Ask Doctor English

T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

2006-03-06T15:46:00.000-08:00

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

It is essential to remember that it is not only what you do in the classroom when learning English, but what you do outside of the classroom that is important. Many students who are studying English only practice their English while in classroom and therefore miss out on a lot of opportunities to improve their skills.

When you leave the classroom, make sure to continue using English. Talk with your friends, use the telephone, write in your journal, read a book or newspaper, watch the TV or go to a movie. Whatever you do, make sure that you are using your English as often as you can.

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

YOUR ???? QUESTIONS

2006-03-03T08:19:00.000-08:00

Here is a chance for you to have your questions answered by Doctor English. Today’s question is:

What is the difference between using "though" and "although" in a sentence?

Good question. Typically speaking, “though” and “although” are both used as conjunctions and therefore can be interchanged. However, “although” is more commonly used at the beginning of a sentence, whereas “though” is used in other places in the sentence. Some people use “although” in more formal speech or writing, while “though” is a more common term and often used to link words or phrases.

Thank you for sending your questions. If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca

CANADIAN, EH ?

2006-03-02T07:16:00.000-08:00

One of the challenges of learning English is that the language changes depending on the English-speaking country in which you are in. Whether you are in Canada, the United States, England, Australia, or any of the many other countries in which English is the primary language, you will find the language changes. Not only are there distinctions in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, but there are also many cultural differences which affect how we use the language.

Although “Canadian” English and “American” English are often considered to be the same, there are some differences in vocabulary between the two countries. These words, or “Canadian-isms” are one way to distinguish American and Canadian language. Here are some more “Canadian-isms”.

In Canada, we say “pop”, not “soda”. We also use the term “highway”, not “freeway”. In addition, we eat “chocolate bars”, instead of “candy bars”. Finally, in Canada, the last letter of the alphabet is pronounced “zed”, not “zee”.

If you would like more information on CANADIAN, EH?, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS

2006-03-01T07:47:00.000-08:00

Do you find understanding jokes confusing? Well, don’t worry - you are not alone. Most students struggle with understanding humor. This is often because of the use of double meanings of words or phrases. See if you can figure out why this joke is supposed to be funny :)

A man inserted an adveristement in the classifieds: "Wife wanted".

The next day he received a hundred letters. They all said the same thing: "You can have mine."

This joke has a double meaning because of the expression “Wife wanted “. The man who put in the advertisement meant that he wanted to find a woman to be his wife. However, the letters he received came from married men who wanted to give him THEIR wives !

If you would like more information on WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

MARDI GRAS

2006-02-28T08:42:00.000-08:00

Today, February 28, 2006 is Mardi Gras day, otherwise known as Shrove Tuesday, or Fat Tuesday. This marks the end of a week (or more) long celebration in many cities, including New Orleans. It is also the day before Ash Wednesday and the first day of the Roman Catholic season of Lent.

Celebrations for Mardi Gras often include a parade, or Carnival. Costumes are popular, especially for those taking part in the parade. Common colors include purple, green and gold. Its not clear how the custom of Mardi Gras began, however the French in New Orleans were known for having costume balls and parties as far back as the 1700’s. Most importantly it is a time to celebrate and have fun !

If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca.

T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

2006-02-27T11:08:00.000-08:00

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

Listening to people speaking English can sometimes be a challenge for English learners. There are so many things which affect our ability to understand someone, some which are in our control and some which are not.

Some people are simply difficult for us to understand. This could have to do with their accent, choice of words or how they speak. These are things that we can not control.

Other things which affect our listening are within our control. Listening is skill which can be developed and requires concentration and practice. Try to listen to many different people – men, women, older, younger and in different situations. Listen to the T.V., radio or conversations around you. If you focus on listening as a skill, you will improve your ability and feel more confident.

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

YOUR ???? QUESTIONS

2006-02-24T08:43:00.000-08:00

Here is a chance for you to have your questions answered by Doctor English. Today’s question is:

Is it possible to learn a second language (English for that matter), through on line gambling ?

This is a very interesting question. Unfortunately, I am not very familiar with on-line gambling, and therefore am not sure how much English is actually required to participate. In addition, gambling has been found to be addictive for some people, and therefore is not endorsed by Doctor English.

