I’ve often heard, ‘I don’t watch the news; I don’t need that sort of negativity in my life.’ This makes sense. There is a lot happening in the world, and…
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Before exams, teachers, tutors and parents always remind students, ‘Read the question!’ It’s so important. Before we start answering, we have to make really sure that we know what…
I chose English because I thought it was an easy subject. To be absolutely honest, I used to be surprised that what we did in English classes at school counted…
Reading. Everyone knows it’s imnportant, especially for children and young people. But we are doing less and less of it. I’m as guilty as anyone. I’ve always been a keen…
I often speak to parents* who are concerned that their children don’t read, or don’t read enough. They ask me, ‘Can you persuade him/her to read?’ I do try to…
The term ‘modal verb’ often causes confusion. Students wonder what modal verbs are and why they don’t know about them. In fact, if you speak any English, the chances are…
My students – and their parents – often complain that they find older texts difficult to understand. Especially Shakespeare. I understand. Our language is constantly evolving and when we try…
What is the point of poetry? Why is it so hard to understand? Why do we have to study it? Can it be made any easier? If you – or…
Most of us are busier than ever and making time for reading is often difficult. Especially reading for pleasure. We might read reports and even books for work, personal development,…
Confidence is important. When we feel confident, we are relaxed and ready to learn, develop and perform as well as we are able. Losing confidence, on the other hand, or…