RSS stands for Real Simple Syndication. It's a system that allows newly published web content to come directly to you - think of it as a newspaper or magazine delivery service. And just like a newspaper or magazine subscription, only sites you choose send updates. The pluses far outweigh the old bookmarking system because you had to visit the site, you had to hunt around for new content, you had to visit regularly or risk missing interesting and important information. RSS does all the work for you... apart from actually reading the content!

If you're interest in getting updates from your favorite sites - including Heads Up English, I hope! - then you'll need an RSS Feed Reader. A feed reader delivers the content to you. There are quite a few choices out there, but a good place to start is with Google Reader. You'll need an account with Google, but it's free and very easy to set up. If you get stuck, the site offers useful FAQs.

Most sites have the following icon, which has become (more or less) the standard symbol. It signifies that the site offers RSS feeds. Just click on the icon, cut and paste the URL into your reader of choice, and that's it. You're done. In the future, every time the site posts new content, you'll know within minutes. You can either read some to all of the content in the delivery, or visit the site itself.

Note: Heads Up English allows you to subscribe via RSS or by e-mail. However, e-mail updates are separate to the weekly tips newsletter. If you would like to subscribe to receive weekly teaching tips, ideas, and activities, then fill out the name and e-mail address in the box above.

Still not convinced RSS is right for you? Here are six reasons to sign up to Heads Up English's RSS feed.

1. You won't need to check the site again for new content.

2. You won't need to search through the site for new content. With one click you'll be brought directly to the new materials.

3. It's absolutely and completely free.

4. Your info won't ever be shared with anyone. Spammers are the bane of the Internet!

5. Subscribing is worth a test for a week or two. Experience the convenience first hand. If you realize that you prefer to visit less often, then unsubscribe with no hassle.

6. Peer pressure. Peer pressure. Peer pressure. Everyone else is getting updates, so why not you?!

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