TIPS TO IMPROVE YOUR LISTENING SKILLS

Mind Mapping

According to Tony Buzan, mindmaps will help you remember thousands of words and phrases mainly for two reasons:

1. They group related concepts together and that mirrors the way in which your brain organises and stores new inforamtion.
2. They are visual, which helps you recall all information, especially language. That makes them idieal for learning and revision.

Comprehensible Input Masterclass

Hands up if you also think Krashen is more than right when suggesting that "Comprehensible Input" is the effective tool to both teach and learn a foreign language. Listen to this 3 minute masterclass. Old, but still good :)

Why Remembrance Day is also known as Poppy Day

Remembrance or Armistice Day is also commonly and popularly known as Poppy Day. If you want to learn about the story behing the Poppy, watch the following video with a delicious Scottich accent.

Countdown to Christmas. Make your own Advent Calendar.

If there is a thing people go all crazy about, that is Christmas time. Celebrations, family and friend gatherings, that special atmosphere and the presents. We all know it is a very materialistic festivity, although that is only so, whenever we choose to go along with the imposed shopping fever.
It is very common in cities to boast a massive Christmas lights switch on event, as well as season adverts by the hand of popular business, such as Morrisons, John Lewis or the classic Fenwick themed windows that everyone loves!
I propose you a countdown to Christmas time with another all-time favourite: Advent Calendars. I offer you the chance to make your own digital version and surprise anyone you want or ,simply, treat yourself!
Click on the link provided let your creativity take over! There is a Monty Python version to let you see a final version of the product :)

http://advent-calendars.org/

Gunpowder Plot. A treason never to be forgotten.

Tonight you'll hear it all over Britain: "Remember, remember the fith of November" and the kids' old story "a penny for the guy". It is the night of gunpowder, bonfires, fireworks display and celebration of a plot fail. Do you know about the popular rhyme and the history bihind it?

Click the link to learn more about Guy Fawkes and The Gunpowder Plot. 

Market Day: Spitafields

One of the best options in East London. You don't have to wait for Saturday for it to open  as it is a seve-day- a- week option. Old Spitafields Market is one vibrant  place to go. If you love antiques and bargains, thursday is your day! Clothes and art are the main attraction on Friday. Every Saturday, you'll fing a themed market, whereas Sunday offers a bit of everything, the usual :)
Here is an extract of Totally London tv about the market. Enjoy the virtual visit!!!

The Fake Moustache Trend

In the last couple of years I've noticed an increasing interest for any kind of fashion articles in the shape of or containing the popular handlebar moustache. That made me do some research and here is the answer:
THE MOUSTACHE TREND article
We will see how long it wil last, but it seems the thing to have at the moment, especially with so much merchandising out there. Name the thing and they will moustache it for you :-3

Accents and their "fun"

Accents are really complicated when it comes to language learning. If you get used to listening to Received Pronounciation (RP English) only, then, you are very likely to struggle with the rest of English accents: local, national or international. Yes, that's where the "fun" lies....
American vs British English
Australian vs American and British
Indian English Accents
Canadian Accents
British Accent deserves a post on its own, due to the diffentent accents, slang and interesting bits and pieces it has to offer :)

The Roman Invasion of Britain

I just bumped into this hilarious description of how the Romans invaded Britain (newsport style). Fingers crossed, you like it as much as I did. If satisfied with the humour and the accent, keep on watching more Horribe Histories to learn while having fun ;)

-ED pronunciation

More often that not, we struggle to get the pronunciation of regular verbs in the past right. Tricks to it? We need to focus a bit on phonetics to master this area.
If the chart on the left means little to you in terms of actual help, try listening to this -ED pronunciation tutorial. 

Lie or Lay?

In my opinion, with the learning of Lay vs Lie comes one of the biggest challenges in the irregular verb list!!!
This generous teacher gives us a lesson (click here )on how to distinguish between:

• LAY LAID LAID (irr. transitive verb meaning to put something down)

• LIE LAY LAIN    (irr. intransititive verb meaning to recline)                                                      

• LIE LIED LIED (regular verb meaning to make an untrue statement with intent to deceive) also gets by to make things a little bit more complicated...

