Let's Improve our English Language Skills (Speaking, Writing, Listening and Reading)

2026-07-09T01:20:26.239-07:00

THE GLOBAL ECONOMY IN CRISIS
"The global economy is not simply slowing, it is being reordered by conflict, supply-chain stress, energy insecurity, and a more uneven path to technological transformation."

World Economic Forum, Chief Economists’ Outlook (May 2026)

Global Economy Discussion

1. How do you feel when you read news about the global economy? Does it affect your spending habits?

2. What are the main products or resources that your country imports? How would a sudden shortage affect your life?

3. The text mentions that a regional conflict turned into a 'global shock.' How can events in one part of the world affect prices in another country?

4. Who suffers the most when energy and food prices rise sharply? What can governments do to protect these people?

5. If inflation is high, is it better to save money, invest it, or spend it quickly? Why?

6. What makes a country attractive to multinational corporations?

7. Will AI solve productivity problems or create unemployment?

8. How can households build economic resilience?

Economic Vocabulary
1. volatility – instability or rapid change
2. bear the brunt – suffer the greatest impact.
3. stagflation – slow growth with high inflation.
4. resilience – ability to recover from shocks.
5. disruption – interruption to normal operations.
6. temper – reduce or moderate.

Reading Comprehension
Read the text here: Global economic outlook darkens – here's how chief economists view the year ahead

Conversation Questions

1. How can small countries compete for foreign investment?
2. How should citizens adapt to inflation?
3. Should governments prioritize inflation or growth during stagflation?
4. Will global economic reordering reduce or increase inequality?

Economic Writing Task

1. Write a 250–300 word essay explaining why multinational corporations are
restructuring global operations using at least three vocabulary words.

2. Alternative Essay: Discuss the consequences of disrupted trade routes and long-term solutions.

Advanced Student : 🌍 ESL Lesson Plan: Sustainable Tourism

2025-08-25T03:21:00.000-07:00

🌍 ESL Lesson Plan: Sustainable Tourism

Lesson Objective: Students will learn key vocabulary and concepts about sustainable tourism, practice discussing real-world issues, and produce written work proposing sustainable initiatives.

Warm-Up Definition:
Sustainable tourism means traveling in ways that protect the environment, respect local cultures, and benefit local communities, while ensuring that future generations can also enjoy the same destinations.

1. Discussion: Sustainable Tourism

What comes to mind when you hear the term sustainable tourism?
Do you think tourism can have a negative impact on the environment or culture? How?
What are some tourist destinations in your country that could benefit from more sustainable practices?
Why is it important to preserve natural and cultural assets for tourism?
How can local communities benefit from tourism?
Can you think of examples of eco-friendly or “green” tourism?
Do you prefer fast, busy trips to many places, or slow travel to fewer destinations? Why?
Do you think technology (AI, big data, blockchain) can really make tourism more sustainable?

2. Vocabulary: Sustainable Tourism

eco-friendly (adj.) – not harmful to the environment.
carbon footprint (n.) – the total greenhouse gases caused by a person, organization, or activity.
cultural erosion (n.) – the gradual loss of traditional culture due to outside influence.
resilient (adj.) – able to recover quickly from difficulties.
slow travel (n.) – a style of tourism where travelers spend more time in fewer places to reduce impact.
green certification (n.) – official recognition that a business meets sustainability standards.

👉 Fill in the blanks:

Staying at an __________ hotel helps protect the environment.
Airplane travel greatly increases your __________.
When traditional music and customs are lost due to mass tourism, this is called __________.
Tourism needs to be more __________ so it can survive future shocks like pandemics.
__________ encourages travelers to spend more time in one destination.
Many hotels now apply for __________ to prove they care about sustainability.

Comprehension questions:

Can you give examples of eco-friendly practices in tourism?
Why is slow travel seen as more sustainable?
Do you think green certifications are effective? Why or why not?
What are the risks of cultural erosion in tourist destinations?
How can tourism become more resilient in the future?

3. Reading: The Future of Global Tourism Must Be Sustainable

Read here: The Future of Global Tourism Must Be Sustainable

Discussion after reading:

According to the text, why is sustainable tourism becoming more important?
What are some innovations shaping the future of sustainable tourism?
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect the tourism industry?
What role do governments and consumers play in shaping sustainable tourism?
Do you think sustainable tourism can really become the new standard worldwide?

4. Conversation Questions

Would you be willing to pay more for eco-friendly travel options? Why or why not?
What examples of sustainable tourism exist in your country?
Should governments force companies to adopt sustainable practices, or should it be voluntary?
What are some simple choices travelers can make to reduce their environmental impact?
How do you think future generations will travel differently from us today?
If you were a tourism minister, what policies would you create to promote sustainability?
Do you think slow travel will become more popular in the future? Why?
What could make sustainable tourism more attractive to mainstream travelers?

5. Writing Task

Write a short proposal for a sustainable tourism initiative in your city or country.
Include:

The goal of the project (environmental, cultural, or social).
The steps needed to achieve it.
The expected benefits for both tourists and the local community.

✨ This plan mirrors the Brands lesson plan format while adapting all content to Sustainable Tourism.

Would you like me to now create the student handout version (simplified, no teacher notes, visually clean with just definitions, exercises, and questions)? That way you’ll have both a teacher’s guide and a student worksheet.

'Shrinkflation' now widespread in goods and services

2022-05-10T23:21:00.000-07:00

A new phenomenon is taking hold across the world - "shrinkflation". This is when companies reduce the size of their products or range of services while maintaining prices. It is in reaction to the rising prices of raw materials needed in the production process. Another tactic being used is to place smaller numbers of items in larger boxes, providing an illusion to shoppers that they are getting more for their money. Shrinking the size of products is in effect a cost-cutting strategy. Manufacturers are relying on psychology here. They know that consumers are more sensitive to price than quantity or quality. Most shoppers will still make a regular purchase, even if it has shrunk, as long as the price has not risen.

The chocolate bar maker Cadbury has resorted to shrinking the size of one of its flagship products by 10 per cent to maintain its bottom line. A company spokesperson said: "We look to absorb costs…in this difficult environment [so] we've had to make the decision to slightly reduce the weight of [chocolate] bars for the first time since 2012, so that we can keep them competitive." The service industry is also being inventive to try to refrain from raising prices. The hotel chains Hilton and Marriott have made daily housekeeping services "opt in". This means that guests must now request the cleaning of their room. Many other free services we have taken for granted are on the wane and being shrunk.

What did you think when you read the headline?
What images are in your mind when you hear the word 'shrink'?
What do you know about shrinkflation?
Has shrinkflation affected you?
Would you prefer the same and pay more, or less at the same price?
Why are we experiencing shrinkflation?
How much smaller can things like chocolate bars be?
What do you think of a small number of things in a big box?
How price sensitive are you?
Did you like reading this article? Why/not?
What do you think of when you hear the word 'inflation'?
What do you think about what you read?
What do you think about shrinkflation?
Do you think chocolate bars should be a standard size?
Do you feel duped by shrinking product sizes?
What do you think of opt-in services at hotels?
How could English schools shrink their products or services?
What hotel services do you take for granted?
What questions would you like to ask manufacturers?
What advice do you have for manufacturers?

