Simplified English facts for kids
Imagine trying to read instructions for a new toy, but the words are super confusing! That's why Simplified English was created. It's a special way of writing using a smaller, approved list of words and clear rules. Its main goal is to make sure important information, like instructions for machines, can be understood by people all over the world, even if English isn't their first language.
This special way of writing helps in many ways:
- It makes things less confusing.
- It helps people read faster.
- It makes it easier for people who are learning English.
- It helps humans translate documents more easily.
- It even helps computers translate better!
What is Simplified English?
Simplified English is a set of approved words and writing rules. It was first made to help engineers write instruction books, called manuals. These manuals needed to be clear for people everywhere.
The rules say you can only use certain words in specific ways. This helps avoid misunderstandings. For example, let's look at the word "close":
- The rules allow the verb close, like in "Do not close the door." This means to shut the door.
- The rules also allow the adjective closed, meaning "not open," as in "The door is not closed."
- However, the adjective close, meaning "near," is not allowed. So, you wouldn't say "Do not go close to the door."
- Instead, the rules say to use the word near. You would say, "Do not go near the door."
This way, readers can be sure if the instructions mean to keep a door open or to stay far away from it. It removes any doubt!
Who created Simplified English?
People started working on Simplified English in the 1970s. They are still improving it today!
- The "European Association of Aerospace Manufacturers," known as AECMA, first started this work.
- Now, the "AeroSpace and Defence Industries Association of Europe," called ASD, continues this important job.
- ASD has a special group called STEMG, which stands for the "Simplified Technical English Maintenance Group."
- STEMG keeps the latest version of Simplified English up-to-date. It's called ASD-STE100.
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