Watch and learn...

VOA's Learning: Another tool to learn English.

When you click in VOA's Learning English link, you'll be directed to a two-column chart in which you can either
1) select youtube videos with a news-telling format and subtitles available
or, which I think it is the most attractive service,
2) a selection of news articles. So far, nothing special! but wait and see. Once the piece of news is opened, an emerging orange dialogue box will pop out so that you can  work on what you really need regarding the article you have just read in terms of vocabulary, comprehension and listening. Sometimes, it is accessible at the bottom of the page. More than recommendable!
In case you haven't realised, it is AmE, as VOA stands for Voice of America.

Martin Luther King

Here is my tribute for this outstanding figure in history who 50 years ago decided that enough was enough for his community. He became the voice of black people suffering discrimination against for their skin colour and told the world about his dream during the March on Washington. His 15 minute "I have a dream" speech , still inspirational today, moved the world then as it does now. Many things have been achieved racismwise, but much work is left yet.
 
They are not longer slaves, but there is still segregation and discrimination that need hard work in order to eradicate it. To succeed in such an honorable cause fought by only the brave and fully committed with the black community no matter what is definitely my dream too.

Notting Hill Carnival

I know today is meant to be "market day entry", but can you think of a better alternative than getting your fancy dress on, wear your best smile, get your dancing spirit high and join Notting Hill Carnival? Vibrant street life at its best. Here you are this year's Visitor's Guide

Edimburgh International Festival

EDIMBURGH INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL started last 9th August and threatens to expand up to next 1st September. A proper goodbye to what has been one of the best British summers, weatherwise.
This thrilling and exciting festival is a must for world visitors and locals boasting street culture in many forms and shapes: music, drama, performances, ranging from classical music and opera to theatre, dance and visual art. Unmissable!

Have you got 6 minutes?

http://www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice/learningenglish/general/sixminute/

6 minute English audioclips are the perfect option for those who are always in a hurry. Quick and straight to the point listening with some vocab keys in case you need help. Where there is a will, there is a way!
BBC LEARNING ENGLISH: 6 MINUTE ENGLISH

Market Day: Camden

Proposing today Camden Market, the fourth most popular visitor attraction in London, attracting approximately 100,000 people each weekend. Candem Market is a number of adjoining large markets in Camden Town near the Hampstead Road Lock of the Regent's Canal (which is usually called Camden Lock), often called collectively "Camden Market" or "Camden Lock". (Source http://www.londonmarkets.co.uk/)

Most people know Camden nowadays thanks to relatives' or friends' pictures, tv documentaries or the Internet in general. In my opinion, it is one of the most fascinating places to visit in London. You can't imagine its magic until you put your feet in it and experience the place: the atmosphere, the smell, the sounds, the different locations....

That is why I decided to post a video about how Camden was in the past and learn some history of one of London's top tourist destinations. If you are not into history, then watch this Camden Market Nowadays  link and enjoy as it is today.

Amy Winehouse

Two years without this talented and tormented artist, whose life was marked by a tragic early death and by a music gift many people valued and respected. Amy Winehouse, known for eclectic mix of musical genres left a gap in the world of music which will be hard to fill. Until a new talent takes over in the genre, we will have, her music, her legacy to us, to enjoy quality Soul, R&B and Jazz beautifully fusioned.

Biography.com/people/amy-winehouse

Speechyard

http://speechyard.com/about/

Here is an interesting web to learn real English from movies and books. For instance, you can watch clips and click on the words you don't understand. Likewise, as you are reading in the book section, you click on the words causing trouble and get instant translation. Give it a try!!!
SPEECHYARD VIDEO CLIPS
SPEECHYARD BOOKS

Market Day: Portobello

Given that Saturdays are the proper day for some market shopping, I propose a virtual trip to different attractive hot markets every Saturday! Here starts a new section, which I hope you'll enjoy.

