October is a month full of traditions and celebrations around the world. In Portugal, Switzerland, and the United States, the season brings a mix of history, religion, and spooky fun.

For Portuguese learners, these holidays are not only fascinating but also a great opportunity to expand vocabulary and connect with culture. <h3>Halloween in Portugal, Switzerland, and the United States</h3> In Portugal, Halloween (Dia das Bruxas) is becoming more popular, especially among children and teenagers. Schools, shopping centers, and local communities organize parties where kids wear costumes (disfarces), carve pumpkins (abóboras), and say “doces ou travessuras” (trick or treat). In Switzerland, Halloween is less traditional but still present in some areas, often influenced by international culture. Families may decorate with lanterns or autumn symbols rather than big costume parties.&nbsp; In the United States, Halloween is one of the biggest annual celebrations. Streets are full of children in costumes, houses decorated with spider webs and skeletons, and families giving out candy. Compared to Portugal and Switzerland, the American version is much larger in scale and deeply embedded in popular culture.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3ma5m4eogis73f43gc0.jpg"> Learning tip: Create a short vocabulary list in Portuguese for Halloween: 1. Teia de aranha - Spider web2. a bruxa - The witch3. o fantasma - The ghost4. os morcegos -The bats5. os doces - The sweets /candy6. o esqueleto -The skeleton7. a abóbora - The pumpkin8. a lápide - The gravestone9. o gato negro / preto - The black cat10. o traje / a fantasia - The costume <h3>October Holidays in Portugal</h3> Portugal celebrates an important historical holiday on October 5th: Implantação da República. On this day in 1910, the monarchy was replaced by a republic. Today, it is a national holiday, though the celebrations are quieter compared to past decades. For learners, this is a chance to explore words like república, história, and liberdade (freedom). At the very beginning of November, Portugal observes Dia de Todos os Santos (All Saints’ Day) on November 1st. It is a deeply rooted Catholic tradition. Families visit cemeteries to honor loved ones, bringing flowers (flores) and lighting candles (velas). In some regions, children go from door to door asking for small gifts of bread, nuts, or sweets, a tradition known as Pão-por-Deus.For learners, this holiday introduces meaningful words such as santos (saints), cemitério (cemetery), and tradição (tradition).<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3ma5t5nclis73ecaqbg.jpg"> <h3>Autumn Holidays in Switzerland</h3>In Switzerland, October marks the harvest season. Local communities celebrate with fairs, markets, and food festivals. Soon after, on November 1st, Allerheiligen (All Saints’ Day) is observed in Catholic cantons. Families visit cemeteries to honor loved ones, a tradition very similar to Portugal’s Dia de Todos os Santos. <h3>A Cultural Comparison</h3><ul><li>Portugal: National history (October 5th) + Catholic traditions (All Saints’ Day). Halloween is growing but secondary.</li><li>Switzerland: Harvest festivals + Catholic traditions. Halloween is optional and less widespread.</li><li>United States: Halloween dominates October with strong cultural and commercial presence. Historical or religious holidays are less central this month.</li></ul> <h3>November Holidays in Portugal</h3> 🕯️ All Saints’ Day in Portugal: Then and Now All Saints’ Day (Dia de Todos os Santos) is celebrated on November 1st in Portugal. It is a Catholic holiday dedicated to honoring all the saints and remembering loved ones who have passed away. The Tradition TodayOn this day, families visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of relatives. It is common to place fresh flowers (flores) and light candles (velas) as symbols of respect and remembrance. The atmosphere is calm, reflective, and deeply rooted in family values.In some regions, especially in rural areas, children continue a tradition similar to trick-or-treating. They go from door to door asking for small gifts of food, such as bread, nuts, fruit, or sweets. This is known as “Pão-por-Deus” (“Bread for God”). How It Used to BeIn the past, All Saints’ Day was an even more important event in Portuguese life. Families would gather not only in cemeteries but also at home, preparing special meals to share. The “Pão-por-Deus” tradition was stronger: children carried cloth bags and recited rhymes when asking neighbors for offerings. Instead of candy, they often received chestnuts (castanhas), pomegranates (romãs), or homemade bread.For many older generations, this tradition was their childhood version of what Halloween later became in other countries. Cultural NoteAlthough Halloween has grown in popularity in Portugal in recent years, All Saints’ Day remains a more traditional and widely observed occasion. It reflects Portugal’s Catholic roots and shows how Portuguese culture combines solemn remembrance with community sharing.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3ma6c316ovs73dhqch0.jpg"> <h3>Why This Matters for Language Learning</h3> Exploring these traditions helps learners understand not only new words but also the cultural mindset behind the language. Talking about history, food, or even spooky creatures in Portuguese makes the learning process richer and more memorable. This comparison shows how the same time of year can have very different meanings depending on the culture and new generations.

