Question 1

Which accent is more useful to learn - British or American?

Accepted Answer

English is widely spoken around the world and accents vary between countries and cultures. For this reason, you don’t need to have an English or an American accent to communicate in English for work, studies or living abroad. What is important is to speak effectively by saying words clearly and knowing what intonation to apply in different situations so that your intentions and messages are understood. It is advantageous to learn in an international environment as provided by the EMS Language Centre in Kuala Lumpur. This is because it gives you the exposure to accents of different nationalities, especially since you are also being taught English by native and non-native speaking teachers from Europe, America, Malaysia, Iran, Budapest and many other countries. Being familiar with various pronunciations and accents prepares you to cope with speaking and listening to English in your future international experience.

Question 2

How can students improve their English-speaking skills?

Accepted Answer

There are two ways – one is to attend speaking courses and the other is to find every opportunity to speak in English outside the classroom. Speaking courses can help students put into practice all that they have been learning in their English language class. They help them to improve their listening skills and develop thinking skills in English for better communication. Getting feedbacks from teachers and co-students helps you to speak accurately, appropriately and fluently. Outside the classroom, it is also important to keep practising, no matter what the situation. Do not be afraid of making mistakes – they enable you to self-correct and others to help you improve your speaking skills. This gives you more than what text books provide and thus build your confidence as you become more used to expressing yourself in English.

Speaking Course