"Portobello market is a vibrant  interesting London market, selling a wide variety of things. Portobello Road a great place to browse for antique and beautiful jewellery,

and there are loads of cheap and second-hand clothes, with handmade designer garments and lots of vintage denim and leather on offer". (http://londonmarkets.co.uk/)

The City of London (not London!)

Superb presentation to explain the difference between the City of London and London in well under five minutes. If you are curious enough and enjoy history...this is certainly your video of the day :D
If you liked it and want to know more, good news is there is a part 2. 

Summertime: England

The following video clip presents a journey through England stopping at Dover Castle, Battle Abbey, Rye, Hastings, Beachy Head, Brighton, Portsmouth, Stonehenge, Salesbury, Shaftesbury, Exeter, Dartmoor, Princetown, Devices, Avebury, Llandrillo, Hadrian's Wall, Newcastle upon Tyne, York, Cambridge and Canterbury. It is a relaxing tour thanks to the tranquil music guiding the pictures and narration.

Obviously, there is one top place to visit in England. Yes! You guessed it right, LONDON.

Congratulations to Murray for his Wimbledon title!!!

Congratulations to Andy Murray for his epic victory in Wimbledon ending a 77-year British drought in the game. He played the match of his life in front of a strong but unstable Djokovic.
Here is Andy's speech, quite a funny one as the man of the day had no idea of what happened!  That's what he recalls of his last point XD
A very humble and top tennis player. Congrats Murray. Enjoy the sweet taste of victory.

5 Golden Speaking Rules

http://www.talkenglish.com/ExtraLessons/SpeakingRules.aspx

The five speaking rules you'll find in the link can be summed up in one: "practice, practice, practice". It's never enough!

Summertime: Scotland

I suggest visiting Scotland today! If you haven't been yet, it is definitely worth a visit and quite an experience!

Note: There is an option in the bottom right section of the video frame to activate subtitles in English, in case you might find them useful ;)

How to improve your Productive Skills: Speaking and Writing

Oxford University Press has recently published an article by Helen Stepanova about this topic under the title that follows. Read it and put her recommendations into practice.

Productive Skills: Resources for Independent Learning

25 Reasons to Read during Summer, Autumn, Winter or Spring!

Here I post a very interesting list published by Edutopia and WeAreTeachers in facebook.
Edutopia also attaches a link including summer reading recommendations. Roll on summer!!!

Summertime: Ireland

Summertime is just the perfect time of the year to relax and enjoy English the real way. Take your time to watch movies, read books or magazines, translate your favourite lyrics and if possible, visit an English- speaking country. Ireland is one popular destination as the emerald isle has a lot to offer!

Learning Styles

To make the most of your study time, you must know your learning style. Read this interesting article about LEARNING STYLES and develop all your possibilities to the maximum while sitting in front of books :D

Are you still thinking about it?

This advert may help you to make a decision whether to study or not along this summer. Give it a go!

The British Museum

Hello! Don't you think it is a wonderful afternoon to go to the British Museum? Follow the link and enjoy the visit.....VISIT ONLINE THE BRITISH MUSEUM

The Holstee Manifesto: inspiring words

The History of ENGLISH in 10 minutes

Do you have 10 minutes? Then you can learn about the History of English in just that time!!! Aren't you lucky?

The High Price of Materialism

Food for thought :D

Read and Run!

Here you are inspiring words by Will Smith when giving a speech. He talks about two important lessons in life: Reading and Running. Do you agree with him?

Pearl Jam: Documentary

We continue with the music mood... Hope you find this documentary about Pearl Jam interesting and enjoy it as much as I did. I love the band and it is good to know some about their history.

Ella Fitzgerald: The Voice

 
Yesterday, Google Doodle celebrated the 96th birthday of Ella Fitzgerald (1917-1996), one of the most popular jazz singers in America who was known as the “First Lady of Song” and the “Queen of Jazz.”. Here is a documentary about key female voices such as Dinah Washington, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, and Billie Holiday.

Happy Earth Day!!!