🎃 October Traditions: Halloween, Holidays, and Learning Portuguese

One of the most fascinating aspects of the English language is its spelling.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the English language is its spelling. For learners, it can feel confusing, even unfair, that words are often written one way but pronounced another. Unlike languages with more consistent phonetic systems, English carries the marks of history, invasions, and borrowings from other tongues. A clear example of this is the mysterious presence of silent letters—letters that appear in writing but are never spoken aloud. While silent letters may seem unnecessary, they often reveal stories of the language’s evolution. They can tell us about Old English roots, French influences, or changes in pronunciation that occurred centuries ago but left the spelling behind. In this article, we will explore several common silent letters in English, with examples that learners often struggle with. By the end, you may find that silent letters are less frustrating and more like secret clues to the past. <h3>The Silent B</h3> The letter b is most famously silent when it follows the letter m at the end of a word. For example: Bomb → pronounced bom Climb → pronounced clim Crumb → pronounced crum Lamb → pronounced lam Comb → pronounced cohm Interestingly, the b used to be pronounced hundreds of years ago. In Middle English, “lamb” was spoken with a strong b sound, similar to the German word Lamm today. Over time, English speakers dropped the sound for ease of pronunciation, but the spelling remained. Another place we see a silent b is in the combination bt: Debt → pronounced det Doubt → pronounced dout Subtle → pronounced suttle Curiously, the b in these words was not even part of the original spelling. It was added later by scholars in the 15th and 16th centuries who wanted to show off the Latin origins. For example, debt comes from the Latin debitum. The spelling was “corrected” to include the b, but speakers never revived the sound. Of course, the b is not always silent. In words like obtain or obtrusive, the sound is still pronounced. <h3>The Silent D</h3> Another tricky letter is d, which is silent in combinations with g. Badge → pronounced baj Edge → pronounced ej Hedge → pronounced hej Wedge → pronounced wej We also see it in words such as: Handkerchief → often pronounced hank-erchief Handsome → pronounced hansom Wednesday → in practice, spoken as Wensday The silent d often disappears because of convenience. It is easier for the tongue to glide over sounds without stopping for the d. Over centuries, the faster, smoother version became the standard pronunciation. <h3>The Silent K</h3> Perhaps one of the most famous silent letters is the k at the beginning of words. Knee → pronounced nee Knife → pronounced nife Knight → pronounced nite Know → pronounced no Knock → pronounced nock This silent k is a remnant from Old English, when it was actually pronounced. Words like knight once sounded closer to the German Knecht, with a clear k sound. Over time, English speakers dropped the sound, but the spelling held on as a fossil from the past. <h3>The Silent N</h3> The n often disappears in the combination mn at the end of words. Autumn → pronounced autum Damn → pronounced dam Hymn → pronounced him Column → pronounced colum Condemn → pronounced condem Here again, the silent letter is a clue to history. In Latin, the n was clearly spoken. In English, the sound faded, but the spelling serves as a reminder of its origin. <h3>The Silent P</h3> Learners often stumble over words that begin with ps. The p is silent, and only the s is spoken. Psalm → pronounced salm Psychology → pronounced sy-kology Psychiatry → pronounced sy-chiatry Psyche → pronounced sy-kee These words mostly come from Greek, where the p was originally pronounced. English borrowed the words but simplified their pronunciation, keeping the spelling intact. <h3>The Silent H</h3> The h is a particularly tricky letter because sometimes it is silent, and sometimes it is not. Silent at the end after vowels: Cheetah → pronounced cheeta Savannah → pronounced savanna Silent after ‘r’: Rhyme → pronounced rime Rhubarb → pronounced roobarb Rhythm → pronounced rithm Silent after ‘ex’: Exhausting → pronounced eg-zaw-sting Exhibition → pronounced eg-zibition Exhort → pronounced eg-zort However, in words like exhale or exhume, the h is pronounced. <h3>Why Do Silent Letters Matter?</h3> It is easy to think of silent letters as annoying spelling traps. But they also serve an important purpose. Silent letters can: Show word origins. For example, the silent p in psychology reveals its Greek roots. Differentiate words. The word knight is spelled differently from night, even though they sound the same. The silent k helps avoid confusion. Preserve history. Spelling often freezes in time while pronunciation evolves. Silent letters remind us of how words used to sound. For learners, silent letters are also a good reminder that English is a global language shaped by centuries of influence—from Latin and French to Germanic and Greek. <h3>A Fun Challenge</h3> Try reading this sentence aloud and see how many silent letters you can spot: The knight tried to climb the tall column, but with great doubt, he dropped his knife into the autumn leaves. If you managed it smoothly, congratulations—you’ve mastered some of English’s trickiest silent letters!

The Curious World of Silent Letters in English

Learning Italian can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the aspects that often confuses learners is the subtle difference between seemingly similar expressions.

Learning Italian can be both rewarding and challenging. One of the aspects that often confuses learners is the subtle difference between seemingly similar expressions. A great example of this is the pair “Quanto costa” and “Quant’è”. Both are used in contexts involving prices, but they are not always interchangeable. Understanding when and how to use each one is crucial if you want to sound natural in Italian and avoid misunderstandings while shopping, eating out, or simply chatting with locals.&nbsp;In this article, we’ll break down the meaning, grammar, and usage of both expressions, providing examples and cultural context so you can confidently use them in everyday conversations. <h3>1. The Meaning of “Quanto costa”</h3>&nbsp;The phrase “Quanto costa” literally translates to “How much does it cost?” ● Quanto = how much&nbsp;● Costa = it costs (third-person singular form of costare, “to cost”)&nbsp; This question is typically used when you are asking about the price of a specific item. For example:&nbsp;● Quanto costa questo libro? → How much does this book cost?&nbsp;● Quanto costa il biglietto del treno? → How much does the train ticket cost?● Quanto costa quella borsa? → How much does that bag cost?&nbsp;Notice that you usually follow quanto costa with the name of the item in question, or you might point to it while asking.&nbsp;When to use “Quanto costa”&nbsp;● When referring to one single object.&nbsp;● When shopping in stores, markets, or boutiques.&nbsp;● When you want to know the price of an item on display. If you want to ask the price of several items, you would need to use the plural form:● Quanto costano queste scarpe? → How much do these shoes cost?&nbsp;Here, the verb costare is conjugated in the plural (costano) because “scarpe” (shoes) is plural. <h3>2. The Meaning of “Quant’è”</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>The expression “Quant’è” is a contraction of “Quanto è”, which literally means “How much is it?”&nbsp;This phrase is slightly more flexible in its usage. It is often used:&nbsp;1. To ask the total amount when you are ready to pay.&nbsp;2. To inquire about the overall cost rather than the price of a single item.&nbsp;For example:&nbsp;● At a café, after finishing your coffee and pastry:&nbsp;Quant’è? → How much is it (in total)?&nbsp;● At a market stall when buying several things:&nbsp;Quant’è tutto? → How much is everything?&nbsp;● At the pharmacy when you don’t know the exact price beforehand: Quant’è, per favore? → How much is it, please?&nbsp;When to use “Quant’è”&nbsp;● At checkout, when asking for the total bill.● In situations where the exact price of each individual item is not important, but the final sum matters.● When speaking more informally and quickly.&nbsp;In everyday spoken Italian, “Quant’è” can sound a bit more natural than “Quanto costa” when you are ready to pay. 3. Comparing the Two Expressions&nbsp; While both “Quanto costa” and “Quant’è” deal with price, the key difference lies in specificity vs. totality.&nbsp;● Quanto costa → Used when asking the price of a particular item.● Quant’è → Used when asking for the total price (often at the point of payment).&nbsp;Let’s look at a simple shopping scenario to illustrate:&nbsp; You’re at a clothing store:&nbsp;● You see a sweater you like. You ask:&nbsp;Quanto costa questo maglione? (How much does this sweater cost?)&nbsp;● You decide to buy the sweater plus a pair of jeans. At the counter, you ask: Quant’è tutto? (How much is everything?) <h3>4. Cultural Nuances</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>Italians often use body language and tone along with these expressions. For instance, when asking “Quant’è?” at a café, it is usually accompanied by handing over some coins or gesturing toward the cash register.&nbsp;Another nuance is politeness. You can make either phrase more polite by adding per favore (please):&nbsp;● Quanto costa questo, per favore?&nbsp;● Quant’è, per favore?&nbsp; In many parts of Italy, especially in smaller towns and traditional shops, these small politeness markers are highly appreciated.&nbsp;Also, note that “Quanto viene?” is sometimes used instead of Quant’è. It literally means “How much does it come to?” and carries the same meaning as “Quant’è” in contexts where you are asking for the total bill. <h3>5. Common Mistakes to Avoid</h3> 1. Using “Quant’è” when pointing to an item on display.&nbsp;○ If you’re asking about the price of a single item, use Quanto costa.&nbsp;○ Saying Quant’è questo libro? is understandable, but not as idiomatic as Quanto costa questo libro?&nbsp; 2. Forgetting the plural form.&nbsp;○ Always match the verb costare to the number of items:&nbsp;■ Quanto costa il panino? (singular)&nbsp;■ Quanto costano i panini? (plural)&nbsp;3. Overusing “Quanto costa” at checkout.&nbsp;○ It’s more natural to say Quant’è? or Quanto viene? when paying for multiple items. <h3>6. Summary&nbsp;</h3>● “Quanto costa” = “How much does it cost?” → used for the price of a specific item. ● “Quant’è” = “How much is it?” → used for the total amount, often at checkout.&nbsp;By mastering this distinction, you’ll not only improve your grammar but also sound much more natural in everyday interactions in Italy. Next time you’re traveling, whether you’re buying gelato, a train ticket, or souvenirs, you’ll know exactly which phrase to usePerfect! Here’s a practical dialogue example that illustrates the difference between “Quanto costa” and “Quant’è” in a real-life situation.&nbsp; Dialogue Example: At the Café&nbsp;[Anna enters a café in Rome.]&nbsp;Anna: Buongiorno! Quanto costa un cappuccino?&nbsp;(Good morning! How much does a cappuccino cost?)&nbsp; Barista: Costa un euro e cinquanta.&nbsp;(It costs €1.50.) Anna: Bene. Allora prendo un cappuccino e una brioche.&nbsp;(Great. Then I’ll have a cappuccino and a croissant.)&nbsp; [Anna enjoys her breakfast. When she’s ready to pay, she goes to the counter.]&nbsp;Anna: Quant’è, per favore?&nbsp;(How much is it, please?)&nbsp; Barista: In totale sono tre euro.&nbsp;(In total it’s €3.)&nbsp; What Happened Here?&nbsp;● Quanto costa un cappuccino? → Anna asked the price of one specific item (the cappuccino).&nbsp;● Quant’è, per favore? → At checkout, she asked for the total bill for everything she ordered.&nbsp; Dialogue Example: At the Street Market&nbsp;[Marco is shopping at an outdoor market.]&nbsp;Marco: Mi scusi, quanto costano queste mele?&nbsp;(Excuse me, how much do these apples cost?)&nbsp; Venditore: Due euro al chilo.&nbsp;(€2 per kilo.)&nbsp; Marco: Perfetto, ne prendo due chili.&nbsp;(Perfect, I’ll take two kilos.)&nbsp; [The vendor puts the apples in a bag and hands them to Marco.]&nbsp;Marco: Quant’è tutto?&nbsp;(How much is everything?)&nbsp; Venditore: Sono quattro euro.&nbsp;(That’s €4.)&nbsp; What Happened Here?● Quanto costano queste mele? → Marco wanted to know the price per kilo (specific).&nbsp; ● Quant’è tutto? → He then asked for the total amount he had to pay.&nbsp; These short dialogues show the natural flow of conversation and how Italians use the two expressions differently in everyday life.

