How To Start An English Conversation

It is time to get talking.  Today you will learn how to start a conversation and feel confident.  Always remember that it is all in what you put into it, the more you practice, the better you will become.  

Even if I’m your teacher or coach, I still have to practice and work at what I want to learn.  It is no different when you are learning a new language.  The same way I start a conversation, you can do it the same way.  All it takes is practice and knowing what you want to discuss the first place.  

Before I teach you the techniques keep in mind that there are different scenarios that you will face, for example; depending on where you are, is how you will speak.  Like, it is different to spark up a conversation at a bar than at work or school.  Are you talking with your boss? Or your spouse? Always keep that in mind.  

Below you will find five tips on how to start a conversation. 

• Introduce yourself, smile, give a sincere compliment.
• Keep the conversation positive
• Engage by asking open-ended questions
• Listen to the person's response
• Put away any distraction

When approaching a stranger or someone that you want to speak with, it is going to be normal to feel nervous.  Below you will find six tips on how to calm your nerves.

1. Be open
2. Be receptive
3. Make eye contact
4. Show interest
5. Smile
6. Say hello with a smile

In summary, it isn’t that difficult.  All you have to do above all else is to be yourself.  Have fun and do not be afraid to make mistakes.  If you are looking for an English Coach, contact me today.  

What is your favorite way to spark up a conversation?

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How To Understand Punctuation In Your Writing

Imagine a piece of writing that didn’t have any punctuation. It would be tough to read and understand. That is why punctuation plays a significant role in your writing. Learn how to use the punctuation correctly to become an excellent writer.

Some of my students find it difficult to understand some of the basic punctuation, like stopping at the end of a sentence when there is a period. And a pause when there is a comma. But, I don’t blame them. It’s exciting to read a new language and run through the sentences because you finally understand what you are reading.

Let’s dive right into the different purposes of the various punctuations.

We will go over the comma and apostrophes. You will see how a simple a mark can change the entire meaning of a sentence or a word. The purpose of punctuation is to help the reader understand you and to help you make your meaning clear.

The use of a comma:
To write lists
Separating
Bracketing
Pausing


Example:
I collect gold, rocks, shot glasses and paper.
I collect gold rocks, shot glasses and paper.
I collect gold, rocks shot glasses and papers.

Apostrophes for contractions:
If you don't put an apostrophe in some words, it can change the word.
he'll - hell
we're - were
she'd - shed
we'll - well

Apostrophes for possession:
Putting the apostrophe before or after the "s" can signal a plural or singular possessor
The girl's toys ( apostrophe before the 's = The toys belonging to one girl)
The girls' toys (apostrophe after the s = The toys belonging to many girls)

In summary, that was a simple exercise to help you understand the importance of the punctuation. Remember to keep it simple. If you need help reach out and I will help you.

Until next week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified


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A Quick Review On How To Improve Your Spelling

There are a lot of spelling rules in English. Make it a point to learn the rules of the prefixes and suffixes to help you spell better. Learning English can be challenging, but with practice and determination you will soon be speaking, writing and pronouncing like a pro.

I consider myself a decent speller, but I do make spelling mistakes from time to time. The good news is that by practicing and learning on a continuous basis, you too can improve your spelling.

Below you will find ten of the most commonly misspelled words. Then I will list five tips on how to remember and learn how to spell the words.


1. Disappear
2. Disappoint
3. Ecstasy
4. Embarrass
5. Achieve
6. Aggressive
7. Appearance
8. Beginning
9. Believe
10. Bizarre

Apparently, the list is much more significant. But, I wanted to give you a brief overview, and below I will share with you the tips I previously mentioned.

• Make sentences to help you remember 
• Learn the different spelling rules 
• Learn the rules of the prefixes and suffixes 
• Form contractions, plurals, and possessives 
• Keep in mind that a misspelled word can destroy the effect of an entire document 

In summary, writing is fun and knowing how to spell helps a great deal. Spellcheck is here to help us, but you never know when you need to handwrite a document. Keep learning and don’t underestimate the power of being a good speller. Reach out today If you are looking for me to be your English Coach.


