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 i...

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,...

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 m...

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 pers...

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 w...

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 incorporat...

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 bu...

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...

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 k...

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...

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 int...

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...

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 difficultie...

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...

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 celebr...

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.spotif...

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...

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 displa...

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 s...

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. A...

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 t...

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...

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 helpfu...

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 f...

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 pri...