,000 people of Perlis have every reason to be proud because the state covering an area of 810 square kilometres for the first time is given the honour to launch the 2010 Merdeka Month celebration.
-- BERNAMA
By Adnan Jahaya
KANGAR, July 28 (Bernama) -- As for a paddy planter, Salleh Morad, 65, the Jalur Gemilang is very meaningful to him because he had lived under the British occupation before the nation gained independence on 31 August 1957.
"I don't want the flag to change again. Let the Jalur Gemilang fly everywhere. Jalur Gemilang will be meaningless if we are to be colonised again," he said.
"Don't feel shy to fly the national flag. We are an independent nation. Because of independence, we are better off now," he said referring to Fly the Jalur Gemilang Campaign in conjunction with the 2010 Merdeka Month Celebration.
Come August 1, Perlis' landscape will be inundated with Jalur Gemilang in numerous ways as the smallest state in Malaysia has been chosen to launch the 2010 Merdeka Month Celebration.
PEOPLE CAN'T WAIT TO SHOW THEIR PATROTISM
Like Salleh, the people in Perlis highly appreciate the spirit of independence with some already putting up the Jalur Gemilang at their homes while the Perlis state government has made preparations for the inaugural launch.
The main stadium here is set to see 20,000 people, mostly from Perlis, for the launching of the event by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin on August 1.
"This is an honour for Perlis," said the Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Md Isa Sabu who hopes that the people will truly appreciate this year's national day celebration theme "1Malaysia Transforming the Nation".
He is confident the 53rd anniversary of Merdeka will further strengthen race relations in the country.
THE 1MALAYSIA SYMBOL
As a symbolic representation of the 1Malaysia concept, a total of 53 ethnic representatives are to parade the 1Malaysia symbol into Stadium Utama during the launch.
Simultaneously the Fly Jalur Gemilang Campaign will be launched, whereby the public will wave or fly the Jalur Gemilang at Stadium Utama or at their respective locations.
However, those living in Perlis are encouraged to fill in Stadium Utama located at the fringes of Kangar for the launch.
The Merdeka Month Celebration will end with Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka, Kota Kinabalu, on Sept 16 while the National Day celebration is to be held on August 31 at Stadium Putra Bukit Jalil.
Throughout the Merdeka Month celebration, the Jalur Gemilang hoisted or festooned creatively anywhere in the nation will be rewarded through the Creative Jalur Gemilang contest.
JALUR GEMILANG
The Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim notes that the contest is open to building owners, shoplots and schools, and the creativity in decorating using Jalur Gemilang will be based on their number used, the size, and the cheerful or merriment atmosphere it creates.
In Perlis there are several events to make the Merdeka Month celebration merrier including the state level Semarak Merdeka Jalur Gemilang 1Malaysia programme.
Perlis' Information Director Sobki Saad noted that on the morning of August 1 the Semarak Merdeka Jalur Gemilang run will take place at the Simpang Empat town located at the middle of Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) area.
More than 500 participants will participate in the three kilometer run, that signifies the start of the Merdeka Month celebration.
MERDEKA POETRY
Other than the run, the Simpang Empat town is to host the eminent Merdeka veteran's talk who will touch on their past struggles and their future hopes.
The Perlis Culture and Arts Department with the cooperation of Perlis Writers Association (3P) will be holding the `Gema Puisi Kemerdekaan' programme participated by poets and leaders in Perlis on August 8.
The event will take place in a leisurely atmosphere at the Taman Budaya complex.
RURAL DWELLERS PART OF THE CAMPAIGN
Like in the previous Merdeka month celebration, the spirit of patriotism is not only seen in towns but also at the rural and coastal areas.
The Jalur Gemilang will definitely be flying at paddy fields and fruit orchards apart from the fishing and merchant boats.
Though his house is located at the middle of the paddy field within the Mada area, farmers like Salleh are ready to fly the Jalur Gemilang at their homes in conjunction with the Merdeka Month celebration.
As for Johan Senapi, 43, a coastal fisherman, he is all out to fix a Jalur Gemilang on his small boat though probably there is no one going to look at it.
