POTSDAM -- A new weekly class in the Potsdam Library’s Cleveland Computer Center will provide area residents from other countries the opportunity to practice speaking and understanding spoken English.

Beginning April 6, the class will be held Thursday mornings from 10:30-12 noon. Participants will listen to spoken English to improve their understanding of what they hear. Many people learning English say they can’t understand if someone speaks too fast. This class will involve listening to English spoken at various speeds. Class participants will also have the chance to engage in conversation to gain skill in speaking their new language.

People come to our area from other countries for a variety of reasons. Learning English is challenging, and many don’t have the chance to practice their new language because they don’t have much contact with English speakers.

The purpose of this class is to provide the opportunity to use English in a non-threatening environment. That is the best way to learn a language, and it is hoped that many will take advantage of this class in order to expand their listening and speaking skills.

The class will be informal and fun. Nobody will be pressured to speak if they’re not comfortable doing so.

New English speakers at all levels of proficiency are welcome.

There is no charge to attend, but please contact the computer center to register.

Call the Library at 315-265-7230 and ask to be connected to the computer center.

It is also possible to register by emailing the computer center at pcc@potsdamlibrary.org.