A lot of people are always asking, “how can I improve my English?” There are many possible answers, but here are just a few pieces of advice.

◆ ________

If there are no English radio stations in your city, listen to one on the Internet.

◆ Watch TV and movies in English.

If you have English channels (频道) on your TV, watch them. If they have subtitles (字幕) in the picture, see if you can take them away. Most DVDs are great because you can choose the language you want to hear.

◆ Speak English to your friends.

Talk in English with your friends as much as possible. You may feel silly talking in English at first. But don’t worry. Go on doing it.

◆ Study in or travel to an English-speaking country.

Of course the best way to put yourself into the English language is to live in an all English world. It can be more difficult and expensive, but you may find it to be a very helpful experience.

◆ Other ideas.

Take an English class, join an English group, read English magazines, and you will improve your English quickly.

How to talk to someone you don’t know? It depends on the situation (情况).

If one of your friends introduces you to a new friend, it would be OK to start talking about the person who introduces you. You may ask him/her how they knew each other. Show you’re interested in it even if you aren’t. Nod (点头) after he / she talks. This will give you more time to listen to what he/she says, and you think about next question from his/her talking.

Now if you go to a class on the first day where you do not know anyone, the first thing you should remember is not to be shy when talking to other people. You may remember when you were in the first or second grade, someone would just walk up to you and talk to you. Be open, but think before you talk.

When it comes to meeting people face to face for the first time, find a situation which both of you are in. Maybe you are sitting next to each other. Maybe the other person says something you don’t understand. Find a situation that seems proper (恰当的). Start by a simple conversation. It may seem strange at first. But the more you talk and take action with them, the more they will like you.

Traveling can be expensive.     27     Try some of the advice below on your next vacation and your wallet will thank you.

Look for city tourism cards. With the card, you can pay less at restaurants and shops. You don’t have to wait for a long time at busy attractions. You might even get free tickets to top tourist attractions (旅游景点). City tourism cards can save your money and time without question.

Don’t get the best room. How long will you stay in your room?     28     Do you really need a bigger room with a good view (景色)?

    29     It can help you save some money by choosing a hotel away from big tourist attractions, for you are always doing the same—go to the attractions and then return to your hotel to sleep.

Book a room with a kitchen. Although some people might not like to cook while on vacation, I don’t mind making breakfast in my room.     30     I’d rather eat breakfast and lunch at the hotel and then spend much money on a delicious supper.