Special Dutch online now
Jul 14th, 2007 by Frank
The Roots of Special Dutch
On July 15, 2006, the nt2examen.nl broadcast the first Special Dutch program. It was an experiment. The goal was to communicate by radio in clear and simple Dutch with people whose native language was not Dutch. Special Dutch continues to communicate with people who are not fluent in Dutch. It helps people learn Dutch while they learn about Dutch life and stay informed about world news and developments in science. It provides listeners with information they cannot find elsewhere.
The Elements of Special Dutch
It has a core vocabulary of 3500 words. Most are simple words that describe objects, actions or emotions. Some words are more difficult. They are used for reporting world events and describing discoveries in medicine and science.
Special Dutch broadcasters read at a slower pace, about two-thirds the speed of standard Dutch. This helps people learning Dutch hear each word clearly.