English
简体中文 
The Million Dollar Question
- Start:
- August 14, 2011 1:00 pm
- End:
- August 14, 2011 3:00 pm
People have been disagreeing on the meaning of life for thousands of years. Get some perspectives, and learn how to argue your, and others’, perspectives.
Who? This lesson is for Upper-intermediate members. Knowing what ‘life’ is all about for the people we share the planet with is a valuable insight into their actions and motives. If you want to learn about some of these perspectives and how to describe and discuss them, then we suggest you enroll in this lesson.
What? … is the word for a person who thinks life is completely without meaning? How do we describe the perspectives of those who think life is a meaningful journey? What are those perspectives? You will find the language, and more questions, here.
Book Now»
The media plays an important role in how our society shares information and communicates. But what information does it share, and why? Who is pulling the strings? Let’s have a look at the concepts, vocabulary, and controversies.
Who? This class is for Intermediate students. Are you interested in understanding the role of the media in the game of power between Business, Government, and ‘The People’? Do you want to be able to talk about the controversies, and motives behind the information we read and watch? If the answer is ‘yes!’, then this class is for you.
What? We will examine and discuss the varying (and often conflicting) roles that the media can play. The relationships that media have with different ‘interest groups’ in society will be looked at from different angles, and we’ll look at the ways that media can be used as a tool. We’ll also look at some case studies that have recently been prominent in the news, practice using the language that shows an understanding of the context behind these stories. Book Now»
When a team works well together in a business,wonderful things can happen. However, all too often that is not the case. There are so many things that can go wrong. Learn about what it takes to make a great team here!
Who? This class is for Upper-Intermediate members. Most of us work in a team of some kind. You may have experienced the difficulty of poor teamwork, and seen how it impacts results. You may also have been in a team that works well together, and seen how this has positive effects in many different places. If you want to learn about the current thinking of how teams interact, this lesson is for you.
What? We will look at Patrick Lencionis theory of the 5 dysfunctions of a team, and learn the language that allows us to discuss these team dynamics. We will examine what factors managers and team members need to be aware of, and how they affect the effectiveness of a team. Book Now»
Have you wondered about what is involved when a company floats on the stock market? As investing in stocks and shares becomes a common subject for conversation, so knowing how to talk about ‘going IPO’ is an ever more important skill.
Who? This class is for Upper-intermediate members. Whether over a cup of coffee with your friend or colleague, or in an executive meeting, you may find the topic of stock market flotation to be hotter than ever before. If you want to know how to discuss the benefits and risks of this game-changing event, you should take this class.
What? In this class we will introduce and use the key vocabulary and concepts behind going IPO. We will look at how and why going IPO can add value to a corporate growth strategy, and what are they key factors to bear in mind. Book Now»
Have you wondered about what is involved when a company floats on the stock market? As investing in stocks and shares becomes a common subject for conversation, so knowing how to talk about ‘going IPO’ is an ever more important skill.
Who? This class is for Upper-intermediate members. Whether over a cup of coffee with your friend or colleague, or in an executive meeting, you may find the topic of stock market flotation to be hotter than ever before. If you want to know how to discuss the benefits and risks of this game-changing event, you should take this class.
What? In this class we will introduce and use the key vocabulary and concepts behind going IPO. We will look at how and why going IPO can add value to a corporate growth strategy, and what are they key factors to bear in mind. Book Now»
Conspiracy Theory
Some of the significant events of our time still have a lot of unanswered questions about them. The official version of events is often contradicted by explanations that tell a completely different story. This lesson takes us into the world of the ‘conspiracy theory’.
Who? This lesson is available to Intermediate members. Have you wondered about why so many people don’t believe the US governments explanation of 911, or who killed JFK? If you want to be informed about what these conspiracies are, and be able to talk about them, then take this lesson.
What? In this lesson we look at some of the biggest conspiracy theories out there. We compare them with the official version of events, and look at why these alternative explanations are credible, or not. We will also get a chance to talk about our own point of view on these issues, which are talked about all over the world. Book Now»
What’s Your Problem?
Learn how to talk about your, and others’, problems. They may be to do with everyday life, or perhaps relate to your job.
Who? This class is for Intermediate members. People who want to have an everyday conversation, and grumble about the price of apartments, and those who want to be able to professionally point out issues at work.
What? This class will discuss language structures do we use to describe the problems we face. What are some of the common everyday problems people like to talk about. How do we talk about problems at work, and still sound professional? Learn it here. Book Now»
Skeletons In The Closet
In this class we will talk about SCANDAL. Whether it is a national scandal, or just the neighbours misbehaving, we can gossip about it. However, it’s gossip with a purpose – we can use this topic to practice some tricky grammar points, like ’should have’ and ‘ought to’.
Who? This class is for Upper Intermediate members.Maybe you find it fun to talk about those things which cause people to be shocked and critical. Or maybe you just want to increase the range of grammar you can use. Or perhaps you just want to know what ’skeleton in the closet’ means….?
