If you are interested in improving your listening skills, there are other ways to practice when you are outside the classroom. The easiest, cheapest and fastest way is just to turn on the TV in your accommodation and watch it.
New Zealand has four channels that broadcast a good and interesting variety of programmes. I am always surprised when I switch the TV on and the newest American series hit is on air. It is not the same as in my country. If I want to watch American series, for example, I have to pay a cable TV company. In New Zealand, you can watch it for free.
There is also a nice selection of movies that are always aired in prime time (not too late, neither too early). If you are more into non-fiction, the national channels broadcast interesting documentaries as well. The TV news is an excellent way of not only being updated with current national and international events, but also of becoming more familiar with the New Zealand accent (or the accent of the country where you are studying).
If you love music, you can try to listen to the radio stations. It is more difficult than watching the TV, but if you can understand most of what is said, then you can be certain that your listening has reached a reasonable level. Also, it is a good opportunity to get to know the local music, bands and singers.
My favourite way to practice, however, is going to the movie theatre. It is always a challenge watching a movie with no subtitles at all. You have to be more focused than usual, but it is not an impossible task. There is always a feeling of satisfaction when the movie ends and you were able to understand the plot. And going to the cinema is always fun. Invite your classmates, watch a movie and, afterwards, go to a cafe or restaurant and have a good time.
That is the difference when you study English abroad. In an English speaking country, you are always surrounded by the language, and you practice it all the time. The best thing: you don't even notice!
by Andre Campos.
Andre is studying the Certificate of English course at Embassy Auckland.
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