“Quanto costa” vs. “Quant’è” in Italian

Let’s face it, saying no at work is hard. It’s tough in any language, but especially so if English isn’t your first one.

<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcabaovlts73amen3g.jpg"> You want to be a team player, you want to show you’re a hard worker, and you never want to look rude or unhelpful. But sometimes, you just can’t say yes. Maybe you’re already swamped with projects, or you have a tight deadline, and taking on one more thing will break you. Or maybe the task just isn’t in your job description. Whatever the reason, you’ve got to decline gracefully. Now, a simple “no” can feel harsh, like slamming a door in someone’s face. It's a tricky social dance, isn’t it? You have to balance being direct with being polite. The goal is to refuse a request without causing hurt feelings or damaging your professional relationships. It's about maintaining your boundaries while still showing respect for your colleagues and their needs. I’ve been there, I’ve said yes to things I absolutely shouldn’t have, and it only led to more stress and less-than-stellar work. So trust me, learning to say no is a skill you need to master. And it’s a skill you can learn. Let's get into it. <h3>The Soft ‘No’: 'I’m afraid I won’t be able to…'</h3><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcaoqovlts73amen7g.jpg"> This one is a classic for a reason. Starting with “I’m afraid…” immediately softens the blow. It’s an expression of regret, almost like a little apology, even though you don’t have to apologize for protecting your time. The phrase “I won’t be able to…” is a polite way of stating a fact, not a personal preference. It sounds formal and professional without being cold. So, for example, if your manager asks you to take on a new report, you could say, “I’m afraid I won’t be able to take that on right now. I’m completely tied up with the quarterly budget report, which is due Friday.” See how that works? You’re not just saying no; you’re providing a brief, reasonable explanation. You’re showing them that your “no” is because of a conflict, not a lack of willingness. This subtle bit of information can make all the difference. It shows you’re still a conscientious employee, just one with a full plate. <h3>The Time-Delay Tactic: 'Could we schedule this later?'</h3><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcavemshks73a1m120.jpg"> Here’s a great one for when you’re interested in the task but genuinely don’t have the capacity at that moment. This phrase doesn’t say no permanently; it says, “Not now, but maybe later.” It’s a great way to handle requests that aren’t urgent but are important. This approach shifts the conversation from “can you do this?” to “when is the best time for us to do this?” You could say, “That sounds like a great project. Could we schedule a time to discuss this next week? My schedule is completely full until then.” This is super helpful because it keeps the door open. You’re not rejecting the project or the person who asked; you’re just pushing it to a more realistic time. It also gives you a chance to think about the request and maybe prepare a bit more before you commit. It’s smart, it’s polite, and it shows you’re considerate of your own time and the quality of your work. <h3>The Referral: 'I think [Name] might be a better fit for this.'</h3><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcb2aovlts73amencg.jpg"> Sometimes, the best way to say no is to suggest someone else who is a better fit. This is the ultimate team-player move. You’re not just saying, “I can’t do it,” you’re saying, “I can’t do it, but I know who can!” It shows you understand the big picture and you’re still trying to help solve the problem. For instance, if your coworker asks you to help with a design project, but you know Sarah from the marketing team is a wizz with graphic design, you could say, “I don’t have much experience with that kind of design, but you know what? Sarah is a rockstar with that stuff. I think she’d be a better fit for this project.” By doing this, you're not just declining a task; you're also showing your colleagues that you value their skills and are aware of the team’s strengths. It’s a subtle way of saying no that actually builds trust and respect. <h3>The Boundary Setter: 'I'm not able to take on any new projects right now.'</h3><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcb62ovlts73amenfg.jpg"> This is a very direct but respectful way to say no. It’s simple, clear, and leaves no room for confusion. Unlike some of the other phrases, this one doesn’t offer a lot of wiggle room. It’s for when you really, truly cannot take on one more thing. It sets a firm boundary, but in a polite and professional way. Let’s say you’ve been working overtime for a month straight, and your manager asks you to take on another major task. You could respond, “Thanks for thinking of me, but honestly, I'm not able to take on any new projects right now. My current workload is already at capacity.” This phrase is great because it doesn’t make excuses; it just states a fact. It’s a sign of maturity and self-awareness. People will respect you for knowing your limits and being honest about them. <h3>The Explain-and-Offer: 'I’d love to help, but…'</h3><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3kcb8umshks73a1m150.jpg"> This one is a little bit like the soft no, but it starts with a positive. “I’d love to help…” shows your willingness to be a good team member. Then, you follow it up with your reason for not being able to. This is a great way to communicate empathy while still holding your ground. For example, a colleague asks you to stay late to help them finish a presentation. You have plans you can’t change. You could say, “I’d love to help you with that presentation, but I have a doctor’s appointment I can’t reschedule. Can I help you with anything else before I go?” This approach makes your colleague feel heard and appreciated. It shows that you value them and their request, even though you can't fulfill it. The key here is the offer to help in another way, which reinforces your commitment to the team. So, there you have it. Five polite ways to say no at work. Remember, the goal isn't to be cold or unhelpful, it's to be realistic about your time and your abilities. Learning to say no is a critical part of being a professional. It shows you’re in control of your work and that you respect your own time and energy. It's a skill that will help you avoid burnout, produce higher-quality work, and earn the respect of your colleagues. So next time someone asks you for a favor you can’t deliver, try one of these phrases. You might be surprised at how much better you feel.