What? Scandals are often pretty interesting discussion topics, although there is always someone who wishes you weren’t discussing them, right Eason? In this lesson we will use them to practice some important grammatical functions like ’should have’ and ‘ought to’. Book Now»
Biz Focus: Corporate Culture 4
This lesson follows from the previous week’s lessons on corporate culture. In this series of lessons we examine the different types of corporate culture, their advantages and disadvantages, and how it can help us as employees to understand the culture of the organizations we work in.
Who? This class is for upper-intermediate members. Are you currently working in a foreign-invested company? If so, you may have heard people talking about ‘company culture’, and making comparisons with other companies. If you want to learn what the different types of company culture are, how to recognize them, and how they can impact employees, then this series is for you.
What? In this lesson we will look at the ‘Bet Your Company” culture. The kind of business environment in which this culture is effective will be discussed, along with advantages and disadvantages. We will look at who does well in this kind of culture – who the ‘heroes’ are, and what kind of rites and rituals might be found. Book Now»
Scared Stiff!
Are you a fan of all things scary? In this lesson we learn about the frightening stories in ‘Western’ culture, and the creatures involved. We also look at how to talk about some famous types of horror film.
Who? This lesson is for Intermediate members. If you get a thrill from talking about frightening stories or movies, then you will need to know what kind of creatures are involved, and how to describe the feelings they arouse in you. Learn it here, if you dare….
What? In this lesson you will learn some of the mythology of western horror, what kind of things are considered scary, and some examples from the world of film. We’ll learn how to tell others about how we react to horror stories, and what kind of stories scare us stiff! Book Now»
Biz Focus: Corporate Culture 2
Following on from Corporate Culture 1, we take a look at an organisation with a completely different culture from that studied previously. Again, we look at the ideas and language associated with that kind of culture, learning how to discuss company culture and how it relates to employees.
Who? This class is for upper-intermediate members. Are you currently working in a foreign-invested company? If so, you may have heard people talking about ‘company culture’, and making comparisons with other companies. If you want to learn what the different types of company culture are, how to recognize them, and how they can impact employees, then this series is for you.
What? Using one well known organisation as a case study, we will focus in on one type of company culture with each lesson in the series. You will learn how to describe that kind of culture, and what it’s benefits and disadvantages might be. You will also have the chance to share your ideas with others in discussion and brainstorming activities. Book Now»
Know Your Company Inside Out
Learn how to describe the structure and function of companies accurately and professionally. It’s not as easy as you think!
Who? This class is for intermediate members. People who need to function in a large company, especially mutlinationals.
What? This class will cover the parts that make up a company. How do you describe their function? This lesson will make sure you can identify all these departments, and describe professionally what each of them does. Book Now»
A Potted History of….
This lesson looks at some key historical events from the last century, and uses them to practice past tenses, and expand our vocabulary. Correct use of the past tenses is a key skill in English competence.
Who? This lesson is for intermediate members. Do you find it a challenge to use the correct structures and verb forms when talking about the past? Do you want to learn how to use the correct grammar forms, and at the same time, discuss some of the last centuries highlights? If so, then we suggest you take this class.
What? We will look at some well-known historical events, and discuss them in order to practice correctly using the past tenses. We will also use these events and their contexts to expand our vocabulary. Book Now»
Burn Your Bras!
The 1960’s was a time of social change in ‘The West’. One of the most important changes was a mini revolution in attitudes towards the role of women in society. Learn about it here.
Who? This lesson is for Intermediate members. If you are somebody who takes an interest in social issues, and wants a to be informed about some of the major social events in the modern history of the US and Europe, then take this lesson.
What? We will look at how the 1960’s saw a re-examination of the role of women in society, by women. Learn about what happened, and the influence it has on us today. Book Now»
I’ve Got Guanxi
Learn how to introduce people, and be introduced, in a business situation. Make a great first impression!
Who? This class is for Intermediate members. When you meet an English speaker in a business situation for the first time, do you feel unsure of how to behave? Then this is the class is for you! People who meet English speakers as part of their job and people who want to be able to establish relationships and network effectively will also benefit from this lesson.
What? Learn the most appropriate ways to make a great first impression and establish a business relationship. This lesson will teach you about business etiquette, what to say to put the person you’re speaking to at ease, and how expand your network of contacts. Book Now»
Do You Get My Drift?
Learn how to express ideas in a logical sequence, and make yourself easily understood by others.
Who? This class is for Upper-Intermediate members. Do you struggle to express complex, or indirectly connected, ideas in English? When others try to follow your logic, do you find you have to explain more than once? You are not the only one! But there is hope….
What? This class will teach you how to sequence ideas using high quality language, and express your logic competently. You will learn some selected language structures that allow you to communicate complex ideas simply, and talk about hypothetical situations. During the lesson you will learn some high-level grammar NOT by learning rules, but by using it in a realistic context. Book Now»
Please Sir, Can I Have Some More?
Learn how to talk about money! Both personal finances, and finance in the business world.
