Thursday, January 31, 2008

Special English as Global English

Since 1959, the Voice of America (VOA) has been broadcasting in a simple version of American English called Special English. Via the Internet, you can now get transcripts of these VOA broadcasts, follow along, and learn English.

Special English may be the Global English I have been seeking: a simple, international "dialect" that is easy to understand and easy to learn. Special English broadcasts are available to hear via radio and via RealPlayer and MP3 downloads. To experience Special English, go to

http://www.voanews.com/specialenglish/about_our_website.cfm

These Special English broadcasts and transcripts are a free way of learning American English. Now if only the Voice of America would provide software to translate business e-mails into Special English before these e-mails are sent around the world!

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