Teaching English Radio Live from Gafsa!

This month the Teaching English Radio programme reached the town of Gafsa,down in the south west of Tunisia. Gafsa is the home of the Tunisian mining industry,phosphate mining started here way back in the late 19th century.It is the first time that Radio Gafsa has broadcasted a non-Arabic programme! In the studio there was Nigel Bellingham,the British Council's Country Director for Tunisia,and Tunisian teachers:Hatem Zitouni,(Higher Education),Telehom Shinni (Primary),Nabil Ammar (Secondary),Chihem Khlifi (Secondary).
The presenter as usual was Hayet and on programme 2 of series 2 the topic was 'Finding and Creating Resources'. When teachers do not have access to books and resources,or access to the Internet, it can be a challenge to find and create resources but with a bit of resourcefulness and imagination they can be created! Just look at the realia around you for inspiration!
Also,don't forget to use your own creativity and the students as a resource!

On the topic of using flashcards  Nigel said it would be a better idea if the students created them,and later on he mentioned that some teachers can over-rely on resources and it would be better to focus on their teaching techniques and using their creativity.On the topic of realia one of the Tunisian teachers mentioned a  lesson in which he'd brought in a cauliflower which provided an interesting lesson!

Some interesting comments from the live listening audience at the CREFOC centre in Gafsa: one of the teachers mentioned that 'having a fishing rod is no good if you don't know how to use it!' in other words it's not much good having lots of resources if you don't know how to use them, in fact a couple of  teachers commented it wasn't a problem of finding resources but knowing how to adapt and use them.

Hayet summed up the main points of the programme by mentioning that there is a rich resource with our students,they can bring in materials which reflect their interests but emphasised that it important to consider that the material is appropriate.She went on to say that teachers could club together but pointed out that unfortunately  that many teachers are reluctant to share their resources.That's a real pity!
So to those teachers with good resources - start sharing!

click http://www.radiotunisienne.tn/rtci/sounds/anglais/anglais07122012.mp3 to listen to the programme!

We'll be having a break in January but listen out for programme 3 in February when the topic
will be 'Using group work in practice'.

Well,this is all until the next programme! Bye for now!

Patric Fawcett

small story

Hi,

This me Sidi Mohamed

For those who still have no idea what to do with their lives 

Something fishy going on!

Put your mouse over the picture and watch that ray fish move!

Teaching English Radio RTCI series 2!

Series 2 of Teaching English Radio has kicked off!
Today's topic was 'Teachers Supporting Each Other ' and among today's guests were Kiros,Teacher Trainer at British Council Tunis,Arbi,Vocational Teacher Trainer,Jawida,teacher coordinator at the Tunis Business School and teacher trainers Rachida Guelzim (Teacher Trainer and Inspector)and Mr.Zaki (President of MATE -Morocco Association of Teachers of English).

Jawida mentioned the importance of getting feedback from your colleagues and also team spirit so that teachers feel happier and not so alone.

Arbi emphasised the importance of feedback from your peers,in fact he used to create a lot of resources but as nobody gave him feedback he stopped creating more materials,Arbi said 'he was like a blind person ' as he wasn't getting any feedback at all.So if you create great materials please share them and of course give feedback on your colleagues's resources!
It seems that many teachers are afraid of being evaluated by others and keep materials to themselves.
Kiros joked that those teachers should have their materials confiscated!

Talking about the recent teacher training sessions he had run in Algeria Kiros said that constructive feedback was important in teachers going in the right direction.Later on Kiros talked about the forming of new teacher associations in Tunisia,which should be helpful with teachers creating materials and discussing various issues.

Hayet summed up the programme: 'get together and share', 'observe other teachers with a purpose',
'the importance of teachers associations to share/discuss issues' and finally ended the programme with the comment 'encouragement does more'.

If you missed the programme,click the following link to listen to the programme
http://www.radiotunisienne.tn/rtci/sounds/anglais/anglais02112012.mp3

Be sure not to miss the next programme in December on the topic 'Finding and Creating Resources'!
Patric

Hi Patric 

My name is nejib ben jemia, i'm 29 years old, i'm from Tunisia, i have a diploma in finance and i am a job seeker.


I would like to meet Robert De Nero, cause first of all he's my favorite actor, i am impressed with his performance,i have watched all his films and last but not least i think he has a strong personality as mine.
According to me De Nero is the best actor ever.

Have you ever ....?

Have you ever met a famous person?

Patric

Happy EID!

Hope you all have a good holiday!
Patric

Amazing Humans!

What are the most amazing things that humans can do?

Superhumans!!

What's your opinion of the man who broke the sound barrier?

