Test your English

Welcome to our ESL quiz! ESL (English as a Second Language) quizzes are a great way to test your knowledge of the English language and identify areas where you may need to improve. These quizzes are often used in language learning classrooms, online courses, and language exchange programs to help learners gauge their progress and measure their language proficiency.

To prepare for an ESL quiz, it’s important to review the materials covered in your English language course or study program. This may include grammar rules, vocabulary words, idioms, and pronunciation exercises. You can also find practice quizzes and sample tests online to help you prepare for the real thing.

Try these multiple choice questions

This quiz is designed to test your knowledge of the English language and help you identify areas where you may need to improve. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced learner, this quiz will challenge you with a variety of questions covering grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and more. So, get ready to put your skills to the test and see how much you know about the English language! Good luck!

learning as an adult, education, skills

Learning Is for Life: Advice for Adults Going Back to Study

Image from Unsplash

There are so many resources and guides about going back to education, and the problem is, most of them are written for high schoolers. The reality is that over 40% of college students are older, often with kids and full-time jobs. If you find yourself in this demographic, here’s a definitive guide to going back to school as an adult from English Online Training. Let’s get learning!

Why start studying again?

Well, to increase your learning, of course! But there are so many other reasons. For one, you significantly increase your earning potential, as employees are willing to offer higher-paying jobs for more qualified candidates. In addition, you’ll be able to transition into different career paths if you opt for education in another industry. Going back to school also offers specific training to further your career and become competitive in the job market.

What Degree Should I Opt For?

Older students have lots of options for education, including online courses, professional certifications, doctoral programs, traditional degrees, and short diplomas. The one you pick depends entirely on your current commitments and how much time you have to devote to your schooling. For example, if you have a lot of family obligations, an online degree or training program might be right for you. Little more time (and money) on your hands? Go for a more prolonged and more intensive program!

Balancing Work and Life

According to PMI, achieving that elusive work-life balance can be incredibly challenging. Be prepared for an adjustment period as you iron out the kinks of managing your family along with your new schooling commitments. Be sure to enlist the support of your partner and other family members in school drop-offs, preparing meals, and more so you can focus your energy on getting a good ROI from your education. 

If you’re retaining your day job, it will be prudent to set expectations at your work so that your team members can support you through achieving balance as well. Many employers offer professional development courses, which may be worth exploring as an alternative to traditional education, especially if it supports your larger goals and career ambitions. 

Also, one of the best things you can do for yourself when it comes to balance is make sure you’re getting enough exercise! If you don’t have time for the gym, simply incorporating some more walking while running errands can make a big difference in your overall health and wellbeing.

Prioritizing Studying

After all, your schooling will be over before you know it! Make the most of your education by managing your learning. Identifying your strengths and weaknesses will help you take responsibility for your learning. You can then apply your strengths to go above and beyond in your coursework and weaknesses to challenge yourself with complex topics and assignments. In addition, study smart and learn to be strategic about details like note-taking and study timing, so you still have time for work and family obligations.

Education for Education

One of the most valuable things you can return to school for is to pursue an education degree. Getting an education degree will enable you to help pass the gift of education on to the next generation. Also, online degree programs can help you start and finish a degree conveniently within the constraints of your schedule. 

Using What You’ve Learned to Start a Business

When you’re planning your education and deciding what kind of program you’re going to opt for, be sure to also carefully consider your next steps. For example, many individuals choose to go back to school to start their own business. Consider all the details if this sounds like you — from taxes and employees to funding and how to set up a new company. You can learn how to start a new company online. Forming an LLC can be worthwhile for entrepreneurs, as it offers limited liability, tax advantages, and increased flexibility. 

Going back to school as an adult presents a whole new set of challenges. But you’re older, wiser, and with more experience under your belt. This means that you’ll ace your new college experience and make it through with flying colors. You’ve got this!

With over ten years of experience, English Online Training is here to help! Click here to book a free trial lesson.

Thanks to Joyce Wilson at teacherspark.org for writing this post

SME climate hub committed business

The SME Climate Hub is an initiative of the We Mean Business Coalition, the Exponential Roadmap Initiative, the United Nations Race to Zero campaign and the International Chamber of Commerce. This partnership is an exercise in radical collaboration that opens the doors for SMEs to join the United Nations Race to Zero campaign — an international campaign that brings together an unprecedented coalition of real economy actors and 120 governments committed to achieve net-zero emissions by no later than 2050.

