Here are practical ways to improve your English skills from the comfort of home.

Create an English environment

The first step is to surround yourself with English every day. Change your phone settings to English. Watch movies and TV shows in English with subtitles (and without if possible). Listen to English music and podcasts during your free time. Music can help your brain get used to hearing English sounds and patterns.

Start small. Watch one English video per day or listen to one English song. As you get more comfortable, increase the amount of English content you consume. This daily exposure will help you learn naturally and improve your listening skills.

Use online English resources

Search online and you will see the internet is full of free English learning materials. YouTube has thousands of English lessons for all levels. Apps like Duolingo, Memrise, and Babbel are a fun and interactive way to learn simple vocabulary words and phrases. You can also try English pronunciation apps.

Many websites offer free English grammar exercises and vocabulary games. Set aside 30 minutes each day for online practice. Always try to choose resources that match your English level. If you are a beginner, start with basic vocabulary and simple English grammar. Advanced learners can focus on complex topics and business English. Perhaps you can keep a notebook of new English words and vocabulary lists you can review.

Practice speaking English every day

Self-study courses can be useful but they often miss conversation practice. Speaking is often the most challenging skill for English learners around the world. Many language students can read and write well, but struggle to speak confidently. The key is daily spoken English practice, even if you are alone!

Record yourself speaking English. Read news articles out loud. Describe what you did during your day. Talk to yourself in English while doing household tasks. Talking to yourself might feel strange at first, but it helps build confidence and fluency. You can even record yourself and listen back to your pronunciation and reading speed.

Read English materials

Reading books in English naturally improves your vocabulary and grammar. Begin with children’s books or simple news articles for language learners. Gradually move to more complex texts like novels or newspapers to further improve your reading skills.

Keep a vocabulary notebook. Write down new words and their meanings. Review these words regularly. Try to use new words in your own sentences. This active practice helps you retain vocabulary more effectively.

Write in English daily

Writing helps you organise your thoughts and practice grammar. Start a journal in English. Write about your day, your thoughts, or your goals. Keeping a journal can also be highly motivating because you can look back at older entries and see just how much your English has improved over time. You can also write emails to English-speaking friends or comment on English websites and social media.
Your goal is to practice and improve your language skills, so don’t worry about your mistakes. Try to use your new English words and grammar. Over time, your writing will become more natural and accurate.

Join online communities

Try to connect with other English learners in social media groups, forums, and language exchange websites. Share your learning experiences and ask questions. Many online communities are supportive and helpful.

Why not consider finding a language exchange partner? A partner that wants to learn your native language while they help you learn English. This language exchange creates a win-win situation for both learners. Ideally you can meet native speakers to practice and learn with.

The benefits of live online English courses

Although self-study is valuable for all learners, taking a live online English course can significantly accelerate your progress. Live courses offer several advantages that independent study cannot provide.

Real-time interaction with qualified teachers is one of the biggest benefits. Teachers can correct your mistakes immediately, answer your questions, and provide personalised feedback. They can also adapt lessons to your specific needs and learning style.

Conversation practice with other international students provides genuine speaking opportunities. You can practice with people from different countries and backgrounds. Speaking with international students helps you understand different accents and speaking styles, and you get to learn about their different cultures too! Being in an international environment is a fun way to learn and it also builds confidence in using English in real situations.

Flexible scheduling allows you to learn at times that suit your lifestyle. Whether you prefer morning or evening classes, you can find online classes that fit your lifestyle. Flexibility hopefully makes it easier for you to maintain consistent learning habits.

Online English courses are also good at providing you with structure and motivation. Having regular class times and assignments helps you stay committed to your learning goals. The social aspect of learning with others makes the experience more enjoyable and less lonely.

Stay consistent and patient

There are no shortcuts so success, unfortunately. You will need to remember that improving your English takes time and consistent daily effort, so set yourself realistic goals and celebrate your small victories along the way. Create a study plan and do your best to stick to it. Some days will be harder than others, but don’t give up. Every time you practice, you get closer to fluency.

It’s important to keep in mind that making mistakes is a normal part of the learning process, so do not be afraid of trying new words or expressions. The more you practice, the more confident you will become.

You can learn English from home with dedication and the right approach. Combine self-study with structured learning opportunities, such as live online courses, for optimal results.
Learning English takes time is the reality. Whether you are alone or on a study abroad experience in an English-speaking country, it’s essential to practise and be patient in all areas.

The post How to improve your English from home appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Let’s take a real-life example of language from a snippet of a conversation I had the other day. I bumped into a friend the who looked different. I said to her ‘Nita, you look great! Have you had your hair cut?’ She replied ‘Thanks. Actually, I cut it myself’.

How did Nita know that I was asking if she’d been to the hairdresser’s if I didn’t mention the hairdresser or the salon? Look at the question again and let’s look at some more examples.

Have you had your hair cut?

• have your hair cut
• have my car fixed
• have your blood pressure taken

What do these examples have in common?

Their meaning and use:

In terms of meaning, all these structures tell us that someone performs the service for us. We use this structure to explain that we didn’t do it ourselves, we paid someone to do it. Can you think of more examples from service industries?