The smallest house in the world

Don't ever complain that you don't have enough room in your home.
Do we really need lots of space?
Watch the video:

Hi Patric im in your english class elementary 4 . I am safouene chihaoui i am 22 years old .I studied in the university of sports in  ksar said . I am an ex football player i would like to meet ERIC CANTONA  he is my favorite footballer in the world . He is a good striker he sored a lot of goals . He is the best in his position . This is why i want to meet him . 

Imen Dahmeni

I’m Imen Dahmeni, I’m from Tunisia, I’m 29 years old and I’m a law student in the university of political in third degree.

I like travels, music and practices sports in my free time.

In my university I’m a good student , especially in the human rights cours. For that my dream who became true is to meet the president of the United States of America Obama.

When, I go to America I want discuss with Obama in the white house for many reasons like the cooperation between America and Arab world.

Also I’d like to ask his honor about why America choose war us a first solution in her conflicts  ?

And I’d like seriously that he explain me the reasons. In my opinion of view the meeting will be wonderful.

Hi Patric, I'm Eya, I'm Tunisian , I'm 20 years old , I learn English in British Council in elementary four and I study chemistry in my third year at university in Tunis. I like taking pictures when I do an excursion in different places in Tunis. These are some pictures 

In Ain-Drahim

      In Takrouna

Hi Patric,
I'm Olfa and I'm in your Elementry 4.
So, my favorite famous is the scientist ''Ahmed Zeweil'' who won the 1999 Nobel Prize in chemestry for his work on femtochemistry.
I would like to meet him and to share with him his enthusiasm for talented young people from the North Africa and Middle Est and his idea about developing the nation's greatest natural resource.

About J. Bond theme songs, the most successful was, of course, the song ''live and let die'' wrote by the great ''Paul McCartney''.

Regards Adel, I think she is a very very great voice, esspecially when she sing ''s.o like you''. Moreover, her song ''Skyfall'' is very nice mainly if it represent J.Bond theme song.

Best Regards..

Dears,

I'm student in elementry four in Britiche Council, my name is Ould Ahmed Salem Sidi Mohamed I'm from Mauritania  and I have 21 years. I'm student in Tunisia Polytechnic school  in second years.

In blow you find United States presidencial debate between  the president Barack Obama and the government Mitt Romney.

Could you answer of those questions :
  1- What have they done to earn americans voters in 2012?
  2- What is the biggest misconception the american people have about the president Barack Obama and the government Mitt Romney as mans and candidates.
 3- What plan do they have to put back and keep jobs in the United States?
 4- What is the biggest difference between Mitt Romney and George W.Bush?
 5- What do you thik is winning the deabte so far?

Yours.

My name is Bassaba Agre, I 'm student, I'm from Cote d'Ivoire.
I like sport. When iwas in high school I did play basket ball for a club, I had also practicedrubgy and football.
I appriciate reading. I read often a biography about famous people, story real or fiction and differente literature classic.
I have some kind of interest about language like English, Japanesse, Arabic Russian and Hebrew I would like know well some days.


Bassaba Agre

My name is SAMY.
I'm from Tunisia, i'm 43 old, i'm married and i have 2 children.
I work as a shipping cordinator in Export Promotion Center Tunisia.
I like to meet MANDELLA .

Dear Mr patrick

My name is SAMY.
I'm from Tunisia, i'm married and i have 2 childrens.
I work as a shipping cordinator in Export Promotion Center of Tunisia.
 I study in BRITISH COUNCIL to improve my English
I like to meet MANDELLA .

Dear Patric ,

Im in your English class. First, I’ll introduce my self my name is Slim Mathlouthi, I’m 23 years old , I have just finished my studies in Higher Institues of Technological Studies  and my specialty electric .

I was born in Tunis and I live naw in Hammem-Lif.

My favorite famous is  the former Real Madrid player Zinedine Zidane because he is a great player and he did a good carrier and he had many titles and it has many qualities: intelligent, technician, quiet ...

At the same time, it is always a balance between his personal life and his carrier that is why it has been successful in his life.That's why i love it so much .

Remember!

Remember to look at my posts and my questions.
You can also read each other's posts and click the comment or no comment to reply.

Hello  Sir I'will not Osttaa end of my studies because I will be traveling to another country Will Osttaa retrieve the rest of my money I called manages there said  me Ask your teacher what should I do and thank you                                                                



                                                                                            seif ben mohamed ELM :4 

Highest Sky Dive

Highest Sky Dive

Dears ,

I’m studying English in British Council,

I would like to meet Nelson Mandela. It’s a political personality, he's interested to human rights.