"I'm proud of the Jalur Gemilang. Even if there is no one to look at it, I will still fly it. I'm sure if the fish could think, they will definitely be proud of the flag," said the fisherman.
No matter what, the 230,000 people of Perlis have every reason to be proud because the state covering an area of 810 square kilometres for the first time is given the honour to launch the 2010 Merdeka Month celebration.
-- BERNAMA
Sunday, August 8, 2010
Public Speaking Topic for next week : August, 9-13
How I celebrate the Independence Day?
=============
Hari Merdeka (Independence Day) is a national day of Malaysia commemorating the independence of the Federation of Malaya from British colonial rule, celebrated on August 31. In a wider context, it is to celebrate the formation of Malaysia.
This year 2010, Malaysia will celebrate it’s 53rd Independence Day ( Hari Kemerdekaan Malaysia ) on celebrated on Tuesday, 31 August 2010 with the theme 1 Malaysia Menjana Transformasi (1Malaysia Transforming the Nation) . The national independence celebration this year will begin from August 1 to September 16.
Merdeka Month celebrations would begin with the launch at the Stadium Utama Kangar, Perlis on August 1 and ending with the Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka in Kota Kinabalu on September 16.
A bit of history:
On February 8, 1956, agreement was reached for Malaya to gain independence from the British Empire. However, for a number of logistical and administrative reasons, it was decided that the official proclamation of independence would only be made the next year, on August 31, 1957, at Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), in Kuala Lumpur.
The Federation of Malaysia, comprising the States of Malaya, North Borneo (later renamed Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore was to be officially declared on the date August 31, 1963, on the 6th anniversary of Malayan independence. However, it was postponed to September 16, 1963, mainly due to Indonesian and the Philippines’ opposition to the formation of Malaysia. Nevertheless, North Borneo and Singapore declared sovereignty on August 31, 1963.
The formation of the Federation of Malaysia was then announced on September 16, 1963 as Malaysia Day. The nationwide Independence Day celebration is still held on August 31, the original independence date of Malaya, while Malaysia Day is a public holiday only in East Malaysia. However, this has caused some minor discontent among East Malaysians in particular since it has been argued that celebrating the national day on August 31 is too Malaya-centric. It is decided that starting 2010, Malaysia Day on September 16 will be a nationwide public holiday in addition to Hari Merdeka on August 31.
refer ; http://sgholiday.com/2010/07/malaysia-independence-day-2010/
=============
Malaysia's National Day is one of the chief events in Kuala Lumpur. This day is celebrated as the national holiday and is characterized by parades and other public functions.
Malaysia's National Day is one of the popular festivals of Kuala Lumpur. It is celebrated as a national holiday on the 31st day of August. It is on this day that Malaysia was declared as an independent country. The people of Kuala Lumpur come together to celebrate this event. The Malaysian flag, known as Jalur Germilang, is hoisted in all the government buildings of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's largest city.
Malaysia's National Day is characterized by public performances and parades. Parades begin from Merdeka Square with His Majesty as the presiding guest of the event. Many political leaders of the country also participate in the event, which is watched by a large number of spectators. Public performances, which are organized during this time, are held at Independence Square. The whole city of Kuala Lumpur is decorated with parti-colored lights and other decorative. Replica of Malaysian flag is also used to decorate the public squares and market places. On this occasion, many exhibitions and competitions are also staged in Kuala Lumpur.
Speaking English Competently - How to ...
Sunday August 8, 2010
Speaking English competently
Exploring English
By Keith Wright
IF A person is to be a competent, superior speaker of the English Language, consideration and attention must be given to a number of particular influential factors.
A speaker who speaks too quickly can be a “negative” experience for a listener just like someone who speaks too softly or monotonously. The average person speaks between 120 and 160 words a minute and the average listener prefers a similar “listening speed-range”.
While a listener can receive up to 200 words a minute, the degree of comprehension of what is heard can often depend on whether the speaker is articulate or regularly listened to, and if the subject is of personal interest or importance.