5 Polite Ways to Say “No” at Work

One of the first cultural and linguistic challenges learners of Italian encounter is deciding  whether to use “tu” or “Lei” when addressing someone.

Unlike English, which only uses&nbsp;“you” for both formal and informal contexts, Italian makes a clear distinction, and&nbsp;choosing the right form can sometimes feel tricky. Today we will look at:&nbsp; 1. What it means “dare del tu” and “dare del Lei”&nbsp;2. When to use each form&nbsp;3. How to use each form&nbsp;4. How Italians handle the transition from “Lei” to “tu”&nbsp; Are you ready? Let’s dive in!&nbsp; <h3>1. What does it mean “dare del tu” or “dare del Lei”?</h3>&nbsp;•“Dare del tu” means addressing someone with “tu”, the informal pronoun for&nbsp;the 2nd person singular, which creates closeness and familiarity.•“Dare del Lei” means addressing someone with “Lei”, the formal pronoun for&nbsp;the 2nd person singular (always written with a capital L), used to express respect,&nbsp;distance, or politeness.&nbsp;<h3>2. When to use “tu” vs.“Lei”</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>I know, for Italians the world is full of shades and nuances, and it is not always intuitively&nbsp;understandable from the outside.&nbsp;Let’s put it this way: Italians tend to classify people into two main groups: familiar and&nbsp;unfamiliar.&nbsp; That is why you may want to use “tu” with:•family members and close friends&nbsp;•people your age or younger in informal situations&nbsp;•colleagues or classmates once a friendly tone has been established&nbsp; And “Lei” with:&nbsp;•older people (unless they explicitly invite you to use “tu”)&nbsp;•people you don’t know well (in shops, restaurants, offices)&nbsp;•in professional settings, when respect or hierarchy is important&nbsp; Let's see some real examples.&nbsp;Informal “tu”:&nbsp;1.Ciao Luca, come stai? → Hi Luca, how are you?&nbsp;2.Mauro, mi passi il sale? → Mauro, can you pass me the salt?&nbsp;3.Giulia, hai fatto i compiti? → Giulia, did you do your homework?&nbsp; Formal “Lei”:&nbsp;1.Buongiorno signora, come sta? → How are you?&nbsp;2.Mi scusi, sa dirmi dov’è l’ufficio postale? → Excuse me, can you tell me where the&nbsp;post office is?3.Dottore, potrebbe prescrivermi questa medicina? → Doctor, could you prescribe&nbsp;me this medicine?&nbsp; <h3>3. How to use “tu” vs.“Lei”</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>I am sure you are now wondering: Ok, this is the form, but how can I construct a sentence&nbsp;with these pronouns?&nbsp;Let's get down to the nitty-gritty.&nbsp;“Lei” and “tu” both function as 2nd person pronoun, and the only difference is only how&nbsp;the verb conjugates. Indeed, “tu” requires the use of the second person singular form of the verb. • Tu parli inglese? → Do you speak English?&nbsp;•Tu vivi a Roma? → Do you live in Rome?&nbsp; Whereas, “Lei” uses the third person singularform of the verb, the same one you would&nbsp;use for lui/lei (he/she).&nbsp;•Lei parla inglese? → Do you speak English?&nbsp;•Lei vive a Roma? → Do you live in Rome?&nbsp; Because “Lei” behaves grammatically like he/she, it requires the same agreement with&nbsp;pronouns, adjectives, and specific tenses (like the past participle). e.g.&nbsp;•Lei* è stanco? (to a man) / Lei* è stanca? (to a woman) → Are you tired? • Lei* è arrivato in tempo? (to a man) / Lei* è arrivata in tempo? (to a woman) → Did&nbsp;you arrive on time?&nbsp;•La saluto cordialmente → I greet you cordially&nbsp;•Posso offrirLe un caffè? → May I offer you a coffee?&nbsp;•È Sua questa penna? → Is this your pen?*As with the other pronouns, this pronoun may also be omitted.&nbsp; In formal writing, “Lei”, as well as its object forms (“La”, “Le”) and possessives (“Suo”,&nbsp;“Sua”), is often capitalized to show respect and to distinguish it from “lei”, “sua” = she,&nbsp;her, hers.This is especially common in letters, emails, and business communication.&nbsp; <h3>4. The transition from “Lei” to “tu”</h3><h3>&nbsp;</h3>In Italian culture, moving from “Lei” to “tu” is a social step. It is not automatic, and it is&nbsp;usually proposed with a phrase like:&nbsp;Posso darLe del “tu”? → Can I address you informally?&nbsp;Diamoci del “tu”! → Let’s use “tu”!&nbsp;This moment marks a shift from formality to familiarity.&nbsp; Quick tip: When in doubt, always start with “Lei”. Italians will appreciate the politeness,&nbsp;and if the context allows, they will automatically suggest switching to “tu” for ease of&nbsp;communication.That is all for today’s lesson!&nbsp;I hope you find useful this article and that you learned something.&nbsp;&nbsp;Of course, if you have any questions or other topics you would like me to cover, let me&nbsp;know in the comments below.&nbsp;Thank you reading this article!&nbsp;If you want to learn more about me, feel free to check out my profile. Ciao!&nbsp; Germana

“Dare del tu” or “dare del Lei”? The question of formality in Italian

No need for simplified editions or necessarily having a dictionary at hand. Some really nice novels are accessible as early as the A2 level. You just have to start!

