Tag: english
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Children Literature Series Opening: An Introduction to Folktales
William Li Folktales have significant literary implications, notably in the preservation of cultural heritage. They act as a repository for cultural values, traditions, and beliefs, ensuring that customs, norms, and moral values are transmitted across generations. A crucial aspect of folktales is their didactic nature. They often impart moral and ethical lessons, teaching audiences about…
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Speaking of Sound: Consonants and Vowels
In the composition of language, consonants and vowels are the instruments that create the symphony of speech. Consonants are like the percussion section; they provide the beats that give words their rhythm. They’re the ‘b’s that buzz, the ‘t’s that tap, and the ‘k’s that crackle. For example, in the word “crisp,” the consonants ‘c’,…
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Learning English with no stress: Reading Children’s Books
Reading children’s books is an enjoyable way to improve your English vocabulary. Here are some tips to make the most of this delightful learning experience: Take yourself into a journey of learning curve reverse engineering. Be childish, foolish, and open your heart to the children’s world. © 2024 William Li. All rights reserved.
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The Evolution of Modern English: The Late Modern Victorian Era
Across the sprawling tapestry of English language history, two distinct epochs emerge as pivotal moments in its evolution: the Victorian Period and the subsequent Post-Victorian era. The Victorian Period, spanning from the ascension of Queen Victoria in 1837 to the dawn of the 20th century, stands as an era of profound transformation marked by the…
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The Evolution of Modern English: American English and Literature
The development of American English and literature is deeply intertwined with the cultural and linguistic influences of various groups and events. The British pilgrims and Puritans, who arrived in the early 17th century, brought with them a version of English that was to evolve into American English. Their religious texts, sermons, and diaries contributed significantly…
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Don’t Feel Shameful. Speak Confidently and Louder!
William Li Accents are often the most noticeable aspect of a non-native speaker’s English. They reflect one’s linguistic heritage and should be embraced rather than eradicated. While some may argue that a strong accent can hinder understandability, it is the clarity of speech, not the accent itself, that is paramount. In the global tapestry of…
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Cookies, Coffee, You and Me
When an American might ask for the check at a restaurant, a Brit would ask for the bill. And while Americans fill their cars with gas, the British fill theirs with petrol. Bob, an American, and Liz, a Brit met for the first time in a London café: Bob: “Hey there! Could I get some…
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How to write a good Poem
How to Write a Good Poem? Writing poetry can be a delightful and expressive endeavor! Let’s explore some tips and guidelines to help you get started on writing a good English poem: Understand What a Poem Is: A poem is a singular piece of poetry that doesn’t necessarily have to rhyme or follow specific formats.…
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The Evolution of Modern English: The Medieval Crush and the Renaissance
William Li The Middle English Period, spanning from approximately 1100 to 1500, was a transformative era for the English language. It marked the transition from Old English, influenced by the Norman Conquest, to the cusp of early Modern English. This period saw significant developments in grammar and the proliferation of dialects, as evidenced by the…