1/31/2016 0 Comments January Week ThreeThis week we talked about mythical monsters and cryptids, a topic inspired by my recent visit to the International Cryptozoology Museum located in Portland, Maine. We learned about Sasquatch, the Jersey Devil, and other terrifying monsters of the unknown.
LISTENING This week, learners can try a video (with exercises) about tourists visiting Loch Ness and whether or not they belive in its famed monster or not. There is also an activity over at VOA about Mysterious Creatures (listen and read). Upper intermediate students should try an activity about Bigfoot (MP3 and transcript). For original version try any of ther videos over at Monster Week or some short videos about the Jersey Devil and Mothman. READING Learners can start with an easy text about the Loch Ness Monster or for something harder, try an upper intermediate text about Unsolved Mysteries. For original version, try an article about a monster that onced terrorized Barcelona or about the Girona Gremlin. Start by choosing a mythical beast. You can check out the Cryptid Zoo if you need some inspiration. WRITING Now write a persuasive essay about whether or not this animal exists. Please describe it, explain sightings, and persuade me that it's real or a hoax. Best, Kelly
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1/24/2016 0 Comments January Week TwoHey everybody! This week we got to work learning and trying our hand at some common English expressions, sayings and slang. As you can see, English is as easy as pie! I recommend you starty by taking a look at some of the useful expressions in English (organized by level). LISTENING This week, learners should check out BBC English's podcast The English We Speak, which are 3 minute episodes about common idioms and sayings. Another option is to try VOA English Nose and Ear expressions. For original version try an episode from or a youtube video about differences between British and American slang. READING Learners can read about 20 Essential Idioms to Make You Sound Like a Native Speaker. For original version, try an article about the most annoying words of 2016 or about Text Message Slang Found in Schoolwork. WRITING The hardest things about idioms and slang is to figure out how to use them properly and naturally. Please select 4 or 5 idioms and write short paragraphs in which you can put these expressions to use. Best, Kelly 1/15/2016 0 Comments January Week OneWelcome back, folks! I hope you had a lovely and relaxing holiday and have come back energized to study and speak English in the new year! This year, in honor of my darling dog Lucy (see below), we talked about pets and animals. LISTENING This week, learners have lots of listening options: Pet Store, or for something more difficult, The Pet Caterer. For original version try an episode from the BBC Series Wild At Heart, or the NOVA Documentary Dogs Decoded about fascinating research in animal behaviour. READING Learners can start with something easy, A Cat and a Dog, or check out one of several interesting articles from VOA: Cat Expressions, Weasel, Duck, Dog: Animal Words that are Also Verbs, or Cat Cafés in the U.S. For original version, try reading Why Dogs are Some Scientists' Best Friends or the Beast Within, WRITING If you are a pet lover, please write about a story about a memorable moment or experience with your a pet. Or consider writing a short essay about why animals should or should not be allowed in public places Best, Kelly |
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