Archive for June, 2009
You are currently browsing the Learning The English Language blog archives for June, 2009.
30
Jun
2009
TOEFL
TOEFL - Test of English as a Foreign Language
The Test of English as a Foreign Language is used to prove your English proficiency if you are a non-native speaker and are seeking enrolment at English-speaking universities or employment at English-speaking businesses and government agencies. The test is administered worldwide and only takes one day to complete.
TOEFL tests English skills in reading, listening, speaking and writing. The reading section has 3 passages on academic topics and then questions testing your comprehension of the text. In the listening section you will have to listen to two student conversations and four academic discussions, then answer questions that test that you have understood what you have heard. The speaking section consists of 2 different approaches: firstly the applicant is asked opinion questions and they must respond verbally, secondly the applicant has to read a passage, listen to another passage, and tell how they are related. Finally, the writing section tests skills through an essay and another integrated task.
It is advised that applicants prepare for the TOEFL test by improving their English language skills at an English school before applying. However if you do not achieve the score that you need, you can always resit the test after 7 days.
Why take the TOEFL test?
TEOFL is very widely accepted (almost every university in the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the UK relies on TOEFL scores) for admissions and employment decisions. This is because the test is fair and accurate, with a consistent experience across the 4000 test centres. Furthermore, when the tests are being marked they are anonymous to ensure objectivity and preventing bias. The markers are all ETS (Educational Testing Service) certified experts as well.
As well as being unbiased, it tests practical skills that are actually used in day-to-day activities, academia, and the business world. It ensures that you can comprehend and communicate in English easily.
25
Jun
2009
Learning English in Singapore
Why Singapore?
Singapore is an island and a city-state in South East Asia, at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula. Its closest neighbours are Malaysia and Indonesia. It is composed of 63 islands and the official languages are English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil. It has a population of almost 5 million and is very cosmopolitan including Malay, Indian and Chinese populations. Its climate is tropical (which means its generally hot and sunny) with two monsoon seasons of heavy rains.
Singapore was a British colony from 1824 til Japanese rule during World War II, then again after 1945. It finally gained independence, merged with several other islands to form Malaysia, but then broke away in 1965 to form the Republic of Singapore. It is now a parliamentary democracy and has developed rapidly over the last few decades as one of the ‘East Asian Tigers’. Its major industries include electronics, financial services, petroleum refining, and offshore platform construction. It is now the 5th wealthiest nation in the world by GDP per capita (per person), with a very high standard of living which also pushed it to be the tenth most expensive city in the world to live in after Tokyo and Osaka.
Due to its varied heritage Singapore can boast of many attractions, including the various exotic adventures to be found in the ethnic enclaves such as exploring Chinese antiques, Arab bazaars, or Indian spices.
Studying English in Singapore
Singapore is a great place to study as it has invested heavily in education, resulting in world-class schools, universities and training-institutions. There are also polytechnic colleges and international colleges where students can study a curriculum similar to their native country. One of the unique features of Singapore’s education system is its large proportion of international students from over 120 nationalities, making it a diverse and cosmopolitan community where students can experience different cultures, languages, and cuisine. As English is one of Singapore’s official languages it makes it an ideal and exotic destination to study English as a second language.
25
Jun
2009
English study in New Zealand
Studying in New Zealand
New Zealand is made up of two main islands- the North Island and the South Island. The North Island is the world’s 14th largest island, it contains New Zealand’s largest city (Auckland) as well as the nation’s capital (Wellington), and is inhabited by 76% of New Zealand’s population. The South Island is the larger of the two islands and used to be the pre-dominate island during its colonisation due to the gold rushes. According to Maori legend, these islands arose out of the sea as two demigods were fighting over a fish- they chopped it in half and the two halves became the two islands.
Due to both its volcanic activity and its lush vegetation, New Zealand is a prime tourist destination. The majestic scenery is comprised of mountain peaks, lush valleys, glaciers, and volcanic eruptions, complimeted by an immense biodiversity of both flaura and fauna. Fauna unique to New Zealand includes the Tasmanian Devil and Kiwi birds, while approximately 80% of the flora is found only in New Zealand.
Politically, New Zealand is a constitutional monarchy as part of the British Commonwealth, and a parliamentary democracy. The official languages of New Zealand are Maori and English, and its culture is derived from both Maori, British and Australian influences.
Choosing an English college
There are many benefits to studying English as a second or foreign language, including its widespread use around the globe- especially in transnational business, entertainment and diplomacy. However it is important that you choose an English college that suits you and has a great reputation. Some things to take into consideration include whether there is on campus accommodation, the types of courses offered, entry requirements, fees and the size of the classes. Furthermore, you should enquire as to what qualifications you will receive at the end of your course, what experience the teachers have and what English-enhancing extra-curricular courses are available.