Archive

Posts Tagged ‘learn english’

Come to a Boston English School

November 29th, 2009

If you’re looking for a good English language-learning school, Boston is the perfect city to find one. With a long history and unique culture, Boston provides an excellent opportunity to learn both about English and American culture. If you move here, you’ll be speaking English fluently in no time!

Who wants to go somewhere to learn English without having a good time? Boston provides just that opportunity: a chance to travel, to sight-see, but also to interact with people and learn American English. Don’t miss out! There’s so much to do, you’ll be grateful for such a personally-enriching experience.

Practice makes perfect, so when you come to Boston be prepared to meet new people and talk, talk, talk! It is the only way you’ll hone your skills and become a natural-sounding English speaker. And, of course, don’t forget to listen. One of Boston’s strengths is a strong community of people from all different avenues and walks of life. The people are generally patient, so don’t hesitate to ask questions or make mistakes. It’s how you learn!

People who come to Boston do so for a variety of reasons, but one of the main ones is that there is so much to do! Never a silent moment, there are events happening everywhere you turn. This makes learning English so enjoyable. Sure, you have to work hard on your studies, but when you’re not in school you can go out and experience a very fascinating culture!

Boston is unique from many other cities. No where else will you be able to both interact with the community and enjoy the sight-seeing as much as you will in Massachusetts’ capital. There are so many schools in Boston, which means thousands upon thousands of students from all different backgrounds and locations. Many of them stay, which makes Boston a diverse and culturally-rich city.

My name is Shawn Everett and I currently live and study English at Boston Academy of English in Boston, MA… The best place on Earth to learn English! Find out more about Boston English Schools at this website == www.BAElive.com

Shawn Everett Travel , , , , , , ,

How to Ease your Job Search Process with Resumes and Cover Letters

October 6th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

The purpose of the resume and cover letter is to make the job search process quicker and easier. In order to make your job search much easier and increase your chances of securing your dream job, you have to think of the resume as a marketing tool and you are the product that is being sold.

The following are a number of tips to help ease your job search process using resumes and cover letters:

1. Statistics have shown that the likelihood of acquiring employment through a job ad is 1 out of 20, and the chances of acquiring employment through networking are 1 out of 4. These statistics will help you narrow your job search by submitting your resume and cover letter to the most appropriate potential employers. Check with people you know such as family, colleagues (current and former), professors, managers, etc for leads on job openings. As well, review your qualifications and experiences, education, and skills, to see what types of jobs you are suitable for. Identify the most important employers in your area and contact their human resource departments to find out how and where to apply for job openings. As well, contact local government departments and agencies to find out where they list their job openings. Once you have narrowed your search, you can then work on your resume and cover letter.

2. Cover letters are an essential element of getting a job interview and they make your resume stand out from your competition. Always send out a cover letter with your resume, as it will be the difference between getting a job interview, or throwing your resume in the waste can. A cover letter should not be a duplicate of your resume, but a complement to it. The purpose is to add a personal touch to your resume and give the employer a sense of who you are and what position you are seeking. It is the first written contact with the employer so you must make a good impression and catch the employer’s eye. It should state the position that you are applying for, the reasons why you want the job, and highlight the most important skills that would make you a valuable asset to the company. It shows that you understand the position, and have the knowledge and experience in that type of work. The cover letter should summarize why you are the ideal candidate for the position. It should be one page with a minimum of three paragraphs.

3. Your resume must be professional and easy to read. It should also be interesting with no long sentences. Important skills, achievements, and experiences that are relevant to the job must be noted. It must not be overly detailed as you will give more explanations during the interview. You should write effective and eye catching statements. As well, your descriptions should be clear and interesting. For resumes that are scanned by companies and entered into a database, make sure your resume has relevant keywords which will bring up the resume in a search.

