English Speeches' Newsletter #17

Hello, English Speeches community!

Warm greetings and welcome to the 17th edition of the English Speeches Newsletter! As our vibrant community grows, our dedication to guiding you on your English-language journey remains as strong as ever. This edition is filled with new insights and enthralling content, carefully curated to enrich your learning experience.

Here's a preview of what you can expect:

• Dive into the latest buzz surrounding Apple's iPhone 15. Understand the public's reactions, the innovative features introduced, and the broader implications for the tech industry. This section ensures you stay updated while honing your English comprehension skills.
  

• Unearth the financial benefits of mastering the English language. From teaching opportunities to freelance translation, this enlightening segment showcases the myriad ways English proficiency can be a financial asset.
  

• Journey through an inspiring speech by the tech magnate, Bill Gates. Explore his Harvard memories, his humorous takes, and his call for global action. This section offers a blend of linguistic learning and motivational content.
  

• Delve into the linguistic beauty with our spotlight on vocabulary from Hillary Clinton's speech. Whether you're looking to bolster your vocabulary or understand the nuances of public speaking, this segment has a wealth of knowledge for you.

And there's so much more awaiting your discovery...

With this 17th edition, we've strived to bring content that is both enlightening and engaging, aiming to fuel your passion for the English language. Your growth and feedback drive us, and we're keen to hear your reflections on this edition. Together, let's continue this enriching journey of English learning. Dive in, immerse yourself, and happy reading! 😊

↳ ENGLISH WITH NEWS

Apple's iPhone 15 Faces Criticism

This week, we're diving into the reactions surrounding Apple's recent announcement of the iPhone 15. Smartphone enthusiasts have expressed their disappointment, with some even claiming that Apple's innovation died with its co-founder, Steve Jobs. The new iPhone, set to be released on September 22, boasts features like color-infused glass, which is an industry first, and new charging ports. Despite these additions, many believe that the iPhone 15 lacks significant innovation to set it apart from its predecessors.

Key Words:

• Smartphone: (n.) a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded apps.
  

• Innovation: (n.) the action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
  

• Titanium: (n.) a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22. It's a lustrous transition metal with a silver color, low density, and high strength. Used in context to describe the design of the new iPhone.
  

• Dual camera system: (n.) a camera system with two separate lenses and sensors, allowing for features like improved zoom or depth perception.
  

• Disgruntled: (adj.) angry or dissatisfied.

↳ ARTICLE OF THE WEEK

How Learning English Can Boost Your Income

This week, we're exploring the financial benefits of mastering the English language. Here's a quick summary:

Investing in English: While learning English often comes with costs, such as courses and textbooks, it's widely considered a valuable investment. Proficiency in English can significantly enhance job prospects and salary potential.

Job Opportunities with English:

• Conversation Buddy: Offer conversation practice sessions and capitalize on your strengths, niche knowledge, or unique accent.
  

• Teach English as a Foreign Language (TEFL): With a TEFL qualification, you can teach English around the world, both online and offline.
  

• Expand Work Opportunities: Bilingualism, especially with English, can open doors to international jobs, allowing you to work overseas and gain valuable experience.
  

• Tour Guide: Use your language skills to guide tourists in your area or act as an interpreter for existing tours.
  

• Travel Planner: Use your organizational skills and language proficiency to plan trips for holidaymakers or business travelers.
  

• Teach Business English: Offer courses online or offline, teaching business-specific English to professionals.
  

• Freelance Translator: Translate books, business documents, or offer 'reverse' translation services for overseas businesses targeting English-speaking markets.

Mastering English not only enhances personal growth but also offers numerous avenues to monetize the skill. Whether you're looking to teach, translate, or travel, English proficiency can be a game-changer.

↳ LEARN ENGLISH WITH SPEECHES

Gates at Harvard: A Call to Global Action

In this lesson, we're diving deep into an insightful speech by Bill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft and a renowned philanthropist. Anna, your animated instructor, is here to guide you through Gates' Harvard address, which is filled with wisdom, humor, and a call to action.

Here's our enlightening line-up:

• Journey Through Harvard: Anna takes you through Gates' memories of Harvard, highlighting the vocabulary and grammar used to reminisce about the past.
  

• Humor and Irony: Understand the English expressions Gates uses to inject humor into his speech, such as "Harvard's most successful dropout."
  

• Historical Context: Delve into the references Gates makes to historical figures like George Marshall and understand the English used to discuss history.
  

• A Call to Action: Learn the English phrases and structures Gates uses to inspire and challenge his audience to make a difference in the world.

For a deeper understanding, watch our video analysis of the speech on our YouTube channel. Engage with the content, practice regularly, and share your insights in the comments. Happy learning!

↳ SPEECH RECAP QUIZ

1. What does Gates refer to when he mentions "Harvard's most successful dropout"?
   a. His academic achievements
   b. His decision to leave Harvard
   c. His honorary degree from Harvard
   

2. What does Gates mean by "improving your odds"?
   a. Enhancing your chances of success
   b. Studying mathematics
   c. Betting in a game
   

3. In the context of Gates' speech, what does "come of age" refer to?
   a. Growing older
   b. Maturing or reaching a significant milestone
   c. Celebrating a birthday
   

Check your answers at the end of this newsletter to see how well you understood the speech!