In collaboration with the Net Zero team at Oxford University, the SME Climate Hub provides tools and resources to enable SMEs to make a climate commitment, take action and measure their progress.​ It is our belief that climate action is everyone’s business.
We know that many businesses like ours are faced with the challenge of transitioning to a low-carbon economy. But we also know that SMEs are vital in driving change and will play a key role in achieving the net zero targets set by the UK government.

That’s why we’re proud to have signed up to the SME Climate Commitment, meaning we’re ready to take action to reduce emissions, develop green energy initiatives and engage with new green technologies.

The SME Climate Hub has been created to help SMEs meet the commitment.

By joining the SME Climate Hub, we’ll get access to a range of tools and resources, such as:

-A way to measure, track and report our carbon emissions
– Advice on setting targets
– Access to green energy initiatives
– Monthly webinars from experts on relevant concepts
– A forum to support discussion, problem-solving, and collaborative action

We’re confident that through tools such as these we’ll achieve our net zero goals and contribute to helping the EU become as climate-friendly as possible

We’re proud to have made the SME Climate Commitment. Join me and get access to a range of tools to plan how you’ll get to net zero: @SMEClimateHub 

Home – SME Climate Hub

How to speak English fluently

Practice regularly:

The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with the language. Try to speak English as much as possible, whether it’s with native speakers or other learners.

Improve your vocabulary:

The more words you know, the more easily you will be able to express yourself. Try reading books, watching movies, or listening to podcasts in English to expose yourself to new words and phrases.

Immerse yourself in the language:

Surround yourself with English as much as possible. Listen to music, watch TV shows and movies, and try to find opportunities to speak with fluent speakers.

Be patient:

Learning a new language takes time and effort, so be patient with yourself and don’t get discouraged. With practice and dedication, you can become more fluent in English.

Listen to fluent or native level speakers:

Pay attention to how they use the language, including their intonation, stress, and rhythm. This will help you develop a better sense of how the language sounds and how to use it more naturally.

Find a language exchange partner:

Practice speaking with someone who is learning your native language. This will give you the opportunity to speak English in a low-pressure setting and receive feedback on your pronunciation and grammar.

Take an English course:

Consider taking a online English course with Shaun Trezise. This will provide you with structured lessons and feedback from a teacher who offers a personalized approach to cater to each student’s unique learning style and needs.

Use English as much as possible:

Try to use English as much as possible in your daily life. This could include setting your phone and computer to English, listening to English-language music, or joining an English-language club or group.

Don’t be afraid to make mistakes:

It’s natural to make mistakes when learning a new language, so don’t be afraid to try new things and make errors. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will become with speaking English.

Any questions? Comment below or contact me shaun@learnenglishinberlin.com

Email Us

What are some reasons to learn a new language in the New Year?

Here are 5 reasons to learn a new language in the New Year:

Improved communication:

Learning a new language can improve your ability to communicate with people who speak that language. This can be especially useful if you plan to travel to a country where the language is spoken or if you want to connect with people from a different cultural background.

Improved job prospects:

Being fluent in more than one language can be a valuable skill in the job market, as it can make you a more competitive candidate for certain jobs.

Improved brain function:

Studies have shown that learning a new language can have positive effects on cognitive function, including improved memory and problem-solving skills.

Cultural enrichment:

Learning a new language can also give you insight into the culture and history of the people who speak it. This can broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation for other cultures.

Personal satisfaction:

Finally, learning a new language can be a rewarding personal accomplishment that can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment.

10 Tips for writing business emails in English

Here are 10 tips for writing business emails in English:

  1. Use a clear and concise subject line. This will help the recipient understand what the email is about and whether it is important or urgent.
  2. Use a professional greeting. “Dear [Name]” is a safe bet, but you can also use “Hi [Name]” if you have a more casual relationship with the recipient.
  3. Use proper English grammar and spelling. This includes using correct verb tenses, punctuation, and capitalization.
  4. Use bullet points or numbered lists to organize information. This makes it easier for the reader to scan and understand the content of your email.
  5. Use a professional closing, such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards,” followed by your name and contact information.
  6. Use a professional tone. Avoid using slang, abbreviations, or emoticons.
  7. Use a font and layout that is easy to read. Avoid using too many different fonts or colors, as this can make your email difficult to read.
  8. Use paragraphs to break up your text and make it easier to read.
  9. Proofread your email before sending it. This will help ensure that there are no mistakes or typos.
  10. Be mindful of cultural differences. Some words or phrases that are common in one culture may be considered inappropriate or offensive in another. It is always a good idea to be aware of these differences and to use language that is appropriate and respectful.

