Notes:
virtually　事実上、実質的には；
surround (…を)囲む、取り巻く、包囲する;

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Here are some tips which may help you to master the English language!
1) Speak without fear. The fastest way to learn anything is to do it – again and again until you get it right. Like anything, learning English requires practice.
2) Use all of your resources. The Internet is a fantastic resource for virtually anything, but for the language learner it’s perfect.
3) Surround yourself with English. Take notes in English, put English books around your room, listen to English language radio broadcasts, watch English news, movies and television.
4) Do exercises and take tests
5) Listen to English music. Get the lyrics (words) to the songs you are listening to and try to read them as the artist sings.
6) Record yourself.
(Retrieved from “World-English.org”)
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Notes
tense 緊張した、(緊張しすぎて)不自然な、堅苦しい;

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I took the Eiken Grade 1 test last month. It was the first time I took an Eiken test since I passed the Pre-1 test 30 years ago. It was about 140 minutes of reading, writing, and listening. The atmosphere was extremely tense, as if no sound was allowed. When the test was over, I couldn’t help congratulating the examinee sitting next to me, saying “Otsukaresamadeshita.” I never thought my English level was good enough, so I had avoided taking Eiken Grade 1. However, I always wanted it as an English learner. I don’t know what the results are yet, but I’m so glad that I finally tried. (by a reader)
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