Two incredible years.
It may be a cliché, but time has gone fast! We’ve been incredibly busy at the American English Plus Language Center, and now, thanks to the ability to access the Internet while at work, I’ll be able to update this blog (much) more regularly.
Two new pieces of news:
This fall we have begun our first TOEFL/IELTS preparatory class. Although the texts we use for our advanced-beginner through advanced classes uses a method which is specifically TOEFL preparatory, we now offer a post-advanced class which is geared towards understanding how to take the TOEFL. In this class we spend time learning what the test will cover, and looking at how the TOEFL test raters score the test. Additionally, we will spend time perfecting writing and speaking skills as these are the two areas that are most difficult to master on one’s own.
This class not only prepares our students to take the TOEFL and/or the IELTS, but it also helps to refine the skills that our advanced students have already acquired. If you are interested in this course, please give us a call at 213.791.89.03.77 or 213.21.60.93.65.
Additionally, we have set up a Pinterest account to help our students (and others) work on their English-language skills online.
Please visit American English Plus Pinterest for helpful links and information about learning English.
I’d also like to share a particularly helpful page I found about commas.
The ability to write a properly constructed sentence is a vital skill to master for all students of English. Whether you are writing an email, an essay for school, a thesis for your Master’s degree or your PhD, or an entry for a scientific journal — if you cannot correctly punctuate a sentence, you will not be taken seriously by native English speakers. Over the years, I have noticed that one area of weakness is knowing when you should use a comma. Extended Rules for Using Commas, is a beautifully clear summery of where, when, and how to use commas. I encourage you to take time to read it carefully.
Finally — a tip for those of you who want to improve your English on a daily basis:
Try to make all the websites you visit — and have your entire computer interface — be in English. Use google.com/en to search in English, and have your web-based email in English. This daily exposure will help you practice thinking in English and, before you know it, your English will begin to improve!
What is your favorite way to help you improve your English?