<h3>Why read novels in French?</h3> Reading a book in its original version is very useful for learning a language. As you read, you gradually absorb grammar, memorize vocabulary and sentence structures without even realizing it. You can go at your own pace, reread difficult passages, read some parts out loud… In short, you assimilate the language progressively, without stress. Overall, reading is often easier than listening. But it also paves the way for speaking skills. By the way, when you watch a French film in the original version, do you use French subtitles? That’s a step before removing them entirely and being able to follow the film by ear. Reading is also a gateway to culture. Translators have to adapt a text to another society, and along the way, cultural references are often lost or altered. By reading a French work “in the original text,” you access the nuances and subtleties intended by the author. Another advantage, and not the least: what pride when you finish a book in a foreign language! Tips to get started reading in French<ul><li>Start with a short, contemporary book focused on everyday life: these are usually the easiest to understand and will teach you the most useful vocabulary.</li><li>Prefer books whose story you already know: you’ll follow the plot more easily and can focus on the language. But be careful: if there’s no suspense at all, your motivation might not last…</li><li>It’s always a good idea to read a foreign language book on an ebook reader: you can easily access a dictionary if a word really causes trouble or if you miss a nuance (though the best is to use context to infer unknown words).</li><li>If you prefer paper, don’t hesitate to annotate! Underline, highlight, box… Make the language your own. Don’t stay passive!</li><li>Reread several times the passages you don’t understand or that resonate with you. Note down new vocabulary.</li><li>Read aloud! If possible, listen to the audiobook. Search on YouTube or Spotify, they often exist.</li><li>On Google, type “comment prononcer …” to hear the pronunciation of a difficult word.</li><li>Don’t hesitate to supplement your reading by watching the film adaptation, if there is one.</li><li>And above all: don’t get discouraged! You won’t read as fast as in your native language, and that’s normal. Take your time, reread, assimilate.</li><li>Finally, reading should remain a pleasure! If a book falls flat for you, put it down and come back to it later (or choose another one).</li></ul> <h3>Some books accessible from level A2 to get started</h3> Le Petit Nicolas, by René Goscinny (1956) A classic by the author of Astérix and Lucky Luke. A series of short stories told by a little French boy in the 1950s. With a light, humorous style, Nicolas tells about his parents, school, and friends… Goscinny’s writing and Sempé’s drawings offer a tender image of childhood. The stories are independent, even though the same characters reappear. The first stories can be a bit challenging at A2, but the vocabulary repeats and the narrative is easy to follow — you get used to it quickly! <img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3b35c8rh68c73ft76jg.jpg"> <hr> Les Contes de la rue Broca, by Pierre Gripari (1967) A famous collection of stories well known to French-speaking children. It features witches and fantastic powers. Gripari created these tales with children from his Paris neighborhood (13th arrondissement). Often, the heroes move around Paris streets like Rue Broca and its neighbors (the famous Witch of Rue Mouffetard still haunts many libraries!). The vocabulary is simple and contemporary (though you need to get used to the lexicon of fantasy and imagination), and the narrative follows a classic fairy tale structure, easy to follow. These charming, sometimes slightly dark tales are mainly for younger readers but continue to delight older children as well. <hr> Le Petit Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry (1943) A cult novel of French literature, often studied in schools and sold worldwide. The characters and some quotes have become true cultural references. Published in 1943 during World War II, it tells the story of a young prince traveling from planet to planet. Along the way, he meets surprising characters who make him reflect on childhood, friendship, and life. A simple story, written in clear language, with short sentences, relatively accessible syntax, and vocabulary. But beneath this apparent simplicity lies a world of reflection! The illustrations are poetic and very touching.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3b35lje2oec73a5pk90.gif"> <hr> These books, accessible from level A2, are excellent supports to progress in French while discovering true classics of French literature, widely read and appreciated by the French themselves. Let me know if you have read any of these and what you thought of them, or if you have others to recommend!

Read the Classics of French Literature in the Original Text!

Have you ever been in a conversation or exam where you gave a short answer to a question and the other person just looked at you, waiting for more?

