Learn English

 English not that scary!

Australian English is a little different from British or American English. You may have to get used to some Australian slang words and phrases like: `Good on you` (well done), G’day (hello), stubby (bottle of beer) or `fair dinkum` (genuine, real). Australians also love to abbreviate and alter word endings, resulting in 'barbie' for barbecue, 'Breaky for Breakfast, footy for Aussie rules football or `cuppa` for a cup of tea. After a short while you will notice that you are using these words as well, becoming a true Aussie!
 

Link: Read more about how other students learn English.

Link: Let us know your opinion about: would the English language win a global Idols competition? What language do you like best?

 

Besides, don't forget that the `native English speakers` have trouble spelling too: 40% of Americans could not correctly spell the word `questionnaire`; 37%  could not spell the word definitely; and one out of four could not spell `liaison` or `occurred`.
To learn more about the strange pronunciation of English, please read this funny story about the Pronunciation of English

 How to solve problems with English

Because English is a second language to most of you, many find it hard to follow lectures or conversation in class because people talk so fast and it’s a bit hard to understand the Australian accent and slang. Well, this one requires some getting used to hearing people talk in an Australian accent. It may help to listen to people’s conversations in public places (for the purpose of getting used to the accent of course, not eavesdropping) or watch local tv channels for the news, or tv series so you can pick up the Australian slang as well. Best advice: Talk English! Try to chat with the locals. Most Australians will be very happy to hear where you come from, why you are here, why you choose Australia. Don’t be afraid to speak English! The only way to learn is to do it, so go out and talk to people!

 Do you speak English?

Evidence that you understand and speak English well enough is required when applying for a student visa. Depending on your proposed study sector you will need to have a minimum score in the IELTS English language proficiency test and/or a period of English language tuition. Most university and vocational education and training courses also require students to have a sufficient ability to understand and speak English You should check with each institution what English language tests are recognised by that institution and what the minimum scores are for each course. There are many English language courses with starting dates throughout the year to prepare you for further study in Australia. Overall five main types of English courses are taught in Australia:
1.      General English – Learning speaking and listening skills for a basic conversation
2.      English for Academic Purposes – This course will prepare you for University or vocational studies.
3.      English for Specific Purposes – Practical English for specific industries, including English for Business, Aviation, or Tourism.
4.      Secondary School Preparation –
5.      Examination Preparation – these courses will prepare you for English language proficiency examinations, including the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) and Cambridge Certificates.
English language courses start at any time of the year. Full-time courses range from one month to one year.
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