He sacrificed his life to fight the racial discrimination between the communities of his country.

He was a president of South Africa from 1994 to 1999.

He received a Nobel Peace Prize in the 1993....

Best Regards.

Ahmed.

The Beatles and James Bond!

Last Friday was the 50th anniversary of two British icons:way back in October 1962 'Love Me Do' was the first single by the Beatles and was the catalyst for Beatlemania,'Doctor No' was the first James Bond film.

Which is your favourite song by the Beatles?
Which member of the group wrote the song 'Live and Let Die' ?',it's considered to be one of the most successful James Bond theme songs.

Adele is the voice behind the new James Bond theme song 'Skyfall',have you heard it? Do you like it?
Which is your favourite James Bond film?
Listen to Skyfall:

Hello Patric haw are you,my name Seif.I'study ELM 4 in the Brich Council of tunis  am 22 years olds am from the noth west of Tunisia from a city cold Dkhila.I'bervet technisian profesionel in restaurant and bar .I'study in tourisme school of Hammamet.I' love sitting and enjoy nature

presentation

Hi,

My name is Myriam, I'm 25 years old, I'm Physiotherapist and now I want to improve my English this is why I'm learning English in British Council, the courses are too interesting and I want to thank all teachers for theirs efforts made for us.
My favorite hobby is playing sport especially aerobic, streching and pilates.
I would like to meet Angelina Jolie for her interesting profile, Goodwill Ambassador, she defended various humanitarian causes throughout the world and is noted for her work on behalf of refugees with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.
I hope that in this world there will be less poverty and wars.

Best regards.
Myriam.

Quick Overview

Hi!

At first time I want to thank Patrick for his efforts made for us to improve our english level
It is  the occasion  to facilitate our communication with the others from now .
I'm a project Buyer in TTE International company ;  learning english remain very importat for me to facilitate my discussion with supplier .
I like listening to all type of musique and watching TV espacialy to the documentary video program.
Ferray is the car of my dreams.

Best Regards;

Teaching English Radio World Teachers' Day RTCI

Well,series 2 of Teaching English Radio will soon be back on the airwaves but just to whet your appetite
today on World Teachers' Day there was a special review programme of series 1.On the programme,the guests were Fitch O'Connell,a reading consultant,Maria Norton,English Projects Manager ,Hafedh Sellami,Primary School teacher and trainer,and Olfa Atalla Galichet,a teacher from the British Council. Hayet Toukabri ,the RTCI presenter,wished all teachers 'Happy World Teachers Day!,especially to those teachers who have very few resources at their schools but nevertheless work hard and are important in their students' lives.

In his role of 'reading expert ' Fitch has noticed it's more difficult for teachers to teach students the skills of reading and for students to engage in reading.Olfa said she had enjoyed listening to the programmes from series 1 and had used many of the ideas and activities which had been mentioned:
'it's been a wonderful experience,the ideas on the programme have been a great help to me!'

During today's programme clips from programme 1,5 and 6 were played.
Re the programme 'Lesson Planning ' the importance of planning was emphasised,with Fitch stating that 'planning gives you confidence when  going into the classroom'.
As Hafedh said 'if you plan to fail you plan to fail!.

In regards to Christine Phelps' warmer activity,who now works as English Projects Manager at the British Council in Lisbon,Olfa said she had used the 'picture idea 'of dividing up the students into different groups many  times and had actually adapted it for other activities including story telling.

On the topic of story telling from programme 5,Fitch said 'all children of all ages understand the structure of a  story,can engage in abstract ideas...everyone loves a story!' He also said it's rewarding seeing the students write their own stories and then comparing them with the original stories.

Patric's idea of using days of the week as a base for a poem was also used by Olfa so programme 5 'Flexible Activities' of using stories,songs and poems went down very well with teachers.

On motivating the students Maria emphasised the importance of incorporating the learners' different learning styles into the lessons and having different activities to cater to their different ways of learning for instance a poster or pictures for the visual leaners. Hafedh said 'giving the students a positive attitude counts a lot for motivating them' and rewarding the students with 'compliments,encouragements in regards to what they say '
to help encourage the students in their motivation.

Finally at the end of  the pre-launch programme,Hayet and Maria reminded RTCI listeners of World Teachers Day and the webquest competition.Maria went on to mention the free materials and resources on the British Council websites:Learn English Kids,Learn English Teens and Premier Skills English (for those football lovers!) as great web sites to help learners of English!

Well,it's goodbye for now until the first programme 'Supporting Each Other' of series 2
on the 2nd November!

