What You Say in English!

In this final episode of the third season of What You Say in English, I had the privilege of engaging in a thought-provoking conversation with Laura Patsko, a language and communication specialist with a focus on English as a Lingua Franca (ELF). We delved into complex concepts such as Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Inclusive Education. Laura's insights into these topics were enlightening, and it was fascinating to explore their implications in the English Language Teaching (ELT) industry. We discussed the importance of inclusivity in lesson planning, the role of identity in language learning, and the impact of the Sustainable Development Goals on the ELT world. Laura's expertise and passion for these subjects were evident throughout our conversation, and I found myself learning so much from her. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in language, communication, and the evolving role of English in the world. It's an educational and insightful conversation that I believe you won't want to miss. Remember to check out the episode description for links to further reading on the topics we discussed. This is the last episode of this third season of What You Say in English. I'll be taking a break for the month of August, but I'll keep active on TikTok. I hope to start the fourth season halfway through September. RESOURCES:Laura's suggested sites Universal Design for Learning principles Martin Bloomfield speaking about his experience of education and having dyslexia Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) in Education: Diversity and Inclusive Teaching - University of Delaware Cultivating Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity: Resources for Educators - Resilient Educator The key steps to equity and inclusion in education - OECD iLibrary An overview of diversity, equity and inclusion in education - OECD iLibrary What is Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? - Teaching/Learning Center - Otis LibGuides Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Education: Goal 4 - Department of Economic and Social Affairs - Sustainable Development Goals Education - United Nations Sustainable Development Home | #LeadingSDG4 | Education2030 - UNESCO Sustainable Development Goals - Resources for educators - UNESCO Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) | SDG4 Education 2030 Inclusive Education: Inclusive Education: Definition, Examples, and Classroom Strategies - Resilient Educator

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kate Bodrova, co-founder of the innovative EdTech startup, Amazy. We explored her journey from a language-loving student to an entrepreneur, and how her passion for teaching and belief in the power of community led to the creation of Amazy. This platform is truly revolutionizing language learning, empowering educators to become more independent, visible, and financially successful. We discussed how Amazy allows teachers to share and monetize their content, creating a source of passive income. Plus, its AI-powered features are a game-changer, helping teachers create lesson plans in a fraction of the usual time. For those of you intrigued by our conversation and eager to learn more about Amazy, I'll be creating a short video tutorial on my TikTok channel explaining how it works. And, thanks to Kate's generosity, I'll be giving away 5 full-year business licenses for Amazy to 5 of my most committed followers. So, stay tuned for that! This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of language education and the transformative power of technology in teaching. Don't miss it! My TikTok channel Kate's LinkedIn profile Amazy Official Website --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode of What You Say in English, I had the pleasure of hosting Rachel Tsateri, an inspiring figure in the field of English Language Teaching (ELT). We delved into various aspects of Rachel's work, including her passion for teaching pronunciation for listening purposes and her insights on teacher and trainer talk. We also touched on the topic of nativespeakerism, a subject very dear to me and one that Rachel, along with other figures in the field, has been actively challenging. This episode was a journey of insights and reflections, and I hope it provides listeners with valuable perspectives to consider in their own practice of teaching English. People mentioned in the podcast: Rachel Tsateri - LinkedIn profile Marek Kiczkowiak - LinkedIn profile / TEFL Equity Advocates⁠ Laura Patsko - LinkedIn profile Anna Jovic - LinkedIn profile Tomasz Paciorkowski - LinkedIn profile Vincent Richard - LinkedIn profile Remember to follow these professionals to stay updated with their work, but please maintain professionalism and respect their time and space. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode of 'What You Say in English,' I delve into the English language skills of renowned Spanish actor Javier Bardem. I explore his journey with English, from his self-professed method of learning English through rock music to his current fluency. Through an analysis of several interviews, I highlight Bardem's effective storytelling skills, his use of discourse norms, and his unique personality that shines through his English communication. Despite minor grammatical and vocabulary errors, Bardem's ability to express complex thoughts and emotions in English is commendable. This episode serves as a reminder that language learning is a journey, and the goal is effective communication, not perfection. Join me as I uncover the fascinating aspects of Bardem's English language journey. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I'm diving into the intricacies of the IELTS speaking test with my dear friend and former student, Romelia. After recently passing her C1 Advanced exam from Cambridge, Romelia reached out to me for a one-to-one speaking assessment. We decided to opt for an IELTS speaking test, which I believe fits her needs perfectly. You'll get to listen to Romelia's entire speaking test, after which I'll provide my professional assessment based on the IELTS speaking criteria. Romelia has a knack for using some fantastic expressions, and I'm sure you'll find them quite useful for your own English speaking skills. Join me in this insightful journey of language learning! The examiner frames can be downloaded here. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode of "What You Say in English," I explore the fascinating world of plurilingualism and its impact on language assessment. I delve into the definition of plurilingualism, its growing recognition in language learning, and how it challenges the traditional monolingual approach. Throughout the episode, I discuss how language testing bodies like Cambridge Assessment English are incorporating plurilingualism into their assessments. We explore innovative approaches such as cross-linguistic mediation and bilingual assessments that aim to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of individuals' linguistic repertoires. I also address the challenges involved, particularly in enhancing teacher assessment literacy and addressing concerns about fairness and feasibility. By raising awareness and sharing best practices, we can foster a more inclusive approach to assessing plurilingual abilities. Join me as we navigate this evolving landscape and uncover the opportunities and challenges that plurilingualism brings to language assessment. Together, let's embrace the transformative power of recognizing and valuing the complex linguistic repertoires of multilingual individuals. Until next time, happy language learning! The Cambridge Research Notes (Issue 78) can be downloaded here. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