Types of Sentences

2019-06-26T05:10:00.003-07:00

Learn English with me https://preply.com/en/tutor/34068

Which of these compound sentences are punctuated correctly? Check the correct ones.

I watched the news, however, I didn’t hear about the

earthquake.

We want to have a BBQ at our house; therefore,

we need to buy some hamburger buns and some meat.

Jim took his daughter to the playground; then, they went to

get ice cream.

Those strawberries are really sweet, so we should buy a lot

of them.

Write at least three original sentences that have adverb clauses in them. You can put the adverb clause anywhere in the sentence that you want. Use commas only where they are required. Number your sentences.

Integrated Part 4

2019-06-19T08:16:00.002-07:00

Myths and Legends

Myths are stories that explain the origin of events from the distant past, as, for example, how the universe was created, how human beings and animals populated the Earth, the reason that death exists, and the nature of the afterlife. Myths are usually tied to religious beliefs and involve beings with supernatural powers. In contrast, legends usually refer to stories about a more recent period of time, and the characters are often real people with heroic qualities that reflect the values of their society and culture. Because the heroes in legends often become larger than life as the legend is retold and embellished, they may actually be attributed with supernatural powers like their mythological counterparts. This blurs the distinction between mythology and legends.

Listen to the Audio

Question : Using the main points and examples from the reading, explain the differences between myths and legends. Then refer to the lecture to explain why Paul Bunyan would be considered a legend.

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Animal Behavior

Animal behavior can be classified according to the time of day an animal is active. Animals, such as horses, elephants and most birds, are said to be diurnal because % they are active during the day and rest at night. Those animals active at dawn and and dusk are said to be crepuscular. Beetles, skunks and rabbits fall into this category. ' The third group are those animals that sleep during the day and are active at night. ( They are called nocturnal. A good example is the bat. Bats have highly developed ) eyesight, hearing and smell. This helps them avoid predators and locate food. Being nocturnal also helps them avoid high temperatures during the day, especially in deserts where temperatures can reach well over one hundred degrees Fahrenheit.

Listen to the audio

Question: Summarize how the reading and the lecture define and develop the idea of animal behavior.

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Bestsellers

The term bestseller describes a book that is popular because it sells well hence the term bestseller. Bestsellers can be both fiction and non-fiction. The most famous best-seller list in America is the New-York-Times bestseller list. A book that makes it onto and this list will substantially increase its sales. Yet just because a book makes the New- ' York-Times bestseller list does not mean that the book is of the highest literary quality. On the contrary, many of the books on the New-York-Times bestseller list are aimed at a general audience more interested in being entertained than educated.

Listen to the audio

Question: How do the reading and the lecture add to our understanding of the term bestseller in a contemporary and in an historical sense?

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The Green Revolution

The Green Revolution of the 1960's had one goal: to eliminate hunger worldwide. It did so by introducing the concept of industrialized agriculture. Prior to the Green Revolution, farming in less-developed nations had changed little since man first planted and seeds. Crop yields were unpredictable, insects uncontrollable, and disease impossible to fight. At the same time, the world's population was skyrocketing. To feed the world, scientists developed high-yielding cereal grains that were disease resistant. They also developed synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. The result was the Green Revolution, a global revolution in which technology took control of the agricultural process. The results were immediate. Countries like Mexico were soon net exporters of wheat while in Pakistan and India, wheat yields doubled between 1965 and 1970.

Listen to the audio

Question: What is the Green Revolution and what are its short and long-term effects? ===========================================================

Seamounts

Seamounts are undersea mountains rising off the ocean floor. Approximately half of the world’s seamounts are found in the Pacific Ocean. Currents flowing up the seamounts from the ocean floor bring life-sustaining nutrients into the photosynthetic zone, a place where sunlight and carbon dioxide are converted into food energy for plants and other organisms. As a result, a great variety of plants and fish make sea- mounts their home. Some of these fish are native species, fish that are found only around seamounts. Such biodiversity, in turn, attracts larger fish, such as sharks and tuna, as well as marine mammals, such as seals. It also attracts commercial fishing.

Listen to the audio

Question : Seamounts are under threat. Why? Using information from the reading and the lecture, illustrate the threat and the reason for it.

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Ballads

A ballad is a poem that tells a story and is sung to music. Usually the story is of unknown origin, and a number of versions may be found for one song, a characteristic that stems from the oral tradition. As the song is passed on from one singer to another, a word is added or changed, or a slight alteration is made in the tune. In short, ballads represent a living tradition that evolves as the song is performed and passed to the next musician. A collection of ballads has been preserved in written form in the volume English and Scottish Popular Ballads by Francis James Child, and many ballads are still referred to by their "Child number."

Listen to the audio

Question: Define a ballad, and then explain why "Barbara Allen" can be classified as a ballad.

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Antarctica

Antarctica and the ocean that surrounds it constitute 40 percent of the planet, but in spite of its vast area, it has remained a frontier with no permanent towns or transportation networks. Between 1895 and 1914, explorers planted their flags, claiming various sectors and the raw materials in them for their countries. Nevertheless, the remote location and the harsh environment have encouraged a spirit of cooperation among nations who maintain claims. Furthermore, because Antarctica plays a crucial role in the global environmental system, the exploitation of resources could have unpredictable consequences for the entire world. The Antarctic Treaty, signed in 1961 and expanded in 1991, ensures scientific collaboration, protects the environment, and prohibits military activities.

Listen to the audio

Question: Explain why many countries have staked claims in Antarctica, and why national interests have not been pursued

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VAK Theory

One theory of learning states that we use three sensory receivers: visual (V), auditory (A), and kinesthetic (K) when we take in information. According to the VAK theory, one or two of these receiving styles is normally dominant and thus defines the best way for a person to learn new information. Thus a visual learner learns best using their sight; an auditory learner learns best when listening, and a kinesthetic learner learns best through physical activity.

VAK is one of the most popular learning models nowadays due to its simplicity. Teachers are beginning to incorporate a range of stimuli and activities into their lessons so as to cater for all types of learner. Although it is not yet proven that using one’s preferred sense provides the best means for learning, having a range of activities can reduce boredom and increase motivation in the classroom.

Listen to the audio

Question: Explain VAK Theory and how the example used by the professor illustrates how the theory can be applied.

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Revealing Coloration

Many animals use coloration to protect themselves from predators. One defensive strategy involving the use of coloration is what is known as revealing coloration. Animals employing this strategy have an area of bright color on some part of their body; this bright color is usually hidden from predators’ view. When approached by a predator, the animal suddenly reveals the area of bright color; this unexpected display of color startles or confuses the predator and provides the would-be prey with an opportunity to escape.