Good luck with the World Teachers' Day web quest competition!

click here to listen to today's World Teachers' Day programme!

Patric

Celebrities!

Which famous person would you like to meet?
David Beckham? Tom Cruise?Angelina Jolie? J.K.Rowling?
What questions would you ask them?

Dears,

I’m studying English in British Council,

I would like to meet Oussama Mellouli,He presents an exemplary sportsman.

  It was   swimming world champion for several times, and recently Olympic champion in London ,

I hope that Tunisia offers other champions like Osama in other specialty.

Imen Djlassi

Dears,

I’m studying English in British Council.

I want to improve my English level, that I need it for job and a communication with persons that speak it.

I hope for me and my colleagues to get a good session with our teacher Patric at the end we will be better able to write and speak English.

Best Regards

Ahmed

Dear Patric,
I'm a new student in british council and I'm pleased to be among your team for this session.
As I working with international partners from USA, England, Italy, Spain, Turkey, ... I need to improve my english to better communicate with them.
An advance I want to thank you for the effort you make for us...

Best regards
Nadia.

Hello everybody,

I'm studying english in B.Council and I'm very happy with my progress in english, esspecially with speaking.

Before I was very stressed when I try to speak english, but now I can discuss, and I'm very relax.
                                                             
                                                                                                                               Olfa..

cc

Hi all, 

i'm studying english in British Council and i'll tell you somethings about me.

My hobbies are traveling and swimming. I prefer listen to the soft music because it makes me relax,

my favourit song is "At last" by Etta James but i love it when Celine Dion sings.

My favourit film is "Kites" and my best actress is Halle Berry.

I prefer lasagne as food, specially prepared by my self because it's so delicious :))

That's all , i'm Mouna G.

Teaching English Radio programme 6

Last Friday was the last programme of present series of Teaching English Radio to be broadcasted on RTCI but don't worry we'll be back with season 2!

Curfew in Tunisia again!

After rioting in Tunis and La Marsa over the weekend on Tuesday a overnight curfew in Tunis,Arianna,Sousse and other cities in Tunisia was announced by the Tunisian government.

The curfew,was from 9pm to 5am,but after 10pm in La Marsa there were a few people and cars still in the street. They seemed to totally unconcerned about the curfew.

On Monday night in La Marsa there were apparently some gun shots.

more details on the riots

Last night the curfew continued but from 10pm to 4am. Curfew tonight again.?

Anyone'd like to make a comment or post your reaction to the curfew?

Patric

Teaching English Radio programme 5

Teaching English Radio programme 5 featured 'Using stories,dictagloss and  songs/poems'

Boutheina

Dear all,
Great, it works ! I finally succeeded to post a blog, thanks to Fadoua !!
This is to let you know that it is my first blogging and it is an exciting experience, it is an easy way to communicate and be familiar with people who have in common the interest and passion for the English language. Patric I really enjoy your English course, also all the students are very kind, funny and the atmosphere is friendly.
Looking forward to seeing you tomorrow
Boutheina

Environment Day June 5th 2012

Environment Day will be here soon but why not take action now before it's too late!
Start taking care of your environment now!
Clean up those beaches in La Marsa!
Don't drop rubbish,put it in the litter bin!


Patric

Time is ticking away quickly so...

come on you lazy lot!
Post up your your introductions plus your comments to the biggest tomato fight in the world.

Patric

La Tomatina ! Biggest tomato fight in the world!

Today in class you were talking about different food festivals from around the world,which one did you like best? Why?

Patric

Dali in La Marsa!

Dali in La Marsa! Actually it was the well known crazy artist Dali from Tunis and not Salvadore Dali of course! Well on Saturday it was the opening reception of some new works of art by Dali, at the art gallery at the Mille Feuilles bookshop in La Marsa.

Who's your favourite artist?   Do you draw and paint? 
Are you artistic?

Hello evryone, it's my first time bloging :) and i think that's a very good idea to meet new pepole and to share with them the same interest which is learning english. I like this language and particulary the british accent very much and that's the reason why i joined the British Council. I'm running in preparation of my PhD in Genetics so  my intersts are science, biology... my hobbies are reading, jogging, hunging out with my friends, watching movies, pece of theatre, traveling, and playing chess with the computer and please do not ask me who is often winnig :))
Peace until the next time. Marwa

The Blogging homework

Hi all !

It's funny that our homework is to blog something ^^
I join the class to improve my English for work and that I like this language.
I'm a computer sciences engineer and I enjoy reading and listening to some music.

Life is getting exciting here in Tunisia more and more so you couldn't be bored at all :)

Fadoua

another useful IELTS web site!