Have you ever been in a conversation or exam where you gave a short answer to a question and the other person just looked at you, waiting for more? This is frustrating; you might know more vocabulary and grammar than you are using, but when you feel nervous or under pressure, the words do not come out. Being able to speak at length and give well-developed answers to questions is very important. In exams, short answers can mean lower scores because the examiner does not hear enough language to award you a high level. In real life, short answers can make conversations stop quickly and feel awkward. One quick and easy solution to this problem is to use a simple speaking pattern to organise your thoughts and keep talking with confidence.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d39qhjag0qdem16gefkg.jpg"> <h3>Why is speaking at length important?</h3> For exams:&nbsp;If you are preparing for an exam such as IELTS, speaking at length gives the examiner more language to listen to and more evidence of your level. This can help you achieve a higher score.For real life: &nbsp;Speaking at length makes you more interesting to talk to. It gives your listener more information to respond to and helps the conversation continue naturally. <h3>How does a speaking pattern help?</h3> A speaking pattern is an easy way to organise your answer. You do not have to think about how to structure your answer, only about what to say. It helps you speak more fluently and quickly, and it makes your answers sound more complete. <h3>An easy speaking pattern to start with</h3> You can use this three-step pattern: Answer the Question → Justify your answer → Give an Example, talk about your Experience, or give your Opinion. Here’s how it works step-by-step: 1.Answer the questionRespond directly to what the other person said. This is important both in real life and in exams; after all, the purpose of language is to communicate. 2.Justify your responseExplain your answer using “because” or another linking word. This easily adds extra information and can help you use a wider range of vocabulary and different grammar forms. 3. Give an example, share your experience, or give your opinionAn example makes your answer more interesting. This is often the easiest addition to your speaking, but not always. If you cannot think of an example, talk about something from your experience. Another easy option is to give your opinion, then provide another justification that explains it. You don’t need to use all three of these points; one alone would normally be enough.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d39qhrpndatqgmdlofk0.jpg"> <h3>Won’t this make my answers sound the same every time?</h3> At first, using the same pattern can feel a little robotic. To make your answers sound fresh and unique, try these tips:<ul><li>Use a different range of vocabulary each time, especially topic-specific words, idioms, phrasal verbs, and collocations.</li><li>Change your grammar forms, for example by using different tenses or sentence structures. Conditionals, relative clauses, participle clauses, and the passive voice are all flexible options that can be used in a wide range of situations</li><li>Use a variety of linking words such as “however”, “for example” or “as a result” to make your answers flow more smoothly.</li></ul> The more you practice, the more natural and flexible your answers will sound. <h3>Is this the only speaking pattern I can use?</h3> No. Other useful patterns include: <ul><li>The “W6” questions: who, what, why, where, when, and how. You would choose 3 or 4 of these words to build your response around.</li><li>The “STAR” method: situation, task, action, result. This is a common speaking pattern used in job interviews in many countries.</li></ul> However, the pattern we are learning today is one of the most flexible and is also easy to use and remember. <h3>Do I really need to use a speaking pattern?</h3> Not forever. A speaking pattern is like training wheels on a bicycle. It helps you build your confidence. Once you feel comfortable speaking at length, you will not need it as much. <h3>Examples in action</h3> Question: Do you enjoy your job? <ul><li>Poor answer: No. ⇐ This is a grammatically complete English sentence, but it absolutely does not prove your language level, and also results in a very short conversation.</li><li>Better answer: I do not enjoy my job, and I would like to do something else. ⇐ There is more information here, but not enough if you want to demonstrate fluency and confidence with your language.</li><li>Full answer using the speaking pattern: No, I do not like my job because it is very routine and it does not give me any space to grow. For example, last week I spent the whole week in meetings and I did not have time to practice my English at all. In my experience, many jobs are like this, but I want to find something different. I like animals such as dogs and cats, so maybe working in a zoo or an animal rescue would be good for me.</li></ul> You can see how the last answer is much longer and more interesting. You justify your response, give an example to support your answer, and even give your opinion about a job that would be better for you. This answer also shows a wider range of vocabulary and grammar, and will help you score more highly in a language exam.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d39qi7hndatqgmdlofo0.jpg"> <h3>Try it yourself</h3> Choose one of these questions and answer it using the speaking pattern described above:1.What is your favorite weekend activity?2.Do you enjoy cooking?3.Would you like to live in another country? For even more of a challenge, look at the example that I provided in the section above. How can you make this answer even more advanced? Can you use an idiom or a phrasal verb? Can you find a place to put a conditional or use the passive voice? Write your answers in the comments below.

Speak More Fluently with This Simple Technique

If you love Spanish, travel, and food, exploring regional food festivals in the  Spanish-speaking world is a delicious way to boost your language skills while immersing yourself in culture.

If you love Spanish, travel, and food, exploring regional food festivals in the&nbsp;Spanish-speaking world is a delicious way to boost your language skills while immersing yourself in culture. Food festivals aren’t just about eating; they’re a chance to connect with locals, learn new vocabulary, and experience the diverse traditions of Spain and Latin America firsthand.&nbsp;&nbsp;In this article, we’ll take you on a linguistic tour of some iconic Spanish-language food festivals, introducing you to the vocabulary, phrases, and cultural context that will help you enjoy these events fully, whether in person or through virtual learning.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d38f7en09ri97k6mp64g.jpg"> Why Food Festivals Are Great for Learning Spanish&nbsp;&nbsp;Food festivals gather people around one of the most universal languages: food! But there’s also a rich tapestry of expressions, regional dialects, and cultural stories embedded in these events. Attending or studying a food festival gives you practical&nbsp;Spanish you won’t find in textbooks:&nbsp;&nbsp;• Authentic conversations: From ordering food to chatting with vendors and locals,&nbsp;festivals provide lively language practice.&nbsp;&nbsp;• Regional vocabulary: Every festival highlights local specialties with unique names and expressions.&nbsp;&nbsp;• Cultural context: Knowing about traditions, history, and food origins helps you understand language in context.&nbsp;&nbsp;• Listening practice: Live music, announcements, and casual chatter boost your comprehension skills.&nbsp;&nbsp; Even if you can’t travel right now, following along with festival videos or recipes online can provide rich learning content.&nbsp;Top Spanish Food Festivals and Key Vocabulary&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d38f7hn09ri97k6mp66g.jpg"> 1. La Tomatina (Buñol, Spain)&nbsp;&nbsp;Held every August, La Tomatina is the world-famous tomato fight in the town of&nbsp;Buñol, near Valencia. While it’s more of a playful battle than a traditional food festival, it celebrates tomatoes, a core ingredient in Spanish cuisine.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vocabulary to know:&nbsp;&nbsp;• tomate (tomato)&nbsp;&nbsp;• lanzar (to throw)&nbsp;&nbsp;• batalla (battle)&nbsp;&nbsp;• manchar (to stain)&nbsp;&nbsp;• mojado (wet)&nbsp; Useful phrases:&nbsp;&nbsp;¿Dónde puedo comprar tomates? — Where can I buy tomatoes?¡Cuidado, vienen los tomates! — Watch out, here come the tomatoes!Estoy empapado/a de tomate. — I’m soaked with tomato juice.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d38f7lag0qdem16g69vg.jpg"> 2. Feria de Abril (Seville, Spain)&nbsp;&nbsp;Although technically a fair, the Feria de Abril is famous for its food stalls serving Andalusian delicacies, such as tapas, jamón ibérico, and gazpacho. The event is a celebration of Andalusian culture, with flamenco music, dancing, and traditional costumes.&nbsp;&nbsp;Vocabulary to know:&nbsp;&nbsp;• tapa (small snack)• jamón ibérico (Iberian ham)• gazpacho (cold tomato soup)• feria (fair)• baile flamenco (flamenco dance) Useful phrases:&nbsp;&nbsp;Quisiera probar las tapas, por favor. — I would like to try the tapas, please.¿Qué tipo de jamón es este? — What kind of ham is this?¿Dónde está la caseta para bailar flamenco? — Where is the tent for flamenco&nbsp;dancing?<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d38f7t2g0qdem16g6a2g.jpg"> 3. Día de los Muertos (Mexico)&nbsp;&nbsp;While primarily a cultural and spiritual festival honoring the dead, Día de los&nbsp;Muertos is also famous for its unique foods like pan de muerto (sweet bread) and calaveras de azúcar (sugar skulls).&nbsp;&nbsp;Vocabulary to know:&nbsp;&nbsp;• pan de muerto(bread of the dead)• calavera (skull)• altar (altar)• ofrenda (offering)• dulce (sweet/candy) Useful phrases:&nbsp;&nbsp;¿Dónde puedo comprar pan de muerto? — Where can I buy “bread of the dead”?¿Qué significa esta calavera? — What does this skull mean?La ofrenda tiene flores y comida. — The altar has flowers and food.&nbsp;4. Inti Raymi (Peru) The Inti Raymi festival celebrates the Incan sun god with traditional music, dance,&nbsp;and special Andean foods such as chuño (freeze-dried potatoes) and cuy (guinea pig).Vocabulary to know:&nbsp;&nbsp;• intiwatana (Incan ritual stone)• cuy (guinea pig)• chuño (freeze-dried potato)• ceremonia (ceremony)• danza (dance) Useful phrases:&nbsp;&nbsp;¿Has probado el cuy? — Have you tried guinea pig?La danza representa la historia inca. — The dance represents Incan history.Esta comida es tradicional en la ceremonia. — This food is traditional in the ceremony. Tips for Learning Spanish at Food Festivals&nbsp;&nbsp;1. Prepare key vocabulary before you go. Make a list of food items, verbs, and polite phrases.2. Practice ordering food and asking questions. Role-play scenarios like ordering,&nbsp;asking about ingredients, or expressing preferences.3. Listen actively to announcements, music, and conversations. Festivals have a lively soundscape, which is great for improving your ear.4. Take photos and notes. Capture new words, signs, and menus to review later.5. Engage with locals. Don’t be shy! Ask about their favorite dishes and festival traditions. Virtual Alternatives to Experience Food Festivals&nbsp;If traveling isn’t an option, don’t worry! Many festivals have online coverage, recipe&nbsp;videos, and cultural documentaries. Try these ideas:&nbsp;&nbsp; • Watch La Tomatina battle videos with Spanish commentary and subtitles.&nbsp;• Cook a traditional dish from the Feria de Abril while listening to flamenco music.&nbsp;• Learn about Día de los Muertos traditions through bilingual videos and make pan&nbsp;de muerto at home.&nbsp;&nbsp;• Follow a virtual Inti Raymi celebration and learn about Andean food vocabulary.&nbsp;<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d38f88pndatqgmdlgc6g.jpg"> Conclusion&nbsp;&nbsp;Regional food festivals are vibrant, sensory-rich opportunities to deepen your&nbsp;Spanish learning throughculture and cuisine. From the tomato-splattered streets of&nbsp;Buñol to the sweet breads of Mexico’s Día de los Muertos, these events connect language to real-life experiences. Whether you travel to Spain, Mexico, Peru, or explore online, immerse yourself in the language of food festivals and watch your&nbsp;Spanish skills grow, one bite and phrase at a time.