Here are a few more:

• Have a new set of keys cut
• Have my shoes reheeled
• Have my jacket dry-cleaned
• Have sushi delivered

Their structure:

We can see from these examples that they all follow a clear pattern: “to have something done”, or have + object + past participle.

• have + your hair + cut
• have + my car + fixed
• have + your blood pressure + taken
• have + my jacket + dry cleaned

The verb used at the end of this structure is called the past participle (e.g. cut, fixed, taken, cleaned). This might be a familiar term for some learners as we use the past participle in other structures too, so this is often worth pointing out to help build their awareness of common patterns.

How can we help learners to recognise patterns?

When raising learners awareness of patterns, it’s important to give them more than one example. With this particular structure, you could ask learners to think of examples of services they might pay for. To support them, you could give pictures of various services (e.g. hairdressers / mechanics).

Once you have a number of examples using the same structure, ask learners to examine them and find the common pattern. Doing these activities in pairs can help as learners begin to bounce ideas off each other and together they find the meaning and patterns.

Next it’s all about consolidating the pattern by getting learners to use it. We can get them to ask each other questions and encourage conversations:

When was the last time you…

• had your eyes tested?
• had your car serviced?
• had your house redecorated?
• had your nails done?
• had a device repaired?

This repetition can be incredibly useful for learners. It helps to reinforce the pattern making it easier for them to recognise and use.

The final step is to send them out into the world to try to find examples of it in use. By sending them on a pattern-hunt, we encourage them to notice other patterns and structures.

Final thoughts for English teachers

Some learners will want to know the grammar terminology and that can also give them more autonomy when it comes to studying outside of the classroom. Not all learners will need or want this and so you can keep it useful by focusing on a recognisable pattern that everyone can see. Nevertheless, doing your research before a lesson can help you be prepared and become more confident with terminology bit by bit.

CELTA and DELTA courses

The structure we have been looking at here is known as the causative passive construction. Want to deepen your knowledge of grammar and how to teach it? Find out more about learning to teach with EC’s CELTA and DELTA courses. We offer online, face-to-face, and blended options at EC London and EC Toronto. You can also read what previous participants have said about our courses [here].

Quick reference summary: ‘Have something done’

• Structure: have/get + object + past participle
• Meaning: Describes a service or action done by someone else
• Use: Focus on the result or experience, not the doer
• Example: She had her nails done.
• Common Contexts: Services like beauty treatments, repairs, appointments

The post Have something done: Grammar for teachers appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

What is online learning?

Online learning, also known as e-learning or remote learning, has grown rapidly in recent years. It allows students to learn via the internet, using digital platforms and tools that bring lessons to life beyond the traditional classroom.  

From university students to language learners, many students have started opting for remote courses—especially since the pandemic forced many of them to give it a try. But its rise isn’t just a reaction; it’s a natural evolution in how we access and share knowledge in a connected world.

How effective is online learning?

There is no clear-cut answer to the question, because everyone learns differently. Plus, factors like interactivity, scheduling, and resources vary across schools and courses.  

In recent years, there has been more interest in online learning as an area of research. Some studies say it works just as well if not better, while others say it’s not as effective as learning in a classroom. 

For example, one review of studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic found mixed results. About 36% of studies said online learning was effective, but 52% found it less effective than traditional learning environments. The main problems cited were a lack of interaction between students and teachers, and poor internet or technology (Rashid & Yadav, 2023, Frontiers in Education). 

However, in certain fields, like healthcare training, online learning showed better results. A 2024 study found that nursing students improved their skills, knowledge, and confidence through online lessons (Lim et al., 2024, Teaching and Learning in Nursing). 

Of course, online education existed earlier than 5 years ago. A 2009 report conducted by SRI International for the Department of Education concluded that: “On average, students in online learning conditions performed better than those receiving face-to-face instruction.” The meta-analysis looked at 99 studies from 1996 to 2008, mostly in tertiary education settings. Specifically, the report noted that students in online courses scored, on average, in the 59th percentile on performance tests, while classroom students were in the 50th. 

It is worth noting that, when the pandemic broke out, many students and teachers found the sudden move to online learning difficult. It happened quickly, without time to prepare. However, having to accept that as the potential “new normal” forced our society to catch up. Over time, schools improved how they taught online, and new tools were developed to make learning easier and more engaging. 

How online learning has improved

In the past few years alone, several important changes have helped make online learning better: 

• Educators received intensive training in digital tools and how to teach online. 
• Tools like breakout rooms, discussion boards, and instant feedback facilitated student-centred learning. 

• Pre-existing online platforms like Zoom and Google Classroom advanced their features. 

• A rise in startups and innovation in Educational Technology.  

• Interactive tools like Kahoot! and Mentimeter made lessons more fun and engaging. 

• Closed captioning and translation features improved, helping non-native language speakers and students with disabilities. 

• Many schools now offer online modules, so students can study at their own pace.

The Benefits of Learning English as a foreign language online

Studying abroad in an English-speaking country can be a huge commitment. While travelling definitely adds to the experience, not everyone has the time, money, and energy to spare. It’s an obstacle faced by learners all over the world. Fortunately, we live in a digital age, with online English courses offering a flexible, accessible alternative. 