Need some more help to prepare for the IELTS exam?
Go here

Patric

Are you hungry for more IELTS information?

Let me know if you'd like more IELTS information to help you with passing the exams!

Patic

Goodbye from Chiraz!

Voice Recorder >>

Me talking to another teacher!

Record and upload audio >>

goodbye surprise

Its an American accent and grammar song its done by me before 2 years. Listen to it and tell me what you think about it!!! i hope you like it!! AND REHAM GOT A TALENT :P

Useful Tips for Preparing for the IELTS exam

Do you still need help in preparing for the IELTS exam?

Go here for some useful tips!

Need more advice?

Good luck!

Patric

Hello Patric , Hello classmates , I have found an incredible and well -designed website " http://www.goodluckielts.com/IELTS-speaking-topics.html " it is created by experienced teachers,  you will find everything you need to know about the IELTS  exam : advice, tips , resources as well as brain training games and sample tests (reading, writing , listening and speaking)  Hope you will have time to check it .

Raghda

idioms

Hey Patric what about some idiomatic expressions ?

What about competing for the best idiom ?

It is funny and useful . Let's learn differently .

IDIOM - To have "stars in your eyes":

Someone who has stars in their eyes is very excited and hopeful about the future and imagines they are going to be very successful and famous.
Ex: "She was a girl with stars in her eyes and dreams of becoming famous.

Raghda

Tips to master the English Language !

Here are some tips which may help you to master the English Language! 

The biggest problem most people face in learning a new language is their own fear. They worry that they won’t say things correctly or that they will look stupid so they don’t talk at all. Don’t do this.Even if you study English at a language school it doesn’t mean you can’t learn outside of class. Using as many different sources, methods and tools as possible, will allow you to learn faster.

1-Surround Yourself with English 

The absolute best way to learn English is to surround yourself with it. Take notes in English, put English books around your room, listen to English language radio broadcasts, watch English news, movies and television. Speak English with your friends whenever you can. The more English material that you have around you, the faster you will learn and the more likely it is that you will begin “thinking in English.” .

2-Listen to Native Speakers as Much as Possible 

There are some good English teachers that have had to learn English as a second language before they could teach it. However, there are several reasons why many of the best schools prefer to hire native English speakers.

3-Watch English Films and Television 

This is not only a fun way to learn but it is also very effective. By watching English films (especially those with English subtitles) you can expand your vocabulary and hear the flow of speech from the actors. If you listen to the news you can also hear different accents.

4-Listen to English Music 

Music can be a very effective method of learning English. In fact, it is often used as a way of improving comprehension. The best way to learn though, is to get the lyrics (words) to the songs you are listening to and try to read them as the artist sings. There are several good internet sites where one can find the words for most songs. This way you can practice your listening and reading at the same time. And if you like to sing, fine.

5-Study As Often As Possible! 

Only by studying things like grammar and vocabulary and doing exercises, can you really improve your knowledge of any language.

6-Do Exercises and Take Tests 

Many people think that exercises and tests aren't much fun. However, by completing exercises and taking tests you can really improve your English. One of the best reasons for doing lots of exercises and tests is that they give you a benchmark to compare your future results with. Often, it is by comparing your score on a test you took yesterday with one you took a month or six months ago that you realize just how much you have learned. If you never test yourself, you will never know how much you are progressing. Start now by doing some of the many exercises and tests on this site, and return in a few days to see what you've learned. Keep doing this and you really will make some progress with English.

7-Record Yourself 

Nobody likes to hear their own voice on tape but like tests, it is good to compare your tapes from time to time. You may be so impressed with the progress you are making that you may not mind the sound of your voice as much.

8-Listen to English 

By this, we mean, speak on the phone or listen to radio broadcasts, audiobooks or CDs in English. This is different than watching the television or films because you can’t see the person that is speaking to you. Many learners of English say that speaking on the phone is one of the most difficult things that they do and the only way to improve is to practice.

Happy Easter

To those who celebrate it,,Happy Easter!
In England children are given chocolate eggs!

Click Happy Easter , to take you to a BBC slideshow of images showing how Easter is celebrated around the world.

IELTS Task 2 - The secret to writing faster and higher quality argument ...

