The growth of English abroad is putting words in the mouths of students—even changing their identities. I found this article by Julie Traves interesting. It has often been of concern to me not to try and sell British culture as being better than the culture/belief system of the person I am teaching.

DUE TO THE CURRENT FINANCIAL STATUS OF THE COMPANY. ALL EMPLOYEES ARE ENCOURAGED TO ADOPT THE FOLLOWING COST CUTTING MEASURES:- AccommodationAll employees are encouraged to stay with relatives and friends while on business travel. If weather permits, public areas such as parks should be used for temporary accommodation. Bus stations, train stations and office lobbies […]

My sister sent me this proof that Delia Smith's not a real woman! Delia's WayStuff a miniature marshmallow in the bottom of a sugar cone to prevent ice cream drips. The Real Woman's WayJust suck the ice cream out of the bottom of the cone, for God's sake. You are probably lying on the couch […]

My friend Peter sent me this - thanks Pete! What are you trying to tell me? You are a coffeeholic when:- You get a headache just thinking about giving up. You grind your coffee beans in your mouth. You lick your coffeepot clean. You've worn the finish off your coffee table. You take your morning […]

This article appeared recently on the net, and I for one agree. In the UK we are taught French as our main second language and generally German as an alternative later. Memo to Global Executives - Learn Spanish In the global economy it is not uncommon for an American executive to deal with suppliers in […]

I was recently asked on my forum whether I like pets. Of course being the carer of a cat and dog (I don't say owner as I think that would annoy them) the answer is a resounding yes. Sometimes people ask me whether I prefer the cat, or the dog. I can honestly say I […]