Grammar! For many of us, the word triggers memories of finger-wagging schoolteachers, and of wrestling with the ambiguous and complicated rules of using formal language. But what is grammar? In fact, it's the integral basis of how we speak and write. As such, a refined awareness of grammar opens a world of possibilities for both your pleasure in the English language and your skill in using it, in both speech and the written word.

Small talk, although seemingly superficial, is an integral part of everyone’s lives. We all need to make small talk once in a while, and it’s not so easy for most of us. We all need to put some effort into making small talk, especially with people we don’t know well. Mastering small talk requires some skill and practice, which is why this book was written. After listening to this book, you will gain a broader perspective about people in general. You have the ability to conquer anything and be the most charismatic person you could ever be!

■日常生活、ビジネス、観光、歴史、文化など、さまざまなトピックを45本収録。 ■トピックは、アルクが編集した「標準語彙水準12000」(Standard Vocabulary List、SVL 12000)のレベル1~6(初・中級レベル)の単語を中心に構成されています。英語ネイティブが多用する自然な口語表現もふんだんに盛り込まれており、速さもナチュラルスピードなので、より実践的なリスニング特訓が可能です。 ■さらに、朗読は、容認発音(Received Pronunciation、RP)のほか、ロンドン、リバプール、スコットランド、ウェールズ、北アイルランド、アイルランド、インドなど、イギリス国内外のさまざまなアクセントを再現。豊かな響きと独特のユーモアを味わいながら、イギリス英語を聞く耳を鍛えてください! ※「標準語彙水準12000」:アルクが長年蓄積してきた膨大な英文データから「日本人英語学習者にとっての有用性」「ネイティブスピーカーの使用頻度」を基準に選び出した、12000語の重要英単語リスト。 ※本商品は書籍に付属のCD音声と同内容です。また、テキスト情報は含まれておりません。 ◇対象レベル◇中級以上~

Before you take that trip to the UK, get a solid foundation of English! Start speaking English in minutes, and learn key vocabulary, phrases, and grammar in just minutes more with Introduction to British English. Our native English hosts break down all the sentences, grammar, and more in a simple, easily understandable way!

"The Story of Peter Pan", by James M. Barrie, is one of the most famous tales about youth and dream-like adventures; this classic adaptation of Barrie's play will let you fly on the wings of your imagination. "The History of Tom Thumb" was the first fairy tale ever printed in English. "The Three Sillies" is a very old folktale, and has been handed down over the centuries for its entertainment value. "Goldilocks and the Three Bears" is a classic folktale of which numerous versions are known; they all delight and educate children about the importance of boundaries and personal property. Last but not least, "Jack the Giant Killer" is a fascinating folk tale coming from the Middle Ages, set during King Arthur's reign; it shows how a young man uses clever tricks to outwit terrible giants and rid England of their terrible threats.