Thanksgiving Day in the US

Thanksgiving Day in the US is the day when many people give thanks for the many things they have. It's historical origin dates back to when some of first settlers came to Massachusetts and survived the first difficult winter with the help of the Native Americans in the area. In my particular family, we usually get together and each the usual, traditional meal of turkey, potatoes, beans, pumpkin pie, salad, and whatever people bring over.

So, do you have a day of thanks in your country? If so, share information about this day with us.

Randall

Apartment Living: Alone or with a Roommate?

Imagine that you are studying English in a foreign country. Would you prefer to live by yourself in an apartment or with a roommate? What are the advantages and disadvantages of each? What have been your experiences in living with roommate? Share your ideas.

Randall

What is a successful language learner?

Although many international students come to the US to learn English and pursue university degrees, the reality is, from my experience, that not all have the academic skills to succeed in the timeline that they choose. In other words, some students think that they can come to the US at a beginning level, and within 6 months, be ready to enter AND succeed in college. Now, there is a big difference between everyday language skills (meeting people, ordering at a restaurant, talking about hobbies, etc.) and participating in debate and classroom discussions on academic topics (politics, economics, social issues, etc.).

So, what do you think are the keys to preparing for a university degree in another country? Are there born learners who naturally can learn languages while others might struggle? Share your ideas.

Randall

US Elections: Obama wins

The US elections concluded last night, with Barak Obama winning. So, do you think a new US president will have a positive impact on the world economies and peace? Why or why not?

Randall

Raising Children: What's the secret?

Raising healthy and emotionally-sound children isn't as easy as you might think, and most young couples have really no idea of what they are getting into when they first get married. In fact, while babies and young children require time, older children in their teenage years and even into adulthood need just as much, and sometimes more, time and understanding.

Therefore, what do you think are the keys to raising children in our day and age? What did your parents do to raise you that worked or didn't work? Share your ideas. You can also listen of an activity on my Website on this topic at:

http://www.esl-lab.com/children/childrenrd1.htm


Randall

About English Teachers: If you could change one thing . . .

This topic is specifically for English students. If you could change one thing about your English teacher (teaching style, classroom management, interaction with students, grading system), what would it be and why? W hat is your image of the perfect or ideal teacher? Tell us about one teacher you have had that influenced you most.

Randall

Home Security: How do you protect yourself?

Crime, particularly robbery and burglary, can be found in most places around the world, and learning to deal with it----including protecting yourself----is an important concern. Furthermore, as you travel to new places, you need to take precautions to minimize your risk of theft. Here is my newest listening activity on the topic at my site, www.esl-lab.com:

• http://www.esl-lab.com/securitysystems/securitysystemsrd1.htm

Although the conversation is somewhat humorous, the topic of crime and theft can never be taken lightly. So, let's suppose you have an international friend that has just moved into your area. What advice can you give the person to protect himself/herself from theft?

Randall