Talking English to an AI

Why should I learn English online?

There are many reasons why you might want to learn English online. For one, it can be a convenient and flexible way to learn. You can access online English courses from anywhere in the world, and you can often set your own schedule and work at your own pace. Additionally, online courses can be a cost-effective way to learn, especially compared to traditional in-person language classes. Another reason to learn English online is that you can often choose from a wide range of courses and find one that suits your needs and learning style. Finally, learning a new language like English can have many personal and professional benefits, such as improving your communication skills, expanding your job opportunities, and increasing your cultural awareness.

What is the best way to learn online?

The best way to learn online will vary depending on the individual and the subject they are trying to learn. In general, however, there are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your online learning experience.

First, it’s important to set goals for yourself and have a clear idea of what you want to learn. This can help you stay motivated and focused as you work through the material.

Next, it’s a good idea to create a dedicated workspace where you can focus on your studies. This can help you stay organized and avoid distractions.

It’s also important to establish a regular study schedule and stick to it as much as possible. This can help you stay on track and make progress in your learning.

In addition, it’s helpful to actively engage with the material you are learning. This can involve taking notes, asking questions, and participating in online discussions or forums.

Finally, don’t be afraid to seek help if you need it. Many online courses offer support from instructors or tutors, and you can also reach out to friends or classmates for help or advice.

Overall, the key to learning effectively online is to be organized, motivated, and engaged with the material. By following these tips, you can make the most of your online learning experience and achieve your learning goals.

Why is Shaun Trezise the best English trainer?

He is the best English trainer. However, there are many talented and experienced English language trainers, and it’s important to choose one that is right for you and your learning needs. Some factors to consider when choosing an English trainer include their qualifications, experience, teaching style, and availability. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and ask for recommendations from other students who have worked with the trainer. Ultimately, the best English trainer for you will depend on your individual goals and preferences.

Whats the hardest part of learning a language?

One of the hardest parts of learning a language is the initial learning curve. At the beginning, everything is new and unfamiliar, and it can be overwhelming to try to learn a new alphabet, grammar rules, vocabulary, and pronunciation. It can also be difficult to make yourself understood in a new language, and this can be frustrating. Additionally, learning a language takes time and dedication, and it can be challenging to stay motivated and consistent in your studies. Finally, learning a language can be mentally exhausting, as it requires concentration and mental effort. However, with persistence and dedication, the initial challenges of learning a language can be overcome, and the rewards of being able to communicate in a new language can be well worth the effort.

What can I do to improve my own language skills?

There are many things you can do to improve your language skills. Some tips for improving your language skills include:

  1. Practice regularly: Consistent practice is key to improving your language skills. Try to set aside time each day to study and practice your language skills.
  2. Use real-life materials: Use authentic materials, such as newspapers, TV shows, and podcasts, to expose yourself to the language as it is actually used. This can help you develop a better understanding of the language and improve your listening and comprehension skills.
  3. Have conversations: Practice having conversations in the language you are learning. This can be intimidating at first, but it is a valuable way to improve your speaking and pronunciation skills. You can practice with a language partner, a tutor, or by joining a conversation group.
  4. Write: Writing in the language you are learning can help you improve your grammar, vocabulary, and spelling skills. You can write short essays, journal entries, or even just short notes to yourself.
  5. Use technology: There are many language-learning apps and websites that can help you practice and improve your language skills. These tools can provide structured lessons and exercises, and some even offer personalized feedback to help you improve.

Overall, the key to improving your language skills is to be consistent, persistent, and proactive in your studies. By following these tips, you can make steady progress and become more confident and proficient in the language you are learning.

Why learn with English Online Training?

My name is Shaun. I am an experienced teacher who has worked with students around the world to help them achieve their learning goals. I will build up your confidence, your skills and your general business awareness and enable you to learn independently and successfully.

What do we do in the lessons?

Each person is different and I create an individual solution for each learner because what works for you might not work for everyone. We work together to analyse your needs, and create short term achievable goals, while working towards your long term aims.

The process is based on using real world examples based on your work and your experiences to create a truly unique lesson plan.