IELTS Graph Writing :Identifying important features of a PIE CHART

Hi! Me and Fabrizio just wanted to write a few lines about our trip to London.
We don't need to repeat how much we enjoyed this beautiful city. It really is a special place, with so much to see and to do.
However what really impressed me were the people. It's one of those cities were you really see people of very different cultures live and work together on a daily basis. Our first morning we were just strolling around a park and we hardly heard anyone speak English! There were so many strangers (not tourists, residents) that you just couldn't understand where you were. Actually, the first words we heard were: "Stanna shweia!" "Fisaa, fisaa!"; it was a group of Tunisian girls that were buying some bread near our Hotel. Isn't it incredible?
Another thing that we liked very much was how much English people are kind and sympathetic to animals. Fabrizio is a vegetarian and for the first time he didn't have to struggle to explain his position or to find good stuff to eat. For example, in the grocery shop where we used to buy lunch, every sandwich or salad that didn't have meat in it was marked with a "V" - "vegetarian". It was so much easier and faster to buy lunch, because we didn't have to read all the ingredients of a product like we usually do!
And English people are also really kind to strangers. Every time we asked information about anything, they would do their best to help us out, and with a smile on their faces!
In general, I felt that people in England are both open minded and welcoming, two beautiful qualities that are not often found together (for example, I don't think Romans are so polite or kind towards strangers).

We're hoping to go back to London soon, the only downside is that it is soooo expensive!!! T_T

Bye, see you in class!

How old is Grandpa????? Stay with this ,the answer is at the end .You will be surprised!!!!

One evening a grandson was talking to his grandfather about current events, The grandson asked his grandfather what he thought about the shootings at school, the computer age, and just things in general. The grand father replied : well , let me think a minute , I was born before TV, penicillin, polio shots, frozen food, contact lenses, frisbees and the pill.There were no credit cards, laser beams or ball-point pens , man had not invented air conditioners, dishwashers, clothes dryers and the clothes were hung out to dry in the fresh air , your grandma and I got married first and then lived together .Every family had a father and a mother.Until I was 25, I called every man older than me , "Sir" and after I turned 25 , I still called policemen and everyman with a title "Sir". we were before gay-rights, computer -dating ,dual careers, daycare centers and group therapy. Our lives were governed by good judgement and common sense.    We were taught to know the difference between right and wrong to stand up and take responsibility for our actions. Serving your country was a privelege , living in this country was a bigger privilege . We thought fast food was what people ate during lent. Time - sharing meant time the family spent together in the evenings and weekends -not purchasing condominiums. We listened to the Big Bands , and the President's speeches on our radios.If you saw anything with"Made in Japan " on it it was junk. The term 'making out" referred to how you did on your school exam, Pizza Hut , McDonald's, and instant coffee were unheard of, 'hardware "was found in a hardware store and " software" wasn't even a word and we were the last generation to actually believe that a lady needed a husband to have a baby, No wonder people call us "old and confused ' and say there is a generation gap ...And how old do you think I am ?   I bet you have this very old man in mind.... you are in for a shock! Are you ready ???? Read on to see -- pretty scary if you think about it and pretty sad at the same time.This man would be only 59 years old!!!                                                                                                                      

We teach life , sir !

Hi everyone !
I finally managed to login :D
Well , i've found an interesting video about the Palestinian situation , but it's something different from the usual . I also think that it's a good practise for all of us (especially because she's palestinian and not a native speaker) Enjoy the video and see you in class ! :)

Yasmine 

What have you learned this term?

What language skills have you improved and what new things have you learnt this term?
What helped you most in your learning?

How much learning do you do outside the class?
for example your Vocaroo recording or some blogging on the this blog or a study group!

See you in class!
Patric

just for fun

A reply from CEO of J.P. Morgan to a pretty girl seeking a rich husband

A young and pretty lady posted this on a popular forum:


Title: What should I do to marry a rich guy?
I'm going to be honest of what I'm going to say here.I'm 25 this year. I'm very pretty, have style and good taste. I wish to marry a guy with $500k annual salary or above.You might say that I'm greedy, but an annual salary of $1M is considered only as middle class in New York.My requirement is not high. Is there anyone in this forum who has an income of $500k annual salary? Are you all married?I wanted to ask: what should I do to marry rich persons like you?
Among those I've dated, the richest is $250k annual income, and it seems that this is my upper limit.
If someone is going to move into high cost residential area on the west of New York City Garden(?), $250k annual income is not enough.I'm here humbly to ask a few questions:
1) Where do most rich bachelors hang out? (Please list down the names and addresses of bars, restaurant, gym)
2) Which age group should I target?
3) Why most wives of the riches are only average-looking? I've met a few girls who don't have looks and are not interesting, but they are able to marry rich guys.
4) How do you decide who can be your wife, and who can only be your girlfriend? (my target now is to get married)

Ms. Pretty

A philosophical reply from CEO of J.P. Morgan:

Dear Ms. Pretty,
I have read your post with great interest. Guess there are lots of girls out there who have similar questions like yours. Please allow me to analyse your situation as a professional investor.
My annual income is more than $500k, which meets your requirement, so I hope everyone believes that I'm not wasting time here.From the standpoint of a business person, it is a bad decision to marry you. The answer is very simple, so let me explain.Put the details aside, what you're trying to do is an exchange of "beauty" and "money" : Person A provides beauty, and Person B pays for it, fair and square.
However, there's a deadly problem here, your beauty will fade, but my money will not be gone without any good reason. The fact is, my income might increase from year to year, but you can't be prettier year after year.
Hence from the viewpoint of economics, I am an appreciation asset, and you are a depreciation asset. It's not just normal depreciation, but exponential depreciation. If that is your only asset, your value will be much worse 10 years later.
By the terms we use in Wall Street, every trading has a position, dating with you is also a "trading position".
If the trade value dropped we will sell it and it is not a good idea to keep it for long term - same goes with the marriage that you wanted. It might be cruel to say this, but in order to make a wiser decision any assets with great depreciation value will be sold or "leased".

Anyone with over $500k annual income is not a fool; we would only date you, but will not marry you. I would advice that you forget looking for any clues to marry a rich guy. And by the way, you could make yourself to become a rich person with $500k annual income.This has better chance than finding a rich fool.
Hope this reply helps.


signed,
J.P. Morgan CEO

IELTS Speaking Exam Tutorial - Part 2 of the IELTS Exam (Leisure Time)

IELTS Listening Practice: Work and the Over 50s

IELTS Speaking Tips Part One

Reading workout!

The following website will helps us as readers to become accomplished speed readers(for free).

As the website describe the benefits of it main fast reading tool : Eyercize

• ease your workload
• reduce eyestrain
• improve your job skills
• get better grades
• improve your material retention

Try it for your self with a sample text here at a rate of 295wpm.

Of course you can customize the text(Click New) and adjust to reading speed for you level(See the panel on the right) .

Eyercize

Moujib

IELTS Listening Practice: Nightmare of Work ( this one is really good ...)

IELTS reading - understanding unknown vocabulary

5 Ways to Become a Better Listener

8 score on IELTS writing task

Posted On Wednesday, 14. March 2012

I received an encouraging email this past week from an IELTS test taker who managed to score 8 in his writing. 

So in this model essay I’m highlighting the portions that help link the composition’s parts at the sentence, paragraph and essay level and hope you take note.  Please notice how cohesive devices can be found in all sentences following our opening background sentence.  Thus, every sentence in the essay links in some manner to information presented before it.

The following essay question was seen in early 2012 in Guang Zhou, China.

Some people like to go to a live sporting event, while others prefer to stay at home and watch it on television.  Which do you prefer?  Discuss both views using personal examples.

The manner in which people consume professional sports varies greatly from one person to another.  For some, the true excitement of the game can only be properly experienced in person.  Others contest that there are too many hassles that come along with attending live sporting events and would rather consume professional sports in the comfort of their own home.  The benefits of both positions will be analyzed before a preference is shared.

Firstly, many prefer to attend athletic events in person to allow themselves to participate in the spectacle.  For example, while visiting England, it became apparent to me that English sporting spectators take pride in participating as much as they can in professional football.  Those unable to get tickets to games watch them in public places, such as at a pub.  Thus to many, watching sports is a very social pastime and best experienced at the place where the match is unfolding .

However, the above view is not universally true.  Many people counter that the most rewarding way to consume professional sports is to do so from the comfort of one’s own home.  For instance, it is much more common for North American baseball fans to tune in to games via radio or television than to attend these events in person.  For most of these people, the hassle and daunting price of tickets is enough to put them off attending entirely.  From this point of view, the merits of watching professional sporting competitions from one’s own home can be seen.

Although both sides of this discussion contain indisputable virtues, it is felt that tuning in to sporting events from home is a much more convenient way to experience a professional game. That said, it is assumed that personal preference will always rule when it comes to deciding in what manner one should digest sports.

ielts speaking interview

Prepare For IELTS EXAM, Check out WWW.IELTSEXAMS.NET

The IELTS Exam - everything you need to know

IATEFL Glasgow 2012:Nik Peachey

An interview with Nik Peachey:Nik talked about a new online tech tool and also about the implementing of technological change in the classroom.Nik mentioned the web site Scoopit ,in which an online web magazine can be created by collecting articles on a particular topic.He said it was a good way to circulate information on interesting articles.
On the issue of technology in the last ten years,he basically said that there hadn't really been that much progress in how schools use technology,even though many schools have IWBs,modern technology isn't being used to its fullest potential.He said schools should have open access to WI-FI and broadband,then the students,without having to log in,would be able to find  materials to help them with their learning.