Because of increased competition and minimal job openings, acquiring a job is now a step-by-step process. You can ease the job search process by knowing what jobs you are suited for and creating a resume and cover letter that targets these jobs.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Education , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

How To Initiate Your Child Into Learning The English Language

August 26th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

There are many benefits to children learning the English language. Most parents want their children to learn English so that they will have all of the opportunities available to them when they are adults. Learning English as a child is much easier than learning as an adult. Many parents do not know how to encourage their child to learn English. Fortunately, there are a number of things parents can do to initiate their child to learn the English language.

Parents learning English: In order to show their child that learning English is important, parents can actively and openly engage in their own English language learning process. This will make it more likely that the child will also want to learn the language.

Make Learning English Fun: Children are less likely to be motivated to learn English if it seems like it is work. Using games, activities, songs, and stories designed to help children learn English will make learning more fun. Children will look forward to learning and will learn faster. There are a number of fun tools parents can use such as CDs for learning songs, DVDs, board games, computer games, flashcard games on such topics as school, food, clothes, music, animals, time, and much more. Games create a positive and fun learning environment.

Speak English at Home: Parents can help their child learn English by speaking English at home. There are many online sites offering tips on how to speak English to children. When parents are able to speak English at home, children will have more exposure to the language and will want to keep learning. Parents and children practicing English skills together can be a great motivator for children to keep learning the language.

Internet Resources: The internet contains a host of resources to help children learn English. You will find games, fun exercises, stories, poems, and many sites that are focused on helping children learn English online. There are online resources to help children learn such things as pronunciation and vocabulary. There are also a host of tips and ideas on how to encourage your child to learn English.

Read English Books to Children: Children love it when their parents read aloud to them. Reading childrens English books to them will not only encourage them to learn the language, but help them acquire a love for reading. Online resources contain a variety of childrens books such as fairy tales, adventure books-etc.

Help Children Learn English Rhymes: Almost every child loves listening to and reciting rhymes. It is a great way to not only develop speech, but it is also a great way for children to learn how to speak English.

Encourage Participation: Through activities involving movement, music, and dance, children will be encouraged to sing in English and dance. It is a fun way to learn English. Participation is essential to learning another language.

Positive Reinforcement: Never force your child to learn or criticize him or her for making a mistake. Positive reinforcement is a key element to encouraging a child to stay with learning the English language. It builds trust, self-esteem, and self-confidence.

Learning English as a child can be a fun and exciting time for both the child and parents. Implementing positive methods and supporting your child will encourage a willingness to learn and retain the English language.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Family , , , , , , , ,

English: The Global Language of Communication

August 10th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

There are many different languages in the world, and there are simply none more that cause more impact than the English language. The English language is an amazing language, and it is beautiful. The shear amount of people who speak it are breath-taking, and there are many countries that teach the global language of communication in primary schools.

With about 400 million people who speak it as their primary language, and the total of English speakers at nearly 2 billion people around the world, it is no wonder why this language is the global language of communication.

Background and Origins

Historically, the language that is language is one of West Germanic descent, with origins in Anglo-Saxon England. The language is a culmination of many words from many pre-existing languages around the world, but specifically influenced by the Old Norse language of the Vikings. After the Normans conquered, where we had Old English, it transformed into what we called Middle language, which was borrowed mostly from their language, as far as spelling and vocabulary are concerned.

Shortly thereafter, Modern English was developed, coming along with what was called the Great Vowel Shift, which happened in 15th century English, where they incorporated words from a great score of different languages and dialects. In this, it is where we started using more and more words that were rooted in Greek and Latin, especially in the use of technical words.

The Significance of English

English is considered something called the “lingua franca”, the world’s first. This basically means that the language of English is something that is basically an international language of people not speaking a mother tongue. So, it’s not uncommon around the world for people to speak English if they want to communicate with someone not from their country. It is also the dominant language in many fields, such as business, science, entertainment, radio, and diplomacy.

