Learn English and Improve Your Accent Through Music

Music is not only a form of entertainment but also a great tool for learning languages. One of the most popular languages in the world is English, and many people want to improve their English skills. Listening to and singing English songs can be a fun and effective way to learn the language and improve your accent. In this article, we will discuss how to use music to learn English and improve your accent.

Download the music and lyrics

The first step is to download the music and lyrics of the songs you want to learn. You can find the lyrics on various websites or use music apps that provide the lyrics along with the song. Once you have the lyrics, it's essential to find the meaning of all the words you don't know using a dictionary. This will help you understand the lyrics and learn new vocabulary.

Music is useful to learn vocabulary and expressions

Music is an excellent way to learn vocabulary and expressions in context. You can learn new words and phrases by listening to English songs and paying attention to the lyrics. For example, if you listen to a love song, you will likely hear words like "heart," "soulmate," and "romance." If you listen to a rap song, you will likely hear words and expressions related to urban life and culture.

Sing out loud

As you listen to the music, it's essential to sing out loud together with the singer. This will help you get used to producing the sounds of the English language and improve your accent. Don't worry about making mistakes; the important thing is to practice and have fun. You can also try to mimic the singer's pronunciation and intonation to improve your accent.

Learn one song per week

Learning and practicing one song per week is an effective way to learn English through music. In one year, you will learn 52 songs, which is a lot of learning and vocabulary to add to your repertoire. You can create a playlist of your favorite English songs and practice them regularly. It's also a good idea to listen to the songs in different genres to learn new vocabulary and expressions.

Lesson in Using Music to Learn English (YouTube / YouKu)

Truly, there is no better or more enjoyable way to enhance your English skills than by using music. This method is not only straightforward and effective, but it also requires no specialized skills to implement. If you're wondering why listening to English songs hasn't helped you improve your language abilities, it's possible that you overlooked some essential steps. To get the most out of this method, you need to learn the lyrics and their meanings, as well as sing along while the music is playing. However, the most crucial component of this process is having fun while doing it. It has been proven that students learn most effectively when they are enjoying the learning process.

In conclusion, music is a fun and effective way to learn English and improve your accent. By downloading the music and lyrics, learning new vocabulary and expressions, singing out loud, and learning one song per week, you can enhance your English skills and add new words and phrases to your repertoire. So, turn up the volume and start learning English through music today!

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 03 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/learn-english-and-improve-your-accent-through-music

 

Overcoming Shyness: The Importance of Speaking Loudly.

Communication is one of the most crucial aspects of human interaction. It enables us to express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas with others effectively. However, many individuals struggle to communicate confidently due to shyness, and often the issue lies in not being heard or understood clearly. The volume at which we speak plays a significant role in this.

When speaking to a group of people, it's important to speak at a volume that everyone can hear. Speaking too softly can result in people struggling to hear what you are saying, which can lead to miscommunication, misunderstandings, and ultimately, a lack of authority. On the other hand, speaking too loudly can be overwhelming and come across as aggressive, leading to a loss of confidence and vitality.

Shyness is a common issue that can impact communication. Individuals who are shy may find it difficult to speak up or project their voice, which can result in their thoughts and ideas being overlooked. This can lead to a loss of authority and confidence, which can have a significant impact on both personal and professional relationships.

Shyness is a common trait that many people experience. It can be defined as a feeling of nervousness or self-consciousness in social situations. For some, shyness can be a debilitating issue that can negatively impact their personal and professional lives. However, it is important to remember that it is okay to be shy and that there are ways to overcome this issue, including being louder.

YouTube / YouKu

Being louder does not necessarily mean being aggressive or overly assertive. Instead, it means projecting your voice so that you can be heard and understood by others. This can be particularly important in group settings or when speaking in public, as it helps to ensure that your message is received by your audience.

One of the benefits of being louder is that it can help to overcome shyness. When you speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation, it can help to boost your confidence and make you feel more in control. This can be particularly helpful in situations where you may feel intimidated or overwhelmed, such as in a job interview or during a public speaking engagement.

