Interpreting Cultural Differences: Challenge of Intercultural Communication
When speaker and listener come from different cultural backgrounds, the potential for the message to mean different things is increased greatly. The book explores the cultural differences that affect us all in the way we act, relate to others, think and learn. It addresses ways of improving our individual competencies, fusing some of the major ideas from the great range of scholarship on intercultural communication which has been produced over the last few decades.
Language fluency is only one step involved in increasing our understanding of people different from ourselves. We must also learn the rules and norms that guide others' behaviour if we are to avoid misunderstandings. This volume proposes the existence of a common process underlying communication between people from different groups and between people from the same group. The author emphasizes practical applications enabling readers to improve their communication skills and includes self-assessment questionnaires.
New English File Beginner Video contains mini-interviews in which members of the public answer simple questions about themselves. There are 26 different speakers - their replies are authentic and unscripted, and expose students to a wide variety of English, including different British, North American, Australian, and non-native accents. The DVD motivates students to develop their skills in listening to authentic spoken English - an achievable aim even at Beginner level.
Heinlein's 1951 novel offers a ship drifting through the currents of space as a microcosm of society, complete with class struggles, politics (including war between inhabitants of different decks), and love and family. Protagonist Hugh Hoyland fights to understand it all and to bring unity to the crew.