Today's episode brings you two amazing candidates: Kamar and Sahar. They did an incredible job in this C2 Proficiency mock speaking and I can't wait for you to listen to them. As usual, this episode comes packed with advice, so take your notepad and start jotting down all the tips I have for them. Remember you can also download the visuals I used for this mock. This episode is almost 1.30 hours but I think it's absolutely worth it. Visuals for the exam As always, please contact me if you want to do a mock speaking like this one. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

This time, I'm bringing another task designed by me, which I hope you find useful. It could be used to train your listening skills on your own or if you're a teacher, with your class. If you need the isolated listening track, get in contact and I'll make it available to you. I also explain how I recommend these tasks should be done in study mode and as a class activity with a group. I curated the material from the input I got from chatGPT. Speaking of which, it's a great tool, but still needs some fine-tuning to really reflect a Cambridge exam task. The voices were synthesized using various AI tools available, including 11 Labs and some other Microsoft Voices available in the browser (Microsoft Edge). Hope you like the final result. The PDFs for this task can be downloaded from here: Listening Task Answers, explanations and audiocript --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode of 'What You Say in English,' I delved into the reading papers of the B2 First for Schools, C1 Advanced, and C2 Proficiency Cambridge exams. We explored the challenges learners and teachers face at each level and discussed effective strategies for developing reading skills. Throughout the episode, I shared activities and strategies for each part of the reading papers, focusing on key areas such as skimming, scanning, and vocabulary comprehension. I emphasized the importance of practicing with diverse texts and provided insights into the assessment process for each level. To further support your exam preparation, I recommended accessing the official Cambridge English guides for teachers and learners. These guides provide comprehensive information and classroom activities for developing reading skills at the B2, C1, and C2 levels. Additionally, I announced that I will be offering one-off workshops on different parts of the Cambridge exams during the summer. Stay tuned to my TikTok channel for updates and details about these workshops. As a comprehensive summary, I recommended accessing the official Cambridge English guides for teachers and learners, which provide in-depth information on developing reading skills for each level. You can find the guides at the following links: Developing reading skills with classroom activities for B2 First for Schools Developing reading skills with classroom activities for C1 Advanced Developing reading skills with classroom activities for C2 Proficiency --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I explore the issue of confidence, or lack thereof, among English learners when speaking, especially with native speakers. I delve into the phenomenon of 'language anxiety' or 'communication apprehension,' and discuss how it can significantly affect the performance and progress of English language learners. I also touch on the issue of 'linguistic racism' or 'accent discrimination,' and how it contributes to language anxiety. Throughout the episode, I provide practical tips and strategies to help learners gain confidence in their English-speaking ability. These include using positive self-talk, speaking louder and slower, speaking in full sentences, reading out loud, not worrying too much about making mistakes, and setting realistic goals. I also discuss ways to address linguistic racism and create a more inclusive environment for all English speakers. Finally, I share some inspiring stories from English learners who have overcome their fears and achieved fluency. These stories serve as a reminder that with determination, perseverance, and the right strategies, anyone can become a confident English speaker. Links I used in this episode: The Pervasive Problem of Linguistic Racism - BBC How to Gain Confidence in Your English Speaking - VOA Learning English Why Native English Speakers Fail to be Understood in English - The Conversation Video: Overcoming Language Anxiety - YouTube --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

