Archive for May, 2017
DARE to Learn American English Posted by Gary Locke on May 25, 2017
What if I told you that American English is so diversified that there are different words and phrases for the same thing not only from region-to-region, but even from neighborhood-to-neighborhood? Let me introduce you to one of the most remarkable dictionaries of the English Language. The Dictionary of American Regional English, or DARE, documents and…
Memorial Day History and Traditions Posted by sasha on May 23, 2017
The last Monday in May is a federal holiday in the US. It’s called Memorial Day, and it’s meant to honor those who died while serving in the armed forces. Let’s learn more about this important American holiday with some Memorial Day history and traditions. History This holiday was started after the American Civil War…
This is JEOPARDY!® Posted by Gary Locke on May 18, 2017
In the history of American television there has never been anything quite like the continuing phenomenon that is Jeopardy®. This brainy, yet seemingly simple game show is a cultural institution in the United States. It is also a marvelous way for students of English to test themselves. The show began as the brainchild of entertainer…
Southern USA Road Trip Posted by sasha on May 17, 2017
When it comes to traveling, there’s nothing quite like a good old American road trip. On a southern USA road trip, you can visit Nashville, Asheville, Atlanta, New Orleans, and Austin. There’s lots to see, do, learn, and eat in these great American cities! In this short video tour, get a little taste for all…
It’s Tea Time! Posted by Gary Locke on May 12, 2017
Tea is the beverage most closely associated with the English, so it is no surprise that the English language is filled with idioms and terms related to the humble, delicious brew. Let’s explore the curious case of tea and English speakers. I am a tea drinker. I rarely drink coffee, never drink sodas (or, as…
Great Southern Road Trip Posted by sasha on May 8, 2017
There are some things that are very distinctly American – apple pie, bald eagles, monster truck rallies, and the road trip. Packing up the car and hitting the open road is a great American tradition. In a country as big as the US, there are plenty of options. A west coast road trip can bring…
The Dying Art of Cursive in English Posted by Gary Locke on May 4, 2017
Cursive is any writing in which the letters are joined together in a flowing manner. In English, we call this penmanship in longhand. It is also known as writing in script. Whatever you call it, this is becoming a disappearing skill. The letters in English cursive writing always loop, eventually finding and connecting with each…