Shanghai Daily news

Seventy volunteers from Shanghai Institute of Foreign Trade started to teach English in 15 communities in Shanghai today.

Volunteers expected to cater to the city's rising demand to learn English when the World Expo 2010 Shanghai draws near.

In a community located in Hongkou District, people crowded the classroom although it was rainy and a bit cold today. More than 50 residents living nearby were learning English, guided by SIFT students.

Resident Yin Lanzhen said that such classes were welcomed among local people.

"We all want to learn English and to communicate with foreign friends at the World Expo 2010 Shanghai. It is a chance for us to showcase the image of Shanghai and Shanghai people."

According to Li Shaodan, a SIFT teacher, the call for volunteers received warm response in the college. More than 400 students applied to become volunteers, including a lot of graduate students.

"They have different majors but are all proficient in English. They also compile a pamphlet as teaching material for the class," said Li.

The class teaches English used in circumstances such as sending greetings, chatting about the weather, farewell, dining, shopping and introducing Shanghai.