Online English classes bring the learning to you, letting you access high-quality education from anywhere in the world. Gone are the days of “Did I pack enough socks?” and waiting in airport queues just to improve your grammar!

Affordable and Accessible

Let’s start with the obvious; it’s way cheaper. Learning English online means no accommodation costs, no travel expenses, and definitely no visa headaches. You can skip the stress of booking flights or worrying about where you’ll stay. Instead, you get to learn from the comfort of your own home, all without the expensive, time-consuming logistics of traveling abroad. Much simpler, right? 

Flexibility

One of the biggest benefits of learning English online is the flexibility it offers. You’re not tied to a strict schedule, so you can choose when and where to study, whether that’s early in the morning, on your lunch break, or late at night. There’s no need to wait for a new term to begin or to save up holiday leave just to join a course. 

Online English lessons cut out the daily commute too, which means you avoid the stress of traffic or public transport. Wondering if you will make it to your lesson on time is not the best way to start a day of learning! Plus, everything you need is right at your fingertips, so you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your notes or materials.  

Best of all, with more control over your study time, you can enjoy your free time your way, whether that’s relaxing, pursuing a hobby, or spending quality moments with family.  

Learn your way

Learning English remotely means you can progress entirely at your own pace, without the pressure of keeping up with a class or sticking to someone else’s timeline. Whether you’re a fast learner keen to move ahead or someone who prefers to take things slowly and absorb the details, online courses let you tailor your learning experience to suit your needs. You can revisit lessons as many times as you like, pause when life gets busy, and focus on the areas where you need the most improvement. This personalised approach not only helps build confidence but also makes your English learning journey far more effective and enjoyable. 

Learning English through live online classes gives you the best of both worlds: real-time interaction with expert teachers and the freedom to learn at your own pace. In a live virtual classroom, you can ask questions on the spot, get immediate feedback, and engage in conversations that help you build confidence quickly.  

Unlike pre-recorded lessons, live classes keep you motivated and accountable, while still allowing flexibility. If you miss a lesson or need extra support, you can directly approach the teacher, rather than simply watching a recorded video. You’re in control of your progress, focusing on what you need most, but with the added structure and support of a real teacher guiding you along the way.

Build confidence in a relaxed setting

Another great advantage of learning English online is the comfortable and supportive learning environment it provides. Studying from the comfort of your own home can make a huge difference, especially for those who feel nervous speaking up in traditional classroom settings. Typing your questions or answers during lessons can be far less intimidating than having to speak in front of a group.  

Even something as simple as clicking to raise your digital hand on a Zoom call feels easier than doing it in a crowded classroom or lecture hall. This relaxed setting encourages more participation and helps build confidence, making it easier for students to stay engaged and motivated as they improve their English skills. 

Choose your learning environment

One of the most underrated benefits of learning English online is the freedom to choose your own environment. You’re no longer stuck in the same four walls of a physical classroom, which can often feel understimulating and repetitive. Instead, you can follow your lessons from your bedroom or a cosy corner of your kitchen, maybe even your terrace!  

Did you know that changing your surroundings can actually boost concentration and improve mood? In fact, a study by the University of Illinois found that changing your learning environment can improve memory retention and help you stay more focused, making online English learning not just more flexible, but potentially more effective too. 

The beauty of online learning is that as long as you have an internet connection and a bit of battery life, you can take your English classes almost anywhere.  

If the idea of studying where you sleep doesn’t appeal to you, you can easily mix things up. Plus, you get to spend those sunny days where you want to be, not just where your classroom happens to be. You can head to your favourite café or find a quiet spot at the park!

Develop digital soft skills

As remote and hybrid working models continue to gain popularity (especially among international companies), learning English online can give you a real edge in the modern workplace. It’s not just about language skills; it’s also about becoming confident in digital communication, online collaboration, and virtual coordination, all of which are crucial in today’s job market.  

Taking an online English course helps you get comfortable with video calls, chat-based discussions, and digital tools that are commonly used in remote work settings. In fact, a study by Bay Atlantic University in 2021 found that 60% of students felt their online education helped them develop valuable soft skills, such as communication and time management. So, by learning English online, you’re not only improving your language abilities—you’re also preparing yourself for success in a digitally connected world. 

Meet people through the screen

One common worry about remote learning is that it feels lonely or disconnected, but online language courses can actually help you meet people from all over the world.  

Many English language courses bring together students from different countries, creating a space where you can practise speaking, share ideas, and learn from each other’s cultures. Group discussions, live video classes, and online forums all give you the chance to connect and communicate. 

Experts believe that new technology and social platforms are helping students learn together, not alone. “People are correct when they say online education will take things out of the classroom. But they are wrong, I think, when they assume it will make learning an independent, personal activity.” says Philip Reiger, dean of Arizona State University’s Online and Extended Campus Program; “Learning has to occur in a community.” 

Learning English online isn’t just a second-best option. It’s a smart, flexible, and easy way to reach your goals. Whether you’re learning for work, travel, or personal growth, online English courses put you in control. And of course, it gives you the tools to do it from wherever you are in the world! 

It’s never been easier to connect, communicate, and grow your English skills in a way that works for you. And with continued improvements in technology and teaching methods, it’s only going to get easier! 

