What is language for? Some people seem to think it’s for practising grammar rules and learning long lists of words. That’s wrong! Language is for the exchange of ideas and information. It’s meaningless knowing all about a language if you can’t use it freely.

Many students I have met know hundreds of grammar rules, but they can’t speak correctly or fluently. They are afraid of making mistakes. One shouldn’t be afraid of making mistakes when speaking a foreign language. Native speakers make mistakes and break rules, too. Bernard Shaw once wrote, “Foreigners often speak English too correctly.” But the mistakes that native speakers make are different from those that Chinese students make. They’re English mistakes in the English language. And if enough native speakers break a rule, it’s no longer a rule. What used to be wrong becomes right.

People not only make history, but also they make languages. But they can only make their own language. They can’t create another language. So Chinese students should pay attention to the grammar, but they shouldn't overdo it. They should put communication first.

English is popular (流行的) in the world, so many people learn to speak English now. I want to talk about how to learn English with you.

【小题1】 I listen to my teacher carefully. And I can learn a lot from her in class. I always do my homework first when I get home. I read, write and remember 10 words every day.

Second, listen more. 【小题2】 And also I watch the English news, movies and other American shows (节目) with my family every day.

Third, go to the English corner. It is a great place. I have more chances (机会) to learn more new words and talk in English. 【小题3】

In a word, I think practice (练习) is very important for learners. 【小题4】 In class, try to raise your hands and answer questions. Don’t worry about making mistakes. Just do it!