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How to Use "Used to"

  This week, AELS Language School is bringing 2 to you! 2 is the number that will make it all fit nicely in a small package. 2 are a pair, they can be a couple, and many times, they are opposites.   So, for this week, 2 will do to convey to you just how amazing language and the concepts that relate to how to communicate really are. This week the 2 are: I am used to… Denotes some routine you were doing and not good at or felt uncomfortable doing, but you finally reach a point where you now are! I used to… Denotes something you have continued doing as a habit or routine, and then for one reason or another STOPPED !   As you can see, they almost look exactly alike.   You might even think they just about mean the exact same thing or something closely related.   However, the truth is they present two completely different concepts. I am used to [to be + verb –ing] is used to express some activity or routine that we have been diligently trying to ...

Conversation in the Classroom

Attending American English Language School is not a typical classroom experience.   It is an opportunity to grow and learn in an educationally driven and student center-focused environment that not only seeks to promote daily conversation of English in the classroom but to include circles of discussion on topics related to all aspects of pop-culture in America with learning the language in an environment that includes a small teacher to student ratio.  Here at our School in Brea, California, we believe that communication in the classroom should mirror real life as much as possible while learning English. Not only do we navigate through the textbook and workbook, but we read articles, write about those articles, and foster meaningful discussions between students. We strategically aim to allow students to take control of their learning by engaging in and collaborating with each other and the instructor.  Communication and collaboration skills are essential for real life. ...

Immersion

  There is no one way to learn a new language. Students will learn differently and at a different pace than others. While some students may prefer to study independently, some may enroll in an ESL course to help them learn. There are books that can help you, classes, video lessons, phone apps, and so many other ways to improve. The method that students choose is up to them. However, we believe the best way to improve your English is through complete immersion.   Our ESL classes at American English Language School are taught 100% in English. Every lesson, explanation, and feedback to students is said in English. We urge our students to use English while they are studying in our language school. Furthermore, we encourage students to use English outside of the classroom. We assign homework and projects for students to continue practicing their English while they are at home. You can find more information about our ESL course here: AELS- ESL Classes .   Additionally...

Memorial Day Vocabulary

  Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday that takes place on the last Monday of the month of May. Americans spend this day celebrating and mourning the soldiers that have died while serving in the United States military.   A lot of Americans will gather together with their friends and family and have either a picnic or bbq outside. Some will also visit the grave sites of the soldiers that have died and place flowers or a United States flag next to them.   Here are some vocabulary words associated with Memorial Day!   1.     Memorial (noun) : a structure made to remember a person, group of people, or an event.   For example: Memorial Day is a holiday to remember soldiers that have died.   2.     Patriotism (noun): the love of your country and willingness to give anything up for it.   For example: Patriotism can be shown in many different ways.   3.     Patriot (noun...

What is an I-20 Form?

  You’ve probably heard the words “I-20,” “F-1 visa,” or “SEVIS” if you are thinking about traveling to the United States to improve your English. For first time applicants, these terms and where to start may seem confusing. While the application and process are not too difficult to do on your own, it is wise to start the application process in as much time in advance as possible of your intended start date. Now, where do you start?   Students who apply for an F-1 visa will first require an acceptance letter from a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) approved school. You can find a list of SEVP approved schools here . Since American English Language School is an SEVP-certified school, this allows our designated school official (DSO) access to the SEVIS system to administer I-20 forms to qualified students.   The I-20 form is a “Certificate of Eligibility for Non-immigrant Student Status.” You will receive this document from your language school after you...