Wherever you are, your English journey can start right now with EC Live—no passport required. Save time, money, and stress, while gaining access to global classrooms, experienced teachers, and real connections with people around the world.

The post The benefits of learning English online appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Zsolt, Yixin, Chayanit, and Esther are four students from Budapest, Beijing, Bangkok and Salvador. They’re currently on the IELTS Exam Prep course at EC Malta. Writing tasks are an essential part of the IELTS exam, getting them right is important for earning a pass!

To practise writing, their teacher Isabella instructed them to write: “A summary about my city using collocations”. They definitely understood the assignment, as we’ll see later. But first…

What are collocations?

Collocations are pairings of words that sound natural to a native speaker. For example, “make a mistake” sounds more natural than “do a mistake”.  

Collocations can generally be divided into different types, such as: 

• Adjective + noun (e.g. “common sense”) 

• Noun + noun (e.g. “beach towel”)  

• Verb + noun (e.g. “make a decision”) 

• Adverb + adjective (e.g. “highly recommended”) 

• Verb + adverb (e.g. “strongly agree”) 

• Verb + prepositional phrase (e.g. “look forward to”) 

In fact, “exam preparation” is a noun + noun collocation; it’s also a fixed collocation. 

Fixed collocations 

Fixed collocations are pairings of words that sound very natural together and are difficult to replace. These collocations are so widely used that they’ve become standard terms/descriptors, like “crystal clear” or “historical figure”. 

Can you spot the collocations in Zsolt, Yixin, Chayanit, and Esther’s summaries?

1. capital of Hungary (noun + noun) Capital of [country]” is a classic fixed expression commonly used in geography and political context.  

2. most populous city (adjective + noun) common descriptive phrase for cities. “Populous” is a more formal adjective meaning “densely populated.” It commonly modifies nouns like city, area, country. 

3. by far (adverb + adjective) often used to intensify superlatives (e.g., “by far the best,” “by far the biggest”). 

4. oldest cities (adjective + noun) “oldest” commonly collocates with “cities” when talking about history or heritage. 

5. recommend visiting (verb + noun) standard collocation for giving travel or activity advice 

Tip: In this context, visiting functions as a noun, because Zsolt is talking about the concept of visiting rather than the action. Verbs that function as nouns are called gerunds; they always end in -ing.

6. metro line (noun + noun) fixed collocation 

7. feel like (verb + prepositional phrase) used to describe a sensation or feeling 

8. time travel (noun + noun) common metaphorical expression 

9. city centre (noun + noun) strong collocation describing the central area of a city 

10. a bit crowded (adverb + adjective) common informal intensifier used with adjectives (e.g. “a bit boring”, “a bit interesting”). 

11. Hungarian population (adjective + noun) typical demographic phrase 

12. way more cars (adverb + noun) informal but strong collocation (especially in speech); way more is an informal intensifier that’s used before countable and uncountable nouns. 

Tip: You wouldn’t usually say “population of Hungary” in this kind of sentence (“a quarter of the population of Hungary lives there” is grammatically correct, but more formal and less direct than “a quarter of the Hungarian population”).  

13. modern civilisations (adjective + noun) “Modern” is often paired with abstract or cultural terms like “civilisation,” “society,” “technology.

1. capital of China (noun + noun) 

2. populous city (adjective + noun): used in formal demographic contexts. Other more common alternatives are “large city” or “densely populated city”. 

3. born in this city (Verb + prepositional phrase) Born is a very common combination in English when discussing place of birth. The addition of “this city” personalises it but doesn’t break the collocation. 

4. have privileges (verb + noun): the word ‘privilege’ refers to a special advantage or honour. For example, one might say “I had the privilege of attending the event” or “She has the privilege of living close to school”. The verb “have” collocates with a range of abstract nouns like privileges, rights, responsibilities, opportunities, etc.  

5. more opportunities (adjective + noun): “more” is a quantifying adjective that collocates naturally with abstract nouns like opportunities, choices, jobs, options 

6. best universities (superlative adjective + noun): The word “best” regularly collocates with “universities” in discussions about rankings and quality of education. 

7. strong economy (adjective + noun): this is a common phrase in economics and politics (other examples include “strong economy”, “growing economy”, “global economy”) 

8. famous for tourism (adjective + prepositional phrase): “Famous for” itself is a strong and frequent collocation. It’s often followed by a noun indicating the reason for the fame (e.g. “New York City is famous for its food”, “Cape Town is famous for its beaches”). 

9. historical significance (adjective + noun): a standard phrase in history, culture, and academia. 

10. of great historical significance (prepositional phrase/fixed expression): a formal fixed phrase often used in academic or formal writing 

11. most popular monument (adjective + noun): a very common collocation in both speech and writing, and it naturally modifies nouns like destination, monument, show. 

12. total length (adjective + noun): the word “total” collocates frequently with nouns involving measurement or scope (e.g “total cos”, “total are”, total population”). 

1. the heart of thailand (noun + prepositional phrase): “the heart of [something]” is the central and most important part of it 

2. luxurious buildings (adjective + noun): “Luxurious” often collocates with hotels, houses, interiors, and buildings. It emphasises elegance or wealth. 

