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This guest post is by Rene, on behalf of DegreeJungle.com.

Modern technology has made it more possible than ever to learn or to teach the English language. Teachers who want to expand their ESL-teaching options (for example, face-to-face lessons with Skype) and students who want to learn the English language can do so with an online instructor.

Advantages of ESL Courses Online

As an English learner, you can go online to learn English production, grammar, English accent training, conversational English, essay writing, test preparation and job-interview tutoring. English is one of the most common languages in the world, but many people who want to learn the language have difficulties finding the time necessary to physically attend ESL classes. As an online ESL learner, you can choose a teacher who will help you the best.

Face-to-Face Instruction

Many online colleges offer an ESL course that is as effective and comprehensive as an in-class curriculum due to the array of online teaching options. These options open new doors for both teachers with a desire to teach ESL and potential students who have an interest in learning English. Modern technology has vastly improved the options for challenging courses that are better suited for face-to-face instruction. For example, students in the class will be able to visually see how a word is spoken through mouth movement.

Preparing to Teach Online

Preparing for an online ESL course requires planning for both the teacher and student. As a teacher having all of the materials ready and lessons prepared will make the online teaching experience more meaningful. As a teacher, being well prepared will help the student to be prepared as well. As an online teacher, it may help to ask yourself several questions prior to each lesson:

• Are my materials presentable for online teaching?
• Do I need any special technological tools to assist with the lessons?
• How do I keep the student focused with online teaching?

Preparing to Learn Online

The main thing that a student will need to learn English online is commitment:

• A commitment to learning the material being taught
• A commitment to practicing a new language

Set goals for yourself and your lessons. For example, if you are having difficulties with a particular lesson, make it a goal to learn the lesson instead of skipping ahead to an easier lesson. Keep a notebook handy to write down questions for your instructor. Doing this will be helpful if you are struggling in a specific area or if you want to learn more about a specific topic.

Take advantage of the vast array of websites available that provide information about online learning:

• Online teaching requirements for the instructor as well as the student
• Preparing to teach or learn online
• How to find teachers or students

If you are interested in learning English, but aren’t sure about making the commitment to attend a physical class, learning online is a perfect solution.

References:

• ESL Teachers Board
• Teaching English as a Second Language
• UsingEnglish.com

Rene is a contributing writer for DegreeJungle where you can find more information about the best online colleges and universities.

CC BY 2.0 image courtesy of Victor1558 on Flickr

This guest post is by Andrea Fritz, on behalf of contentlobby.com.

To succeed in the world of business, developing strong English skills isn’t always enough. Like many industries, business has developed its own distinct culture and etiquette – and a huge part of this is the language of business.

So if you’re looking to succeed in the corporate lifestyle, here’s a guide to help you understand some of the common lingo, jargon and terminology that you’re sure to encounter.

What is Business Language?

The jargon and lingo of Business English can vary between different industries and office environments. It’s important to appreciate that it is a style of speaking that exists separately to everyday social interaction. This means that many native English speakers may never have heard some of the common business phrases, as they have never worked in that sort of corporate culture.

Specific business jargon is something that must be learned from spending time in a particular industry. It can also be incredibly useful to study a Business English course to learn this type of language. Gaining a solid understanding of it can also help you to fit in and feel more comfortable in the business world, as it will improve your communication with colleagues, clients and customers who use it.

Phrases to Watch Out For

CC BY 2.0 image courtesy of Victor1558 on Flickr

Understanding the language of business is important as it allows you to communicate and interact with other people in the industry.

While truly effective communication consists of using language and phrases that are clear and concise, jargon on the other hand develops from metaphors and phrases that are relevant in a particular time and place. They do create meaning, but it’s important to be aware that they can also create frustration due to their over-use. Here are some common phrases that are important to be aware of, as it will mean you can interact with the people who do favor them:

• Touch base: to connect or get in contact with someone.
• Challenges: a word used to replace “problems,” because challenges are something we can overcome
• Forward planning: to plan something in advance
• Go forward together: to work together from now on
• 360-degree thinking: negative thought patterns that bring you back to the same position as when you started
• Not letting the grass grow too long on a problem: to act quickly before things get out of control
• Managers having their “door open on an issue”: a way for managers to explain that they’re available to discuss a topic
• “Actioning” something: to put something in motion
• Robust: a product or service that has an endless capacity to please – this can be applied to everything from software packages to training days.
• Give 110%: to give more effort than is expected or required

Finding the Right Balance

While it’s a good idea to get a grasp of some commonly used business jargon, success in business is rarely measured by the amount of jargon and lingo you can incorporate into your everyday vernacular.