Until next week,
Coach Barb
TEFL Certified


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5 Tips On How To Improve Your English Listening Skills

Why do you think that listening activities are essential? The main answer is that it allows you to hear the English language and identify words that you understand.  Then, when you are having a conversation, you can find words to be able to speak with confidence.

I have to admit my students do not like it when I bring them listening activities.  But, once they hear a story a couple of times and realize how much they understand, they become excited and happy.  It’s all about the practice and what you put into the lesson.

Try changing your mindset about listening.  Keep in mind that research shows that your short-term memory is shorter with a foreign language.  If listening skills intimidate you or get you frustrated, it’s normal.  Just push through and keep on trying.  Practice.  

Below I will share with you five simple steps to help you improve your listening skills.

Watch Movies

Pick a movie that you like, then be prepared to listen, speak and repeat.  The main point is to listen to the phrases and mimic the sounds that you are hearing.

Read A Book While Listening To The Audio

Great practice, just find an audiobook that you like and also have next to you the actual book.  Read along with the audiobook and listen to word stresses and pronunciation.  

Social Events With Natives

Have fun with this activity.  Find a local social event and practice your listening, speaking and social skills.  It is essential to start getting comfortable with your English skills.  

Listen To Music

Find a song that you like in English.  Then listen to its music and try to figure out the lyrics.  Go online and find the words and read them out loud.  Now practice while listening to the track.  Have fun, and soon you will see that you will be singing the song in your head.  A fun way to practice your listening skills.

Watch Videos

Youtube offers the best selection of videos.  Find a video that has clear English pronunciation. View it several times to get familiar with the content, then repeat it out loud and keep practicing.  This exercise is to get you comfortable with the English language.  

In summary, don’t give up.  Just keep on practicing and remember if you are looking for me to be your English coach reach out today.  

Until Next Week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified

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How To Stop Struggling With Your English Pronunciation

Are you still struggling with your pronunciation? The good news is that with practice and commitment you will improve. Please don’t feel bad when you think you are mispronouncing a word, just keep at it and if you are communicating with English speaking individuals that’s what matters.  But, if you are a perfectionist help is on its way.

I don’t consider myself with an accent. However, many people tell me that my Spanish accent is there.  It doesn’t matter to me what I sound like, but I do make sure that I’m pronouncing the words clearly and correctly.  I consider myself an expert on pronunciation.  And, I want to share my knowledge with you.

Are you ready for your learning adventure? Pay attention and put into practice the steps below.  

Have Daily Goals - Learn five new words a day.  Learn the meaning and how to pronounce it, then start putting it into practice.  

Pick an exciting topic- What do you love? Sports, Technology, business? What keeps you motivated? Find words relating to that topic and start practicing.

Challenge Yourself- Add additional words, find harder topics, and even start doing exercises from higher levels.  Start today.

Do it even if you’re scared- It doesn’t matter if you are scared half to death, start slowly, but start.  The more you practice, the better you will feel.  

Practice- The more you do a task, the better you will perform.  Do not make excuses.  

Listen to the pronunciation- When you identify the words you want to work with, listen to the proper pronunciation and repeat the sound.  It’s ok to exaggerate in the beginning; I encourage you to copy the sound as much as possible.  

Surround yourself with English Speaking individuals- Make friends, start conversations with people that speak English.  The more you hear it and talk, the faster you will build your confidence.

Stop procrastinating- No more excuses, it’s time to take this seriously.  Force yourself to do the one activity to get you closer to your speaking goals.  Do something today.

In summary, have fun with English.  Learn how to stay focused and keep yourself motivated.  Are you looking for an energetic, confident English Coach? Contact me today; I can help.

