Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

Mark Liu · Joined: 24 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

Hello,

I have practiced this ability with few English subtitled movies,
but when it comes to movie trailer with no subtitles,though I can try to read their lips when they are talking, or English Radio Program,I suddenly found myself is far from knowing English and feel frustrated Sad

.

Is there any tip for improving my English listening comprehension?

Thank you Smile

Mark Liu

pugachevV · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 2295

BBC World News www.bbc.co.uk has programs especially for foreign listeners. They speak carefully and a little slower than usual.
Also, I believe The Voice of America www.voa.com has a similar program for practising American English.
In addition, you can buy audio books, which are books read by actors. If you have the original paper book as well, you can pause and look up words, or rewind and play the audio as often as you want.

Good Luck!

Mark Liu · Joined: 24 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

Thanks for your response.

But what if a foreign listener want to be able to understand "the real conversation"rather than "reading-like conversation"?

Any advanced tips would be grateful.

Thanks again!

Mark Liu

pugachevV · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 2295

In the case of everyday conversation with ordinary people you will find that there are some problems. Regional accents change the sounds of the words you are used to hearing and also, ordinary people are not careful with their elocution, use a lot of slang expressions, and often speak quickly.
However, if you have a wide vocabulary and get as much practice as you possibly can, you will find that your comprehension gradually improves.
There is no easy way to do this. It requires practice, practice, practice.

Mark Liu · Joined: 24 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

pugachevV:

Thank you very much. Very Happy

Mark Liu

pugachevV · Joined: 16 Jan 2003 Posts: 2295

Any time, Mark.. Go for it!

Mark Liu · Joined: 24 Mar 2010 Posts: 4

pugachevV:

About the link of VOA I think it supposed to be the following one:

http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/

The one you gave me was a website about design,with lots colorful and amazing pictures.

BTW, I finally found a dim line of words at the bottom of the "voa.com":

� 2006 VOA Associates Incorporated. All content property of VOA Associates Incorporated. Looking for Voice of America? Looking for Volunteers of America? Laughing

Thanks for sharing the websites.

Mark Liu