The use of the English language is something that is considered a requirement in many fields of business, especially in the higher echelons. Even in countries where English is not the country’s primary language, a basic knowledge of English is generally required. This fact is definitely true in the fields of medicine and computing, where one is bound to have to communicate with someone that was not born in the same country that you were. And in these fields, having a “lingua franca” is something that definitely something that can come in handy.

English is something of a beautiful language, and people around the world have been studying it for a number of years for them to learn it as best as they possibly can. In learning English, there can be many things that can be achieved than if not. Chances there will more than likely be a time where a person would need to communicate with someone from another country, and if it’s the global language, a person definitely could be benefit from learning it! And with this global language of communication, it will definitely not be an effort in vain.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Education , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Is Learning English Today Easier Than In The Past?

July 19th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

There are many reasons why people choose to learn English. They may want to gain access to English information such as in books, magazines, and newspapers. Having English can open the doors for a prosperous career path. It will also help when communicating with people when traveling abroad. As well, people can enjoy English entertainment such as television, music, and movies. In the past, learning English consisted of reading textbooks in a classroom setting. Nowadays, technology has made learning English much quicker and easier.

The evolution of the Internet has resulted in a host of creative ways to learn the English language. People from all over the world now have access to such communication channels as internet radio and television where they can sit, listen, and watch English speakers. They will learn common idioms that are used and can get a better understanding of words and phrases and their context which is a feature often lacking in standard English learning text books. There are also many sites that offer English learning programs. These programs are flexible so people can learn anywhere, any time, and at their own pace. The programs utilize games, conversational English learning, vocabulary and pronunciation exercises, quizzes, and many have places where English learners can meet others so they can practice writing English in chat rooms and on discussion boards. There are also speaking chat rooms where learners can converse with each other in English. It is a comfortable environment and learners will not feel embarrassed if they make a mistake. As well, there are many English newspapers, journals, and magazines available online. Learners can access the subject they are interested in so they will enjoy learning

To understand and speak English properly, one has to listen to a native English speaker. The internet is full of native English speakers who offer English conversational learning. Online instructors converse with learners in English allowing them to listen and speak.

Learners now have many English audio tapes and English audio CD that allows them to learn just about anywhere, including the car. All you need is a Cassette or CD player. One can also find many English electronic devices that will help in learning the language. Such devices include MP3 Audio Programs which they can take anywhere with them, English learning software that can be downloaded on their computers that includes translation programs, electronic translators or electronic dictionaries which can be used with a Pocket PC, Palm OS, PDAs, smartphones, and much more. There are also talking electronic dictionaries. Most of these devices can be taken anywhere. Many devices contain text-to-speech and voice recognition technologies, and a wide range of range of vocabulary. There are also dictionaries that contain common expressions and phrases, grammar references, a study list, SAT word list, complete grammar guide, exercises, tests, and language improving games.

With the vast array of tools available, learning English has never been easier. You will gain a great deal of satisfaction as you grasp the English language. Many people have taken advantage of the new learning tools available and have been amazed at how quickly they learn the language. Learning English is now fun, fast, and most importantly, very rewarding. As well, it gives people a proud sense of accomplishment.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Education , , , , , , , , ,

The Importance Of A Thank You Note After A Job Interview

July 15th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

A job interview is something that is nerve-wracking, just to say the least. There is really nothing that is going through the mind except one can do with this opportunity, the possible money, and possible relationships with co-workers. Before all of that, there is the thought of the man or woman sitting across from you, asking a battery of questions. There is tension there, and in most cases, just a little bit of fear that you will not get the job.

Stand Out

Questions such as, “what can you bring to the company?” and “where do you see yourself in 5, maybe 10 years?” are things that are expected and prepared for. For some reason, even though you rehearsed the question time and time again in the mirror, the second they are asked, the mind can go blank. It’s normal, as they maybe a few years ago they’ve done the same exact thing.