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Make Learning A New Language Fun, 5 Tips On How To Stay Focused

Whether it’s work, travel or just to learn.  There is a process of learning something new.  And, learning a new language is no different.  The main point is that you have to put in the work.  If you merely go to a class or a one-on-one teaching environment, it doesn’t do you any good if you do not put in extra hours on your own time to practice.  

I enjoy teaching and coaching students from all over the world, different cultures different goals but one thing is constant. That if you are lazy or just bored the language is not going to sink in, and you will be frustrated.  

Below you will find simple tips to get you thinking on how to put the best learning into practice.

Know the why

It has to be clear and concrete.  Do you need it for work? Or are you planning on moving to a different country? If your why is clear, it will be easier to focus on your task at hand.

Make it a habit of reading every day

Do not just go to class and expect to learn.  You must put countless hours into your learning time.  The intensity of study is better than the length of study.  Four hours a day for two weeks is better than one hour a day for two months. Keep that in mind.

Be present

Let’s just say you are distracted by daily activities in life. Make sure you keep your mind focused and at the present moment.  There is an opportunity to practice all day long, if you are exercising a sport, try to learn the verbs in the desired language.  The objects, the situation at hand.  Practice identifying with every situation you are experiencing.  

Practice

Read out loud, talk to yourself as you are doing an activity.  Let’s say it’s English, say to yourself, “I am putting on a shirt,” or “I am eating my breakfast.” Repeat simple tasks all day long; soon you will become more comfortable and start forming phrases to help you speak the new language.

Use what you learn right away

The minute you learn something, repeat it.  In the repetition, you will find clarity. And with the clarity, you will be confident.  Carry a notebook with you at all times and write down new phrases and words. Every time you use it, you are closer to mastering the language.

In summary, remember that you are going to make mistakes, that’s ok it is part of the learning process.  From today forward make every task fun, if it’s reading, writing or listening make it fun. If you are looking for me to coach you, please reach out today.  

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Let’s Learn The Preposition of Place Part I

This week we will go over the preposition of place.  Where have you gone lately? Or Where did you put the book?  

Remember, to find the correct preposition is difficult even for advanced students.  The key is that there aren’t any rules that exist for prepositions, so the only way to learn them is to memorize them.  Reading books and watching movies will help.  

Below you will find the most frequently used prepositions in English.

In - position or state inside.  For example, in London; in the book, in the mirror; in love.

At - In the area of…; specific position an event (or a place related to it). For example, at home; at the table; at my side, at the party; at the cinema; at school.

On- Position above in contact with a certain side (left, right), the state or process of, means of conveyance.  For example, on the desk; on my shoulder, on the wall; on the water, on the left side; on the bright side, on leave; on fire; on the way, on the phone; on TV; on the menu, on trains; on the bus; on a plane.

Off - From a place or position.  For example, off the table; off the wall; went off to Canada; got off the bus; turned off the TV.

By, Beside - at the side of; close to, next to.  For example, by the door; beside the car; stand by me.

These are just a few, next week I will do some more.  Practice and pay attention to prepositions in your everyday activities.  Have fun, and reach out to me if you need extra help.

Until next week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified

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How To Use The Preposition Of Time Part II

Last week you learned the prepositions - On, In, At, Since, Ago and By.  This week we will review Until, For, During, Before and After.  It can be confusing at times, using prepositions.  But, with practice and reading, you will be able to master the world of prepositions.

I help students with their grammar and pronunciation.  My students enjoy having conversations and learning new things.  I like the teaching process, and I also learn from all of my students.  I learned that we are all humans and we are here to learn from one another.  

Time is precious, let’s review the rest of the preposition of Time to become masters.  

Preposition of Time part II, Until, For, During, Before and After.

Until - (till) - Up to a certain point in time; For example, until Monday; I’ll wait to call my manager until I hear from the client.

For - Over a period; for example; for the first time in forever; for three years.  