Listen to the audio

Question: Using the examples of the peanut bug and the morpho butterfly, explain the concept of revealing coloration.

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TOEFL Speaking Part 3

2019-06-19T06:39:00.001-07:00

ANNOUNCEMENT FROM STUDENT SERVICES

During spring break, County College will offer an alternative to the trips that many students plan to relax at beaches and resorts. Community service trips will be offered to assist low income communities throughout the country. Students who sign up for these trips will be part of a team that will live and work with social service groups in the local area. Previous community service trips have provided tutoring for elementary school students in Texas and care giving for senior citizens in Chicago. The trips are paid for by grants to the college.

Listen to dialogue

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LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Notice concerning proposed changes in language requirements All international students at Community College are currently required to submit a TOEFL score of 80 in order to be admitted to credit classes. Students who score lower than 80 are referred to the English Language Institute for additional language instruction. The college is considering a proposal that would allow students with a score of 75 to take at least one credit class while they continue to study part time in the English Language Institute. The students would be assigned to an academic advisor who would help them select an appropriate course. This proposal will be discussed at a public meeting in the student union at 7 P.M. on December 1.

Listen to the audio

Question

The student expresses her opinion of the policy for international students. Report her opinion and explain the reasons that she gives for having that opinion.

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HEALTH INSURANCE

All students may purchase health insurance at the time of registration by marking the insurance box on the course request form. Those students who choose not to use the health insurance option may still use the services of the Student Health Center, but their accounts must be settled at the time of each visit, and the alternative health insurance carrier must be billed directly by the students for reimbursement. International students are required to purchase student health insurance from the university and will be charged automatically at registration. Alternative health insurance carriers may not be substituted. No exceptions will be made.

Listen to the audio

Question

The foreign student advisor expresses his opinion of the policy for health insurance. Report his opinion and explain the reasons that he gives for having that opinion.

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GEOLOGY GROUP WORK

The geology department is aware of the problems surrounding of group work, and its unpopularity among students. We realize that in some cases students do not contribute and thus gain marks they do not deserve, while stronger students are frustrated at being held back by weaker students. Similarly, it is very difficult for tutors to award marks for group projects, as it is unclear who is responsible for each part.

However, the department feels that there is a great deal to be gained from group work, in terms of self-organization and communication skills. To this end, we plan to introduce a system whereby the group work itself is not formally assessed, but each student will undertake an individual piece of work based on the group project, which will be designed to ensure participation in the project.

Listen to the audio

QUESTION: The man expresses his opinion of group work. State and explain his opinion. Compare his opinion with the opinion of the geology faculty.

Listen to the sample answer

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UNIVERSITY PLAN

Mary Dixon, Director of the Student Life Committee, announced yesterday that beginning next semester, university cafeterias will broadcast classical music during mealtimes. “Music will foster a more relaxed atmosphere,” said Dixon. “Students’ lives are hectic, and mealtimes provide important opportunities to take a break and catch up with friends before moving on to the next class or assignment.” Added Dixon, “We’re also hoping that, if we provide the music, students will unplug their personal music devices—their Walkmans™ and MP3 players or whatever—and will spend more time talking to each other. When students have their headphones on, they’re not connecting with each other.”

Listen to the audio

QUESTION: The man expresses his opinion of the university’s plan. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion.

Listen to the sample answer

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CLASSES WITHDRAWAL

Withdrawal from Classes In order to qualify for a refund of 100 percent at any time during the semester; you must first establish eligibility. Serious illness or injury must be verified by a written statement signed by a doctor or a psychologist. The death of a family member ·must be verified by a death certificate. Military duty must be verified by a copy of the orders. Students who wish to withdraw without submitting official documentation may do so before the end of the drop-add period without penalty. After the end of the second week of classes, students may petition for a 90 percent reimbursement. After the end of the fourth week, students are eligible for a 50 percent refund.
Listen to the audio

Question: The student expresses her opinion of the policy for reimbursement. Report her opinion and explain the reasons that she gives for having that opinion.

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MOVIE FANS

The Student Association has just purchased a new sound system for the Old Lincoln Hall auditorium, the place where movies on campus are currently shown. By installing the new sound system, the Student Association hopes to attract more students to the movies and increase ticket sales. Before making the purchase of the new equipment, the Student Association conducted a survey on campus to see what kind of entertainment students liked best. Going to the movies ranked number one. “Students at Northfield College love going to the movies” said the president of the Student Association, “so we decided to make what they already love even better. We’re confident that the investment into the sound system will translate into increased ticket sales.”

Listen to the audio

Question: The man expresses his opinion of the Student Association’s recent purchase. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion

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SCULPTURE COURSES

University administrators announced yesterday that the sculpture program, a division of the art department, will be eliminated. “The main reason is a lack of student interest,” reported one administrator. “Although the number of art students has increased, fewer and fewer art majors are taking sculpture classes.” Furthermore, the department’s only sculpture professor is retiring this year. “Given the art department’s limited budget,” the administrator explained, “it just doesn’t make sense to hire a new full-time professor to teach sculpture for only a handful of students.”

(Narrator) Now listen to two students discussing the article.

(Male student) Everything alright?

(Female student) Yeah, I’m just upset about that article I showed you this morning …

(Male student) Why, what’s the big deal?

(Female student) Well, as an art major, I think it’s a big loss for the department. The university’s got it all wrong.

(Male student) What do you mean?

(Female student) Well, the low enrolment isn’t because art majors don’t want to take these classes. Problem is, who has time to take them when there are so many other requirements?

(Male student) I don’t understand.

(Female student) See, the classes they’re eliminating are all optional. The required courses are mostly painting and drawing, and they take up all our time. What we really need are different requirements—then art majors could take a better variety of classes … all the things we’re interested in.

(Male student) That makes sense. But, the thing about the professor …

(Female student) Well, that’s true. But still, they’re being drastic. If money’s the problem, they could hire a part-time professor! Or, most of the professors in the department have secondary fields …

(Male student) Really?

(Female student) Yeah! At least a few painting teachers are also great sculptors. I’m sure one of them could teach a class.

Question: The woman expresses her opinion of the university’s plan. State her opinion and explain the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.

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CHEMISTRY DEPARTMENT

The Chemistry Department is planning to award scholarships to students who have received an average grade of 90% or above. We have found there to be a serious need for well-educated chemistry students and the current pool of chemists is highly lacking. By awarding these scholarships, it will allow future chemists to get a better handle on their tuition costs as well as encourage students to study harder in class. After the recent audit, we have found there to be plenty of funds for this department and we feel this is the best place to use them. Considering this school spends most of its funds on the Sports Department, we want to get students more interested in chemistry and we feel this is the best place to start.