Articulation, modulation, clarity and currency are the basic prerequisites of a speech or verbal presentation.
They are closely related to the quality and accuracy of pronunciation, to accent or stress, to conceptual emphasis and to word mis-usage and complexity.
Poor and lazy pronunciation, inaccurate syllabic stress, unnecessary complex words, boring modulation and incorrect grammar add to the uncertainty, anxiety and difficulty experienced by many listeners and learners.
Again, the use of words that are not current in their meaning can create further discomfort.
Due cognizance should be given to the fact that particular English words may have different, cultural meanings.
Words used by a primary English speaker in everyday communications may create a comprehension barrier for a new learner, especially for those for whom English is not their first language.
Common multi-meaning words are: bank - port - bonnet/hood/boot - bathroom - ford – support.
The use of highly technical, academic terminology and colloquial jargon in a presentation may make a speaker feel superior and important, but can be totally lost on an audience with the resulting failure of the purpose of the speech.
Different listeners take different lengths of time to mentally “digest” and “process” what has been heard.
Planned pauses are a useful technique to enhance this mental activity. Pausing is also an effective tool to regain or hold attention as pausing can cause listeners to hang on in anticipation of the next word, particularly if they have gained from what has already been shared by the speaker.
Designed repetition
The speaking technique of designed repetition is an effective and listener-friendly way of imparting information effectively and for maximising retention.
Likewise, it is a valuable tool for revision, review and reinforcement. The simplest form of the technique is just to repeat what was said.
A more interesting and receptive form is to repeat the thrust or central theme of the point being made, using a different but related contextual structure or form.
For example, one might say:
“Today, many business people strongly espouse the belief that the economic strength of a nation depends very much on the English language skills of its people.”
This same contention can then be reinforced by adding to and restating the assertion as:
“Governments, such as those in South-East Asia, now realise that the English language standard and level in their nations must be raised significantly if foreign investment is to be attracted and their people are to get jobs.”
This sentence can be elaborated with:
“More and more countries are aware that English is now the international language and if their economy is to grow, then the English-speaking skills of their people must be raised to meet the language requirements of industries such as tourism, health, trade, call centres and education.”
Hidden meanings
Behind many things that are said, there can be hidden meanings. This is often called Meta Talk. The following are some examples of what people say, and also what they may really mean.
·By the way – As an aside – Before I forget – (What I really want to say about this issue is ... )
·As you would be aware – (You probably don’t know this but I am going to tell you anyway.)
·It’s really not my issue but... (I intend to put my point of view on this matter regardless.)
·This is not my area of expertise... (I am going to express my opinion anyway.)
·Honestly... (I want you to believe this even though it may not be 100% true.)
·Truthfully... (This is as close to the actual truth as you need to know.)
·The good news is... (Except for this one thing, the whole matter has been disastrous.)
·Off the top of my head – (I really don’t know what to say – I am having a guess.)
·My educated guess is ... (I am really stabbing in the dark because I have no idea.)
·I am sure everyone realises ... (I doubt if anyone knew this anyway.)
·I would not mislead you ... (You are not going to find out about this regardless what you do.)
·This issue is closed – (I am not prepared to listen to you anymore.)
> Keith Wright is the author and creator of the 4S Approach To Literacy and Language (4S) — a modern, innovative and proven method of accelerating the learning of English.
The 4S methodology and the associated Accelerated English Program (AEP) mentioned in this fortnightly column are now being used internationally to enhance the English language proficiency of people from a diverse range of cultures and with different competency levels.
E-mail
contact@4Sliteracy.com.au for a free copy of the PDF file “Colloquial and Idiomatic Terms”.
Speaking English competently
Exploring English
By Keith Wright
IF A person is to be a competent, superior speaker of the English Language, consideration and attention must be given to a number of particular influential factors.
A speaker who speaks too quickly can be a “negative” experience for a listener just like someone who speaks too softly or monotonously. The average person speaks between 120 and 160 words a minute and the average listener prefers a similar “listening speed-range”.