3. Shopping malls (noun + noun): widely used collocation referring to a large building with many shops. 

4. Modern facilities/buildings (adjective + noun): very common in travel, housing, and infrastructure descriptions. 

5. Aesthetically pleasing (adverb + adjective): fixed phrase in design, architecture, art, and criticism. 

6. Attractive buildings (Adjective + noun): “Attractive” is a general-purpose adjective that collocates with buildings, places, features. 

7. old buildings (adjective + noun) 

8. Traditional restaurants (adjective + noun) “Traditional” is a very common collocate with food, restaurants, and customs. 

9. Street food vendors (noun + noun): This one’s like a collocation sandwich; “street food” and “food vendors” are standard phrases, so “street food vendors” flows naturally. 

1. capital of the country (noun + noun) 

2. populated cities (adjective + noun): “Populated” naturally modifies “cities” when referring to population size. This pairing is common in demographic and urban discussions. 

3. attracting many tourists (verb + noun): widely used in tourism contexts; “attract” is the most natural verb for describing how a place draws in tourists. 

4. throughout the whole year (preposition + noun phrase): common way to express continuity over a year; the word throughout strongly collocated with time periods. 

5. in the summer: (preposition + noun): A fixed seasonal expression. 

6. abundant in spices (adjective + prepositional phrase): “Abundant in” is a common phrase for describing things present in large quantities, especially ingredients. 

7. beautiful beaches (adjective + noun) 

8. historical monuments (adjective + noun) 

9. well-preserved (adverb + adjective): a frequent collocation with old structures, especially in heritage or conservation discussions. 

10. touristic places (adjective + noun): alternatives like “tourist areas” or tourist attractions” flow more naturally 

11. traditional crafts (adjective + noun): used to describe handmade or culturally rooted artefacts; it’s very common in travel and souvenir contexts. 

12. gift your loved ones (verb + noun phrase): this one’s common in marketing or informal situations. 

13. memory of the city (noun + prepositional phrase): “memory of [a place]” is a typical way to express emotional or nostalgic connection to a location. 

We hope you learned a thing or two about collocations from Zsolt, Yixin, Chayanit, and Esther’s work! Why don’t you try it now? Write a summary about your city using collocations. 

Practise writing exercises, learn test-taking strategies, and get personalised feedback on your work at EC!

Our IELTS Preparation course is available in Malta, Toronto, London, Brighton, Manchester, Bristol, Dublin, Cape Town and Dubai. 

The post Students write about cities using collocations appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

We’ve talked about how reading is one of the most powerful (and enjoyable!) ways to improve your English. Stories have the power to transport, comfort, and even inspire us. Reading in another language can feel intimidating at first, but with the right book, it becomes a joy. 

Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe

True Crime, Biography

I’m not sure about favourite, but I’m reading Say Nothing by Patrick Radden Keefe and it’s incredible. 

It’s an account of the Troubles in Northern Ireland. It’s told in narrative style but it’s incredibly well-researched. It’s been turned into a TV show, too, but I highly recommend the book. It’s incredibly informative about a very complicated time. 

For a simpler one, David recommends… 

I’ve always been a huge fan of the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman.  

It’s a series of three fantasy books written for 12 years and up, but the story is incredibly well-written and so captivating. I would highly recommend everyone check it out, even as an adult.   

David

Global Curriculum Manger

In The Shadow of Crows by David Charles Manners

Autobiography, Travel literature

My favourite book is In The Shadow of Crows by David Manners.  

It’s a life-changing book about a young man looking for his purpose in life and an encounter with a woman who has leprosy. This book is like my “north star”, as it reminds me what it means to be alive and what it means to have true compassion.   

Chris

Centre Director at EC Cambridge

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

Adventure fiction, Historical Fiction, Romance novel

My favourite book is The Count of Monte Cristo. 

When times have been really tough, these words have been very important to me; “Until the day that God will deign to reveal the future to man, all human wisdom is contained in those two words – Wait and Hope.” It is a stunning work with many messages, but that was the one that meant the most to me.  

My favourite author, though, is Terry Pratchett. Terry has been my moral compass through my whole life. His books are steeped in wisdom and humanity, and I’d recommend all 41 Discworld books to anyone and everyone.      

Darran

Centre Director at EC Manchester

Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins

Fantasy Fiction, Fable

The book I always recommend to people is, Jitterbug Perfume by Tom Robbins.    

It is an epic adventure with interweaving storylines from 8^th century Eurasia to present day Paris, New Orleans and Seattle. There are a lot of twists and turns, tragedy and laughter in the story and Tom Robbins is such a colourful and evocative writer. 

The characters include an ancient kind and his lover as they search for immortality, a waitress who is an amateur perfumer stalled in recreating the fragrance from the last remaining drops of a 300-year-old perfume bottle in her possession. Her stepmother who was once a famous perfumer in New Orleans and two brothers who run a perfume empire in Paris. All the characters are connected by this ancient, elusive perfume and watched over by the goat-god, Pan. Beetroots are also a major theme in the book.    