I suggest these inspiring, insightful and interesting 12 TED talks related to our Blue Planet to celebrate Earth Day. Choose your favourite topic or enjoy them all!

Banksy's Street Art

Do you know Banksy's street art? Wikipedia defines him as England-based graffiti artist, political activist, film director, and painter.
I learnt about a documentary about his work and here you are in order to get to know the artist better. You probably are familiar with the artist's most popular pieces. However, I'll leave you with some of his most  representative works.

How to guide

A very comple guide on how to in English, language learning wise ;)

To tweet or Not to tweet

Here is a fantastic idea for fellow teachers with Book Day on the horizon.
To tweet or Not to tweet, that is the question.

London Places

Here you are a very useful list of London Places you may be shy to say in case you get the name wrong. Let me help you on this one ;)

Silent Sounds in English

We are often unsure of whether some consonants should be pronounced or not. Here is a list of words containing silent sounds to make your speaking easier :D
If pronounciation is your thing, here is an article to improve your accent.

Peppa Pig World

One of the sweetest cartoons for kids materialised into a family theme park some years ago!!! Here you are a promo video about the park in case you are thinking of giving it a go!

Egg Painting

A very exciting craft for kids and adults!!! If you are artistic enough to get hands on task, go for it!

Here you are a link with some ideas. ENJOY YOURSELVES!!!

EASTER HOLIDAYS

Watch this interesting video reflecting on Easter Holidays. It tells us about the origing of this Christian celebration as well as about its most characteristic symbols. Food for thought indeed, but so sorry for some grammar / spelling mistakes. I liked the message above all.

Movies + Activities

Here is a wonderful link to watch movie clips and do exercises to learn English
In case you prefer more popular movie clips, here is another option
Finally, children will love this blog to revise their grammar while having fun!

In the mood for literature + listening?

Perfect to get two skills together, this VIDEOTALES with stories about Scotland are just what you need :D

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

The Ides of March

On this day like this, On March 15, 44 B.C., Julius Caesar was assassinated by a group of senators hoping to restore the Roman republic.Watch this Shakespeare Animated tale to get to know both the story and the play.

Top Ten Language Exchange Websites to Speak in English

http://www.myenglishteacher.eu/blog/your-top-10-language-exchange-websites-for-speaking-english-fluently/

International Women's Day

International Women's Day is celebrated every year on March 8. Here is an article about 100 remarkable women who changed the world. Enjoy the reading ;)

Where there is a will, there is a way

Here is a link to a BBC article about how to become fluent in 11 languages!!!!  Watch and listen Alex's story Then read the article, to get to know more about him.

Happy Valentine's Day :D

Food for thought

What would you do with your life if money didn't matter?

 

What is a Lap Year?

Uk?, Great Britain? All English? Some answers here...

 

Perfect video to stop confusing political and geographical terms. Even colonialism is presented!!!

I know... this man speaks way too fast, but it is a quality explanation with a pinch of humour and irony (love it) and excellent  images. I hope you find the video informative and entertaining.

How well do you know WALES?

Watch this full programme to get to know more about it.

The History of English in 10 minutes

Right...Here is another attempt to present some cultural and history videos on English. Once more, I don't think I quite made it, but at least you were able to learn something while having a laugh. I did!

INTO HISTORY?

Check this wonderful BBC link. I chose this kid-level resource as a starting base since the language is simpler and images will definitely contribute to a better understanding. Ready? Off you go back in time!

History for Kids (BBC)

Here is a video on the most important cities in the UK historywise and their landmarks. Unfortunatley, the video is a bit biased in my opinion, as no key cities from the north are described or presented in it.

Pronunciation Dictionary

It is very common to come across words we do not know how to pronounce so that we have to go to our dictionaries to see if we can make it with the phonetic transcription. Not easy!!!
Here is an online dictionary that does the hard work for you www.howjsay.com

However, here is some help for those lovers of phonetics. Believe me! They exist!

Did you know...

New Year's Resolutions date back to Medieval Times?

Listen to the following audio clip and you'll know more on the subject: bbc audio clip

What are your New Year's Resolutions?