If you’re trying to succeed in a corporate environment, clear and concise language will always prove to be the most effective method for communicating with the largest number of people. If you’re looking to improve your written and spoken English skills for the world of business, why not check out the courses at Malvern house or another top English school to really get ahead.

Related pages:

• Improving Your English Grammar
• To Learn English, You Need More Than Grammar

Add a comment below.

Do you have an English teacher?

Is your English teacher online or in person (physically present with you)?

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This guest post is by Cathy, on behalf of communicaid.com.

Business reports analyse and suggest potential resolutions for practical situations. Demonstrating analytical skill and considered opinion, an effectively written business report should clearly and concisely identify issues, evaluate them, and recommend action in an audience-focused manner.

To create an effective business report, consider this plan.

1. Collect your ideas

• Begin by researching and evaluating the situation. Collate your information and note everything you wish to include. Keep all your ideas at this point; they can be edited out later.
• Be clear on why you have chosen to write a report. Is it the best plan of action over a presentation or meeting?
• Determine your best approach. Are you aiming to inform, or do you need to influence or persuade?
• Consider audience agenda. Throughout your report, communicate audience benefits, and indicate the necessary actions to achieve them.
• Form a comprehensive opinion of each issue you wish to improve. You must be certain of your own views before presenting them to an audience.

2. Create your first draft

• Create an easy-to-follow, logical outline and structure. This will appeal to readers and simplify the writing process.
• When presenting problems, outline issues, state the benefits to be gained through resolution, and then indicate suggested improvements.
• Keep language and structure clear and concise. Use paragraphs, subheadings, bullet points and tables to present your information. This will maintain reader interest and enhance the persuasive flow of communication.
• Tailor style and tone to avoid alienation, and think about audience expertise. You do not want to be too technical or vague. It is important to address the level of detail your audience requires; if they only need an overview, do not provide an in-depth analysis.
• Adopt a confident written approach to display credibility and authority. Business reports are usually formal, favouring plainly written language. Complexity will just confuse and bore your reader.
• Be sure to include a precise concluding summary which clearly recommends a plan of action.

3. Redraft, proofread, edit and publish

• Re-read and redraft your report to condense it. The more streamlined it is, the more professional it will appear.
• Proofread multiple times to correct spelling, punctuation and grammar. If these are incorrect in the final draft, they will shake your credibility and make you appear unprofessional.
• Send drafts to colleagues for evaluation and proofing. This will identify any gaps in the report and correct any remaining copy errors.
• Print and read your report for extra certainty. It’s easy to miss typos on a screen.
• Don’t be afraid to make multiple revisions. It is better to do that than to publish a poor-quality report.
• Space redrafts over a number of weeks. This allows more time to review with fresh eyes, remember forgotten points, and consult others for proofing help.
• Present your report in a clear and appealing manner, with images, charts and other visuals that support your points.

Lastly, when forming your content remember there is no single “correct” answer or approach. Business reports should identify and evaluate a range of factors for individual situations and case studies, and as such, contain numerous solutions to be considered uniquely.

Cathy is a communication skills professional working for a consultancy in the UK which provides business writing courses to organisations and individuals.

Now is a great time to make your English-learning plans for 2013. The new version of English Success is here!

It is 2 times as big as the original version. It includes 2 units, 62 videos, 62 audio files, and a 250-page Complete Course Guide.

Learn more about English Success and a special offer for those who purchase before January 1.

In English Success, Unit 1, Alfredo asked you, the OnTargetEnglish community, what the most difficult sound in the English language is.

Go here to discover the answer and to learn how to pronounce this challenging sound:

http://www.ontargetenglish.com/success/adventure/pronunciation-of-th

http://www.ontargetenglish.com/success/adventure

The new English Success will be available beginning at some time next week.

If you are a subscriber, check your email for announcements about a special offer for those who get the new English Success before January 1.

Good learning is all about a good environment: most people don’t study their best on the floor of a loud factory or on a bus full of shouting kids.

Learning a language can be one of the hardest things to learn. Because phonetics, sounding words out, and rehearsing dialogue are a big part in the learning process, it’s important to have a good learning environment. This area should be free from distractions to help you increase your learning.