Tansy

Teacher at EC Manchester

The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osmand

 Crime fiction, Detective Fiction, Cosy Mystery

I really enjoyed The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman; it’s a smart, funny, and surprisingly heartwarming murder mystery.  

The story follows four retirees who spend their time solving cold cases for fun and so when a real murder happens nearby, they take it upon themselves to crack the case!  

Osman’s writing is witty, and the characters are so well-developed through the book that you feel like you know them. I love how he effortlessly blends humour with murder mystery. 

Chapters are really short, so it’s good for people who like to read a few pages before bed!    

Beth

Teacher at EC Brighton

Dead Simple by Peter James

Thriller, Fiction, Mystery

I’d like to recommend the book Dead Simple. It’s written by a local author called Peter James and is set in the vibrant coastal city of Brighton. 

This book was actually given to me by my best friend before I got married as a bit of a joke because it tells the story of a man who mysteriously goes missing just before his own wedding. It’s a real page turner and has loads of twists and turns in the plot. The book was so successful it’s been turned into a play and a TV programme. 

I’d recommend this book to anyone who likes crime and mystery novels and perhaps could be a great memento to take home after your studies with us?

And although this is a crime book, please remember it is fictional! Brighton is generally a very safe place!  

Brad

Student Services Coordinator at EC Brighton

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Southern Gothic, Legal Thriller, Social Novel

People often talk about books that inspire them or reignite their love for reading. For me, To Kill a Mockingbird stands out.  

It has everything—rich characters, a gripping plot, and a beautifully crafted setting. Harper Lee’s portrayal of childhood summers in Maycomb, Alabama, transports me back to my own youth in the UK, capturing the innocence of discovery and the slow pace of summer holidays. 

Beyond its vivid storytelling, the novel’s exploration of racial prejudice, justice, and morality makes it timeless and first opened my eyes to the world’s injustice and those who fight against it. The trial of Tom Robinson exposes the deep-rooted biases of society, while Atticus Finch, with his unwavering integrity, remains a role model for standing up for what’s right. His lessons on empathy and fairness left a lasting impact on me, shaping my understanding of justice and the importance of moral courage. 

The book doesn’t offer easy answers, but challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and biases. Even in the face of injustice, it carries a message of hope—reminding us that change is possible when we choose empathy, integrity, and the courage to stand against wrongdoing. That’s what makes To Kill a Mockingbird a truly unforgettable read. 

Andy

Teacher at EC Brighton

Atonement by Ian McEwan

Psychological Fiction, Historical Fiction, Wartime novel

I recommend Atonement by Ian McEwan. 

The characterisation is masterful, and the plot contains subtle twists and an ending that completely astonishes the reader! 

Set in pre-WWII England, the novel blends romance, war, and psychological drama. It tells the haunting story of how one child’s misunderstanding shatters lives—and how the truth, once written, may not be enough to heal the damage.   

Mark

Teacher at EC Brighton

Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home by Mikael Lindnord

Biography, Guidebook, Travel literature

Choosing a single all-time favourite book is impossible, but one of the best books I read last year was Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home by Mikael Lindnord.  

My manager, Isabel, recommended it to me—probably because of my unwavering love for dogs! 

What makes this book even more special is that it’s a true story. It explores endurance, love, loyalty, and the deep bond between humans and animals. It highlights how resilient we can be, how life-changing unexpected challenges can become, and how physical effort shapes who we are. Most of all, it’s a beautiful reminder of the incredible loyalty and love that dogs bring into our lives. 

This book made me laugh and cry in equal measure. The raw emotions it stirred in me went far beyond my usual connection to a story. 

I highly recommend it to anyone who loves sports, dogs, or both!   

Gosia

Centre Director at EC Brighton

The Collector by John Fowles

Thriller, Horror fiction, Psychological Fiction

Rob Marsh recommends The Collector by John Fowles    

A chilling portrait of obsession, The Collector follows a lonely man who kidnaps the object of his desire, believing he can make her love him. Dark, unsettling, and thought-provoking, it explores the terrifying gap between fantasy and reality. 

Robert is an author himself! From his own published works, he recommends Beast of Prey, which was short-listed for The Sunday Times Literary Award. It’s a harrowing yet fascinating look at criminal psychology, real-life horror, and the pursuit of justice.  

Rob Marsh

Teacher at EC Malta

The Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind

Heroic Fantasy, Action, Adventure

Rachel recommends the The Sword of Truth series by Terry Goodkind.   

This epic saga of magic, war, and destiny is comprised of 17 volumes, but you can start with Wizard’s First Rule. Complete with deep moral questions and non-stop action, the series is perfect if you’re into fantasy.  

Rachel

Assistant Director of Studies at EC Malta

The Baron in the Trees by Italo Calvino (translated by Archibald Colquhoun)

Fantasy, Science fiction, Historical Fiction

Two books I have read lately really surprised and touched me. One of them is The Baron in the trees an Italian novel by Italo Calvino that follows the life of Cosimo di Rondò.  

From a 12-year-old to his death, it narrates his life on the trees, among love, adventure and knowledge. It is my favourite book mostly because it taught me that one can’t just rebel against something without proper knowledge and study, (in terms of) both reading and experience. 

Cosimo is a character I often look up to. His restlessness and constant curiosity are what drives me into questioning things around me and be a better version of myself. 

