Passive Voice

This short video teaches English learners about the passive voice in speaking and writing.

Vowel Contrast: /i/ vs. /ɪ/

Many ESL students have trouble distinguishing these two vowel sounds: /i/ and /ɪ/. Here we give you practice in hearing the difference.

Same Spelling, Different Pronunciation

Some English words have the same spelling, but their pronunciation is different. We give some examples and a simple rule regarding nouns versus verbs.

Since vs. For

Learners are often confused by the words "for" and "since" when practicing their English. Here is a short tutorial on when to use which.

Strengthening Your Vocabulary

Deep – deepen, bright – brighten. English has the power to make adjectives into verbs by adding two letters. Alan explains to his ESL students how to do this.

Lend vs. Borrow

English learners tend to confuse these two words: Lend and Borrow. Learn their meanings here, and see examples of how to use them properly.

English Contractions

Do you use words like these: I’m, you’d, she’ll, who’s, didn’t, won’t, they’ve, we’re? If so, you're using contractions. This is a very normal way of speaking American English. Alan tells why and gives examples.

English Modal Verbs, Part 3

In this grammar lesson, Alan talks about the second group of English modal verbs, that related to Ability. Learn about the variations in meaning with these expressions: can, can't, could, couldn't, probably able, should be able, may be able, and more!

Lay vs. Lie

One common confusion in English is misusing the verbs Lay and Lie.  Even native speakers can get them wrong. Follow these simple rules so you don't end up with egg on your face!

English Modal Verbs, Part 1

Verbs of Un-Doing

What happens if you make a mistake? Can you fix it? Can you take it back? Sometimes you can...with verbs of un-doing. Here is how.

Note: When we add the optional preposition “up” to the verb, it gives a sense of completeness, a sense of doing something “up” to 100% fullness.

Vowel #15

Alan teaches the pronunciation of Vowel #15 in American English: /oi/. He includes spelling patterns, exceptions, and sample sentences for practice.

Vowel #14

Alan teaches the pronunciation of Vowel #14 in American English: /au/. He includes spelling patterns, exceptions, and sample sentences for practice.

Saying H in English

Did you know there are three ways to pronounce "h" in American English?

Word Stress (Part 1)

Once you've understood the individual sounds of English (consonants and vowels), it's time to focus on the music of English pronunciation. Alan gives an introduction to English rhythms with this lesson on word stress.