Young Post has received many letters on the topic 'There is no golden rule in learning English'. Students' top recommendations for improving their skills is reading the South China Morning Post, doing exercises and listening to English songs.
At a forum on 'English in Education', convened by the British Council, the topic sparked a stormy debate.
In the heat of discussion, academic Tsim Tak-lung, who advocates training in grammar, called on the China Club and Shanghai Tang founder David Tang Wing-cheung not to neglect this vital aspect of the language. Mr Tsim, who teaches English at university, said: 'Grammar is very important. It provides the structure on which everything hangs.'
Mr Tang disagreed, saying fluency should come first. He reasoned that it was easier to correct grammar once the language was spoken fluently.
Joined by barrister and legislator Audrey Eu Yuet-mee, all speakers nevertheless agreed on one point: self-motivation and determination were the only formula for success.
While the process of learning is up to the individual, the best solution is to find your own way as early as possible and to stick to your goals and plans.