Special English facts for kids
Special English is a simpler way to use the English language. It's like a special version of English that makes it easier to understand.
A public radio station called Voice of America (VOA) uses Special English. The VOA is run by the United States government. They use Special English in their daily programs. These programs share news and other stories. They are read more slowly than usual. They also use fewer English words and simple grammar.
The programs are much easier to understand because they are clearer and simpler. They use shorter sentences. Special English can help people who are learning English to get better at it. In some countries, like China, many people who are learning English enjoy Special English.
Special English first started on October 19, 1959. It was one of the first radio programs from the Voice of America. These broadcasts use a slow speed and simple English. This helps millions of listeners around the world understand better. Today, it is also known as "Learning English."
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What Makes Special English Special?
Special English began in 1959. It was an experiment to share news and culture with people outside the United States. Programs on VOA use a simpler English. They use about 1,500 common words.
Reports are read about one-third slower than regular English. This helps listeners understand better. Broadcasters speak at about two-thirds the speed of normal talking. But it still sounds natural, not like a slow record.
Special English now covers many topics. This keeps listeners interested. Topics include news, business, science, and culture. Stories are written in a clear way.
Becoming a Special English Broadcaster
Being a Special English broadcaster needs special skills. It takes months of training. This training includes working with a voice coach. The coach teaches how to breathe correctly and speak clearly.
A leader at Special English at VOA once said: "People in this country have likely never heard of Special English." They also said: "If they have, they often don't understand how important it is to people in other countries."
Why Special English Helps
A VOA staff member explained the main goal of Special English. It is for listeners to understand what is being said. It also helps them make steady progress in learning English.
They said: "There is a fine line between being simplified and simplistic." This means they make it simple, but not too simple that it loses meaning. They never want to cross that line. If a more advanced English word is needed, they use it. Then, they make sure its meaning is clear. This way, the stories always have complete information.
Students and teachers in other countries say Special English is a good tool for learning.
Popular Programs
Here are some popular programs on VOA:
- Arts & Culture
- American Stories
- Health & Lifestyle
- U.S. History
- Science & Technology
- Words & Their Stories
- Learning English Broadcast
VOA once broadcast a program called "Willis Conover, the Voice of Jazz, Is Now Online". Willis Conover became a famous host for Music USA.
Related Pages
See also
In Spanish: Inglés especial para niños