Another benefit of being louder is that it can help you to establish your authority and credibility. When you speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation, it can help to convey a sense of confidence and competence to your audience. This can be particularly important in professional settings, where your ability to communicate effectively can impact your career success.

It is important to note that being louder does not mean that you have to sacrifice your natural speaking style or personality. It simply means being aware of your volume and making adjustments as needed. It can be helpful to practice speaking in front of a mirror or with a trusted friend or colleague to get feedback on your volume and speaking style.

It is okay to be shy, but being louder can help to overcome this issue and improve your communication skills. By projecting your voice, you can increase your confidence, establish your authority, and ensure that your message is heard and understood by others. With practice, you can learn to speak at a volume that is suitable for the situation while remaining true to your natural speaking style and personality.

One example of the importance of volume in communication is demonstrated by a personal experience I had while attending a conference. The speaker was a renowned expert in their field, but they spoke at such a low volume that I struggled to hear what they were saying. As a result, I found it challenging to engage with the presentation and lost interest. This experience taught me the importance of speaking at a volume that is suitable for the audience to maintain their engagement.

Studies have also shown that speaking at an appropriate volume can improve communication effectiveness. In a study conducted by the University of Michigan, researchers found that speaking at a moderate volume significantly increased the likelihood of the speaker's message being understood and remembered by the audience. Conversely, speaking too softly resulted in a lack of engagement and decreased comprehension.

Furthermore, speaking at an appropriate volume can also contribute to a person's perceived authority and confidence. In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that individuals who spoke at a moderate volume were perceived as more confident and competent than those who spoke softly or loudly.

In conclusion, speaking at an appropriate volume is critical for effective communication. It's essential to project your voice, especially in group settings, to ensure that your message is heard and understood. Shyness can often lead to a lack of authority and confidence, but working on speaking at an appropriate volume can help individuals overcome this issue. By practicing projecting your voice, you can improve your communication skills, build confidence, and increase your perceived authority in personal and professional settings.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 27 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/overcoming-shyness-the-importance-of-speaking-loudly

Changing the World One Student at a Time: Reflections of a Dedicated Teacher.

Being a teacher is a rewarding profession, but it's not always perfect. It takes dedication, hard work, and patience to be an effective teacher. As a teacher, I've realized that I'm in a unique position where people pay good money to hear me talk and teach. This is a privilege that I take very seriously, as it gives me the opportunity to inspire other people, not just through my teaching but also by being a good example.

However, I understand that not every student will hear what I say or pay attention. Sometimes, it can be frustrating when students are not engaged or do not seem to care about the subject matter. But I firmly believe that those who do hear and take an interest in what I'm teaching, it will make all of my efforts worthwhile, even if it's only one student.

This reminds me of the story of a man who was walking along the beach and saw a starfish stranded on the sand. He picked it up and threw it back into the ocean so that it wouldn't die under the sun. Someone asked him why he was bothering to save just one starfish when there were so many on the beach. The man replied that it may not make a significant difference, but for that one starfish, it made all the difference. This story resonates with me because, as a teacher, I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one student.

As an educator here in China, I must say that I am very impressed with the students I teach. For the most part, my students are diligent, hardworking, and well-behaved. They come to class prepared and ready to learn, and they actively participate in discussions and group activities. Additionally, they are very conscientious about completing their homework on time and to the best of their ability. It is evident that they take their education seriously and have a strong desire to succeed. Overall, I feel very fortunate to work with such motivated and dedicated students, and I am confident that they will continue to excel in their academic pursuits and future professional accomplishments..

However, there are a few students who fall out of this pattern, showing a lack of interest and a lack of engagement in the classroom. They tend to be disengaged, distracted, and sometimes exhibit disruptive behavior. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to ensure that every student receives the attention and support they need to succeed. I work closely with these students to identify their challenges and provide them with the necessary guidance and resources to help them get back on track. While it is disheartening to see a few students struggle, I am confident that with the right support and encouragement, they too can achieve academic success.