Listen to the audio

Question:
The woman expresses her opinion about the announcement. State her opinion and explain the reasons that she gives for holding that opinion.

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ASSAULTS ON WOMEN

As you may have read in the news, there have been two violent assaults against college-age women in our neighborhood within the past three weeks. In coordination with the Office of the Dean, the Office of Security is instituting the following changes within the dormitory system to ensure maximum security for all students of this college.

As has been the case, entry to the dorms will be allowed only if a student has a proper school ID. Visitors are welcome, but they must also show a valid form of ID (State ID or Driver's License or other University ID). The new policy will, however, involve visitors to the dorms. A visitor must now be met at the security desk by the person being visited. The time the person arrives and the time the person leaves will be recorded. Male visitors to our all-female campus must be escorted by a registered student or member of our community at all times. Again, male visitors must not be allowed to move about any of the dorm facilities unless they are escorted by someone from the college community. Unescorted male visitors may be removed from the premises by security and students responsible for these unescorted visitors can be disciplined with a fine or other measures.

We hope these new measures will help ensure maximum safety at our campus. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Dialogue:

Meagan: Kelly, someone told me you got fined by the college. What happened?

Kelly: My boyfriend came over to visit. We were hanging out in my dorm room and, basically, at one point he left my room to go to the bathroom.

Meagan: But didn't you read the notice from Security? Guys can't walk about the dorms freely any more.

Kelly: Oh come on. He walked down the hallway to go to the bathroom. I am supposed to escort my boyfriend to the bathroom and stand outside waiting for him? How absurd is that? That is totally messed up.

Meagan: I can see your point, I'm just wondering where the school needs to draw the line.

Kelly: Well they need to draw the line at what's reasonable and what isn't. They aren't doing that now. The bathroom is literally 10 yards from my room. Security acted as if he was a terrorist when they saw him walking back to my room. They grabbed him by the arm and took him to my room to see whether I knew him, then they wrote me out a ticket right there and then for $100. Why be so damn ridiculous? This was no big deal.

Meagan: Yeah, I have to admit it seems a bit excessive to bust a guy for going to the john. (explanation: 'going to the john' means going to the bathroom).

Kelly: Also, these frigging security guards have too damn much power now. They act like damn fascists. Yesterday I went down to meet my boyfriend at the security desk and the guard said, "Oh you're seeing him again tonight, huh?" I was so pissed off! This new system robs us of our privacy and allows these damn guards to act like our moral superiors.

Meagan: I agree. I'm glad I live off campus and don't have to put up with this crap.

Question: How does Kelly feel about the new security regulations at the dorms?

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Number of Sculpture Classes to Decrease

The Fine Arts Department has regretfully decided to cut the number of sculpture classes offered next semester from thirty to fifteen. While the department is not pleased to decrease its sculpture classes by fifty percent, there are two reasons for this choice. First, due to the department’s limited number of sculpture professor’s,our instructors have been teaching too many classes each semester. This has disrupted their ability to provide quality individual instruction for students.Furthermore, due to cutbacks in the department’s budget, there are simply not enough supplies available to offer such a large number of classes.

TOEFL SAMPLE ANSWER

2019-06-10T22:42:00.001-07:00

Global Warming

The lecturer refutes all three arguments for global warming presented in the reading passage. First, she points out that a consensus does not prove a theory. For scientific proof, all the evidence must support the hypothesis. However, many credible scientists disagree with those who champion the global warming issue. For example, the results of experiments by Lindzen and Choi contradicted the global warming model. Furthermore, the most recent IPCC report recognizes that the model doesn't simulate clouds well, which introduces uncertainty even among those who come down on the side of global warming. Next, satellite data released by NASA in a joint study with the University of Alabama revealed a major inconsistency between the predictions by the United Nations, using computer models and actual data collected by satellites for the past 25 years. The models projected more heat, especially over the oceans, than the satellite data recorded. Last, global warming proponents have offered a weak explanation for the lower average temperatures on Earth as compared with the expected temperatures in the model. According to von Schuckmann, for instance, the missing heat can be found in the ocean at depths of about 2000 meters. One flaw in this argument is the inconsistency of cooling on the surface and warming below it. A second problem is the absence of a hot spot near the tropics where more water should have evaporated, causing rapid warming, as predicted in the global warming model. In short, at this point, many highly regarded experts disagree with the model because the scientific data contradicts it.

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Chemistry Department

Notice from the Office of College Security Concerning Dorm Building Safety
Sample Answer:

Due to a couple violent assaults against college-age women in the neighborhood. a college has changed its security policy for its all-female dorms. Basically, male guests must have a valid ID and must be escorted at all times in the dorms.

Kelly has just had a terrible experience because of this policy and is dead set against it. First of all, she doesn't think that the policy has a clear-cut line as to what is reasonable and unreasonable behavior. Her boyfriend was stopped and humiliated by security just because he went to the bathroom, which was only about 10 yards from Kelly's room. She feels it is ridiculous to punish her for something so minor.

Secondly, Kelly feels that this new policy is too invasive and takes away a student's right to privacy. Basically these security guards seem to be making inappropriate and rude comments to students based on who their visitors are and how frequently they come. Therefore they seem to be making moral judgments based on their belief, perhaps, that the students are having sexual relations with the guys they bring into the dorm.

Clearly, the administration's desire to provide absolute security for its students seems to have some personal freedom glitches.

VAK THEORY
Sample answer:
The idea behind the VAK theory is that everyone has a preferred way of learning. Visual people learn best through looking at things, auditory learners learn best when they hear something, and kinesthetic learners learn best by doing. The theory suggests that teachers need to include a range of activities in their lessons so that all pupils, whether they are visual, auditory or kinesthetic, get the chance to learn. The professor’s example shows a teacher doing just this. The game, where the students name trees, and the teacher’s opening talk, is designed to suit auditory learners, because at this point, they’re only using their ears. The photos, and the part where the students copy pictures of leaves is visual, although you could say that copying pictures is kinesthetic too. The part where they go outside and look at leaves is kinesthetic. The fact that the student could remember the shape of the oak leaf suggests that applying the VAK theory is a useful way of helping students to learn. However, we can’t assume it was the VAK theory that helped her remember. Perhaps the variety of activities kept her motivated, or maybe she was just a particularly bright student with a good memory

Ballad
A ballad is, and I am quoting here, "a poem that tells a story and is sung to music." Characteristic of most ballads is the rhyming of the second and fourth lines. And usually ballads are part of an oral tradition, which, uh, it means that over the years, the song is revised as it's passed down from one musician to another. Some popular ballads have been written down and assigned a ... assigned a number in a reference book by ... Child. Now, "Barbara Allen " is classified as a ballad because it tells a story about lovers who were not united in life but are joined symtfolically in death by the rose and the thorn on their graves. The second and fourth lines of the song rhyme, and many versions of it are found around the world. One version is listed in the Child reference as number 84. So you see, «Barbara Allen" is not only a ballad. It's a very popular one.