“This he understood: that association makes people stronger and brings out each person’s best gifts, and gives a joy which is rarely to be had by keeping to oneself, the joy of realizing how many honest decent capable people there are for whom it is worth giving one’s best (while living just for oneself very often the opposite happens, of seeing people’s other side, the side which makes one keep one’s hand always on the hilt of one’s sword).” 

From Baron in the Trees 

Valentin

Teacher at EC Malta

The post World Book Day Staff Picks: Favourite Reads from our Teachers appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Although we’d love to see you in person at EC San Francisco, we know not everyone can make it. That’s why we launched EC Live, our Online English courses, so you can experience the same great EC experience from home!

We can shape our use of English to add emphasis in a number of different contexts. For example, to give strong advice, to express opinions clearly, to disagree, to show concern, to entertain. The list is endless.

One of the most effective ways to make language more emphatic when using English is by inverting a sentence’s regular word order. Emphasis in this way is often presented through written language and is of a highly formal register. Let’s take a look at the following sentence:

1) She had never seen such an impressive live performance

The sentence above displays a regular, relatively common word order in English. We have our subject (She), followed by a negative verb form in the past (had never seen) and a modified object (such an impressive live performance). Now let’s look closely at a second example:

2) Never had she seen such an impressive live performance

Our second sentence clearly demonstrates a shift in the first example’s word order. Never is what is known as a ‘Negative Adverbial’. Above, Never has been taken away from the sentence’s main verb phrase and inserted at the beginning. Additionally, the past auxiliary had is placed in front of the subject, she. The basic formula for transforming common sentences into more emphatic statements is as follows:

Negative Adverbial or ‘Only’/’No’ Expression + Auxiliary or Modal Verb + Subject + Main Verb + Object

3) Never had we heard such a fascinating story

Despite using the past perfect in sentences 2) and 3), this formula remains reliable with the present tense also. For example:

4) Rarely will I eat chocolate during the week

5) Under no circumstances should you leave your children unsupervised

Other Negative Adverbials include: rarely, not since, hardly, never before, not until, little, at no time etc.

‘No’/Only’ Expressions include: under no circumstances, not only, no sooner, in no way, only when etc.

Take a look at the following sentence pairs and start practicing your own form of emphasis in class!

I have played little tennis since I was a child
Little have I played tennis since I was a child

He had hardly taken a seat before he started to talk
Hardly had he taken a seat before he started to talk

Fruit and vegetables are not only good for your health, but they are also extremely delicious
Not only are fruit and vegetables good for your health, but they are also extremely delicious

The cyclist was in no way held responsible for the recent accident
In no way was the cyclist held responsible for the recent accident

Want to really improve your English quickly? Learn English in San Francisco with EC English Language Centres!

The post Grammar lesson: Inversion and emphasis appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Whether it was the things we did as children, the subjects we studied at school or even just a short-lived hobby, we continue to find ourselves talking about the things we ‘used to do‘.

When using English, we apply ‘used to’ when talking about events in the past which we no longer continue to do in the present. A helpful way of learning ‘used to’, is to consider it as a ‘fixed expression’ and not a tense. A basic formula for constructing this language is listed below:

Subject + ‘used to’ + Infinitive + Object

He used to play tennis

Now let’s consider the following examples.

1) I used to play soccer when I was in high school
2) I used to take the bus to work but now I prefer to cycle

Sentence 1) shows us that we can use ‘used to’ before a reference of time (when I was in high school). This is a good example of language which describes the past. We know that at this moment in time that the speaker is no longer in school, which suggests he ‘gave up’ playing soccer after leaving or graduating. A similar example might be, ‘She used to smoke when she was a teenager’. In this sentence, the past auxiliary in was a teenager tells us the woman could be in her early 20’s, 30’s or even 40’s!

Sentence 2) provides us with information about a worker who used to take the bus. Following the object in this example, we see a linking word, ‘but’, which emphasizes the second part of the sentence. Other linking words might include those such as ‘however’ or ‘although’. Notice that in this second sentence, the main verb ‘prefer’ is used in the present tense. This indicates that at this moment in time, the person likes to cycle to work and no longer chooses to use the bus. A similar example to sentence 2) might be, ‘He used to like chocolate chip cookies, however, as an adult he prefers oatmeal and raisin’.

When forming a question about the past or the things we may have done in our childhood, the question form ‘did’ is inserted in front of the ‘subject’. Additionally, we take out the final ‘d’ when spelling the fixed expression, ‘used to’.

3) Did you use to own a cat?
4) Did you use to play with lego as a child?

There we have it. A basic introduction to using a style of language which tells others about our past. Get started today and ask your fellow classmates, what they ‘used to do?’

Want to say be able to say “‘I didn’t used to speak English”? Learn English Abroad with EC!

The post How to use ‘Used to’ in English: Talking about the past appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Do you remember things in hindsight?

hind·sight

/ˈhīn(d)ˌsīt/

noun

Definition: understanding of a situation or event after it has happened or developed.

