Thu 02 Aug 07, 5:56 p.m.
Hi Jamie,
Nice to meet you too. First of all, your informal, written English is fine. I am probably responding to your request too late. I see you have already gotten some great replies. I especially like what Anne suggested. I agree with her that you need to learn to "decode" natural, reduced speech. For example, why are you never exposed to "Ja wanna gotahthu movies?" in language classes? I don't know, but if all you ever learn is slow, formal, "D o y o u w a n t t o g o t o t h e m o v i e s ?", you won't know what the hell people are talking about when you encounter "Ja wanna gotahthu movies?"
You need to learn natural, relaxed, "reduced" speech from the bottom up. We use "Whaddaya Say" and other texts to work on that. You need to practice natural American rhythms (only because I am American), we use music and techniques called "Jazz Chants" to help with that, and you need to do activities and exercises that will force you to get the words out of your mouth without constantly editing and inhibiting yourself before you speak. You need lots and lots of oportunity to practice speaking informally.
It is not easy, but if you are willing to practice and take risks, you can make great progress. But it will cost you! ;o}
BTW, I have taught kids and adults at all levels and in many venues in five Asian countries (three times in China) and Hawaii, including University of Hawaii and others.
If you are looking for a tutor by any chance, drop me a line at [e-mail deleted - register and include your contact information in your profile if you want others to contact you]