Many people always say that listening to spoken English is too hard for them. But if you don't
understand what people are saying, how can you talk with them? It may be difficult, but learning by
listening is necessary. It can be done.
        As we know, different people have different pronunciations of the same word. Standard (标准)
pronunciation is important for English speaking as well as for listening. In China, people from one area
may not understand what people from another area are saying because of the different Chinese dialects
(方言). Standard Chinese pronunciation can help people from different places understand each other easily. 
        It is the same with English. If your pronunciation is not standard, it is as hard for other people to
understand you as it is for you to understand them.
        If you want to learn how to listen to English, the following ways are helpful.
        Get some good books with tapes. Do the exercises, from the simple to the difficult, step by step.
        You can also watch English-language films, listen to English-language radio and TV programmes.
        Try to listen every day, even if only for a few minutes. At first you may understand few words.
Don't give up. Just listen.
        Remember to red and speak English every day. It will help you a lot. Every day, spend an hour
reading English. Finally you will notice that you're making progress.
        Talk to English-speaking people as often as possible. They will speak more slowly with you, use
simple words and use body language to help you understand them. Don't be afraid to talk to them. They
won't mind because they may have more trouble to make themselves understood in Chinese.
1. Is it possible for people to learn English by listening?
    ________________________________________________
2. What do you have to do when you talk with English-speaking people?
    ________________________________________________
3. Why is standard English very important?
    ________________________________________________
4. How many ways does the writer talk about to practise listening?
    ________________________________________________
5. When do you feel easier to understand English-speaking people?
    ________________________________________________