TOEFL Integrated Writing

2019-06-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

Integrated Essay

You have 20 minutes to plan, write, and revise your response to a reading passage and a lecture on the same topic. First, read the passage and take notes. Then, listen to the lecture and take notes. Finally, write your response to the writing question. Typically, a good response will require that you write 150-225 words.

Now listen to a lecture on the same topic as the passage that you have just read.

Click here to listen

Question:

Summarize the main points in the lecture and then explain how they cast doubt on the ideas in the reading passage.

You have 20 minutes to plan, write, and revise your response

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Click here to listen to the Lecture

Question:

Summarize the main points in the lecture, and then explain how they cast doubt on the ideas in the reading passage.

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Click here to listen to the audio

Question: Summarize the main points in the lecture, and explain how they cast doubt on the ideas in the reading passage.

Sample Answers

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Sales Principles

Click to listen to the audio

Question: Summarize the main points in the lecture and then explain how they cast doubt on the ideas in the reading passage.

TOEFL INTEGRATED SPEAKING

2019-05-21T10:07:00.002-07:00

Hire me as your TOEFL Speaking Couch: https://preply.com/en/tutor/34068
SPEAKING PART 3

Announcement from Student Services

Listen to dialogue

Preparation Time: 30 seconds

Recording Time: 60 seconds

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Listen to the audio

Question

The student expresses her opinion of the policy for international students. Report her opinion and explain the reasons that she gives for having that opinion.

Preparation Time: 30 seconds

Recording Time: 60 seconds

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Health Insurance [Reading Time: 45 seconds]

Now listen to the foreign student advisor. He is explaining the policy and expressing his opinion about it.

Listen to the audio

Question

The foreign student advisor expresses his opinion of the policy for health insurance. Report his opinion and explain the reasons that he gives for having that opinion.

Preparation Time: 30 seconds

Recording Time: 60 second

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Listen to the audio

QUESTION: The man expresses his opinion of group work. State and explain his opinion. Compare his opinion with the opinion of the geology faculty.

Preparation Time: 30 seconds

Recording Time: 60 second

Listen to the sample answer

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Listen to the audio

QUESTION: The man expresses his opinion of the university’s plan. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion.

Preparation Time: 30 seconds

Recording Time: 60 second

Listen to the sample answer

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Withdrawal from Classes In order to qualify for a refund of 100 percent at any time during the semester; you must first establish eligibility. Serious illness or injury must be v
erified by a written statement signed by a doctor or a psychologist. The death of a family member ·must be verified by a death certificate. Military duty must be verified by a copy of the orders. Students who wish to withdraw without submitting official documentation may do so before the end of the drop-add period without penalty. After the end of the second week of classes, students may petition for a 90 percent reimbursement. After the end of the fourth week, students are eligible for a 50 percent refund.

Listen to the audio

Question The student expresses her opinion of the policy for reimbursement. Report her opinion and explain the reasons that she gives for having that opinion.

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Good News for Movie Fans

Listen to the audio

Question: The man expresses his opinion of the Student Association’s recent purchase. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion

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Sculpture Courses to Be Discontinued

(Narrator) Now listen to two students discussing the article.

(Male student) Everything alright?

(Female student) Yeah, I’m just upset about that article I showed you this morning …

(Male student) Why, what’s the big deal?

(Female student) Well, as an art major, I think it’s a big loss for the department. The university’s got it all wrong.

(Male student) What do you mean?

(Female student) Well, the low enrolment isn’t because art majors don’t want to take these classes. Problem is, who has time to take them when there are so many other requirements?

(Male student) I don’t understand.

(Male student) That makes sense. But, the thing about the professor …

(Male student) Really?

(Female student) Yeah! At least a few painting teachers are also great sculptors. I’m sure one of them could teach a class.

Question:The woman expresses her opinion of the university’s plan. State her opinion and explain the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.

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Listen to the audio

Question:
The woman expresses her opinion about the announcement. State her opinion and explain the s that she gives for holding that opinion.

===================================================================================

Dialogue:

Meagan: Kelly, someone told me you got fined by the college. What happened?

Kelly: My boyfriend came over to visit. We were hanging out in my dorm room and, basically, at one point he left my room to go to the bathroom.

Meagan: But didn't you read the notice from Security? Guys can't walk about the dorms freely any more.

Kelly: Oh come on. He walked down the hallway to go to the bathroom. I am supposed to escort my boyfriend to the bathroom and stand outside waiting for him? How absurd is that? That is totally messed up.

Meagan: I can see your point, I'm just wondering where the school needs to draw the line.

Kelly: Well they need to draw the line at what's reasonable and what isn't. They aren't doing that now. The bathroom is literally 10 yards from my room. Security acted as if he was a terrorist when they saw him walking back to my room. They grabbed him by the arm and took him to my room to see whether I knew him, then they wrote me out a ticket right there and then for $100. Why be so damn ridiculous? This was no big deal.

Meagan: Yeah, I have to admit it seems a bit excessive to bust a guy for going to the john. (explanation: 'going to the john' means going to the bathroom).

Kelly: Also, these frigging security guards have too damn much power now. They act like damn fascists. Yesterday I went down to meet my boyfriend at the security desk and the guard said, "Oh you're seeing him again tonight, huh?" I was so pissed off! This new system robs us of our privacy and allows these damn guards to act like our moral superiors.

Meagan: I agree. I'm glad I live off campus and don't have to put up with this crap.

--------------------
Question: How does Kelly feel about the new security regulations at the dorms?

Tips in Answering IELTS Speaking Questions

2018-09-18T21:17:00.002-07:00

Paraphrasing IELTS Speaking Questions

In IELTS speaking part one, you are not given time to prepare your answer. Thus, it is important to strengthen your quick thinking ability. Paraphrasing a question gives you time to arrange your thoughts. While you are paraphrasing the question , think of what you are going to say next and how to end your sentence.

Repetition of the same words is a mark down in fluency and coherence in IELTS Speaking criteria. Therefore, using synonyms or related expressions of the keyword saves you. When you answer, avoid saying the same noun, verb, adjective, and adverb used in the question. Look at the example below:

Do you like hiking?

Answer: Oh, I find pleasure in long period of walking.

How much time do you usually spend hiking?

Answer: Well, I am quite a busy person, but I always find at least a couple of hours of hiking on weekends.

Now, try to paraphrase the questions below.

1. Do you have a favorite dish?

2. Do you love cooking?

Supporting your Answer

IELTS Speaking parts 2 and 3 test your ability to express your thoughts. If you answer in just a sentence length, you won’t get a high mark. If the question asks for your opinion , then give reasons and arguments. Expound your answer in considerable length.

Example :

How much time do you usually spend on hiking?