But in a lot of cases, one of the best things that a person can do is stand out from the pack. The best things that a person can do for further consideration is to send a thank you note after the job interview. One would be surprised at how much that can make or break a job interview, because it leaves a lasting impression, something that is tangible instead of a resume or job application. It leaves your name on their tongue, which is something that you want to happen.

The Element of Surprise!

In a word, the thank you note is something that many people are losing the art of constructing. It doesn’t have to be a literary masterpiece, and in fact, simplicity is the best. The interviewer probably has a lot of things to do, and they don’t necessarily want to turn pages to hear you gush on about how much you loved spending time with them as they asked you a few questions. Something short and sweet is the key, and it can be something that as short as a paragraph.

Most people do not even send thank you notes anymore, which is also something to be aware of when you’re constructing it. People can go their entire lives being interviewed and never send one. This is what makes it vitally important, the fact that people are neglecting them. There are countless stories floating around that basically say that they only have the job that they do because they were willing to write up a quick thank you note to their current boss. It shows that you really want the job, you’re respectful, and you’re considerate of their time. Remember, they did not have to choose you to interview.

The thank you note is something that is quite important for those people who really want the job, as there are many people who came in before you and may have said the same things that you did, and they may have even said them a thousand times better. So, if you really want to be considered for the newest position, especially in this economy, you may want to slide a thank you note to your next interviewer.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Career , , , , , , , , , , ,

Become a Teacher of English as a Second Language- TEFL

July 7th, 2009
by Sheri Park

Teacher: an educator, a coach, an instructor but also a friend, a therapist, a walking encyclopedia (or walking grammar book in case of ESL). We do it all and we almost have it all. Money, not really- but who needs money when you have friends around the world you can visit any time – no need to pay for a hotel or tour guide. Good deal, you think? Why not try to be an ESL teacher and save on traveling expenses or even better yet, limit your choice to one country, and spend a year or two there being paid for speaking your mother tongue.

The TEFL program at Boston Academy of English we can help you begin your exciting new career in teaching. We offer intensive or part-time programs that allow for individual students to get the best fit for their schedules. The students who join our classes are enthusiastic learners.

Our program is practical, doable, and academic. Future teachers attending the TEFL program at BAE are given plenty of room to grow as learners and teachers and experience teaching practice with our own ESL students.

Once you become familiar with the methodologies and frameworks you are ready to try it out with real students who are waiting for you to guide them. Teaching becomes interactive as you teach different levels, different skills, different personalities. Teaching fun is endless and you too will continue to learn as you teach.

In addition to all of that, our trainees are encouraged to take advantage of our busy functioning ESL school to learn from our experienced professionals, who have been teaching English for years.

As a reward for all your hard work you will receive a portable and forever-valid certificate from an accredited institution, a certificate that will take you places you have always dreamed of seeing. Sounds too good to be true? Well, believe it! The other question would be: what are you waiting for?

About the Author:

Shawn Everett Personal Development , , , , , , , , , , ,

Why Should You Take the TOEFL Test?

June 30th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

TOEFL, or the Test of English as a Foreign Language, is a test that measures your ability to speak, read, and write in English at a college or university level. This test is one of the best measures of whether or not you are ready to attend college at an English-speaking school. Even though you may think that you speak and write English well, doing so on the college level is entirely different, especially if you have learned it as a foreign language.

What Is Contained in the TOEFL?

The test is either Internet-based or paper-based. Both test the same things, but in a slightly different format. These assessments test your ability to read, listen to, speak, and write English. You will be asked to read passages and then answer questions on them. You will also be asked to listen to a lecture that is a college-level lecture, followed by more questions. A few tasks will require a verbal answer, and you will be asked to write two passages. The lectures, reading passages, and questions are all designed to reflect the types of tasks you would be asked to perform at the college level.

Who Needs the TOEFL?

Students who wish to attend an English speaking university or college but have learned English as a foreign language should take the TOEFL before applying to their chosen school. Many schools require the scores from this test for admission. Even if your school does not require it, having a good score can help you have an advantage over other applicants if there are limited openings available.