This is another follower who kindly did one of the IELTS speaking tests I've posted on my TikTok channel. The specific one she did can be found in this link. Of course, you can also do it yourself and create a duet and tag me if you're looking for feedback. I'll be more than happy to showcase your wonderful skills in my podcast. In this particular case, it's a girl from Zambia, which is quite interesting because Zambia has English as an official language and although they speak it as their own variety of English, it is highly intelligible. I'm glad she took part in this because it served to point out at aspects that might also prevent other people from getting higher scores. I hope you like it. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I delved into the importance of using both simple and complex grammatical structures for candidates taking the Cambridge English exams at B2 First and C1 Advanced levels. I shared detailed analyses of four candidates' performances and highlighted their strengths and areas for improvement, providing valuable insights into how a balanced approach to grammar can enhance communication. Throughout the episode, I emphasized the need for consistent practice, learning from mistakes, focusing on coherence and cohesion, expanding vocabulary, and seeking feedback from others to improve one's grammatical competence. I wrapped up by offering practical tips to help listeners enhance their use of grammatical structures and achieve success in their English language endeavors. Download the visuals and the audioscripts from here: Candidates' Visuals Part 2 Audioscript Tune in to "What You Say in English" to discover more about this topic and many others that will help you improve your English language skills! Don't forget to subscribe and stay up-to-date with the latest episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I will guide you through the process of obtaining accommodations for your Cambridge English exam and what to do if you feel your exam result is not fair. I'll be sharing crucial information about special arrangements, such as extra time, supervised breaks, and alternative formats, which can be made for candidates with hearing or speaking difficulties, specific learning difficulties, or other disabilities. We'll also discuss the Enquiry and Appeal process in detail. If you believe your exam result is not fair, it's essential to contact your examination center immediately. Your center can then request an Enquiry or an Appeal from Cambridge English, and we'll delve into both of these processes, so you know what to expect. Lastly, I will remind listeners that I am available to provide further guidance on any of these situations discussed in the episode. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or need support in navigating the accommodations and appeals process for your Cambridge English exam. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I delve into the world of English proficiency exams, helping you navigate through the various options available and choose the best exam for your needs. We start by discussing the factors to consider when selecting an exam, such as the purpose of taking the exam, test format, availability, recognition by target institutions, and cost. Next, I provide an overview of common English proficiency exams, including IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English Exams, PTE Academic, Duolingo English Test, and LanguageCert International ESOL, highlighting their unique features, test formats, and pros and cons. We then explore the pros and cons of choosing these alternative exams. I also share tips for selecting a lesser-known exam, emphasizing the importance of verifying acceptance by target institutions or employers, assessing the quality and reputation of the exam provider, and considering potential future needs for a more widely recognized exam. Finally, I wrap up the episode by recapping the importance of choosing the right English proficiency exam and encouraging listeners to carefully evaluate their options. Best of luck to all test-takers as you embark on your journey towards mastering the English language and achieving your goals in English-speaking environments! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