↳ GRAMMAR ESSENTIALS

In this edition, we're focusing on the Present Perfect Tense, a grammar point Bill Gates frequently uses in his speech to discuss experiences and changes over time.

What is the Present Perfect Tense?

The Present Perfect Tense describes actions or situations that happened at an unspecified time in the past and may still be continuing. This tense is formed using "have/has" + "past participle".

Examples from Gates' Speech:

"I've been waiting more than 30 years to say this."

"I've always told you I'd come back and get my degree."

How to Form the Present Perfect:

To create the present perfect, we use "have/has" followed by the past participle of the main verb. For example, "She has traveled to many countries," "They have never eaten sushi."

Common Mistakes:

Avoid confusing the present perfect with the simple past. The present perfect is used when the exact time of the action is not specified, while the simple past is used for actions that happened at a specific time in the past.

Mastering the nuances of the Present Perfect Tense can elevate your English proficiency. With consistent effort and practice, you'll find that English grammar becomes more intuitive and natural. Keep up the great work!

↳ SPONSORED SPOTLIGHT

The Affiliate Wire

As we constantly strive to bring you valuable content and resources, we're thrilled to introduce our sponsor for this week - The Affiliate Wire. Catering to the dynamic world of affiliate marketing, The Affiliate Wire offers insights, news, and strategies that can be immensely beneficial for those looking to dive into this lucrative domain.

Why should you consider subscribing to The Affiliate Wire?

• Stay Updated: Get the latest trends, news, and updates from the affiliate marketing world.
  

• Enhance Your Skills: Learn from experts and gain insights that can help you succeed in your affiliate endeavors.
  

• Exclusive Opportunities: As a member of our community, you might find exclusive offers and opportunities tailored just for you.

By subscribing to their newsletter, not only do you get access to a wealth of knowledge, but you also support our platform, enabling us to continue delivering top-notch content for your English learning journey.

Interested? Dive into the world of affiliate marketing and elevate your skills.

Together, let's explore, learn, and grow. Happy reading! 😊

↳ ENGLISH SPEECHES

Hillary Clinton: The Power of Truth, Unity, and Ambition

This edition presents a compelling commencement address by Hillary Rodham Clinton, the former secretary of state and global advocate for women, to the Class of 2017 at Wellesley’s 139th Commencement Exercises. Drawing from her rich experiences, Clinton reflects on her time at Wellesley, the challenges of the present, and the potential of the future, emphasizing the importance of truth, unity, and ambition.

Here's why this speech is beneficial for English learners:

• Historical Context: Clinton's speech provides a glimpse into the socio-political landscape of her time, offering English learners a chance to understand the historical and cultural nuances that shape language.
  

• Varied Tone and Pace: Clinton's delivery ranges from reflective to motivational, allowing learners to understand the modulation of tone and pace in effective public speaking.
  

• Rich Vocabulary: Clinton's speech is replete with words and phrases that can enhance an English learner's vocabulary, making their language more robust and expressive.
  

• Cultural References: The speech touches upon various cultural and historical events, enabling learners to contextualize their English learning within a broader global framework.

Dive into this inspiring address and elevate your English language proficiency!

↳ VOCABULARY SPOTLIGHT

In this edition, we're spotlighting the words 'tumultuous', 'intolerance', and 'touchstone' from Hillary Clinton's speech.

Tumultuous: This adjective describes a loud, excited, and emotional state or situation. It often refers to periods of disruption or disorder.

Example in a sentence: "Hillary Clinton described a tumultuous time in history, marked by significant societal changes."

Intolerance: This noun denotes unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behavior that differ from one's own. It's a term often used in discussions about diversity and inclusion.

Example in a sentence: "Clinton emphasized the need to turn back a tide of intolerance and embrace inclusion."

Touchstone: This noun refers to a standard or criterion by which something is judged or recognized. In the context of Clinton's speech, it represents a reference point or standard.

Example in a sentence: "For Clinton, Wellesley serves as a touchstone, reminding her of her values and beliefs."

Expand your English lexicon with these words, and communicate more effectively and confidently!

↳ SPEAK LIKE A NATIVE

"Lean on each other"

In this segment, we're exploring a phrase used by Hillary Clinton in her speech: "Lean on each other."

"Lean on each other" is a phrase that signifies the importance of mutual support and reliance. It emphasizes the idea that in challenging times, individuals should seek and provide support to one another, reinforcing the strength of unity and community.

Example in a sentence: "In her speech, Hillary Clinton encouraged the graduates to 'lean on each other' during tough times, highlighting the power of collective strength."

Incorporating such phrases into your conversations can provide depth and cultural context, making your English sound more authentic and relatable. Embrace these expressions in your daily interactions!

↳ QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Mistakes? They aren’t setbacks. They’re teachers in disguise, showing you where to improve and how to grow.

Remember, every time you stumble with a word or a phrase, there’s a lesson to grasp.

Hold onto those lessons, refine your skills, and know that each challenge faced is making your English foundation stronger. Embrace the journey, and let each lesson light your path!

English Quiz Answers: 1.b | 2.a | 3.b

We're grateful for your continued companionship on this language-learning voyage. Don't hesitate to share your thoughts, ideas, or inquiries. Together, we'll keep exploring, expanding, and expressing ourselves with confidence in the English language!

Keep learning and thriving,

Ricardo
Founder, English Speeches YouTube Channel