Unit 1　The written word

　　诵读经典可以使人提高素养，增长才智。但是，只有掌握了一定的阅读技巧，阅读经典才是快乐之旅。

　　How to start reading classic literature

　　The written word is one of the most powerful forms of expression. Classic literature written many years ago still has the power to educate and inspire people. Many people find it difficult to read the classics. In fact, reading the classics can be a pleasurable experience especially as you mature and develop a deeper understanding of the world.

　　★Read for enjoyment. Classic literature should be read for enjoyment as well as education. Look for the works by authors you're familiar with through movies or TV. Choose the type of classic literature that you enjoy reading from past experience.

　　★Keep a dictionary on hand. Use the Oxford English Dictionary as a reference for unfamiliar words or to define words that have changed in meaning over time. Start slowly and work on reading 30 minutes a day to get into the habit.

　　★Get to read its biographical information. This is because it relates to the setting of the story and author. To have a better understanding of the story, find out more about the time period in which a work was created and the background of its author.

　　★Do research on the Internet. Large numbers of websites, like Bibliomania, provide information for the study and exploration of classic literature.

★Understand story structure. Classic literature often contains complex plots and