Do you remember Francesco Burgio? He was my guest in episode 10 of the first season of this show. We've still kept in touch and he's just sent me an incredible message from his new home in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He's doing great, his family is happy and still feels proud of his Italian accent. Way to go Francesco! Remember, this podcast is also your home! Also, the title of today's episode celebrates the international day of the English Language, a day full of activities around the world to boost comprehension and proficiency in this beautiful language. For that reason, I decided to share a story I wrote many moons ago called "Blend of Two Worlds" when I was still a teenager. I hope you like it. And if you want to support the labor I do with this podcast, you can download it from here: Blend of Two Worlds (4 EUR + VAT) When you proceed to do the checkout, you can add a 50% discount where it says: Have a coupon code? The code is WYSEBOOKDAY Hope you like the story. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

This is the first follower who did my IELTS Speaking test challenge. Of course there are more, but I've chosen this one as it's a great example of a candidate with a lot of potential to get a high band score. Check out my TikTok profile to do the same challenge, you can make a duet and tag me. I hope you enjoy this episode. My TikTok profile. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

Today's episode of "What You Say in English" is super short, but I delve into the four essential listening skills crucial for acing the IELTS Listening Test: anticipation, active targeted listening, thinking and preparing, and noticing. Throughout the episode, I discuss the importance of each skill, provide insightful tips, and offer engaging activities to help my listeners improve their listening comprehension and overall IELTS performance. Additionally, I invite my audience to join me on TikTok for more language learning tips and support. Don't miss out on this valuable episode packed with advice and strategies for mastering the listening skills needed for IELTS success! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

As it's been almost a tradition in my podcast, I'm analyzing another influential person's English. This time, I chose the CEO of TikTok, Mr. Shou Chew. He's become sort of a a celebrity of late because of the hearing in front of the US Congress to defend the app he represents, TikTok, from some serious allegations regarding user privacy and possible ties with Beijing. I chose him because he displayed an incredible command of his speaking skills. I'd say he's a role model to imitate if you wish to become a proficient user of English. As I haven't included the interview I analyzed in this episode, I suggest you watch it in full here: https://youtu.be/EE5Pcz99JFI I also spoke about Lander Hawe's app, "IELTS Preposition Safecracker", which I spoke about in episode 12 of this season. To download the app, go to: iOS AppStore (Mac compatible) Google PlayStore Use the following codes to unlock the app only in the month of April of 2023. So, be quick! And remember that once the month is over, you'll be charged a month of subscription, so make sure you cancel it before the grace period ends! (Although I think it's quite cheap) Apple: TEACHER0423 Android: APRIL2020 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

Because not everything is listening, reading or speaking. Writing also has a space in this podcast. Today, we'll be looking at what makes a good review for Cambridge exams. I'm bringing three examples at three different levels: B2, C1 and C2. Also, I'm adding an extra review on the recent installment of Shazam! Fury of the Gods! Pay close attention to the vocabulary and expressions I've used and start building your own set. Download the 4 reviews below: Download the reviews on PDF. Remember to follow me on TikTok and look for the different speaking tasks on my profile playlists. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/whatyousayinenglish/support

In today's episode of What You Say in English, we dive deep into part 4 of the listening exam for C1 and C2 students. This challenging task requires you to understand the gist of five short monologues and complete two parallel multiple-matching tasks. We break down the essential skills you'll need to develop, such as listening for gist, understanding context, and developing listening strategies. Additionally, we discuss tips and techniques to help you succeed in this demanding task. Finally, we provide a listening task for you to practice, ensuring that you apply the strategies and skills discussed in this episode. Tune in to boost your listening skills and get one step closer to acing the exam! All answers will be explained in the episode. Download the exam task --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

