American English Language School

  One of the subtleties of English that often confuses ESL learners is the proper use of "can" versus "may." While both words are used to ask for permission, they are used in different contexts and have distinct connotations. "Can" is generally used to denote ability or capacity. For example, "Can you swim?" is asking if someone has the ability to swim. It is also used informally to ask for permission, especially in casual conversation, such as, "Can I use your phone?" However, using "can" in formal settings or with people you do not know well can come off as impolite or overly casual. On the other hand, "may" is traditionally used to ask for permission in a more polite and formal manner. For example, "May I leave the table?" shows respect and is considered more appropriate in formal or respectful contexts. "May" is less commonly used to talk about ability, but it is the go-to choice for permissio...

In the realm of visa statuses in the United States, the shift from a B1/B2 tourist or business visa to an F-1 student visa is not uncommon. This transition marks a significant change in purpose and opens up a myriad of opportunities for individuals seeking educational enrichment and professional advancement. Let's delve into the reasons behind this shift and explore the benefits it brings. Educational Pursuits: One of the primary motivations for changing status from B1/B2 to F-1 is to pursue academic endeavors in the U.S. The country boasts a plethora of esteemed educational institutions offering diverse programs and opportunities for intellectual growth. By obtaining an F-1 visa, individuals can enroll in accredited academic or language programs, enhancing their knowledge and skill set in their chosen field. Long-Term Stay: While B1/B2 visas allow for short-term visits for tourism or business purposes, they come with limitations on the duration of stay. Conversely, an F-1 student ...

Learning to use irregular verbs in the past tense can be one of the more challenging aspects of English grammar for ESL students. Unlike regular verbs, which simply take an "-ed" ending to form the past tense (e.g., "walk" becomes "walked"), irregular verbs do not follow a consistent pattern. This means that each irregular verb must be memorized, which can be daunting. However, with practice and effective strategies, it is entirely possible to master them. Irregular verbs can take many forms in the past tense. For example, the verb "go" changes to "went," the verb "see" changes to "saw," and the verb "take" changes to "took." There are no rules to predict these changes, so the best approach is to learn them through practice and repetition. Consider using flashcards, engaging in conversation practice, and reading extensively to become more familiar with these verbs. Some other common irregular verb...

 Learning when to use the simple present tense and the present continuous tense is a fundamental part of mastering English. These two tenses are used frequently in everyday conversation and writing, and understanding their differences is crucial for clear communication. The simple present tense is used for actions that are habitual or generally true. For example, we say, "She walks to school every day," to describe a routine action. This tense is also used for facts and generalizations, such as, "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius" or "Dogs are loyal animals." Additionally, we use the simple present for scheduled events in the near future, like "The train leaves at 6 PM." On the other hand, the present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking or around the current time period. For instance, "She is walking to school right now" indicates an action occurring at this moment. It is also used ...

Are you an ESL learner grappling with when to use "can" and "should" in English? Understanding the nuances of these modal verbs is crucial for effective communication. In this guide, we'll delve into their usage with examples to help you navigate conversations with confidence. Firstly, let's tackle "can." This versatile modal verb is primarily used to express capability or possibility. For instance, when discussing abilities or permissions, "can" comes into play. Consider the sentence, "She can speak French fluently." Here, "can" denotes the ability to speak French. Similarly, in questions like, "Can I borrow your pen?" the speaker seeks permission. It's important to note that "can" often implies the physical or mental capacity to perform an action. However, it doesn't necessarily imply whether the action is advisable or not. On the other hand, "should" is employed to indicate reco...

 Are you puzzled by when to use "may" and when to use "might" in English? You're not alone. These two modal verbs often cause confusion, but fear not! Understanding their usage is key to mastering the nuances of the English language. Firstly, let's clarify their primary functions. "May" and "might" are both used to express possibility or permission, but they differ slightly in terms of certainty. "May" suggests a higher degree of possibility or likelihood, while "might" implies a lower degree of certainty or a more hypothetical situation. For example, consider the sentences: She may attend the party tonight. (There is a higher likelihood that she will attend.) She might attend the party tonight. (There is a possibility, but it's less certain.) The distinction becomes clearer in context. If you're fairly confident about a future event, "may" is the appropriate choice. On the other hand, if the possibil...