Who? This class is for upper-intermediate members, who want to discuss personal finance with friends and acquaintances, or corporate finance with colleagues or investors.
What? Learn to describe ways that people or companies get access to money that they haven’t earned yet. Practise taking out a personal loan to buy that car you’ve always wanted, or your first apartment, and learn to discuss ways of financing a company’s growth. Book Now»
I’ve Got a Hot Date!
Learn to talk about love, relationships and the world of dating.
Who? This class is for intermediate members. If you’re interested in other people’s opinions about dating and meeting the love of your life, come along to chat about this hot topic and improve your fluency.
What? Learn to compare old fashioned dating customs with the modern dating scene. Express your personal opinions about different ways to meet men and women. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of internet dating, blind dates, high school boyfriends, marriage and speed dating. Book Now»
The Million Dollar Question
People have been disagreeing on the meaning of life for thousands of years. Get some perspectives, and learn how to argue your, and others’, perspectives.
Who? This lesson is for Upper-intermediate members. Knowing what ‘life’ is all about for the people we share the planet with is a valuable insight into their actions and motives. If you want to learn about some of these perspectives and how to describe and discuss them, then we suggest you enroll in this lesson.
What? … is the word for a person who thinks life is completely without meaning? How do we describe the perspectives of those who think life is a meaningful journey? What are those perspectives? You will find the language, and more questions, here. Book Now»
Want to Come Bowling?
Learn to talk about entertainment and invite people out to have fun with you!
Who? This class is for intermediate members. Shanghai probably has more choices of entertainment than any city in China. Do you like trying new things and having fun? Come to this class to improve your fluency by talking about all kinds of entertainment, from karaoke to croquet.
What? This class will teach you to describe different types of entertainment and your feelings about them. You will practice casually inviting people out, accepting an invitation to something that sounds fun, and declining an invitation because something sounds boring! Book Now»
The Daily Grind
Learn to talk about different jobs and job satisfaction, then practice giving advice on how to cope with stress.
Who? This class is for intermediate members. Imagine being a pro-surfer. You are paid to to travel to tropical islands, where you spend the day on the beach. At night, you sleep in a soft, luxury hotel bed. You’re well paid and, if you’re really good, you’re famous. Sounds good, doesn’t it? But even pro-surfers are under pressure and eventually every job becomes a chore. If routine gets you down and you want to explain why, this lesson is for you.
What? The job you do is perhaps the most important decision you will ever make. But with so many out there, how do you decide? Is it better to be a game ranger or an actuary, a tour guide or a travel writer? In this lesson you will learn to describe the advantages and disadvantages of different kinds of work and why some and not other leave us feeling satisfied at the end of the day. You’ll learn how to talk about the pressure you are under and how to give advice on dealing with the modern disease. Book Now»
Drop Me A Line
Under professional guidance, workshop your e-mail writing skills to make sure the result is both effective and professional.
Who? This class is for pre-intermediate members. Do you need to write e-mail in English as part of your job? Do you want to know how to write an e-mail that puts your point across effectively, as well as sounding professional? Yes? Then we suggest you take this lesson.
What? This lesson focuses on some of the areas of e-mail writing that are most challenging to non-native speakers. This means looking at how to lay out information, how to use the correct ‘tone’, and what to include in ’sensitive’ e-mails where it’s so important to make a good impression. Book Now»
Ad Infinitum
Learn about different types of meeting, their qualities, and which types suit certain situations. There is also some useful language to help you communicate professionally and effectively during a meeting.
Who? This class is for Upper-intermediate members. Are you someone who goes to a lot of meetings? Do you want to know how to make meetings effective? If you want to understand more about the ‘art’ of meetings, and how to communicate during a meeting, you should take this class.
What? To choose the type of meeting that suits your business need, it is useful to be able to name that meeting, and recognize it’s qualities. In this class we explore that powerful business tool – the meeting, looking at different formats, and their usefulness. We will also look at some useful phrases to help you sound professional, and be effective. Book Now»
Have We Met Before?
Learn to make people think “WOW!” when they meet you!
Who? This class is for intermediate members. Do you sometimes feel shy when you meet an English speaker for the first time or don’t know what to say to them? Do you worry that people forget you soon after meeting you? This class will help you to build the confidence necessary to make a first impression nobody will forget!
What? You will learn to describe the cultural differences between meeting someone in English and in Chinese. You will practice introducing yourself and other people with confidence. You will learn how to start an interesting conversation and practice improving your social skills. At the end of the class you will know how to make a great impression the first time you meet an English speaker. Book Now»
Eureka!
Talk about those moments of creativity that have changed the world. Learn the language of innovation.
Who? This class is for intermediate members. People who want to be able to talk about the innovations that have changed the course of history from the wheel to the Internet.
What? This class will talk about the major breakthroughs that have changed peoples lives all around the world. How do we talk about major ideas that could make you into a billionaire, or perhaps just crash and burn. Learn the language here. Book Now»