Sometimes, I get a difficult class that is hard to control or students who don't pay attention. However, it's in these classes that I sometimes get a chance to change a student's life. I may say something that touches them and inspires them to be the best they can be. And that is priceless. It's not about the number of students I reach; it's about the impact I have on the students who hear me.

I am currently having an amazing experience as a teacher in China. Teaching subjects such as business, company evaluations, import/export, finance, and now English has been a rewarding experience that has allowed me to connect with students from different backgrounds and cultures. However, what I appreciate most about my job is the opportunity to make friends with university students. They view me as a more experienced person and often seek my advice on many aspects of their personal lives, such as family, dating, and career. It's incredibly fulfilling to know that I'm not only making an impact in their academic lives but also in their personal lives, and I feel privileged to be a part of their journey.

Recorded conversation with Amie in YouTube (NOT showing her face for privacy)

Teaching English has been particularly fun for me because it offers more flexibility than the other subjects. In my English classes, I have the freedom to take the class in almost any direction I want. I can discuss topics that are not necessarily related to the textbook or curriculum, allowing me to engage with my students on a more personal level. This flexibility allows me to incorporate their interests and experiences into the lessons, making them more relatable and engaging. For instance, I can bring in news articles, movies, songs, or even memes that they can relate to and discuss. This approach has made the English classes much more dynamic and enjoyable for both the students and me. Additionally, teaching English also offers me the opportunity to improve my language skills as I learn from my students and their unique perspectives on the language. Overall, teaching English has been a fulfilling experience that has allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level, learn from them, and improve my own skills in the process.

In conclusion, being a teacher is a fulfilling career that comes with its own set of challenges. As a teacher, I understand that not every student will hear what I say, but I believe that those who do will make all of my efforts worthwhile. Just like the man throwing the starfish back into the ocean, I may not be able to change the world, but I can change the world for one student, and that's what matters most.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 23 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/changing-the-world-one-student-at-a-time-reflections-of-a-dedicated-teacher

 

The Importance of Taking Initiative in Language Learning: A Lesson from a Brave University Student

The Importance of Taking Initiative in Language Learning: A Lesson from a Brave University Student

Today, I ventured out of my usual West campus routine and headed over to South campus for a lunch invitation with a student. Unfortunately, they didn't show up, but I managed to strike up conversations with other students around me. While most seemed disinterested or had language barriers, there was one exceptional student who stood out.

Sitting a few tables away from me, this student had the courage to approach me and introduce herself. She asked me to help her practice her pronunciation, and I happily obliged. It's students like her who have the drive to overcome their shyness and take initiative that always have better English.

If all university students were like this brave individual, they too would be speaking English at a higher level. In today's world, English proficiency is increasingly important, and taking the initiative to practice and improve is crucial. Check out my other post on the significance of learning English to see just how essential it is.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 22 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/the-importance-of-taking-initiative-in-language-learning-a-lesson-from-a-brave-university-student

 

 

A Friend's Journey: How Helping Others Improve Their English Led to Lasting Friendships

Making new friends while helping them improve their English can be a rewarding experience. It not only helps you connect with people from different backgrounds but also provides an opportunity to share your knowledge and expertise with others. In this post, I will share my experience of how I made good friends in English corner activities while helping them improve their English.

One of my friends, Xiao Feng, had poor English skills when I first met her at an English corner activity. She approached me and asked if I could help her improve her English. I was happy to oblige, and we decided to spend time together every weekend.

We would often go for a walk around the lake, grab a bite to eat, or even go shopping together. I made sure that we spoke in English as much as possible, and I would help her with any difficult words or phrases that she didn't understand. Over time, her English started to improve, and she became more confident in speaking.

In just four months, Xiao Fan's English had improved significantly, and she could speak to me almost without the help of her phone. We had a lot of fun together and enjoyed each other's company. We rented a boat to ride on the lake, went bicycling, and tried many other fun activities together.