There are however many, many resources available on the Internet that can aid in your English learning. It is important to find something that interests you, so try doing a search for on-line newspapers, chats, or other activities where you can practice your English. Be aware that while the Internet is great tool, it is also important to have face-to-face practice in English.

Thank you for sending your questions. If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca

CANADIAN, EH ?

2006-02-23T08:57:00.000-08:00

One of the challenges of learning English is that the language changes depending on the English-speaking country in which you are in. Whether you are in Canada, the United States, England, Australia, or any of the many other countries in which English is the primary language, you will find the language changes. Not only are there distinctions in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation, but there are also many cultural differences which affect how we use the language.

Although “Canadian” English and “American” English are often considered to be the same, there are some differences in vocabulary between the two countries. These words, or “Canadian-isms” are one way to distinguish American and Canadian language.

Some of the most popular words include a toque (pronounced TOO- K), which is the name of a winter hat in Canada. Some Canadians use the word serviette, which is also called a napkin. As well, a chesterfield is what some Canadians refer to as a couch.

If you would like more information on CANADIAN, EH?, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS

2006-02-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

In our last edition of WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, Dr. English asked you to find the meanings of some common slang expressions related to sports. Here are the answers:

Out in left field – Odd/strange or confused
Ex: That guy is really out in left field. When I ask him for the time, he said it was raining in Mexico!

Drop the ball – Make a mistake
Ex : He really dropped the ball by not handing in his report on time.

Step up to the plate – Take responsibility
Ex: Susan has been letting all of her co-workers do her work. She needs to step up to the plate and do her own work or she’ll get fired.

A curveball – Something unexpected
Ex: The teacher threw us a real curveball when she gave us a surprise quiz!

Take a raincheck – Postpone something
Ex: I’m not feeling well, so maybe I can take a raincheck on our meeting.

If you would like more information on WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

BIZ TALK

2006-02-21T07:47:00.000-08:00

Using English for business purposes can be challenging. Typically speaking business English is more formal than the language used in everyday situations. However you need to consider not only the use of the language, but also the culture when using English in a business environment.

Using the correct title in a business setting is important. The first time that you meet someone in business, you should greet the person with a title followed by their last or family name.

For a man, it is simple – we always use Mr. as the title. It doesn’t matter if the man is married or single. For a woman, it is a little more complicated. We use the title Mrs. if the woman is married and we know for sure that she is married. If she is unmarried or divorced, or if you are unsure, you can use the title Ms. The title Miss is usually only used for young woman and is not common in business.

If you would like more information on BIZ TALK, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

U.S. President’s Day

2006-02-20T16:59:00.000-08:00

Today, Monday February 20, 2006 is a holiday in the United States of America. It is President’s Day and it is celebrated on the third Monday of February each year. President’s Day is actually a joint celebration of the birthdays of two past U.S. presidents - Lincoln's Birthday (February 12) and Washington's Birthday (February 22).

Now President’s Day is not only a celebration of these two men, but all of the men who have served as President in the United States of America. There are various events and celebrations across the country, with the key ones taking place in Washington, D.C. Also, as with most statutory holidays, certain banks and stores will be closed throughout the United States.

If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca

YOUR ???? QUESTIONS

2006-02-17T07:36:00.000-08:00

Here is a chance for you to have your questions answered by Doctor English. Today’s question is:

How do I know when to use A or when to use THE?

For some students of English, learning which article to use can be challenging, especially with “A” and “THE”. There are general rules of how to use them, but remember that in English, there are often exceptions to the rule.

“A” is used to talk about a noun which is not specific, such as “A chair in my office”. We often use “A” the first time we mention a noun, because until we mention it once, it is considering unspecific.

“THE” is used to talk about a noun which is specific. What this means is that both the speaker and listener are familiar with the noun being talked about. We often use “THE” the second, third, fourth, etc., time that we refer to a noun. For example, I can now say “The chair in my office”, because I have already introduced it to you in the previous paragraph.

Thank you for sending your questions. If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS

2006-02-16T08:00:00.000-08:00

Do you find learning Slang Expressions confusing? Well, don’t worry - you are not alone. Most students struggle with the many slang expressions in the English language.

