English Language Progression Through Media

So, after being witness to four years of “CCTV Cup” contestants’ performances first hand, and ten years of teaching and examining Chinese students, what would be the major pluses and minuses that I have experienced?

When I teach, when I examine and when I judge or ask questions for the “CCTV Cup” there is one common thing that I would like to see more of: creativity! Creativity leads to more natural communication. That means thinking away from structure, set ideas, and the usual expected responses to questions. It is generally acknowledged that due to the nature of the Chinese language, and due to the information that needs to be contained in certain subjects in ANY language, a certain amount of rote learning in the classroom is necessary.

But another example of where more creativity could be employed: the title for the 2008 “CCTV Cup” semi-final speech was “1+1=2?” This title was less specific than in previous years and was given deliberately to allow the contestants more scope for individuality and originality in the content of their speeches. While, as I have mentioned, the overall standard of speeches was very high, the standards could have been enhanced by the employment of a little more creativity. There was, of course, a certain amount of originality in every speech. All the contestants used their own contexts to deliver what they had to say. But this was limited.

The two major events of this year in China were the terrible Sichuan Earthquake, and the Olympic Games. What contestants said about these two events was pertinent and moving, and considering the significance of them both was due acknowledgement. But a very large content of many speeches was devoted to these subjects. Coaches and students alike should bear in mind that their speeches need to stand out. While delivery and language can make a difference, content plays a no lesser role. The contestants are speaking to an audience, and the audience wants to listen to something interesting, entertaining and unique, as do the judges!

All the candidates are performing well with their language and method of delivery. If I were to give any advice, it would be to try and make the contents of speeches somehow different. I would say to the students, ask yourself “Will anyone else talk about this?” If the answer is “No!” then perhaps you are on the right track! Another tip I would give would be to try to engage the audience in a little humor. This is one of the hardest things to do in a natural way when speaking in public, and extremely difficult to do in a second language. To use this technique successfully would probably require the advice and assistance of a foreign teacher. If it is done or even tried, the audience and judges will appreciate it. Humor can always add to the way a speaker holds the audience’s attention, and after all, the competition is not meant to be a solemn and somber affair!