When I was about to leave Zhuzhou, we went to watch an orchestra at the municipal theater. It was a great way to say goodbye to my friend, and I will always remember that evening. I miss my friend and hope that the English she improved with my help will bless her life in the future.

Xiao Feng's improvement in English did not go unnoticed by her classmates. They started to inquire about where she was taking the English course that made her improve her English so fast. Xiao Feng proudly shared that she was not taking any formal English courses but was learning from a friend who was helping her improve her English through casual conversations and fun activities. Her classmates were amazed and impressed by her progress. It was a great feeling to know that I was not only helping my friend but also making a positive impact on the lives of others in our English corner group.

In conclusion, helping others improve their English skills can be a great way to make new friends and learn about different cultures. It requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to spend time with others. If you have the opportunity to help someone with their English skills, I highly recommend it. Who knows, you might just make a lifelong friend in the process.

My experience in China has been so great, if you want to hear stories from my 4 years in China, you should see this book.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 17 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/a-friend-s-journey-how-helping-others-improve-their-english-led-to-lasting-friendships

 

You don´t believe it ? Here is the proof.

In today's highly competitive job market, finding a job can be a daunting task. The traditional way of looking for a job involves scouring through job postings on various online portals, submitting resumes, and waiting for a response. However, this approach may not always yield results as there could be hundreds of other candidates vying for the same position. Fortunately, there is a more effective way to find job opportunities - through networking.

Networking is a process of building relationships with people who may be able to provide you with valuable information, advice, and job leads. These contacts could be your friends, family, former colleagues, or even strangers you meet at industry events or conferences. By developing a strong network of contacts, you increase your chances of finding job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

One of the main advantages of networking is that it helps you tap into the hidden job market. Not all job vacancies are publicly advertised, and many employers prefer to fill positions through referrals or recommendations. This means that by networking, you could hear about job openings that are not advertised anywhere else. This gives you a significant advantage over other candidates who rely solely on job postings.

Moreover, networking allows you to showcase your skills and expertise to potential employers. When you establish a connection with someone, you have the opportunity to demonstrate your value proposition and explain how you can help their organization. This could lead to a referral or recommendation, which can be more powerful than a resume submitted through a job portal.

But don't just take my word for it - the proof is in the pudding. Here is a screenshot of my inbox, showing some of the job offers I have received from my network:

As you can see, these job offers came directly from people in my network who thought I would be a good fit for the positions. None of these opportunities were publicly advertised, and I wouldn't have known about them if I hadn't been networking.

Despite the clear benefits of networking, not many people utilize this approach to find job opportunities. Some may feel uncomfortable reaching out to strangers or asking for help, while others may not know where to start. However, networking doesn't have to be complicated - it can be as simple as having a conversation with someone you know or attending a networking event in your industry. Perhaps you can see my other post where I teach how to do networking properly and effectively, you can even watch a recorded class of me teaching.

In conclusion, networking is a powerful tool for finding job opportunities that many people overlook. By developing a strong network of contacts and showcasing your skills and expertise, you increase your chances of finding job openings that may not be advertised publicly. So, if you're struggling to find your next job, consider networking - it just might be the key to your success.

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 07 Mar 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/you-don-t-believe-it-here-is-the-proof

 

Networking is an essential part of building a successful career.

Networking is an essential part of building a successful career. It provides opportunities for you to meet professionals in your field of study, expand your knowledge, and develop meaningful connections that can help you advance your career. Whether you're a student just starting out or a seasoned professional, networking is a valuable tool that can help you achieve your career goals.

Once upon a time, there was a person named Marcelo Gameiro (witch is myself). Mr. Gameiro was always interested in learning new languages, and so he started to make friends online with people who didn't speak his native language. This was a great opportunity for him to practice speaking English. One day, he started talking to a girl named Ms Xinel Lee, who lived in China.