Well, I am quite a busy person, but I always find at least a couple of hours hiking on weekends. For instance, if I really don’t have time hiking up mountain, I walk to the supermarket instead of driving.

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TOEFL Integrated Writing Practice

2017-03-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

         TOEFL Writing has two parts - Integrated Essay and Independent Essay. We are going to talk about Integrated Writing which is the first part of the writing test.

This type of writing test will let you:
   Step 1. Read an article . While reading the article you can take notes of the important ideas.
   Step 2. Listen to a lecture. You are allowed to take notes as well.
   Step 3. Read the question.
   Step 4. Write your essay. You are given 20 minutes to write an essay of 255 words.

Reminders:

Make sure that you answer the question correctly and completely.
Your answer should use correct language or vocabulary.
Sentence structure should be correct.
Grammar should be correct.
Your answer should show that you understand the important information in the passage and the lecture.
Your essay should be organized.

===================PRACTICE==============================
READ THE PASSAGE

Most children might hear their parents telling them to drink at least a glass of milk per day. Why is that? What benefits does milk intake provide for us?

First of all, milk is one of the best sources for calcium. Calcium intake is crucial during early childhood as it contributes to formation of strong bones. Additionally, the vitamin D found in milk facilitates calcium absorption through the digestive tract as well.

Milk also has abundant protein, which is an essential nutrient for growth and repair. Taking enough protein is especially important for children as it is vital to brain development and body tissue growth.

Furthermore, regular intake of milk can lower people's risk of obesity. Some studies found that dairy products might help us lose weight as certain nutrients in milk affect the way our body stores energy in its fat cells.

CLICK TO LISTEN TO THE LECTURE

OUTLINE

Reading: benefits of milk intake

Lecture: _____

Reading: one of the _________

Lecture: ____ draws calcium out of ____if we have____digesting.

Reading: has ___an essential ,___ repair

Lecture: a common cause of___immune system reacts____in milk

Reading: can lower people's risk of __affect the way our body __

Lecture: fattening - more than ____of milk/day

USEFUL WORDS

claims says refutes questions confronts runs against points out idea

WRITE YOUR ESSAY WHICH IS 150-225 WORDS (20 MINUTES)

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READ THE ARTICLE

We can see numerous cases in which two species live in close association for an extended time in nature. This partnership, which is called symbiosis, is often categorized into three types.

The first type is mutualism, in which both organisms benefit from the relationship. More often than not, this kind of association is rather obligatory. In other words, both species will have difficulty surviving if they are separated.

In the second type commensalism, one member benefits whereas the other is not affected by the association. They may share food, space, shelter or transport, but one member will not die even if it gets out of the association.

The last type, parasitism is the relationship in which one organism benefits

and the other is harmed. In most cases, this kind of co-existence lasts for the lifetime of one party.

CLICK TO LISTEN TO THE LECTURE

OUTLINE

Reading: symbiosis – two ____

Lecture: ____

Reading: mutualism: ____ Support

Lecture: ex. certain ants -__acacia - __in return

Reading: commensalism: one ___, the other is __Support

Lecture: ex. remora- __to a shark, ___

Reading : ____one benefits,_______Support

Lecture: ex._growing on another tree ___grow quickly tree ___ gets __

WRITE YOUR ESSAY WHICH IS 150-225 WORDS (20 MINUTES)

=================================================================================

READ THE PASSAGE

Stem cells have been the center of extensive research due to their certain ability to assist in curing disease.

         The most important property of stem cells is that they can grow into nearly any cell type and thus may replace cells lost to disease or injury. According to scientists, stem cells could become a revolutionary treatment for cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's and hundreds of other illnesses.
          Next, stem cells have the advantage of being easy to obtain for medical purposes. They can be extracted from embryos before the embryo's cells come to have specialized functions. Each embryo has nearly 100 stem cells, a number which doubles every 2 to 3 days. The cells can then be kept alive forever in stem cell banks.
        Finally, using stem cells in clinics could someday save billions of dollars in drug costs. Treatment of disease would be less dependent on the pharmaceutical industry and would be controlled more by the doctors themselves.

CLICK TO LISTEN TO THE LECTURE

OUTLINE

Reading: stem cells - ability _________________
Lecture: _______________________
Point 1
Reading: __________________
Lecture: _________________
Point 2
Reading: _________________

Lecture: ___________
Point 3
Reading: ____________________
Lecture: ___________

WRITE YOUR ESSAY WHICH IS 150-225 WORDS (20 MINUTES)

TOEFL Speaking Practice

2017-02-07T08:57:00.001-08:00

TOEFL SPEAKING PART 3

What to do in Speaking Part 3 Test?

1. Read the passage .(50 secs)
2. Listen to the conversation. (60 mins.)
3. A question is given.
4. Prepare your answer. (30 secs)
5. Record your answer. (60 secs)
The computer will then save your response.

************************************************************************************

Wall of Art Demolition

University officials have decided to take down the wall separating the art building with the university theater. The demolition will be completed by the end of May. Once the wall is down, access between the buildings will be easier. Students and visitors will no longer have to walk a block to get around the wall. Also, the wall initially began to feature the work of student artists. Lately, it has merely featured graffiti. This has made it an eyesore on campus, and we wish to beautify our campus. The university apologizes for any inconvenience to students during the removal process.

If you cannot see the audio controls, listen/download the audio file here

CLICK TO LISTEN TO THE CONVERSATION

The man expresses his opinion on the destruction of the wall of Arts. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding his opinion.

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Dean of Humanities Department Appointment

Dr.William Reynolds has been appointed the new dean of the Humanities Department. Dr.Reynolds has been an associate professor in the department for fifteen years. His reputation as a scholar throughout the country is unparalleled. His appointment will help attract some of the best professors in the field and boost the department's academic reputation. Dr.Reynolds has also won the university distinguished teacher and adviser award for the past five years, which will ensure that students receive excellent advice for their studies and future goals. Let us all welcome Dr.Reynolds and support him in his new position.

CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO THE AUDIO

The man expresses his opinion of the professor ’s new appointment. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding that opinion.

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University Dormitory Policy

Beginning this spring, the university will implement a new dormitory policy. The floors of each dormitory will become major-specific, meaning that students will the same majors will live together. This policy will allow students to study more effectively. Because they will live in close proximity to one another, and students with the same majors will be able to create study groups more easily. Also, students will make closer connections with others with the same majors. The school believes students with the same majors should spend more time together outside of class. This will promote both academic and social interaction.

Click here to listen to the conversation

The woman expresses her opinion of the new dormitory policy. State her opinion and explain the reasons she gives for holding that opinion.

IELTS Listening Test: Tips

2016-08-30T23:08:00.000-07:00

Read the questions. You are given time to read the questions before each task, thus read each questions carefully. Familiarizing the questions gives you an idea of what the conversation is all about.

