Learning English-Using Voice of America

A great free English learning resource that is readily available throughout the world is Voice of America.

Besides listening to the regular broadcasts by radio, Voice of America also has an excellent web site dedicated to learners of English as a second language. You will find podcasts and videos to download that are related to radio broadcasts.

Of course the site is particularly useful if you wish to learn American English with its subtle and sometimes non to subtle differences to the English spoken in the UK.

The "special English" used in the broadcasts is unique and designed to help English learners throughout the world. This is what Voice of America has to say:

Three Elements Make Special English Unique

It has a core vocabulary of 1500 words. Most are simple words that describe objects, actions or emotions. Some words are more difficult. They are used for reporting world events and describing discoveries in medicine and science.

Special English writers use short, simple sentences that contain only one idea. They use active voice. They do not use idioms.

Special English broadcasters read at a slower pace, about two-thirds the speed of standard English. This helps people learning English hear each word clearly. It also helps people who are fluent English speakers understand complex subjects.

So wherever you are and whatever your resources for learning English I recommend that you try this excellent free resource from Voice of America.