Here are some slang expression related to sports:

Out in left field

Drop the ball

Step up to the plate

A curveball

Take a raincheck

See you if you can find out the meanings of these slang expressions and in what situations you might use them. Dr. English will provide the answers in the next edition of WORDS, WORDS, WORDS.

If you would like more information on WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

BIZ TALK

2006-02-15T08:25:00.000-08:00

Using English for business purposes can be challenging. Typically speaking business English is more formal than the language used in everyday situations. However you need to consider not only the use of the language, but also the culture when using English in a business environment.

It is important to remember and use a person’s name in a business setting. This is valuable because it helps to build a bond or relationship with the person, whether it is a client, colleague or your boss.

Sometimes it is difficult to remember someone’s name, especially if it is a name you are unfamiliar with. In this case, it is helpful if you can write the name down. Then, try to use the person’s name in your conversation, especially at the end.

If you would like more information on BIZ TALK, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

VALENTINE’S DAY

2006-02-14T07:26:00.000-08:00

February 14 is commonly celebrated as Valentines Day. The traditions of this holiday include the exchange of cards, chocolates, flowers or gifts between loved ones. It is often a day of romance for couples.

The history of Valentines Day is not clearly defined, however it is believed to have originated from Saint Valentine and has Christian and Roman ancestry. One legend says that Saint Valentine was a priest who married lovers secretly and was killed for his illegal actions on February 14th. Another tale suggests that while in jail, Saint Valentine sent a letter to a young woman he loved (possibly the jailer’s daughter) and signed it “Your Valentine”. This is a common expression used in greeting cards today. Whatever story may be true, Saint Valentine was a man of romance, just like the holiday we celebrate on February 14 each year.

If you would like more information, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

2006-02-13T08:05:00.000-08:00

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

With the Olympic Winter Games currently taking place in Turin, Italy, this can provide you with many opportunities to practice English. Firstly, try to keep informed about the Olympic events through the news or the Internet. Watch or listen to the news and then check your understanding by looking for information on the Internet.

Secondly, the Olympics is a great topic of conversation and again provides you the opportunity to use and improve your English. Try to talk to people each day of the Olympic Winter Games, which run from February 10 – 26th.

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

YOUR ???? QUESTIONS

2006-02-10T07:37:00.000-08:00

Here is a chance for you to have your questions answered by Doctor English. Today’s question is:

I have noticed of late that many otherwise intelligent people do not know (or were never taught) the correct past participle for many irregular verbs. Have they discontinued teaching the conjugation of verbs?

This is a great question and a problem that many students of English, as well as native speakers, struggle with. In fact, the conjugation of verbs is taught to both native and non-native speakers and is the grammatically correct form to use. However many English speakers still do not use the correct forms of verbs.

One of the reasons they do not conjugate the verb is that sometimes it is difficult to remember the correct form, particularly with uncommon verbs. Also, when someone is speaking fluently, they may just use the wrong form by mistake. Finally, there are people who simply use the base form of the verb because it is easier and they feel that it isn’t important to use the correct form. In all cases, however, it is grammatically incorrect to not conjugate the verb.

Thank you for sending your questions. If you have any further queries, please email Doctor English at drenglish@vec.ca.

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS

2006-02-09T07:35:00.000-08:00

Do you find English pronunciation confusing? Well, don’t worry - you are not alone. Even native speakers of English struggle with how to correctly pronounce some words.

One of the reasons why English pronunciation is difficult is because there are many words which are spelled differently, have different meanings, but are pronounced EXACTLY the same. These are called homophones. Here are some examples of commonly mispronounced homophones :

Mail (sending something by post)= Male (opposite of female)

Made (the past of “make”) = Maid (a person who cleans)

Seen (the past participle of “see”)= Scene (part of a movie)

Would (a modal) = Wood (the material from trees)

If you would like more information on WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

BIZ TALK

2006-02-08T08:22:00.000-08:00

Using English for business purposes can be challenging. Typically speaking business English is more formal than the language used in everyday situations. However you need to consider not only the use of the language, but also the culture when using English in a business environment.

Writing for business is also a skill that often needs practice. Business writing requires formal language and also follows a particular style. It is important to pay attention to the common phrases and vocabulary that is used for business writing.