IATEFL Glasgow 2012:Russel Stannard

In an interview with Russel Stannard talked about the 'connected classroom' in which the activities in the classroom are linked to homework activities especially in the area of learner autonomy.Russel mentioned the use of the web site 'Vocaroo' for recording speaking activities and also the setting up of an e-Portfolio containing 3 to 4 of the student's Vocaroo recordings which could be used for assessment either via peer assessment or by the teacher,the student choosing one of their recordings to be assessed.Russel said it was important to prepare the students in the classroom for the 'Vocaroo' speaking task help the student do the homework task more successfully.
I've recently got my IELTS students to do a couple of Vocaroo recordings and quite a few of them have enjoyed doing the activity.

IATEFL Glasgow 2012: Jamie Keddie

In an interview with James Keddie talked about making the most of material and in particular visual materials.Jamie gave an example with the video which follows a rugby team on a tour around the world and the key point of courage isn't reached until the end where the rugby players are seen in wheelchairs and the impact of such  visual material can be exploited in many ways which can be engaging,thought provoking and memorable.

IATEFL Glasgow 2012:Jill Hadfield

In an interview with Jill Hadfield,she talked about a new series of books to bridge the gap between researchers and classroom practioners and mentioned an interesting new theory,where the students could use 'guided visualisation' to help them with learning English,basically the students imagine themselves in a future situation speaking the language.

20th of March 1956

In 1869, Tunisia declared itself bankrupt and an international financial commission took control over its economy. In 1881, using the pretext of a Tunisian incursion into Algeria, the French invaded with an army of about 36,000 and forced the Bey to agree to the terms of the 1881 Treaty of Bardo (Al Qasr as Sa'id).With this treaty, Tunisia was officially made a French protectorate .

Tunisia achieved independence from France in 1956 led by Habib Bourguiba, who later became the first Tunisian President.
Long life to Tunisia and friends of Tunisia
Moujib

Super cute ! Must see

2 years old Makena sings very famous Adel's song: Someone Like You
A must see and share!

Moujib

Muamba 'showing signs of improvement'

Footballer Fabrice Muamba is "showing signs of improvement", a joint statement from Barts and The London NHS Trust and Bolton Wanderers Football Club has said.

The BBC's James Pearce reports from the London Chest Hospital, where the player is being treated.

Watch the BBC's full video report here  

Moujib

Happy Mother's Day

For all moms around the world : Happy Mother's Day

Moms are always there for you.
Moms shape lives and inspire dreams.
Moms are the heart of the family.
Moms grow love better than anyone! 

I love you mom,je t'aime maman,Ti amo mamma,Te quiero mamá,Is breá liom tú mam,Я люблю тебя мама,Ich liebe dich Mama,我爱你，妈妈,私はお母さんを愛して,أحبك يا أمي

Moujib 

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

Happy Saint Patrick's Day

discover more about Ireland

Teaching English Radio on RTCI 'Teaching New Language'

This month the British Council's Teaching English Radio series again reached more new listeners in Tunisia as the third programme was broadcasted on the 'The English Programme 'on RCTI.

Apart from the well-known presenter Hayet Toukabri there was a studio audience,which included local Tunisian teachers/trainers and special guest Kiros Langston,Teacher Trainer at British Council Tunis.
This month's theme of discussion on the English programme was 'Teaching New Language' which produced interesting suggestions and a lively debate on inductive versus deductive learning.
The way that the teachers taught new items of language depended on the educational background of the teacher and the students they taught: the Primary teacher said she used realia,pictures and bright colours to get the students involved;whilst the other teachers in the studio audience liked using stories or songs and videos.Mohamed,one of the winners to the call-in quiz,said he used to be a teacher and that he preferred the communicative method of  teaching new language allowing the students to discover the language.

Hayet,the radio presenter,and the studio audience preparing before going live!
Click RTCI Facebook for more info
Tune in on Friday the 20th April (2.00-3.00pm) for the next programme of  Teaching English Radio to hear a discussion on ''Teaching Reading'' plus more chances to improve your listening skills and win some great prizes!

Living in a city (Home Work Task)

Date: 15/03/12

Class: IELTS 2

Word counting: 312 words

Author: Moujib Bouchneb

Birds of a feather flock together, very famous quote and obviously the best one to describe what’s happing in major cities around the world. More then 400 metropolis are spread around the world with more then 1/4 of the world’s population .In UK there is up to 244 hab/km² . The world's demography is literally melting into a high density urban scheme .
[Email me for the rest :)]