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Aim for English in the Year of the Ox

Rise and shine! According to Chinese tradition, the year of the Ox is fast approaching. Like the proverbial early riser, take advantage of the wee hours of 2009 and begin your quest for English fluency right away. Here is a list of easy New Year’s resolutions that you can start today!

Complete an English lesson every day
Sound impossible? If you think beyond a conventional classroom and turn to Internet learning materials, you can study every day. Englishtown offers a free Daily Lesson dialogue that is sure to improve your English.

Read beyond your textbook
Whether it’s a novel, play, or poem, reading in English is a great way to study on your own. And remember, the chances of retaining the English you read increase when you read something that interests you. So grab a book that grabs your attention!

Attend at least one conversation class per week
You cannot learn a language only by listening and reading. You need to open your mouth to speak. Try an online conversation class. At Englishtown, all registered students can attend up to 30 one-hour conversations classes per month!

Keep an English journal
Record the next year of your life in English! Keeping a daily account of your thoughts and activities will reinforce your vocabulary, improve your writing, and provide a quiet time for reflection after each busy day.

Become a number one fan
Pick your favorite English-speaking singer and get obsessed! Buy a CD and listen in the car or at work. Try memorizing the lines or reading the lyrics along with the song. Learning English songs strengthens vocabulary and listening skills.

Get a pen pal
Pen pals aren’t just for kids. They are a great way to practice your writing while learning about another person’s life and culture. Partnering up with another English student will also inspire you to continue your studies. Sign up with Englishtown today, and access their pen pal service!

Watch the nightly news
Get informed about the world around you in English. Even if you don’t understand everything, commit to listening to the news in English every night. Find an English TV channel or an English radio station that broadcasts the news. You’ll find your comprehension grow week by week.

According to Chinese tradition, those born in the year of the Ox are hard-working and definite about their decisions. So, celebrate this year by being firm in your English resolutions and, most importantly, by starting right away!