You might think that native English speakers are the best at speaking the English language. But some experts believe that when it comes to successfully communicating in English, non-native English speakers are actually better at it.

    "Often you have a room full of people from different countries communicating in English and all understanding each other. And then suddenly the American or British person walks into the room and nobody can understand them," Chia Suan Chong, a UK-based communications culture expert, told the BBC.

    Chong said that happens because non-native speakers communicate more carefully. "English speakers, on the other hand, often talk too fast, use jokes, slang (俚语) and make references (引用材料) to their country that others might not understand," Chong said.

    It is something that I keep in mind when talking to my Chinese friends. I am careful to speak slowly and use words I know they will understand. Sometimes we confuse each other though. Once I told my friend "no dramas", which means "no problem". She thought I was calling her a drama queen, though, and got upset!

    But don't worry. Experts say that it is the native speaker's fault if they can't understand you, not yours! "English speakers with no other language often don't know how to speak English internationally," said English language teacher Dale.

    The best way to avoid any trouble might be to ask for some patience. If you find it difficult to understand an English speaker, don't be afraid to ask them to slow down and speak clearly.

    AAAGH! The Generation 90s is coming! Wearing earphones, using complex Net language and constantly text messaging friends, the Gen-90s following the Gen-80s begin to make their world debut (初次登台).

    Each generation or age group has its own symbols and lifestyle. Read on and judge for yourselves if you fit the Gen-90s group.

Earphones—These little devices seem to grow on the heads of the Gen-90s. They might lead to MP3, MP4 or MP101 players, giving these young people a plugged-in, cool and perhaps self-addicted look, of course, life is not always music to the ears.

Martian language—They have created their own code-like online language. It's a mixture of English, Japanese and Chinese that perhaps only Martians can understand. This is an imaginative generation, though they need to be careful to keep it out of their term papers.

Self-Portrait— Saying "cheese" to their own digital cameras is usual for this generation. A little bit of narcissism (自恋) never hurts anyone. It helps them reflect a little on their own lives．But be aware of the risks of posting private photos online.

Text-messaging —They can type their mobile phones as fast as they can speak. This is a generation that respects efficiency. However, oral communication is important and will never go out of style.

    Family traditions are special habits or customs that your family have. For example, in the family of Bill Gates, his parents keep the tradition of reading with children. And what's the tradition in your family？