During - Throughout the course or duration of something.  For example, during summer; during the vacation; during the discussion.  

Before - Previous to in time; earlier than.  For example, before winter; before dawn; I have to talk to the client before I call my manager.  

After - Subsequent in time; at a later time.  For example, after midnight; after tomorrow.  

In summary, it’s time to move on.  Next week we will explore the Preposition of Place.  Until next week.

Let’s Speak English,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified

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How To Use The Preposition Of Time Part I

Let’s review the definition of a preposition.  A preposition is a word used to link nouns, pronouns, or phrases to other words within a sentence. Prepositions are usually short words, and they are often placed directly in front of nouns. In some cases, you'll find prepositions in front of gerund verbs. Now let’s dissect it further.  Let’s start with a noun; a noun is a person, place or thing.  A pronoun is a short word that can stand by itself as a noun, for example, she, it or I, you.  What is a gerund verb? A gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding "-ing." The gerund form of the verb "read" is "reading." You can use a gerund as the subject, the complement, or the object of a sentence.

Take the time to understand the lesson; you will soon use the prepositions with ease and perfection.

There are different types of prepositions.  Preposition of Time, Place, Direction, Device or Machines.  Let’s take a look at the preposition of Time closer.  The purpose of the preposition is the determination of the relationship in time or place. Keep in mind that a lot of prepositions fall in more than one area.

Today we will go over the most common time prepositions used, in a later post I will continue with the rest.  For now, let’s learn, study and practice the ones below.  

Preposition of Time - on, in, at, since, ago and by

On- used for days of the week and dates.  For example, on Sunday; on May 1st; on Christmas Eve; on your mark; on the weekend.  

In- Used for months, seasons, year; also for part of the day; after a period of time.  For example, in summer; in July; in 2017; in the evening; in an hour; in the future.  

At- Used as a particular point of time; exceptions (question: “When…?) for example, at 11:15 P.M.; at half past six; at noon; at night; learned English at 38; at first glance.  

Since- Used from a specific point in time until now (past till now).  For example, since 1980; since yesterday.  

Ago- Used from now to a specific point in the past (now till past).  For example, a second ago; a decade ago; a while ago.  

By- Used as not later than.  For example, by 12 o’clock; by next week.

Examples:  

The flowers always bloom in the Spring.

I haven’t seen my brother since yesterday.

I will pick you up at 11:11 am.

I will call you on Friday.

A second ago the crowd rushed into the auditorium.

I will have the letter completed by next week.

In summary, take the time to learn these and stay tuned for more in the coming weeks.  Have a fantastic day.

Until Next Week,

Coach Barb

TEFL Certified

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Working With English Greetings

You are excited that you are learning English, it’s time to get comfortable starting a conversation.  

I love talking with people and learning about them.  But, a good conversation always starts with a pleasant greeting.  Below we will practice the basics.  Remember to Learn, Study and Practice.  The essential ingredients to become a fluent English speaker.  

Relax, have fun and practice with a friend.  

Formal Greeting: Doctors, Professors, Mr. or Mrs., etc.

You:  Hello Professor.

Professor: Hello _(your name)_.  

You:  How are you?

Professor:  Fine, thank you.  How are you?

You:  Good, Thank you.

Informal Greeting: Friends, relatives, etc.

You:  Hi Maria.

Maria:  Hi _(your name)_.

You:  How are you?

Maria: Fine, thanks and you?

You: Good, thanks.  

Greetings throughout the day

Morning:  Good morning      (Everybody)

Afternoon:  Good afternoon  (Formal) Mr. & Mrs. or Professor or Doctor

Evening:  Good evening       (Formal)

The opposite:  Good-Bye (Everybody)

or Bye or Bye-Bye  (Friends)

Time to sleep:  Good Night  

In summary, start a conversation today.  Practice, practice and practice some more.  Contact me with any questions.  

Let’s Speak English,

Coach Barb, TEFL Certified

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