Listen carefully . Stay focused and listen carefully. The introduction of each question gives you the most useful information about the speakers and what they're going to talk about. As you listen, take note of the sign post words. Sign post words are the words used by the speaker to introduce stages of the talk. It gives you an idea that the answer for the next question is approaching. Look at the following examples:

           “Today I’m going to introduce the topic of....."
            “Firstly, we will look at....”
   “First of all”.
“Secondly, we will discuss..."
   “Following this....”
              “Then.....”
“Finally...”,
“Lastly......”

IELTS Listening : Practice Test

2016-08-13T13:02:00.001-07:00

Addictive, that's how I describe practising IELTS listening test. I just keep on gathering IELTS listening practice tests resources.Too many resources online and I thank GOD for letting man discover the world wide web.You can't stop until you'll perfect any test. I haven't perfected any yet. And maybe, if I perfect any, maybe I won't stop from there.

Listening test can be passed if you have enough practice of it. Total immersion on the exam. Do it every day. Listen to the accent in which you find hard. I find British and Australian the most. Familiarize the test questions. And yes! FOCUS !!!!!! please. Don't let you mind fly. The tiniest destruction can ruin the entire part of the test, so FOCUS!!

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Grammar: Learning English Future Tenses

2010-11-26T23:52:00.000-08:00

Future Tense

The simple future tense is used to express an action (or to help make a statement about something) that will occur in the future. The future tense is formed with “will” or “shall”.

Example:

We will leave tomorrow.

Future Progressive Tense

The future progressive tense is used to express temporary activities that will in progress at a point in time or that will extend over a limited period of time in the future.

Example:

What will you be doing at 7:00 o’clock tonight?

I’ll be probably eating dinner.

What will you be discussing tomorrow morning?

We’ll be discussing “verb tenses”.

Future Perfect Tense

It is used to express activities that exist or occur before another activity of time in the future.

Example:

We will have finished the rehearsal by five o’clock. If you come at six o’clock, you will be too late because we will have gone by then.

Future Perfect Progressive Tense

It is used to emphasize the progressive nature of the action or activity that will be going on in the future while another future activity takes place. Consider the following examples.

Example:

We will have been waiting for three hours by the time the delayed train will arrive.

The plumber shall been fixing the leaking faucet by noon

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Grammar: Learning English Past Tenses

2010-11-26T23:29:00.000-08:00

Simple Past Tense

Make statements of fact or opinion about condition in the past.
Express definite time in the remote past
Indicate daily, frequent, or repetitive remote occurrence.

Examples:

Every few minutes, she checked to see if he was still conscious.

Day after day, he sat dejected in this blocked-out world.

He went away three minutes ago.

“Used To” denotes a habitual action performed in the past but no longer done in the present. When you say, “I used to go to the movie on Sunday”, you mean that you don’t go to the movies every Sunday.

Past Progressive Tense

It is used to express temporary activities which were in progress at the time of another activity in the past. The duration of the temporary activity may be relatively long or short. The other activity is usually expressed in another clause.

Example:

I was studying when he telephoned.

He was feeling better when the doctor arrived.

It is used to express activities that were in progress at a point of time in the past. This point of time is usually established by a modifier indicating time.

Example:

Where was John last week? He was working on his thesis.

Were you living here last year? No, I was staying in China.

Past Perfect Tense

Denotes an action which took place before another past action. It is to be considered in relation to a past action. The conjunctions indicating the relationship between the two past actions may be “before”, “when”, “after”. This tense is formed by putting the helping verb “had” before the past participle form of the main verb. Because of this, the past perfect tense is called the “had-tense”.

Example:

Greg had already left when his grandmother arrived.

I did my homework after I had studied.

Past Perfect Progressive Tense

The progressive aspect of the past perfect.

Example:

He had been living there a year when he decided to move to China.

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Grammar: Learning English Present Tenses

2010-11-26T23:17:00.000-08:00

The word tense comes from Latin word “tempus” which means time. It is the form that a verb takes or assumes to indicate the time of action, the condition, or the state of being.

Simple Present Tense

Repetitive , habitual or customary action.Adverbs of frequency expressing that the action is formed regularly or routinely and is expected of the doer, accompany the verb. These are; usually, everyday, frequently, often, mostly, daily, annually, twice a week, sometimes, always, seldom, etc.

Examples:

She always comes to class early.

Only rarely does he return to his hometown.

Muslims pray five times a day.

Current frame of mind

Feelings and perception at the time of utterances are in the simple present to stress the speaker’s current consciousness.

Examples:

I sense the presence of supernatural being.

She feels cold.

Facts and accepted observation and generalities

Statements whose veracity is accepted, and generalities known to be true are stated in the simple present tense.

Examples:

Every age has its own culture.

Water seeks its own level.

Seoul City is in Korea

Imperatives

Example:

Take your cues from me.

Present Progressive Tense

To indicate action in progress at the moment of speaking.

Examples:

The workers are always complaining.

They are fixing the faucet now.

I speak three languages but I am speaking English now.

To describe a situation existing at the present

Example:

As you read this, you are sitting in front of your computer. You are learning about the Present Progressive Tense.

To indicate an activity or situation that is continuing over a period of time.

Example:

This year, I am studying English, Math, History and Accounting a t the University. I am living in the dormitory. I am making good progress in my studies. I am working harder than I did in high school, but I’m enjoying my new status.

Certain adverbs and adverbial phrases are frequently use with the progressive aspect: now, this summer, at the moment, today, this semester, this week, this year, at this time.

Present Perfect Tenses

Indicates continuous time from a vague past to the present. The emphasis is on the present meaning.

Examples:

He has lost all his money.

They have gone.

How the child has grown.

Indicate continuous action from the past time to the present. The emphasis is on the length of time introduced by “for” or “since”.

Examples:

I have waited for you for two hours.

I have not seen him for a year.

Expresses recent events with the help of the word “just” or “recently”.

Examples:

The guest of honor has just arrived.

I have seen him recently.

Denotes future action after the words when, before, as soon as, after, until.

Examples:

I shall read my theme when I have finished writing it.

A bird will not leave the nest until it has learned to fly.

I will pay you as soon as you have finished your work.

Present Perfect Progressive Tense

It is formed by putting together has/have been + v-ing. It indicates that the action which began in the past I still going on. It is always used with the time expression beginning with since or for.

Example:

He has been speaking for an hour.

Enhancing My English Pronunciation

2010-11-06T21:37:00.001-07:00

I could still remember how my English teacher‘s forehead wrinkled when I read an English poem. She could not understand the thought of the poem, it’s not how I read it, it’s how I pronounced the words, she said.

My three languages are Cebuano, Filipino and English. Cebuano and Filipino are my first languages and English would be my second language. Most words of my native languages are coined from Malaysian, Indonesian and Spanish languages. Thus, my native tongue lacks some of the vowel sounds of English especially the short a sound with IPA symbol / æ/. Sad to say, I wasn’t taught much of perfect vowel pronunciation when I was younger.

