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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