Listening to a dictionary

Oxford Fajar Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of Oxford University Press, recently launched the 9th edition Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (OALD) with new tools for developing vital communication skills.
Used by over 100 million learners of English, the OALD is the dictionary that helps learners of English understand what words mean and how to use them. The new edition offers a printed dictionary, complete with a DVD-ROM and premium online content. The launch event was officiated by Deputy Minister of Education, P. Kamalanathan.
Alison Waters, publishing manager, English Language Teaching Dictionaries and Reference Grammar at Oxford University Press, UK said, “Global research involving 14,000 teachers and students revealed that speaking is the most challenging skill to master when learning English. Students and adults struggle with pronunciation, which makes them worry about their oral examinations or workplace presentations.”
“Conversations in English are equally challenging as learners often feel that they do not have the right vocabulary to cope. New tools in the 9th edition OALD support students in all these aspects of language learning and are designed to develop good speaking and communication skills.
“The new iSpeaker, available on DVD-ROM and online, and the Speaking Tutor are unique to OALD and complement the iWriter and Writing Tutor, both updated from the previous edition.
“Pronunciation videos on the iSpeaker show learners exactly how each English sound is pronounced in British and American English, and allow recording for comparison with the model. Guidance is also provided through videos of people conversing in everyday situations, as well as the Everyday English boxes in the A-Z dictionary.
“Students preparing for international exams, such as IELTS, TOEIC or TOEFL, will appreciate the exam-style tasks, tips and useful language in the Speaking Tutor, as well as the opportunity to practise for their speaking exams on the iSpeaker,” Waters said.
The new 9th edition Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary is currently available in all leading book stores nationwide. The International Students Edition will be available in June.