The word hindsight is a fairly recent word originating in the 1800s. One of the first documentations of the word actually refers to “backsight” as in “backsight of a firearm.” The word hind is synonymous with back. Later on in the century, we have documentation of hindsight originating in 1862. According to etymonline.com (the source of this information), hindsight may have been created as joke opposite word to foresight, meaning guessing what might happen in the future.

Example sentences using hindsight:

–  “In hindsight, I shouldn’t have eaten an entire pumpkin pie – now I feel really sick!”

– When I started college, I immediately declared a physics major, but in hindsight, I realize I should have waited to try other subjects. I want to be a biology major!”

Have you ever looked back on an experience in hindsight?

Looking for English courses in Los Angeles? Check out EC Los Angeles today!

The post What does ‘hindsight’ mean? appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Sometimes, the English language can present challenges to learners and native speakers alike with its many intricacies and subtle (but important) differences. One thing’s for certain – learning and using these tricky bits of language is always a very rewarding task! Today, we’re taking a closer look at learnt and learned – what’s the difference? When do we use them?

‘Learned’ and ‘learnt’ are both used as the past participle and past tense forms of the verb ‘to learn’. Both versions of the word are actually correct and widely used in the English-speaking world, but there is one small difference between the two words. ‘Learned’ is the preferred way of spelling in the US and Canada, while ‘learnt’ is favoured in British English. The important thing to remember when studying English at EC English is that while both versions are correct, you should always try to use the same spelling consistently throughout a piece of writing, no matter which one you choose.

But wait just a second…

There’s (almost) always an exception to any rule you can think of. The word ‘learned’ also exists as an adjective to describe someone who is well-read, knowledgeable, and has quite a strong educational background. ‘Learned’ (adjective) is pronounced differently from ‘learned’ (verb)’ – just take a look at the examples below!

If you think you’ve understood the difference between these different versions of the verb ‘to learn’, then don’t forget to share this post with a friend!

The post Learned vs. Learnt: What’s the difference & when to use each? appeared first on EC English ( EN ).

Outside the classroom, there are so many ways to continue learning English. Most of them are fun activities that you already do! Recently, we explored reading English books, plays and stories to Learn English. Now, let’s take it a little further and look at the benefits of watching movies in English. Not just this, but specifically English movies with English subtitles.

How Movies Benefit Your English

To begin with, we all enjoy watching movies and by doing something you enjoy, you are more likely to remember it. So yes, you may think that watching them in English with subtitles of your native language is as beneficial, but it’s not. At least not to the same extent. This is because watching in English with English subtitles will help you to learn the sound, familiarise the word and thereby making it easier to recognise in future. So, in the space of one movie, you learn new vocabulary, pronunciation, context and conversation.

What Are the Best Ones to Watch?

Going back to my previous point, it should be something you enjoy. If fiction is your thing, go for it. Romance, action, war, kid’s movies, they’re all worthwhile because what they have in common is, they’re teaching you how to speak and how to listen, naturally. Movies are littered with slang and idioms and these are a wonderful way to naturalise your own speech. With this kind of learning, you’ll be speaking English like a native before you know it!

For Beginners, Keep It Simple

Kids movies are a really great way to start watching movies in English. Favourites like “Aladdin” and “Toy Story” will be all the easier because they are familiar stories. They also have a smooth-running dialogue throughout and are easy to understand. If you have seen a movie already in your own language, then it makes the English version easier to understand. Due to the familiarity of the story, you’ll be figuring out what words mean to suit what you already know.

For Creative Dialogue, Watch These Movies

If you’re feeling confident with your English, or maybe in the mood for a challenge, try these. “The Big Lebowski” is a one-of-kind movie, with a funny, unique dialogue style. The main character, The Dude, delivers excellent, quotable phrases such as, ‘Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.’ “Pulp Fiction” offers plenty of fantastic dialogue too, with short, smart exchanges between the lead characters.

Vincent: “…and you know what they call a, uh, a Quarter Pounder with Cheese in Paris?”
Jules: “They don’t call it a Quarter Pounder with Cheese?”
Vincent: “Nah, man, they got the metric system, they wouldn’t know what… a Quarter Pounder is.”
Jules: “What do they call it?”
Vincent: “They call it a Royale with Cheese.”
Jules: A “Royale with Cheese.”
Vincent: “That’s right.”

For Colloquial English, Choose These Titles

You may or not be aware that different countries or regions have different ways of speaking English. This is in terms of the slang they use, little turns of phrase and idioms and colloquialisms (language used in familiar conversation). Depending on where you’re studying English abroad, these can all vary from Ireland to the UK to the US to Australia and New Zealand. A nice introduction to these, or to practice hearing them, these are a few useful titles. For Irish based learners, “Sing Street” is ideal. “Love Actually” is perfect for UK English and accents. English students in the US should try “(500) Days of Summer”. All these titles are fun to watch, and the language is entertaining while challenging enough to teach you plenty.

Now you have the perfect excuse to watch movies. Put on plenty of popcorn, or whatever your favourite movie snack is, and get comfortable. If anyone accuses you of wasting time, just remember this article and how every movie you watch is essentially, a couple of hours worth of study! You could even invite some friends from your course over and turn the night into a group activity for learning English together.

The post How watching movies in English can improve your language skills appeared first on EC English ( EN ).