English as a Foreign Language (EFL)

Fresh Articles

• Opportunities to speak to native English speakers ^{Editor's Pick}

  

  Lots of the people who are trying to improve their English in London tell me that they never get the chance to meet (and speak to) native English speakers. It can be very difficult to find native English speakers in such a large city like London but it is possible. So, where can you go if...

• British English Vs American English

  

  How much British English do you know? Sweets or Candy? There are several differences between British English and American English but a good place to start is the most common differences in vocabulary. Sometimes the differences are small and you can often guess what the American version of the...

• The English Language Learning Tool Kit

  

  This article was written for a display offering students advice on English language learning at a school in Hong Kong where I used to teach.    The English 'tool kit'. I was helping a Brazilian student proof read an essay a few days ago and as she packed her books away she sighed heavily and...

• What do you call.......?

  

  What do you say when you don't know a word in English?? Nearly all  learners say, " How do you call......?" Of course, native speakers will understand you, but this is not correct! The correct question is.."WHAT do you call...."   E.g. " What do you call un bicchiere in English?"         "...

• Book review for learning English

  

  I recommend the following book for medical English: Everyday English for International Nurses: A Guide to Working in the UK. Many medical English books available today fail to include certain specific phrases that are commonly encountered on the wards when speaking to patients and other...

• Enjoy conversing in English

  

  Learning English should not be painful! It can be pleasant. Learning is growth, and it is good to grow. People learn best through gentle correction and with encouragement. Humour also helps! The most important things are getting around, getting to know people, asking questions and discussion....

• The Value of Community Volunteering

  

  London is probably the most cosmopolitan city in the world. Over 270 languages are spoken here, including English !!! With the current economic situation a lot of people are arriving in London, looking for work. There are many charitable organisations helping migrant workers integrate into...

• Why we don't always mean what we say ^{Editor's Pick}

  

  The meaning of a statement is not always obvious from the meaning of the words it contains. I was with one of my beginner students in the library, helping her request some materials. The exchange between the librarian and the English language student went like this: LIBRARIAN: Have you got...

• Getting creative in EFL ^{Editor's Pick}

  

  To the English, English language means so much more than just a method of communication. This is reflected in the numerous literary academics turned out year on year. You only have to flick through any of the national papers or TV channels to experience the UK's love for language;...

• Making the most of your 1:1 English Lessons ^{Editor's Pick}

  

  Good decision!  You've decided to invest in some private 1:1 English lessons! It’s well worth taking a moment to clarify exactly what you want and hope to achieve in your lessons. If you want to improve your general English consider which areas are causing you difficulties:  is it speaking,...