Im just another damned man, living in a damned world.

English E-Learning.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYuIg7Tnc7g&feature=related

With reference to the video stated on top, i believe there is a wrong impression made that Singapore generally do not speak proper English. Thereby I disagree to the Taiwanese celebrities opinions.

It is probably true that 'Singlish' can be heard among conversation if you walk from Orchard Road, to coffeeshops or shopping malls. It is the language that Singaporeans used in their casual talks, among friends or people they are close to. But, this does not mean that the standard of Singapore's English is low. Since the introduce of the 'Speak Good English' Campaign, many Singaporeans have been aware of the need to speak proper English. This campaign have made a great impact especially in primary school or higher education. In school, it is where we are taught the usage of proper English, and having the campaign during that learning period helps. Singaporeans has the knowledge of proper English and it is always easy for us to use them as and when we want, in the right time. In example, If there is a time where a formal, global event is held, you would not expect to hear a Singaporean speaker speaking in broken English. The reason is, we know proper English and people have the common sense to know when is the right time to use or not use Singlish.

Commenting on the use of Singlish even in casual conversation, I believe it has its pros and cons. Using of Singlish may help to draw nearer the realationship when we communicate, as this is what makes Singaporean common. Every country have their slang as the way of communication changes. Does the taiwanese dares to be sure that they speaks proper language? They probably thinks that the American accent would be the one and only standard. But even so, do they speak proper 'American English' generally?
So how can they insist that Singaporean does not speaks 'American English' and is therefore improper/funny, based on what they have heard from the Singaporean? However, it is true that after constant usage of Singlish, Singaporean might lost the touch of proper English. That is why there is a need for the Speak Good English' Campaign.

In the video, there is sign of them scoffing at the pronounciation of certain words by Singaporean. They mimicked and give a 'standard example of American English'.
Ironically, it is not difficult to find examples where Taiwanese speaking their 'American English' not fluently in formal occasion.

In conclusion, Singaporeans have the capability to speak proper English and not what is stated in the video, 'Singaporeans speaks in weird accents'.