Keeping up with the latest world events is important, but what if you’re not fluent in English and find it difficult to understand some of the news? Spending time on these top 10 news outlets will improve your English and inform you at the same time.
1. BBC News/BBC World News
English dialect: British
The British Broadcasting Corporation (or BBC for short), with nearly 23,000 employees, is the world’s oldest and largest broadcasting organization. It is known for its neutral approach to reporting, and its articles are easy to understand and often short. In addition, it offers a wealth of interesting video content. It is also worth watching the BBC World News television channel, with the same quality information available worldwide.
2. Channel 4 News
English dialect: British
If you are interested in politics, the UK’s Channel 4 News is the news program for you. It is known for its impartiality and tackles complicated issues that other British channels don’t touch. The language is a bit more complex because it consists largely of political and economic information, but it’s worth it if you want to take on the challenge.
3. Sky News
English dialect: British
This UK news channel uses the American news format, so it is generally more eye-catching and entertaining than, for example, BBC World News, but it also tackles controversial or thorny issues. The language is easy to understand, and it has presenters with different British accents, so it’s great for learning to understand the different sounds that English has across the UK.
4. Al Jazeera
English dialect: varied
Al Jazeera (meaning “the island” in Arabic) is a news television network based in Qatar, and it covers international news. Its anchors come from various parts of the world and have British, American, Australian, South African, or other accents, a good way to familiarize yourself with different dialects and gain a unique perspective on international news.
5. Huffpost
English dialect: American
If you prefer a more casual take on current affairs, HuffPost (formerly Huffington Post) is one of the most popular choices. Their liberal political stance means they don’t shy away from controversial topics, and they also have entertainment content, from TV shows to entertainment. The language is clear, easy to understand, and fun.
6. CNN
English dialect: American
Although not the oldest news network in the United States, CNN is the cornerstone of current affairs in the United States and around the world. It was the first channel to broadcast 24-hour news and often airs bulletins on a loop, so you can practice your English by hearing the same phrases again. CNN’s anchors and reporters are from all over the world, which is great for practicing your listening skills. Also, check out the CNN app and website; they are complete and well done.
7. Vice
English dialect: Canadian
Vice is an online and offline magazine that combines the latest international news with informal articles, graphic arts, video, and much more. The website has a modern and clean design that is very easy and entertaining to navigate, but be careful with the localized versions because you want the English version, right?
8. Quartz App
English dialect: all
This cool app sends you text messages with the latest headlines, and you can react to them by replying with another message for more information. It’s perfect for getting an overview of the most interesting news of the day, and you’ll practice your English in the meantime. The tone is very informal; it will come in handy if you struggle to understand other, more complex channels. It’s also updated several times a day, so you can take a look at it when you start your day and also at the end of the day.
9. Digital Spy
English dialect: British
Live in the UK? Digital Spy has become the leading British web source for entertainment news, with fun and informative content about the entertainment world. It’s particularly useful if you live in the UK and want to know what everyone is talking about.
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