If you need to improve your presentations, then we learn about structure before practising in the class.

I could come to him with any questions, we had super interesting topics and a lot of fun in our English lessons.

If you need to improve your email writing, we look at yours and what you are sending to your business partners to see how we can improve.

If small talk is where you feel least confident, we will talk and talk and talk until you can chat with anyone or nearly any topic.

We work SMART – specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-based

How do you know if it’s working?

You will feel more confident very quickly and you will notice that you can do more in English.

One student told me that they can now watch the new season of their favourite series in English because of our lessons.

Another student got a promotion that they were denied before because of their language improvement

What are the benefits of choosing a teacher over choosing a language school?

Unlike a language school who may need to change teachers frequently or have a one size fits all approach to teaching, we will work directly together for as long as you need to achieve your goals. 

It is also probably less expensive as all the money you pay goes to the teacher rather than a large administration team.

What do my students say about me?

Taken from my linkedin profile

“Working with Shaun has been extremely helpful in my language development.

“A very patient teacher who makes it fun to learn and who makes the lessons varied. I can highly recommend.”

“Shaun was my English teacher for years and I learned a lot through him.

“I can only recommend Shaun as a teacher!”

“Lessons with Shaun where always fun, mostly because he adjusts them to his students’ needs and wishes. He supported me with HR Business English as well as small talk skills. Since Shaun is interested in a lot of topics, conversations with him usually taught me more than just English skills.

I could come to him with any questions, we had super interesting topics and a lot of fun in our English lessons.

Tips to upgrade your English

6 tips to help you improve your language learning

By Shaun Trezise for Englishonline.training

Learning a language can be tough. It takes time, effort and often money too. It doesn’t have to be terrible though. The key to reaching your goals is to find ways to learn that you enjoy. 

Here are some tips for learning English that can help you to keep going.

Watch series online

Rewatch your favourite shows again in English if you have already seen them in another language. You already know the story which helps you to understand a lot and it will help you learn new vocabulary. Don’t be afraid to turn on the subtitles if you want to. Studies have shown it can help! I recommend starting off with them in your native language and when you feel more confident, switch to English

Set Goals

Why are you learning a language? Is it for work? Or for a holiday? What level are you at now and where do you need to be? According to research, it takes on average around 100 hours of study to move up a language level. How much time can you give to learning?

Do you need a certificate or  is it just for your own peace of mind? Do you know what your level is now? When is the big presentation or job interview? Do you want to learn intensively or more leisurely? Once you sit down and think about what you really want, you are a big step towards achieving it

Connect it to your hobbies

I love football, the one with the round ball, and when I moved to Germany, I was lucky to move to an area that loved it too. The only problem was I couldn’t speak any German at all. But with some good use of body language and a shared appreciation of the sport I was able to have conversations with people. They were basic in the beginning but practice makes perfect and when it is so easy to talk about your passion, you are almost learning by accident

Use technology

When you can practise every day, that’s when the improvements start to come quicker. This is where language apps come in. In my classes, I create individual apps for my students to focus on their own lists of words, as well as working with existing well known companies to find which ones work best for you. For those who don’t like using learning apps, I recommend writing a daily journal in English. 15 minutes learning every day can go a long way

Find a Friend

Having someone who is on the same journey as you can really help. I have used a tandem, where my partner teaches me German and I teach them English, as well as a pure learning friendship, where we are both around the same level in German. I like them both. Some  people think you need to learn from an expert, and while that will definitely be helpful, when it comes to practising, it can be much easier to understand a Non-native person. Don’t worry about picking up bad habits, focus on improving your confidence and fluency

Go to class

Maybe this one is cheating, but a teacher can really help you along the way. When it comes to group courses, you get to meet other people and building these relationships can help you stay motivated. One-to-One means you get your teachers full attention. With my students, I am always reachable when they have specific problems, and I can provide help because I know so much about what they are dealing with. Structure from your teacher can really help you and when you find a teacher you like, it makes all the difference. This is why I would always recommend making use of a free trial if the teacher or school offers it. 

All in all I think learning a language is a bit like being sporty. If you exercise often you will improve. If you stop, then you lose a bit of your progress. It doesn’t matter if you run in the gym (like a classroom) or in the park (by yourself) as long as you run. It’s good to have a trainer but you need to do some of the hard work on your own. When you have a good mix, everything is more fun and that makes your target seem much easier to reach