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1. Control Your Environment

A good learning environment is one in which you have full control. You need control over potential distractions, including whom or what you allow to enter the environment.

A good learning environment means you don’t have to worry about your cousin barging in to show you a funny YouTube video. It means that you don’t have to worry about the sounds of construction and jackhammers penetrating your domain as you study.

Control is the main ingredient necessary, as it will allow you to focus undeterred or without fear of potential distractions breaking through.  Without control—or reassurance as it may be—your mind will never allow you to fully immerse yourself in your studies.

Find an area that you can control; this could be one of the quiet rooms at the library, a cozy spot at the school or an area in your home that you declare to be your study space.

2. Communicate Your Expectations

If you’re using a place at home, you may want to talk to your family, spouses, and kids (unfortunately, pets won’t be able to process your request) about your study space. Although homes can be great study spots, it won’t help if you’re being pestered by loved ones the entire time.

Make sure they know that when you’re studying, you intend to do solely that: study.  Setting up a timeframe is one of the best ways to do that.  Designate a period of time for you to use for studying, and tell your family about those hours.

3. Create Some Extra Noise

Does that tip surprise you? A good learning space doesn’t have to be an area of absolute silence.  In fact, silence can be one of the biggest distractions in and of itself—making you focus on the quiet and increasing the distraction levels of any unwanted sounds that may enter.  Finding some soothing background music or noise (a fan or white noise emulator) can help you relax, get comfortable and excited about your studies, and make you more productive.

Noise and/or music can also help with learning new languages, as many people might find themselves a bit self-conscious while they sound out words and practice pronunciations in the dead quiet.  The goal of a good learning environment is to help your comfort and provide you a place that you feel is your own; only when you’re comfortable will you be able to immerse yourself appropriately into your studies.

Key Words: Control and Comfort

Learning a new language can be hard, but thankfully finding a good study environment is a much easier task.  Just remember the two key words: control and comfort. (Control usually allows comfort.)  With those concepts in place, you’ll find your way into more productive studying, free from distraction.

In the comments below, answer these questions: Where do you study? How do you eliminate distractions?”

Abigail Turner is a writer for Architectural Gardens. Aside from constantly reviewing Chicago landscapers, she spends her free time collecting vintage ornaments.

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This guest post is by Jamie Cody, on behalf of centernetworks.com.

English slang is a form of informal English. Examples in the sentence below are in italics.

• “Yes, we definitely need an alternative; that’s a no-brainer.”
• “Thanks for your presentation; you nailed it out of the ball park.”
• “At the end of the day, you need to show that you can think outside the box.”

These expressions generally use figurative (metaphorical) language rather than literal language. English learners need to know what the most common clichés and slang expressions mean. However, for your business, it is not always appropriate to use slang in business writing. It can make your business look unprofessional and can actually drive customers away even if your intentions are good. English slang is not appropriate in the following instances.

1. Avoid English Slang in Messages for Foreign Clients

English slang is hard to properly translate. The intended meaning often is lost in the translation. In some instances English slang can actually be translated into something offensive, which is not good for business relations.

When dealing with foreign clients or those whose first language is not English, it is always a good idea to use a professional tone in business writing. This tone will help avoid any unnecessary confusion on both the client’s and business’s end.

Even if the foreign clients do know the intended meaning of the English slang, they may not appreciate it and might think your business is unprofessional for using it in the first place. If you know ahead of time what the first language is of the intended audience, consider seeking the help of a translator to assist you with your business writing. A translator will ensure that you convey the intended message to your audience the first time.

2. Avoid English Slang When Professionalism Is Especially Important

There are times when you may be striving to have a light and funny tone to your business writing. For example, it may be appropriate to use clichés or slang in an email message to a colleague that you have known for years and that you meet for lunch often. Even so, be careful. Written communication can be forwarded with incredible ease.

In instances where you want clients to know how professional your business is, it is best to avoid English slang. In this day and age, many companies do use English slang. You can set yourself apart from them by showing both these businesses and clients that you won’t sacrifice being professional even though other businesses are using some sort of slang in their business writing. Potential clients might not take your business seriously if you are trying to get across an important message, but are using slang to do so.

If you have a funny anecdote that is in your business writing, then it may be fine to use English slang only in the anecdote, but the rest of the writing should be professional in tone if you want others to take your business writing seriously.

