Effective English Checkpoint #1: Solutions

The examples show complicated sentence constructions that are difficult for non-native English speakers. One word in a complicated construction can confuse a non-native speaker and comprehension is limited or lost.

Here are the solutions to the Effective English Checkpoint #1:

1. The proposal is being considered by the managers in our department. The managers in the marketing department are considering the proposal.
   
2. Both marketing and communications have to join up their resources. It is necessary for the marketing department and the communications department to combine resources.
   
3. Something has come up. We will have to put the meeting off. I have a problem. Please change the time and the day of the meeting.
4. I came across a copy of our annual report. I found a copy of the annual report.
5. Please let me know about the new project. Please inform me when you have information about the new project.

In sentence number one, the passive construction can be difficult to understand. The active voice is preferable because the subject and the verb are clear. In passive sentences, the subject is not clear and the sentence can be confusing.

Sentence number two has three possible difficulties: "Both", "have to", and "join up". "Both" is an abstract word. "Have to" can be confused with "have". "Join up" is a special verb called a phrasal verb because it has a verb and a particle. Phrasal verbs are not proper verbs and they can have different meanings. Non-native English speakers learn proper verbs in school. Proper verbs are more comprehensible and precise in meaning.

There are two phrasal verbs in sentence number three: "Come up" and "put off"

"Come across" is another phrasal verb in sentence number four.

"Let me know" is an idiomatic experssion. Native English speakers often use this expression in conversation and at the end of letters and E-mail messages. The literal meaning is "permit me to know". "Let" signifies "permit" but in different contexts it could have different meanings.

I think the problem is that native English speakers often suppose that non-native speakers speak and understand English. Native English speakers are not conscious of the English they use. They use the same English with everybody...native speakers and non-native speakers.

If you are conscious of a problem, you can find a solution. Sensitivity and empathy are necessary for change.