Is that English?

I happened to run across this amusing clip while I was searching for information about non-human primates. It is part of an interview between Ellen DeGeneres and Actor Hugh Laurie where they test each other's knowledge of British and American English slang. Not all of the expressions were familiar to me, but the exercise highlights the difference between these two Englishes.

Colorful English in Southeast Asia

Some friends who have been traveling throughout Asia for more than two years have a blog (Contemporary Nomad) which recently posted some more examples of English from the 'field.' Some of the signs are amazingly similar to others posted in European hotels, warning guests not to use accommodations for indecent or inappropriate behavior. One wonders if the abusers can understand the funny English. It's a good thing they have some pictures too.

Song Playlist Gadget for Blogs

I'm a big fan of using songs in the classroom to teach pronunciation, rhythm, and vocabulary, so I was very excited to discover this gadget to attach to my blog. It comes from Playlist.com and allows the user to put a music player into his/her blog, website, facebook, or just about anywhere else on the internet - and it's free!

I put one of my favorites on the list, Kenny Rogers' 'The Gambler', which I've actually got a lesson plan for on this site. Unfortunately, I couldn't find another popular one for lower level students, called 'Sing' by Karen Carpenter. Nevertheless, check out all the songs and this gadget/widget. You may find that you like it well enough to put it on your own blog.

Previewing Books Online

People can use the internet to access just about everything. However, when it comes to books, I like to see what I'm getting and read parts of it before I buy. Sometimes, however, I don't have the time to drive out to my local Barnes and Noble to browse.

Recently, I found that the Hachette Book Group lets you preview many books online. The selection is limited, but if you're an educator or a student in a browsing mood, this site is an option for you. When you find a book that is 'open' to this feature, you just click on it. Then go to the top of the page and scroll down to the Table of Contents or one of the chapters that is 'open' to this feature. Click on the chapter and begin reading. It's as simple as that.

There are also podcast excerpts available that could make great short listening exercises for my ESL classes. If only I had more time to browse....