While a listener can receive up to 200 words a minute, the degree of comprehension of what is heard can often depend on whether the speaker is articulate or regularly listened to, and if the subject is of personal interest or importance.
Articulation, modulation, clarity and currency are the basic prerequisites of a speech or verbal presentation.
They are closely related to the quality and accuracy of pronunciation, to accent or stress, to conceptual emphasis and to word mis-usage and complexity.
Poor and lazy pronunciation, inaccurate syllabic stress, unnecessary complex words, boring modulation and incorrect grammar add to the uncertainty, anxiety and difficulty experienced by many listeners and learners.
Again, the use of words that are not current in their meaning can create further discomfort.
Due cognizance should be given to the fact that particular English words may have different, cultural meanings.
Words used by a primary English speaker in everyday communications may create a comprehension barrier for a new learner, especially for those for whom English is not their first language.
Common multi-meaning words are: bank - port - bonnet/hood/boot - bathroom - ford – support.
The use of highly technical, academic terminology and colloquial jargon in a presentation may make a speaker feel superior and important, but can be totally lost on an audience with the resulting failure of the purpose of the speech.
Different listeners take different lengths of time to mentally “digest” and “process” what has been heard.
Planned pauses are a useful technique to enhance this mental activity. Pausing is also an effective tool to regain or hold attention as pausing can cause listeners to hang on in anticipation of the next word, particularly if they have gained from what has already been shared by the speaker.
Designed repetition
The speaking technique of designed repetition is an effective and listener-friendly way of imparting information effectively and for maximising retention.
Likewise, it is a valuable tool for revision, review and reinforcement. The simplest form of the technique is just to repeat what was said.
A more interesting and receptive form is to repeat the thrust or central theme of the point being made, using a different but related contextual structure or form.
For example, one might say:
“Today, many business people strongly espouse the belief that the economic strength of a nation depends very much on the English language skills of its people.”
This same contention can then be reinforced by adding to and restating the assertion as:
“Governments, such as those in South-East Asia, now realise that the English language standard and level in their nations must be raised significantly if foreign investment is to be attracted and their people are to get jobs.”
This sentence can be elaborated with:
“More and more countries are aware that English is now the international language and if their economy is to grow, then the English-speaking skills of their people must be raised to meet the language requirements of industries such as tourism, health, trade, call centres and education.”
Hidden meanings
Behind many things that are said, there can be hidden meanings. This is often called Meta Talk. The following are some examples of what people say, and also what they may really mean.
·By the way – As an aside – Before I forget – (What I really want to say about this issue is ... )
·As you would be aware – (You probably don’t know this but I am going to tell you anyway.)
·It’s really not my issue but... (I intend to put my point of view on this matter regardless.)
·This is not my area of expertise... (I am going to express my opinion anyway.)
·Honestly... (I want you to believe this even though it may not be 100% true.)
·Truthfully... (This is as close to the actual truth as you need to know.)
·The good news is... (Except for this one thing, the whole matter has been disastrous.)
·Off the top of my head – (I really don’t know what to say – I am having a guess.)
·My educated guess is ... (I am really stabbing in the dark because I have no idea.)
·I am sure everyone realises ... (I doubt if anyone knew this anyway.)
·I would not mislead you ... (You are not going to find out about this regardless what you do.)
·This issue is closed – (I am not prepared to listen to you anymore.)
> Keith Wright is the author and creator of the 4S Approach To Literacy and Language (4S) — a modern, innovative and proven method of accelerating the learning of English.
The 4S methodology and the associated Accelerated English Program (AEP) mentioned in this fortnightly column are now being used internationally to enhance the English language proficiency of people from a diverse range of cultures and with different competency levels.
contact@4Sliteracy.com.au for a free copy of the PDF file “Colloquial and Idiomatic Terms”.
Speaking English Competently - How to ...
Sunday August 8, 2010
Speaking English competently
Exploring English
By Keith Wright
IF A person is to be a competent, superior speaker of the English Language, consideration and attention must be given to a number of particular influential factors.