Learning Spanish Through Regional Food Festivals

This article will guide you through key vocabulary, phrases, and strategies to read and understand business contracts in English.

Business contracts are legal agreements between two or more parties. They define responsibilities, terms, and conditions for business transactions. For ESL (English as a Second Language) learners, understanding contracts in English is essential to avoid misunderstandings and ensure professional and legal compliance. This article will guide you through key vocabulary, phrases, and strategies to read and understand business contracts in English. <h3>Why Understanding Contracts Matters</h3><ul><li>Legal Protection: Knowing the terms protects you and your company.</li><li>Avoids Misunderstandings: Clear understanding prevents disputes with clients, suppliers, or partners.</li><li>Professional Communication: Helps you discuss terms confidently with colleagues and lawyers.</li><li>Career Advancement: Many roles require knowledge of contracts and agreements.</li></ul><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35qbn05depg6p01lpsg.jpg"> <h3>Key Contract Vocabulary</h3>1. Agreement:<ul><li>A mutual understanding between parties about rights and obligations.</li><li>Example: “The agreement outlines the responsibilities of both parties.”</li></ul>2. Party / Parties:<ul><li>Individuals, companies, or organizations involved in the contract.</li><li>Example: “The parties agree to the terms stated in the contract.”</li></ul>3. Terms and Conditions:<ul><li>The rules and details of the agreement.</li><li>Example: “The terms and conditions specify payment deadlines and delivery requirements.”</li></ul>4. Obligations / Responsibilities:<ul><li>Actions or duties each party must perform.</li><li>Example: “It is your obligation to deliver the goods on time.”</li></ul>5. Payment Terms:<ul><li>Information about how and when payments will be made.</li><li>Example: “The payment terms state that 50% is due upfront and 50% upon delivery.”</li></ul>6. Confidentiality:<ul><li>Rules about keeping information private.</li><li>Example: “Both parties must respect confidentiality and not share sensitive data.”</li></ul>7. Termination Clause:<ul><li>Conditions under which the contract can be ended.</li><li>Example: “The contract includes a termination clause for breach of obligations.”</li></ul>8. Liability:<ul><li>Responsibility for damages or losses.</li><li>Example: “The company limits liability for delays caused by natural disasters.”</li></ul>9. Dispute Resolution:<ul><li>Methods to resolve conflicts, such as mediation or arbitration.</li><li>Example: “The dispute resolution section explains how disagreements will be handled.”</li></ul>10. Amendment:<ul><li>A change or addition to the contract.</li><li>Example: “Any amendment must be agreed upon by all parties in writing.”</li></ul><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35qbt6brm58l3d5lh0g.jpg"> <h3>Steps to Read a Contract</h3>1.Read the Entire Document:<ul><li>Don’t skip sections. Every part is important.</li></ul>2.Highlight Key Terms:<ul><li>Focus on obligations, payment terms, confidentiality, and termination clauses.</li></ul>3. Look for Dates and Deadlines:<ul><li>Note start and end dates, delivery timelines, and payment schedules.</li></ul>4.Understand Legal Vocabulary:<ul><li>Use dictionaries or online resources to clarify unfamiliar words.</li></ul>5.Check for Responsibilities:<ul><li>Identify what you and the other party must do.</li></ul>6.Identify Risks:<ul><li>Review clauses about liability, penalties, and dispute resolution.</li></ul>7.Seek Clarification:<ul><li>If anything is unclear, ask a manager, lawyer, or experienced colleague.</li></ul><img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35qcioll2tevhsj02gg.jpg"> <h3>Common Phrases in Business Contracts</h3><ul><li>“The parties agree to the following terms and conditions.”</li><li>“This agreement shall commence on [date] and continue until [date].”</li><li>“Payment shall be made within 30 days of invoice receipt.”</li><li>“The parties shall maintain confidentiality regarding all information disclosed.”</li><li>“Either party may terminate this agreement by giving 30 days’ written notice.”</li><li>“The company shall not be liable for any indirect or consequential losses.”</li><li>“Any amendments to this agreement must be in writing and signed by all parties.”</li></ul> <h3>Tips for ESL Learners</h3>Learn Legal Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with key terms like agreement, obligations, liability, and confidentiality.Use Simple English: Summarize each clause in your own words to ensure understanding.Take Notes: Highlight dates, responsibilities, and important conditions.Ask Questions: Clarify unclear points with colleagues, legal advisors, or supervisors.Practice Reading Contracts: Start with simple contracts and gradually move to more complex ones. <h3>Example of Reading a Clause</h3>Clause: “The supplier shall deliver the goods within 30 days of the purchase order. Failure to do so may result in penalties as outlined in Section 5.”Understanding in Simple English:<ul><li>The supplier must deliver goods within 30 days.</li><li>If the supplier is late, there may be penalties.</li><li>Check Section 5 for details about the penalties.</li></ul> Reading and understanding business contracts in English is essential for ESL learners who want to work professionally and avoid misunderstandings. By learning key vocabulary, reading carefully, summarizing clauses, and asking questions when needed, you can confidently interpret contracts and ensure compliance with legal and business requirements.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35qd405depg6p01lq5g.jpg">