There are many websites that give information on writing business letters. These include common phrases that are used, the style that should be followed, as well as things to avoid, such as using acronyms. Check out some different sites for information about the newest writing etiquette.

If you would like more information on BIZ TALK, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

2006-02-07T08:05:00.000-08:00

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

Writing is a great way to practice your English skills on your own, at home or at school, and anytime that you like. You don’t need much equipment – just a piece of paper and a pen (or a computer) and you can start writing.

Don’t worry about what to write. You can write anything. Write down your thoughts, new ideas, or what you did on the weekend. You can also try describing something through writing, such as what your room looks like, what Canada is like or describe one of your friends. Writing will help focus and improve your grammar and your vocabulary.

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.

A NEW GOVERNMENT

2006-02-06T09:06:00.000-08:00

Today, Monday February 6, 2006, Canada’s 22nd Prime Minister, Stephen Harper, was sworn in to office. Harper is now the official leader of Canada with a minority Conservative government.

This morning, a ceremony took place designating Stephen Harper as the new Prime Minister of Canada. As well, his new cabinet was also sworn in. There are 27 members in the new cabinet, including six women. This is much smaller than the previous cabinet of the Liberal government, which had 39 positions.

The biggest surprise in the new cabinet was the former Liberal industry minister David Emerson, who has joined the Conservatives as minister of international trade.

If you would like more information, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS

2006-02-06T08:44:00.000-08:00

Do you find understanding jokes confusing? Well, don’t worry - you are not alone. Most students struggle with understanding humor. This is often because of the use of double meanings of words or phrases. See if you can figure out why this joke is supposed to be funny.

Q: Who earns money driving their customers away?

A: A taxi driver.

This joke has a double meaning because of the phrasal verb “drive away”. One meaning for “drive away” is to cause someone or something to leave. For example, the rain drove away all the people in the park. This is typically a negative meaning. Another meaning for “drive away” is to leave somewhere by driving in a vehicle, such as what a taxi driver might do.

If you would like more information on WORDS, WORDS, WORDS, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

GROUNDHOG DAY

2006-02-02T07:18:00.000-08:00

In Canada and in the United States of America, February 2 is Groundhog day. The history of Groundhog Day came from a German tradition called Candlemas Day. On this day, midway between winter and spring, the weather would determine how the rest of the winter would be.

If the sun were shining, it meant that you could see your shadow. In Germany, if a badger or hedgehog had a shadow, it meant 6 more weeks of winter. If he didn’t see his shadow, it would mean an early spring. In North America, a groundhog was used in a similar way to predict the weather.

The most famous groundhog is Punxsutawney Phil. Every year, thousands of people go to Pennsylvania, the home of Punxsutawney Phil on Groundhog day, to watch whether or not he sees his shadow. In Canada, the most famous groundhog is Wiarton Willie. Willie did not see his shadow this morning, therefore predicting an early spring :)

If you would like more information, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

BIZ TALK

2006-02-01T07:38:00.000-08:00

Using English for business purposes can be challenging. Typically speaking business English is more formal than the language used in everyday situations. However you need to consider not only the use of the language, but also the culture when using English in a business environment.

It is common practice these days to send your resume electronically to a potential employer. In some cases your resume is then scanned by a computer program for key words and phrases. This means it is important to consider what words are included in your resume.

One thing to be careful of is to not use abbreviated forms of words in your resume. Abbreviations such as MBA should read Masters of Business Administration so that they do not get missed by the computer when looking for applicants with a Masters degree. Also make sure that keywords, such as ones in the job advertisement, are included in your resume.

If you would like more information on BIZ TALK, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca

T.I.P.S – To Improve, Practice Skills

2006-01-31T07:37:00.000-08:00

Tired of studying English through basic grammar practice? There are many other creative ways to practice and improve your language skills than just by using a textbook.

Many students find that they have challenges when it comes to listening to English. Listening skills require practice, just as skills such as speaking or writing do. In order to practice your listening skills, you need to focus on just listening.

One way to do this is to close your eyes when practicing your listening. Try this at home when you are listening to the T.V., or try it when listening to a CD or even when people are speaking. This will help you to concentrate and focus on only your listening skills.

If you would like more information on T.I.P.S for English, please email Doctor English with your questions at drenglish@vec.ca.