For this episode, I wanted to commemorate International Women's Day, which took place this last March, 8. I've created a Reading and Use of English part 5 exam task. So, I know how much you guys like to just "listen" to the show, but this time, I want you to practice a little for your upcoming exam. If you've already taken it, then use it as a way to learn new vocabulary. Make sure you download the task, the answers and explanations, as well as the accompanying video I created for you. Exam task Answer and explanations Video If you're listening through Spotify, don't forget to leave a comment in the Q&A section. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I explore the use of artificial intelligence-powered tools like ChatGPT3 for improving writing skills for Cambridge exams. ChatGPT3 can provide instant feedback on grammar, vocabulary, syntax, sentence structure, and organization, as well as generate prompts and provide suggestions for improvement. It's a valuable supplement to traditional writing instruction and can help students build confidence and motivation. The use of AI-powered tools has made language learning more accessible, effective, and engaging. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative and effective tools to emerge. Don't forget to download the full transcript here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Episode 17 of "What You Say in English" explores the topic of silent letters in English. The episode explains that silent letters in English are a way of preserving the history of the language and are often relics of the pronunciation of words in their original languages. The episode also discusses why silent letters are important for both pronunciation and spelling, and how phonics can be helpful in teaching children and English learners about silent letters. By understanding silent letters, English learners can improve their fluency and accuracy in spoken and written English. We also discuss some words for each letter of alphabet that contains such silent letters. Download the accompanying PDF from here. There's a link in the document to take a quiz. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This time I wanted to go back to analyzing other people's English. I've chosen Rosalia, the incredibly popular singer from Spain, to give people another role model they can follow. Despite some limitations, she's quite fluent. She showed great confidence and aplomb during this first interview in an American Late Night talk show. She had fun and let everybody know that she can handle herself just fine. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as I did when analyzing her English. Don't forget to download the interview notes and commentary from here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I delve into the topic of spaced repetition and its impact on vocabulary building. Spaced repetition is a learning technique that involves reviewing information at increasing intervals in order to reinforce memory. I discuss the importance of finding the right frequency of repetition and the fact that this frequency will vary from person to person, depending on factors such as prior knowledge, memory capacity, and available study time. The episode covers common spaced repetition algorithms (SupeMemo, Anki and Leitner systems) and schedules and provides tips for incorporating spaced repetition into a study plan. I also emphasize the importance of using spaced repetition as just one tool among many for vocabulary building, and advise incorporating other strategies, such as using flashcards, reading, and writing, into a study plan. Ultimately, I remind listeners that spaced repetition is not a magic solution for learning vocabulary, but a useful tool for making the learning process more efficient and effective. The key to success is consistent, deliberate practice, and experimenting with different spaced repetition schedules to find the one that works best for each individual. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Today's episode is dedicated to everyone who is preparing for the IELTS, Cambridge exam (or any other English proficiency exam) on their own. It's a difficult road to follow, but filled with learning opportunities. I will give you here some pointers on how to start, what to consider, where to look for materials and other important things. I start by telling you what the possibilities are and the types of tests available, the importance of simulating the exam conditions, how to understand your results and how to deal with feedback, to finish with how to find reliable source material and create an effective study plan. The websites I mention in the episode are: Weekly by Cambridge English (to create study plans for free) Mock Test Toolkit (from where you can get a lot more material) Also, I want to thank Oscar from Argentina for such a heartfelt message. Remember to follow me on TikTok or drop me a line at podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

In today's episode, we're talking about the importance of active listening and note-taking for acing exams. Active listening is key for understanding the meaning behind the words and picking up on key information to take notes on. As for note-taking, it's important to find a technique that works best for you, like the Cornell Method, Outline Method, Mapping Method, Charting Method, Sentence Method, and Mind Map Method. Each one is suited for a different type of information and exam format. Remember to listen actively, take effective notes. Don't forget follow me on TikTok for more tips and tricks on improving your English language skills. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode of What You Say in English, I sit down with Lander Hawes, CEO of Kinjugo, an EdTech startup that has developed a game for learners of English who are preparing for IELTS called 'Preposition Safecracker'. This is the first video episode of the podcast and listeners on Spotify will be able to watch it on their devices and desktop app. Lander explains how the game, which is designed to make repetition and learning more engaging and fun, is specifically geared towards preparing for the IELTS exam, and covers 450 sentences across different IELTS topics. The conversation explores the potential of gamification in education and how Kinjugo is revolutionizing the way English is taught. Listeners are encouraged to visit kinjugo.com or the Google PlayStore direct link to download the game. Additionally, a promotional code, FebKinj1301, is available from 21/01/2023 to 28/02/2023. To redeem, open the app, press the shopping cart button, then 'Buy Now', and choose 'redeem code' from the payment options. Don't forget to follow me on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@wysepodcast and if you'd like to be showcased on the show, drop me a line at podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