Well, I almost flunked my English Oral Communication subject since I have not acquired the perfect pronunciation of some vowel sounds in English. Nobody can perfect the pronunciation in just 6 months. It took me 20 years of speaking my native language thus I was able to pronounce word perfectly. I couldn’t get away from the near-to-flunk experience for English pronunciation since I literally flunked my call center job interview.

It was quite challenging. How come other Filipinos have perfected their vowel pronunciation? I didn’t want to spend money to pay for pronunciation couch. If others can do, I can too (The quote the keeps me going.). What I did was purchased a book titled Pronounce it Perfectly in English.It has 4 Audio CDs that serve as my pronunciation couch. I faced the mirror, followed the diagram in the book showing the lip and mouth formation to produce the correct sound. After studying the technical aspect of sound, I played the audio and mimicked the sounds. I didn’t just learn vowel sounds since the book also teaches how produce consonant sounds, stress and intonation patterns.

Finally, I was able to get a call center job- and that is with the most reputable company. But then, I never stop learning, to sharpen my pronunciation.

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How to Learn English with Online Tutors

2008-11-30T00:53:00.001-08:00

We can’t deny the fact that some ESL (English as a Second Language) students prefer to study online. Of course, there are many advantages of learning a language online. It saves time, money and effort.

Where to find English tutors? There are many schools that offer English courses. But mind you, it’s a little expensive. If you are not learning English to become language teachers, then you can just simply learn English with online tutors at Buddyschool, click the following words to go to the site → Cheap English Conversation Class.

What do you need to start learning English online? You must have a computer connected to the internet, a headset with microphone, and instant messengers such as Skype, Yahoo Messenger, or MSN.

How to pay online tutor? Most of the tutors prefer to be paid through an online money transfer system known as Paypal. To register click How to Register in Paypal. Other teachers also accept payment via bank transfer, and other money transfers (Xoom, Moneybookers, and Western Union.)

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How to Increase Vocabulary

2008-11-22T02:05:00.003-08:00

As we know, reading is one of the best ways to increase vocabulary. Since you can’t remember all the new words, it is advisable that you keep a vocabulary notebook.

Before sitting on your favorite couch, grab a pen, notebook and a dictionary. Your vocabulary notebook must be organized and I suggest that the following entries are to be included:
-Word
a. Copy of the sentence or phrase that contains the unfamiliar word.
b. Pronunciation. A word must be pronounced correctly. Thus, you need to familiarize phonetics.
c. Origin. Write down the origin of the words and its derivation. Knowing the origin of the word helps you remember the word.
d. Definition. If there are many definitions, be sure to pick the accurate one. Don’t forget to determine its part of speech.
e. Sample Sentences. Begin using the word by producing sample sentences.

Never be contented in using the vocabulary in writing, use it in your daily speech too. Remember, mastery requires constant practice.

If you want to visit the website for online tutors , click this → Conversation Classes Online for $7/hour

Speaking Proficiency Level

2008-07-13T22:16:00.002-07:00

Most language educators and learners often lack familiarity with the concept of speaking proficiency levels. I once encountered a student who expressed considerable dissatisfaction when I assessed his speaking ability at the mid-intermediate level. Many of his previous language instructors had classified his speaking skills as advanced. This situation left me feeling guilty and sympathetic towards the student, who appeared profoundly disappointed.

I find it perplexing how educators determine speaking proficiency levels. It seems that some language teachers or tutors may not be fully aware of the standardized definitions of proficiency levels. During my studies in English Language Teaching, I came across the ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Proficiency Level Guidelines, which have been continuously studied, researched, reevaluated, and improved since 1986.

Below are the generic speaking descriptions as outlined by ACTFL. Thus, if students inquire about their speaking level, educators can reference these guidelines to determine the appropriate classification.

Low Beginners: Unable to produce a complete sentence. However, with guidance through questions, they can provide common words, state their name, or exchange greetings.

Mid Beginners: These learners require time to construct simple sentences. They often struggle with vocabulary and frequently make grammatical errors. Additionally, they may struggle to respond accurately to questions.

High Beginners: Students at this level can discuss familiar topics but typically produce short and erroneous sentences.

Lower Intermediates: They can ask and answer questions about activities and family matters. They also possess the language skills necessary for ordering food and making purchases.

Mid Intermediates: Learners can engage in conversations about basic topics and extend discussions beyond their immediate needs. They are capable of forming longer sentences; however, these sentences often contain errors. There are still noticeable pauses between sentences, and their pronunciation is influenced by their first language.

High Intermediates: At this stage, students can initiate simple conversations, and their interlocutors can comprehend them more effectively. Nevertheless, their vocabulary remains limited.

Advanced: Advanced learners can participate meaningfully in conversations, producing paragraph-length utterances. They are able to narrate and describe events in a manner that is easily understood by native speakers.

I hope that all language institutions will adopt a universal speaking proficiency guideline to assess language learners more accurately. Furthermore, implementing a standardized speaking proficiency description could aid learners in gauging their progress in language acquisition.

Let's Improve our English Language Skills (Speaking, Writing, Listening and Reading)

Advanced Student : 🌍 ESL Lesson Plan: Sustainable Tourism

🌍 ESL Lesson Plan: Sustainable Tourism

1. Discussion: Sustainable Tourism

2. Vocabulary: Sustainable Tourism

3. Reading: The Future of Global Tourism Must Be Sustainable

4. Conversation Questions

5. Writing Task

'Shrinkflation' now widespread in goods and services

Types of Sentences

1. Question 1

2. Question 2

3. Question 3

1. Question 1

2. Question 2

3. Question 3

4. Question 4

5. Question 5

6. Question 6

7. Question 7

8. Question 8

9. Question 9

10. Question 10

11. Question 11

12. Question 12

13. Question 13

14. Question 14

Integrated Part 4

TOEFL Speaking Part 3

TOEFL SAMPLE ANSWER

TOEFL Integrated Writing

TOEFL INTEGRATED SPEAKING

Tips in Answering IELTS Speaking Questions

English Language Courses

TOEFL Integrated Writing Practice

TOEFL Speaking Practice

The man expresses his opinion on the destruction of the wall of Arts. State his opinion and explain the reasons he gives for holding his opinion.

IELTS Listening Test: Tips

IELTS Listening : Practice Test

Grammar: Learning English Future Tenses

Join One-On-One English Lesson for 7USD / hour

Grammar: Learning English Past Tenses

Grammar: Learning English Present Tenses

Enhancing My English Pronunciation

How to Learn English with Online Tutors

How to Increase Vocabulary

Speaking Proficiency Level

Question 1

Question 2

Question 3

Question 1

Question 2

Question 3

Question 4

Question 5

Question 6

Question 7

Question 8

Question 9

Question 10

Question 11

Question 12

Question 13

Question 14