How to Read and Understand a Business Contract in English

For those who are serious about learning their target language, italki is the perfect complement to school instruction. With the right planning and communication between you and your italki teacher, school language classes and one-on-one italki instruction are a match made in heaven!

School is about to start! For many people, it has already started. Across the world, students from kindergarten through university are beginning language lessons. Some of them will reach proficiency in the language being taught, and many won’t. The fact is, most students who successfully learn a language don’t do it through school alone. After all, learning takes consistent practice and motivation that a few hours a week in a big group of other students can’t always provide. For those who are serious about learning their target language, italki is the perfect complement to school instruction. With the right planning and communication between you and your italki teacher, school language classes and one-on-one italki instruction are a match made in heaven! Here are six ways that you can use italki to help yourself (or your child) rise to the top of the class. <h3>1. Use italki to form a personal connection with the language.</h3>&nbsp;The first language I ever tried to learn was Spanish. I took four years of classes in middle school and high school, but I’m ashamed to say that I barely learned how to count to ten. How did this happen? Well, I was young and had never met a native Spanish speaker before. I&nbsp;didn’t have a reason to learn, and I didn’t care.&nbsp;Italki offers you the opportunity to connect with friendly and engaging people who speak your target language as their mother tongue and are happy to cheer you on. Finding the right italki teacher can give you something that no book can teach: Motivation.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d352t68ll2tevhsirok0.jpg"> <h3>2. Spend some time during every lesson summarizing what you’ve learned at school to your italki teacher.</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;Summarizing what you’ve learned can help it stick in your memory. Simply tell your teacher that you would like to spend some time every lesson explaining what you’ve learned in your school class. He or she will be happy to help.&nbsp;&nbsp;If you have a young child who might not be able to explain things like grammar, you can have them hold up their textbook for their teacher to see. They can point to the pictures and say the words and sentences, sing the songs, and read the stories.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35311458cpv00sudi9g.jpg"> 3. Make a list of vocabulary and sentence structures from your school class, and try to use them all during your italki lesson.&nbsp; Before the start of your italki lesson, get out a piece of paper and write down the key vocabulary words and sentence structures you’ve learned at school. Put that paper on the desk next to you during your italki class. Try to slip the words and phrases into your conversation with your teacher. Every time you successfully use a word or phrase, cross it off the list. Can you use them all?<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d35337gll2tevhsirov0.jpg"> <h3>4. Use what you’ve learned to interview your teacher.</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;Let your teacher know you’d like to interview them at the start of each lesson. Before the class, write down a list of ten questions that use the vocabulary and sentence structures you’re learning at school. If you are learning about the present perfect in the classroom, you can ask your teacher a series of “Have you ever….?” questions. If your child is learning fruit and vegetable vocabulary, you can help them prepare to ask their teacher if they like apples,&nbsp;bananas, onions, and so on. This exercise is especially useful, because often times in&nbsp;traditional classrooms, the teacher is the one asking their questions while the students only get to practice how to answer.&nbsp;&nbsp;<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d3533l0ll2tevhsirp10.jpg"> <h3>5. Use italki to activate your foreign language brain before the test.</h3>&nbsp;&nbsp;Studying is great, but if you can get your brain thinking in your target language, that’s even better. If you know that you’re going to have a test at school, why not have a lesson on italki early in the morning before school starts? That way, when the teacher hands out the test papers, your target language will be awake and active in your brain. A major benefit of italki is that you can find a teacher at any time of the day, even at five or six in the morning.<img src="https://ofs-cdn.italki.com/u/internal/galaxy/message/d353458ll2tevhsirp30.jpg"><h3>6. Ask your teacher to create customized study materials based on your school textbook.</h3>&nbsp;Some italki teachers will be more than happy to create custom material for you to help you practice the content of your school textbook in class. You can simply send them photos of the pages you are studying. Just be aware that this will take your teacher extra preparation time.&nbsp;Some teachers might refuse or ask you to pay a higher price for the lesson. Look for teachers who advertise themselves as being willing to create custom content, or who have special packages available aimed at helping students. Perhaps some teachers who are willing to help you in this way will even comment at the bottom of this article, so that you can find them more easily.&nbsp;&nbsp;I’m sure I’m speaking for everybody at italki when I say that I wish all students a happy and productive 2025-2026 school year. Hopefully, this can be the year you take your language learning to the next level.

6 Ways italki Can Help You Succeed in Your School Language Classes

In this episode, we explore why it is important to understand and embrace your motivation for learning a new language. (Hint: It's different for everyone!)

It's the world's most famous book on military strategy. Learn about its fascinating history, about the lessons in the book, and discover how you can apply some ideas from this 2,500-year-old book to your English learning.

It's the world's favourite sweet snack, and the chocolate industry is worth over $100 billion. Discover the fantastic history of where it comes from, how it became so popular, and learn about some of the economics of chocolate production.

From a small, wet island, English has come to be the world's dominant language. How did this actually happen, where does English actually come from, and how has the language changed over the years?

Alastair Budge is the creator of English Learning for Curious Minds, a podcast for intermediate to advanced English learners who want to learn weird and wonderful things about the world at the same time as improving their English.