In this episode, I do the role of an IELTS Speaking Mythbuster. I set to debunk four common misconceptions surrounding the IELTS Speaking exam. I discuss the importance of using language precisely, flexibly, and appropriately, rather than relying on "big words" to get a high band score. I also address the myth that students must have a British or American accent to do well in the exam, emphasizing that accent is not an evaluation criterion and that any accent is acceptable as long as the speaker is intelligible. I also touch on the idea that students must speak the whole truth in the exam, and remind listeners that it's okay to be a little creative in their responses. Finally, I discuss the myth that students must be perfect to get a high band score, and stress that the exam is not a test of perfection and that making mistakes is a natural part of the language learning process. The ideas here come from the fantastic article posted in the Cambridge Assessment blog, so make sure you check it out and expand on the things I mention here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

As my new wish for 2023, I want to thank all of my listeners for their support. I hope you've enjoyed my episodes and have found them helpful in your language learning journey. In today's episode, I'm going to be talking about learning English and setting new year's resolutions. Whether you're just starting out on your language-learning journey, or you're looking for ways to boost your progress, this episode is for you. I'll be discussing the importance of setting specific, achievable, and measurable goals when learning a new language, and sharing some ideas for language-related resolutions you might want to consider. I'll also be offering tips for sticking to those resolutions and sharing some resources that you can use to help you learn English. So if you want to improve your English skills and make the most of the new year, make sure to tune in. And if you want to keep in touch with me, don't forget to follow me on TikTok at http://tiktok.com/@wysepodcast. Also, remember and send me your recordings or if you want to take part in the show, send me an email at podcast@languaguageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

For the last episode of the year, I wanted to retake the IELTS speaking test. Here, I'm using a recording which is available on the official IELTS website. It's not a full recording, but it will serve to understand how the speaking criteria should be applied when preparing for the exam. Make sure you have a copy of the speaking scales with you, as I will quote from them at times. Also, download the accompanying prompts and transcript. You will be able to highlight and write down my comments on each aspect. I hope you will find it useful. Don't forget to take note of the tips I'll give you by the end of the episode. I want to thank Adriana, from Brazil, for sending the lovely message I play at the beginning of the episode. You're invited to speak in my podcast whenever you want. So, until next year 2023! Happy holidays! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

These things rarely happen... That we get big news from Cambridge Assessment English. The organization is undergoing some major rebranding and redesign, not only about their corporate image, but with the way they will handle exams. They'll remove tasks, add other options to take the exams, and 'finally' embrace some new technology to offer new ways of going through the Cambridge experience, among other things. If you're preparing to take the exam any time between what is left of the year or next year, what I have to tell you about in this episode will definitely interest you. Also, I've just opened a TikTok account where you can also follow me. So, drop by and say hi! www.tiktok.com/@wysepodcast --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

We're approaching the end of the year. And as usual, Anchor published my wrapped for 2022 and it's nothing but good news. This podcast has grown exponentially. If you wish to see it, visit this link. Most of the growth is probably because of the number of new listeners from India. I'm here for you guys! I'll try to cover more about the IELTS exam. As promised, this is the first episode in which I experiment with other parts of the Cambridge exams. I've created this task which is slightly higher than C1 (in terms of vocabulary) to cater for two levels (C1 and C2). To access the files, check out the following links: RUE part 6 Student Task RUE part 6 Annotated Task (Answers) The task is also an excuse to learn great high-level vocabulary for film reviews. Let me know if you want me to cover other parts of the exams. Just send me an email to podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

The previous episode had a great reception. So much so that I decided to extend on how to improve your fluency and intelligibility by working on your consonant clusters. The five sample sentences are: O n my first trip, I traveled the length and breadth of Sri Lanka. Scientists say that humans' sixth sense can be explained. Last February, meteorologists measured the temperature in the forests in the Arctic circle. He asks exactly what we need to know about the nuclear program. She liked two different tasks: washing her clothes and resting in the summer months. Follow the advice on how to produce these consonant clusters and improve your fluency skills. The two online resources I used to get sample sentences were https://youglish.com/ and https://www.playphrase.me/ If you wish to read more about consonant clusters, this PDF would be very useful. Thanks for your support! And if you wish to be showcased, send me a line to podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