Outside of the admission requirements, the TOEFL will help you assess whether or not you have the skills necessary to deal with academic situations in your chosen school. You will need to be able to hear lectures, write papers, and communicate verbally with teachers and classmates. The TOEFL will show you whether or not you have attained this level of English fluency. If you need more practice, preparing for the test will give you that practice.

Benefits of the TOEFL

The TOEFL is the English language fluency assessment accepted by over 6,000 institutions. You might assume that all of these are in America or the United Kingdom, but they are actually spread across the world in 110 countries. Almost every university in the major English speaking countries, such as the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, and New Zealand, use TOEFL scores to determine whether or not non-English speakers can be admitted to their programs, receive scholarships, or enter graduate school to learn English.

Another benefit of the TOEFL over other English proficiency tests is the fact that there are over 4,000 test centers you can use. If you do have to travel, you will save time and money because the test can be completed in just one day.

Finally, this test gives you an unbiased measure of your English speaking ability. Tests are scored anonymously, and no interviews are included as part of the process. If you know English well, you will score well, plain and simple. The TOEFL is the best measure of your ability to succeed in an English speaking college program.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Education , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The English Language Dominates the World

March 6th, 2009
by Amy Nutt

No matter where you go in the world, you have a very good chance of finding someone who speaks English. English is quickly becoming the global language, and it dominates the world in many ways. There are many reasons for this fact, one of which is the fact that Great Britain was a global power during the colonial days, and today America is, perhaps, the most powerful nation in the world. Because of this global domination, learning English is essential to successfully communicating in our new global society.

English Dominates the Business World

The world is accommodating to English speakers, and this is seen clearly in the Business world. This has happened slowly, and some European nations have fought it, but it has happened. Today, a meeting between business leaders in Europe who are from different nations will be more likely to occur in English than one of the native tongues of the professionals.

Why is this? The English domination is due, in large part, to statistics. The European Union reports that almost half of Western Europeans speak conversational English. In contrast, only 32 percent speak German and only 28 percent speak French. Additionally, 69 percent of business managers and 65 percent of those in their late teens and early twenties speak decent English. In today’s world, learning English simply makes good business sense.

The Language of Science and Technology

The scientific world has always been a proponent of a common language. This is why living things are classified using Latin words. When a German scientist makes a discovery, he needs to be able to communicate that discovery with his Japanese, American, and French colleagues. As such, the main language used in the fields of science is English.

The Internet also plays a role in making English the dominant language in the world. By far, the vast majority of online resources are written in English. Translations are available, but the main language most websites, as many as 80 percent of all websites, is English. Also, most forums are frequented by people who can speak English, which means that the free sharing of ideas online is more accessible to those who can read and write in English.

English Is the Language of Culture

While all countries have their own actors, actresses, and singers, those that achieve global recognition are almost always English performers. If you grab the iPod of someone in a non-English speaking country, you will probably find a few songs on it sung in English, if not the majority of the songs. Pop culture icons are global celebrities, and the vast majority of those who achieve global recognition are English speaking.

English Is the Language of Education

From the youngest students to the advanced graduate student, those involved in education across the world have seen the need to learn English. Elementary schools in European and Asian nations are teaching young children basic English. Universities across the globe are changing from their native languages to English. People are traveling to England and America to have their children taught English by native speakers. Countries like China are paying Americans to come into their lands to teach their people conversational English.

As English continues to morph into a global language, it has its skeptics. Some point to the time when Latin was the “global” language and say that no language can stay prominent forever. However, that was a time when the world was not connected by the click of a mouse or the dialing of a phone. Today, English is turning into a global language and it will likely stay there, although in a unique form that is a bit different than its current one. Regardless of the future of the language, it is evident that in order to make an impact on today’s economy, one must be able to use English well.

About the Author:

Amy Nutt Culture and Society , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,