3. Avoid English Slang If You Do Not Know Your Audience Well

If you aren’t sure who your audience will be or how they might perceive your business writing, then it is best to stay away from English slang. It’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution in this area. By not doing so, you run the risk of scaring away current clients or turning off new ones.

Also remember that even if you plan on only a certain audience seeing your business writing, there is still a chance that others may see it. Unless you think it is absolutely necessary to use English slang in your business writing, avoid it in this situation.

4. Avoid English Slang for Documents Archived for Future Reference

English slang changes often. Popular words and phrases today may be forgotten about a few months from now. Therefore, it is important to not use English slang in your business writing if you want the piece to be relevant over time. Using a professional tone in your business writing will save you from having to rewrite it because you used English slang that became outdated.

5. Avoid English Slang If You Have a Record of Using It Wrongly

Unless you use English slang often, it is difficult to know the exact meaning of it. This embarrassment can lead to its not being used properly and can make your business writing suffer.

For these situations, English slang should not be used at all. If you feel that you absolutely have to use it in part of your business writing, ask a few individuals that use English slang accurately what they think the phrase or words you want to use are trying to convey.

This consultation will help you make a decision on whether or not you are using the expressions correctly. Even if you think your business writing could benefit from English slang, it is best to avoid it if you aren’t sure that you are using it properly.

Your Business Needs Should Always Come First

In conclusion, you should always do what you have to in order to convey pertinent information in your business writing. It usually is beneficial to have a professional tone in writing that pertains to your business, but in some instances English slang may be appropriate. Remember to keep the above tips in mind when deciding whether or not a professional tone or English slang should be used in your business writing to highlight your business in an appropriate light.

Jamie Cody is a writer for centernetworks.com and often writes about technology, business and various products and services like hostgator reviews.

English can be a hard language to learn. It has a variety of exceptions, mixed etymologies, and over one million words—not to count the idiosyncrasies and slang invented daily. But thankfully there are plenty of opportunities and methods to increase and improve upon your English vocabulary.

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1. Make mental connections to what you already know

OnTargetEnglish.com already has two videos about vocabulary: Improving Your English Vocabulary and 6 Tips to Learn More English Vocabulary Words. As these videos suggest, using flashcards and picture dictionaries are great ways of learning to identify words. Connect a new word with something that will make it easier for you to remember.

2. Watch movies, first with subtitles, then without subtitles.

Flashcards and movies are not the only tools that help you to make connections. Watching movies will help with the idea of pairing words together. Or go further and watch movies that you’ve seen many times before. These are movies that you can almost recite from memory. Watch those with the subtitles.

Or, if you’re really looking for a challenge, watch them without the subtitles. Removing that extra help will encourage you to really pay attention to the language that you are already expecting. Many children learn to read this same way, by knowing a story by memory and learning to associate the words to the story.

3. Immerse yourself in an English-speaking environment

Immersion is definitely the best way to learn a language and build your vocabulary. You should try to find English-speaking areas to immerse yourself.

But be careful: The level of vocabulary used might be so advanced that the words may be difficult for you to recognize and learn. A great place to learn English is at the grocery store. Similar to the movies mentioned above, you have the advantage of already knowing what the objects are, and almost all of them are labeled. Many grocery stores also have multiple languages there to make the translations easier.

4. Use English-learning apps for iOs, Android, or other platforms

Technology has made learning new languages much easier, and there are many great apps you can get for your phone or tablet that will help you build your English vocabulary.

• Simplex Phonics is a great spelling app that uses 450 of the most frequently used English words and comes with lessons.
• Speech Tutor is an app designed to help with word pronunciation and uses diagrams to show you how your mouth should move and where your tongue should be.
• There are even apps for kids like Kidioms, designed to help elementary school ESL students learn the idioms in English that are often used and, more often, confusing to learn.

5. Keep exercising your English skills

Learning a language can be compared to exercising in a lot of ways. You benefit the most from challenging yourself.

• Find books that challenge you, and keep a dictionary on hand.
• Head to places heavy in English.
• Find a friend who is fluent in English and have him or her help you by engaging in conversations that increase in difficulty.

Keep challenging yourself. And, above all, stay positive. You’ll get there eventually.

In the comments below, give an example of a vocabulary word that you have learned recently along with a definition of the word or an example sentence that uses the word.

Steven Madison has worked with bilingual students to help them improve their fluency. He currently freelance writes for educational websites, one of which you can view here.