It's been some time since I haven't reacted to a celebrity's English. This time is Black Panther's Prince Namor, Tenoch Huerta. Personally, I don't know how long he's been learning English, but he behaved like a champion in this interview. You can listen to how he used natural fluency to overcome his lack of grammatical and phonological control. You too can deliver a successful interview for live TV without having to master English with the mastery of a C2 speaker. Tenoch is an excellent role model to follow. The transcript with more comments can be downloaded from here. Make sure you use a good PDF reader to see the bubble notes. The TED talk I mentioned at the end, the one with Professor John McWhorter can be watched here: https://youtu.be/VQRjouwKDlU The podcast he conducts is called Lexicon Valley. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This is yet another C2 Speaking mock with two great students: Francisco and Maria. They'll soon take their exams and wanted to do one last mock speaking with me before their big day. The questions and the visuals can be downloaded from here: Examiner's questions Candidate Visuals part 2 Candidate Visuals part 3 I'm sharing the examiner's questions, as I know there are other teachers who would like to do the same exam with other students. I recycled some questions from other sources, but most of it was created by me. Also, at the beginning I speak about Swell, a new collaborative social network where people share their voices with mini podcasts. Fantastic idea! Follow me on Swell @wyse and check out my first swellcast here. Take part in the discussion. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This idea of thinking of groups of words as one unit is nothing new, but it might help you think of different word categories (e.g., idioms, phrasal verbs, fixed phrases, binomials, among others) as having more things in common as you might have initially thought. They're Polywords. I've prepared some activities that can help you understand polywords better: Matching task Reading and Use of English part 1 (C1/C2) Reading and Use of English part 2 (C1/C2) Answers can be found here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This episode is devoted to explaining how students can ace the second part of the speaking test: The Long Turn. As I mention in the episode, you can prepare the way you wish to organize your discourse, but not what vocabulary or grammar you will use. You will listen to three students speaking about three sets of images. They all had time to prepare and even write down what they wanted to say. So, when preparing, this might be a good idea to get used to the structure of your answer. You'll see how it easy it becomes. That way, you'll only have to worry about the language output, accuracy and range of vocabulary and structure and not the organization. The visuals can be downloaded from here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

I met Ethan back when I worked for International House Madrid. He's the sort of person you'd love to work with: knowledgeable, experienced, and, most importantly, quite approachable whenever you had doubts about your teaching. Nowadays, he keeps quite busy writing materials for exam preparation, Teacher Training courses and is also quite active in delivering presentations at many teaching conventions. Macmillan Publishers called him to write the Teachers Books for the newest edition of their successful series for Cambridge exams, Ready For, originally written by Amanda French and Roy Norris. Here, we talked about his work as an author and what he thinks of the exam preparation market in general. To learn more about the newest edition of Ready For click here (B2 First and C1 Advanced) To purchase the book he co-wrote with Riccardo Chiappini, Activities for Mediation, click here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Today, I'm bringing some American expressions that have been used worldwide. And they come from the time when the United States of America became independent from Great Britain, and the original 13 colonies expanded to the west. As usual, the transcript can be downloaded from here. How do you like these minicasts? Send your opinions to podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Today's minicast is rather musical, because of the references I'm using, but all three idioms actually come from the sports world. As usual, I open with some real-life examples and tell you how you can use them in your everyday life and during speaking exams. The transcript can be downloaded from here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Who doesn't want more knowledge? Today I'm bringing three wonderful expressions with the word knowledge. One of them, knowledge is power, even has a funny story of a guy who misunderstood it until he was an adult. Read more about this by following this link. As always, this minicast has a transcript that you can download from here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

A sword is a fantastic weapon. It can cause admiration and terrible fear in people. Maybe that's why we've coined so many expressions with it. Today, you'll learn three fantastic ways in which you can use it during speaking exams. As in the previous minicast, download the transcript from here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