A speaker who speaks too quickly can be a “negative” experience for a listener just like someone who speaks too softly or monotonously. The average person speaks between 120 and 160 words a minute and the average listener prefers a similar “listening speed-range”.
While a listener can receive up to 200 words a minute, the degree of comprehension of what is heard can often depend on whether the speaker is articulate or regularly listened to, and if the subject is of personal interest or importance.
Articulation, modulation, clarity and currency are the basic prerequisites of a speech or verbal presentation.
They are closely related to the quality and accuracy of pronunciation, to accent or stress, to conceptual emphasis and to word mis-usage and complexity.
Poor and lazy pronunciation, inaccurate syllabic stress, unnecessary complex words, boring modulation and incorrect grammar add to the uncertainty, anxiety and difficulty experienced by many listeners and learners.
Again, the use of words that are not current in their meaning can create further discomfort.
Due cognizance should be given to the fact that particular English words may have different, cultural meanings.
Words used by a primary English speaker in everyday communications may create a comprehension barrier for a new learner, especially for those for whom English is not their first language.
Common multi-meaning words are: bank - port - bonnet/hood/boot - bathroom - ford – support.
The use of highly technical, academic terminology and colloquial jargon in a presentation may make a speaker feel superior and important, but can be totally lost on an audience with the resulting failure of the purpose of the speech.
Different listeners take different lengths of time to mentally “digest” and “process” what has been heard.
Planned pauses are a useful technique to enhance this mental activity. Pausing is also an effective tool to regain or hold attention as pausing can cause listeners to hang on in anticipation of the next word, particularly if they have gained from what has already been shared by the speaker.
Designed repetition
The speaking technique of designed repetition is an effective and listener-friendly way of imparting information effectively and for maximising retention.
Likewise, it is a valuable tool for revision, review and reinforcement. The simplest form of the technique is just to repeat what was said.
A more interesting and receptive form is to repeat the thrust or central theme of the point being made, using a different but related contextual structure or form.
For example, one might say:
“Today, many business people strongly espouse the belief that the economic strength of a nation depends very much on the English language skills of its people.”
This same contention can then be reinforced by adding to and restating the assertion as:
“Governments, such as those in South-East Asia, now realise that the English language standard and level in their nations must be raised significantly if foreign investment is to be attracted and their people are to get jobs.”
This sentence can be elaborated with:
“More and more countries are aware that English is now the international language and if their economy is to grow, then the English-speaking skills of their people must be raised to meet the language requirements of industries such as tourism, health, trade, call centres and education.”
Hidden meanings
Behind many things that are said, there can be hidden meanings. This is often called Meta Talk. The following are some examples of what people say, and also what they may really mean.
·By the way – As an aside – Before I forget – (What I really want to say about this issue is ... )
·As you would be aware – (You probably don’t know this but I am going to tell you anyway.)
·It’s really not my issue but... (I intend to put my point of view on this matter regardless.)
·This is not my area of expertise... (I am going to express my opinion anyway.)
·Honestly... (I want you to believe this even though it may not be 100% true.)
·Truthfully... (This is as close to the actual truth as you need to know.)
·The good news is... (Except for this one thing, the whole matter has been disastrous.)
·Off the top of my head – (I really don’t know what to say – I am having a guess.)
·My educated guess is ... (I am really stabbing in the dark because I have no idea.)
·I am sure everyone realises ... (I doubt if anyone knew this anyway.)
·I would not mislead you ... (You are not going to find out about this regardless what you do.)
·This issue is closed – (I am not prepared to listen to you anymore.)
> Keith Wright is the author and creator of the 4S Approach To Literacy and Language (4S) — a modern, innovative and proven method of accelerating the learning of English.
The 4S methodology and the associated Accelerated English Program (AEP) mentioned in this fortnightly column are now being used internationally to enhance the English language proficiency of people from a diverse range of cultures and with different competency levels.
E-mail
contact@4Sliteracy.com.au for a free copy of the PDF file “Colloquial and Idiomatic Terms”.
Speaking English competently
Exploring English
By Keith Wright
IF A person is to be a competent, superior speaker of the English Language, consideration and attention must be given to a number of particular influential factors.