Xinel was a kind and friendly person who soon became Mr. Gameiro's good friend. During one of their conversations, Xinel asked Mr. Gameiro if he were interested in teaching in China. Mr. Gameiro was surprised by this offer, but he were also excited about the opportunity to work and live in a new country.

Xinel then introduced Mr. Gameiro to her company, which was looking for English teachers and other types of teachers as well. Mr. Gameiro was hired to teach Corporate finance and Investment valuation. The one thing who increase the chances of Mr. Gameiro to be hired was not his academic credential witch was off course important, but the fact he was introduced to the company by an employee, he did not apply for the job like everybody else did.

Mr. Gameiro was thrilled and couldn't believe that he had found a job in China through networking, a job that he was not even looking or searching for.

Mr. Gameiro also find out that many companies would often send out letters asking if their employees knew anyone who would be suitable for a job. If the employee referred someone who was then hired, the employee would receive a bonus for that month. This made Mr. Gameiro realize the importance of having a strong network and how it can benefit not only himselve, but also their friends and colleagues.

From that day on, Mr. Gameiro continued to expand his network and make new friends. He never forgot the lesson that he learned about the power of networking and how it can open doors and provide opportunities that might not have been possible otherwise. Mr. Gameiro was grateful to Ms. Xinel and other friends for their support and encouragement, and they lived (“employed in China – teaching”) happily ever after, and making new friends along the way.

You can get my full Chinese experience (illustrated) here.

One of the key benefits of networking is that it helps you gain access to new opportunities. By connecting with professionals in your field, you can learn about potential job openings, get advice on your career path, and make connections that can lead to new job opportunities. Additionally, networking helps you stay informed about developments in your industry and helps you stay ahead of the curve in terms of your professional development.

Another important aspect of networking is that it helps you build meaningful relationships. By connecting with others in your field, you can develop a network of trusted advisors and supporters who can provide guidance and support as you navigate your career. These relationships can help you feel more confident and secure in your career, and can provide you with valuable resources and support as you advance.

So, how can you build your professional network? Here are a few tips to get you started:

1. Attend professional events: Attend industry conferences, trade shows, and networking events to meet other professionals in your field. These events provide an excellent opportunity to make new connections and to learn about the latest developments in your industry.

1. Leverage social media: Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with other professionals in your field and to showcase your skills and accomplishments. Participate in professional groups and discussions to stay informed and to build your network.
2. Volunteer: Get involved in community organizations or professional associations related to your field. Volunteer work provides an excellent opportunity to meet new people, develop new skills, and build relationships that can benefit your career.
3. Seek mentorship: Consider seeking out a mentor in your field who can provide guidance, advice, and support as you build your career. A mentor can help you develop new skills, provide introductions to key players in your industry, and offer a sounding board for your ideas and career goals.

Building a strong professional network takes time and effort, but it is well worth it. A strong network can help you achieve your career goals, provide support and guidance along the way, and open doors to new opportunities. So start building your network today and reap the benefits for years to come!

My Linkedin Profile here.

LinkedIn is a powerful tool for building your professional network. With over 700 million users, LinkedIn provides a vast platform for connecting with other professionals in your field and showcasing your skills and accomplishments. As a bonus lesson, I have taught my students about the importance of building a strong LinkedIn profile and using it to connect with others in their field.

Watch that lesson: YouKu1 / YouTube1 / YouKu2 / YouTube2 / YouKu3

In my lessons, I emphasize the importance of creating a complete and professional profile, making connections with relevant professionals, and actively engaging with others on the platform. I also encourage students to use LinkedIn to seek out and learn from industry leaders, participate in groups related to their field, and showcase their work and accomplishments through their profile.

By leveraging LinkedIn, my students have been able to build their professional network and gain valuable insights and connections that can help them advance their careers. Whether they are just starting out or are well into their careers, LinkedIn provides a valuable tool for networking and professional development.
 

Article by Marcelo Gameiro

Published 07 Feb 2023

https://mgameirollc.uteach.io/blog/networking-is-an-essential-part-of-building-a-successful-career