As promised, a series of minicasts with an English expression (or expressions) that you can use in your everyday life or during a speaking test. You can download the transcript here. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Inga, from Russia and Rebeca, from Spain, took part in this recorded mock exam with interesting things to analyze. They were both living in Oxford by the time they did this recording, and you can tell that they show a wide range of strong features in her speaking skills. Inga as Dphil student and Rebeca as part of the Bodleian libraries at the University of Oxford. Grab a notebook and make your notes as I offer my impressions of their performance. The visuals for this test can be downloaded from here. I don't want to go without letting you know about the courses I'm planning for August. To save a spot and read all the preliminary information, go to the following websites: C1 Advanced Intensive course C2 Proficiency Intensive course If you still have questions, please send me an email to podcast@languageteaching.es, and I will gladly give more information. I hope we can create a wonderful community of motivated learners. Not only will you be able to ask me any question you may have (directly), but you will make fantastic friends over that month that I'm sure will last for a lifetime. My current students have become great friends and they're even making plans to visit each other in the future. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This is a full speaking mock for C1. Luca and Lorenzo did well enough to make a pass and listen to my advice so you can use the tips to ace your speaking exam. The visuals for this exam can be downloaded here. As I mentioned last week. I finally bring information about the courses I'm planning for August. To save a spot and read all the preliminary information, go to the following websites: C1 Advanced Intensive course C2 Proficiency Intensive course If you still have questions, please send me an email to podcast@languageteaching.es, and I will gladly give more information. I hope we can create a wonderful community of motivated learners. Not only will you be able to ask me any question you may have (directly), but you will make fantastic friends over the course of that month that I'm sure will last for a lifetime. My current students have become great friends and they're even making plans to visit each other in the future. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This is the second part (and final) where I explain the remaining tenses of the whole "tense-aspect" system in English. Here you'll find the different uses of the perfect, progressive and perfect-progressive aspects. That would conclude the information about the "12 tenses" in English. These tenses are covered in the course of the different levels of the CEFR. Even at top levels, students need to fine tune their understanding of this system and appropriately use them in speaking and writing tasks. Also, I finally bring information about the courses I'm planning for August. To save a spot and read all the preliminary information, go to the following websites: C1 Advanced Intensive course C2 Proficiency Intensive course If you still have questions, please send me an email to podcast@languageteaching.es, and I will gladly give more information. I hope we can create a wonderful community of motivated learners. Not only will you be able to ask me any question you may have (directly), but you will make fantastic friends over the course of that month that I'm sure will last for a lifetime. My current students have become great friends and they're even making plans to visit each other in the future. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

I decided to get more technical and explain the tense-aspect system in English starting from its core meaning. It's not very complicated when you see what the present, past and future times have in common. You could say that meanings repeat but with minor modifications that make all the sense in the world if you see them from this perspective. I will cover the remaining points in the last episodes of this season. Also, I'm giving updates about the upcoming intensive courses I'm organizing for August. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

Manuel, a listener from Chile, sent me this incredible message. He was expecting me to give him extensive feedback, but his voice note was so good that I honestly had nothing to say. The only thing I could comment on was on the pronunciation of his "b" as opposed to a "v", which prompted me to talk about minimal pairs today. So, enjoy! And once again... Thanks for the message, Manuel. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

This effect is well known to all of us who prepare for exams. Language exams, more than other types, seemed to be affected the most. That classic "study to pass the exam" attitude that tends to push students to memorize stuff which is usually forgotten once the exam is over. In this brief episode, I talk about its positive effects, its negative effects and what you can do, as a teacher and as a student, to minimize the latter effects. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support

I always want to emphasize Interactive Communication because it's one of the criteria that gets overlooked by teachers and candidates altogether. Today I'll speak about three ways in which candidates can use language effectively to: Interrupt politely Add your opinion to what the other candidate said Ask for clarification I'm also including an element that also deserves some attention: intonation. On this occasion, I'll be talking about the way we say cleft sentences. So, enjoy today's episode and send me a message to podcast@languageteaching.es --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/message Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/whatyousayinenglish/support