English Grammar: Useful Online Resources

When learning English, it’s vital to understand the building blocks of the language and that means getting to grips with its grammar. If you find old textbooks boring and are searching for something a bit more interactive, then why not study English grammar online? There are thousands of sites out there that provide information, explanations and exercises on English grammar but,

American vs Russian: The Family Bond

To western eyes, Russian families appear closer and more intimate. The typical Russian family lives together, fights together, and loves together – all within the confines of 42 or 64 square meters. Everyone knows what everyone else is doing (almost), and for better or worse.

Bill Clinton’s Speech, 2012

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uzDhk3BHi6Q&feature=player_embedded#!
Please read, watch the video, ask about any English you want to know, and share your thoughts. Bill Clinton is an amazing speaker and gave a great speech. Even if you aren’t interested in politics, it’s cool to learn a little bit about it and discuss it. I’d love you to share your thoughts in the comments & in the class. Here is the “transcript” of the speech.

Translate

YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR:

In the real world, if you want to get to the top, you've got to know how to play the game. Sure, you'd like to think that people are promoted based on their abilities and their talent. And sometimes they are ... but if you're like me and you've worked for a big company, you know that there's another piece to this puzzle ... and it's called office politics. I know what you're thinking ... aren't we more evolved than having to play political games to get where we want to? Sorry!

The First Man on the Moon

Take Into Account

If you “take something into account” it means you “factor it in” or “include it in your decision making process”.So, if you “take something into account” you make it part of your decision.   Here are some examples:

10 steps to revision success

1. Revision space: Find a good place to work. It should be quiet and uncluttered.
2. Revision timetable: Draw up a revision timetable - it's crucial. It should be realistic, cover all subjects and allow you time off to relax.
3. Make notes: Don't just read through your class work, make notes. One useful tip is to gradually condense your notes so they fit on the back of a postcard.
4. Revision guides: Get a recommendation from your professor as to which are most useful and then make sure you use them!
5. Questions and answers: Write out some questions and answers to see how much you're actually remembering.
6. Listen in: Try recording your notes and then play them walking down the street or whilst you're in bed.
7. Prompts: Put key words and phrases on sticky notes around the house, so you'll see them often.
8. Seek help!: Don't go it alone. They say a problem shared is a problem halved. So, get friends and family on board to help you revise.
9. Past papers: Make sure you get hold of some past papers, they're a really good way of knowing what to expect in the exam.
10.  Relax: If you panic you're lost! The exams are going to happen so you might as well give yourself the best chance of doing well by starting to revise early and keeping calm.

Good luck!