American English Language School

  Comparatives vs. Superlatives  Adjectives We use comparatives and superlatives to express how nouns, I.e., people, places, and things, are different from each other. Comparative adjectives are used to describe how only two nouns are different, and superlative adjectives are used to show the difference between one noun and all others of its kind. We form comparatives and superlatives based on the number of syllables in each adjective and whether the word ends in y. There are also “irregular” adjectives that follow their own set of rules. See the chart below to get an idea of the different rules, then read some examples.  Examples One – Syllable Adjective She is slower than him. She is the slowest runner. He is faster than her. He is the fastest runner. One – Syllable ends in –e The bus showed up later today. The 22 bus is the latest bus. The Queen is wiser than the King. The Queen is the wisest . One – Syllable consonant + short v...

  For humans, food lies on an emotional level as well as the instinctual need for survival. We use food as connection, love, memory, identity, understanding, and creation. While there is nothing wrong with eating alone, history has shown us in ALL cultures, meals were meant to be shared. Food brings people together and can even transcend language barriers. Nevertheless, we would like to teach you some ways to connect with the English language through food.  Let us start with taste, it is one of your five senses and is used quite often. Every time you put food, drink, or something in your mouth, you are tasting it. We have words in English to describe these sensations, known as adjectives. Adjectives describe any and every noun and all five of your senses, from taste to smell, sound, sight and touch. Adjectives are important because they help relate an object, person, or place to another person. In this case, it is relating the pleasant taste of food. Have you ever tasted food ...

Teachers, students, and faculty of education have debated on this topic for years. Does the student to teacher ratio matter when it comes to productive learning? Through research and trials, the general consensus is: YES. A smaller class size has improved not only academic learning, but the social and emotional wellbeing of students and teachers. While most schools cannot just downsize their classes, here at AELS, we are able to provide this class setting. Our students can reap the benefits provided below. Each student gets noticed by their teacher. With less students to keep track of, teachers can begin to personalize learning goals for each student. They can observe and assess students and provide timely feedback that will allow the student to fix, understand, and enhance their learning. There is time for students to have one on one with the teacher. This allows students to share any personal struggles or concerns they are not comfortable sharing with the class. Furthermore, a sm...

If you are planning to go to a university in the United States, chances are that you will need to take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). The TOEFL is a test that students take to let universities know that they can be successful. The TOEFL has 4 sections that measure your reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills. The test takes around 3 to 3 ½ hours to complete, and you will need to prepare in advance to get a higher score. The TOEFL test may seem like an impossible obstacle, but if you prepare with enough time, you can reduce some of the stress related to the test. Keep reading to find useful tips to help you reach your goals.   First, you will need to know the format of the test. The first part of the test is reading. There are between 30-40 questions. You will need to read the passages and then answer the questions about the passage. After reading is the listening section. You will listen to conversations and lectures and then answer questions based ...

Last week, our blog discussed how to apply for an F-1 visa. After you have been accepted into a SEVP approved school, completed the Form DS-160, and scheduled your visa interview, you will need to prepare for your visa interview. Hopefully, your visa application is approved. The consular office that conducts your interview will determine whether or not you are qualified to receive a student visa. They may also require further documents or information to approve your application. If your visa application is approved, GREAT! You may have to pay a visa issuance fee, but then it is time to get ready for your trip. Pack up your things, book your flight, and arrange your housing situation as soon as you can. On the other hand, if your visa application is denied, you might be unsure of what to do next. Your options vary based on the reason for your visa denial. You should receive a notice explaining the reason for your denial or if further documents are needed. You cannot appeal the decisio...

  Do you want to study to improve your English? Do you not know where to begin? American English Language School can help! Plenty of people want to study English in the United States, but they don’t know where or how to start. If that sounds like you, keep reading to find more information to help you get started on your journey to mastering English!   First, you need to think about where you want to go to study English. What part of the U.S. do you want to visit? If you are looking for some sunny weather, beaches, and famous attractions like Disneyland and Hollywood, then Los Angeles is the perfect location for you to come and study. We recommend researching popular attractions in different cities to find the right language school for you.   After you have decided which school is right for you, you will need to apply. Different schools have different requirements needed to apply. Generally, you will need to submit an application form along with copies of your pa...