A speaker who speaks too quickly can be a “negative” experience for a listener just like someone who speaks too softly or monotonously. The average person speaks between 120 and 160 words a minute and the average listener prefers a similar “listening speed-range”.
While a listener can receive up to 200 words a minute, the degree of comprehension of what is heard can often depend on whether the speaker is articulate or regularly listened to, and if the subject is of personal interest or importance.
Articulation, modulation, clarity and currency are the basic prerequisites of a speech or verbal presentation.
They are closely related to the quality and accuracy of pronunciation, to accent or stress, to conceptual emphasis and to word mis-usage and complexity.
Poor and lazy pronunciation, inaccurate syllabic stress, unnecessary complex words, boring modulation and incorrect grammar add to the uncertainty, anxiety and difficulty experienced by many listeners and learners.
Again, the use of words that are not current in their meaning can create further discomfort.
Due cognizance should be given to the fact that particular English words may have different, cultural meanings.
Words used by a primary English speaker in everyday communications may create a comprehension barrier for a new learner, especially for those for whom English is not their first language.
Common multi-meaning words are: bank - port - bonnet/hood/boot - bathroom - ford – support.
The use of highly technical, academic terminology and colloquial jargon in a presentation may make a speaker feel superior and important, but can be totally lost on an audience with the resulting failure of the purpose of the speech.
Different listeners take different lengths of time to mentally “digest” and “process” what has been heard.
Planned pauses are a useful technique to enhance this mental activity. Pausing is also an effective tool to regain or hold attention as pausing can cause listeners to hang on in anticipation of the next word, particularly if they have gained from what has already been shared by the speaker.
Designed repetition
The speaking technique of designed repetition is an effective and listener-friendly way of imparting information effectively and for maximising retention.
Likewise, it is a valuable tool for revision, review and reinforcement. The simplest form of the technique is just to repeat what was said.
A more interesting and receptive form is to repeat the thrust or central theme of the point being made, using a different but related contextual structure or form.
For example, one might say:
“Today, many business people strongly espouse the belief that the economic strength of a nation depends very much on the English language skills of its people.”
This same contention can then be reinforced by adding to and restating the assertion as:
“Governments, such as those in South-East Asia, now realise that the English language standard and level in their nations must be raised significantly if foreign investment is to be attracted and their people are to get jobs.”
This sentence can be elaborated with:
“More and more countries are aware that English is now the international language and if their economy is to grow, then the English-speaking skills of their people must be raised to meet the language requirements of industries such as tourism, health, trade, call centres and education.”
Hidden meanings
Behind many things that are said, there can be hidden meanings. This is often called Meta Talk. The following are some examples of what people say, and also what they may really mean.
·By the way – As an aside – Before I forget – (What I really want to say about this issue is ... )
·As you would be aware – (You probably don’t know this but I am going to tell you anyway.)
·It’s really not my issue but... (I intend to put my point of view on this matter regardless.)
·This is not my area of expertise... (I am going to express my opinion anyway.)
·Honestly... (I want you to believe this even though it may not be 100% true.)
·Truthfully... (This is as close to the actual truth as you need to know.)
·The good news is... (Except for this one thing, the whole matter has been disastrous.)
·Off the top of my head – (I really don’t know what to say – I am having a guess.)
·My educated guess is ... (I am really stabbing in the dark because I have no idea.)
·I am sure everyone realises ... (I doubt if anyone knew this anyway.)
·I would not mislead you ... (You are not going to find out about this regardless what you do.)
·This issue is closed – (I am not prepared to listen to you anymore.)
> Keith Wright is the author and creator of the 4S Approach To Literacy and Language (4S) — a modern, innovative and proven method of accelerating the learning of English.
The 4S methodology and the associated Accelerated English Program (AEP) mentioned in this fortnightly column are now being used internationally to enhance the English language proficiency of people from a diverse range of cultures and with different competency levels.
contact@4Sliteracy.com.au for a free copy of the PDF file “Colloquial and Idiomatic Terms”.
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