📚 English Speeches' Newsletter #26

Hello, English Speeches community!

Welcome to the 26th edition of our newsletter, where our exploration of the English language continues to bring enriching and diverse perspectives. This week, we delve into a variety of engaging topics:

• 🌍 Discover the intriguing history of Black Friday, unraveling how commerce and culture intertwine in the U.S.
  

• 🎓 Learn about the fascinating origins of common English words borrowed from various languages, highlighting the language's global influences.
  

• 🛠️ Enhance your English skills with 'News in Levels,' a unique tool blending current events with language learning.
  

• 🎤 Dive into Leen Al Kassab's inspiring speech, exploring themes of identity and personal growth, coupled with a quiz to test your comprehension.

Each piece in this edition offers a unique window into the dynamic world of English, from cultural phenomena and language evolution to personal narratives and practical learning tools. Let's embrace these diverse elements to enrich our understanding and proficiency in English. Happy learning and exploring! 📚

🌍 ENGLISH WITH NEWS

The Origins of Black Friday: A Shopping Tradition Unveiled

This week, we delve into the origins of Black Friday, the renowned day that kicks off the holiday shopping season in the U.S. Known for its significant sales and bustling crowds, Black Friday has a unique history that intertwines with American culture and economics.

Key Words:

• Black Friday: (n.) The Friday following Thanksgiving in the U.S., noted for promotional sales and a significant start to holiday shopping.
  

• Thanksgiving: (n.) A U.S. holiday on the fourth Thursday of November, celebrated as a day of giving thanks.
  

• Retail: (adj.) Pertaining to the sale of goods to consumers.
  

• Consumerism: (n.) A social and economic order that encourages purchasing goods and services in ever-greater amounts.

Black Friday provides a fascinating perspective for English learners, revealing insights into American consumer behavior and the evolution of retail traditions. It's a vivid example of how commerce, culture, and history blend, offering valuable context for those mastering English within a global framework.

🎓 DID YOU KNOW?

English Words Borrowed from Other Languages

Many English words are 'borrowed' from other languages, reflecting the rich tapestry of global influences on the language. For instance, the word 'shampoo' comes from the Hindi word 'chāmpo,' meaning to press or massage, introduced into English in the 1760s. Similarly, 'ketchup' has its roots in the Hokkien Chinese word 'kê-tsiap,' a type of fish sauce. This fascinating aspect of English highlights how the language has evolved over centuries, incorporating elements from different cultures and languages, making it a truly global language.

🛠️  TOOL OF THE WEEK

Enhancing English Skills with News in Levels

This week, we spotlight "News in Levels" - a dynamic website designed to help English learners enhance their language skills through news articles. Catering to various proficiency levels, this tool is a unique blend of current events and language learning.

Key Insights:

• Customized Learning Levels: The website offers content at three different levels. Level 1 is for beginners (1-1000 words), Level 2 for intermediate learners (1000-2000 words), and Level 3 for advanced learners (2000-3000 words).
  

• Reading Practice: Users are encouraged to read two news articles daily, revisiting previous articles to reinforce new vocabulary.
  

• Listening Skills: The site provides news audios for listening practice, which can be used alongside reading for an immersive experience.
  

• Writing Exercise: Learners can engage in writing by answering questions related to the daily news, enhancing their expressive capabilities.
  

• Speaking Opportunities: The platform offers a chance to speak with others via Skype, allowing for practical conversation practice.

"News in Levels" is an innovative tool that incorporates real-world content into English learning, making it an essential resource for learners seeking to improve their language skills while staying informed.

⭐️ ENGLISH RESOURCES

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• 📁 Dive Into a Vast Library: Gain immediate access to over 250 folders, nearly 1,000 files from the speeches showcased on our channel.
  

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🎤 ENGLISH SPEECHES

Leen Al Kassab's Insightful Perspective

In this edition, we feature Leen Al Kassab's insightful speech. Al Kassab delves into themes of personal growth, resilience, and the power of positive thinking. Her eloquent delivery and thought-provoking content offer a rich source for English learners to explore advanced vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and cultural nuances.

Key Points for English Learners:

• Advanced Vocabulary: The speech is replete with profound terms like 'resilience,' 'perseverance,' and 'empowerment.'
  

• Complex Sentences and Structures: Al Kassab's eloquent style is a great example for learners to understand sophisticated English usage.
  

• Cultural and Personal Context: The speech offers insights into personal development and the universal journey of overcoming challenges.

🤔 SPEECH RECAP QUIZ

1. What does Leen Al Kassab emphasize as a key factor in her personal and professional journey?
   a. The importance of cultural and religious identity
   b. The role of technology in healthcare
   c. The challenges of medical education
   

2. How does Al Kassab view the concept of 'identity' in her speech?
   a. As a static, unchangeable aspect
   b. As a complex, composite of experiences
   c. As a minor influence on personal development
   

3. What metaphor does Leen Al Kassab use to describe the role of a physician?
   a. A bridge between science and empathy
   b. An ambassador representing medicine and humanity
   c. A guardian of traditional healthcare practices

Check your understanding and see if you've grasped the key points of the speech. The correct answers are waiting for you further down—keep reading to see how you did!

📝 VOCABULARY SPOTLIGHT

This edition highlights the words 'ambassador' and 'identity' from Al Kassab's speech.

Ambassador: (n.) A representative or promoter of a specified activity.

Example: "Leen Al Kassab referred to physicians as ambassadors of both their individual and professional identities."

Identity: (n.) The qualities, beliefs, personality, looks, and expressions that make a person or group.

Example: "Al Kassab emphasized the significance of cultural and religious identity in shaping her worldview and values."

🗣️ SPEAK LIKE A NATIVE

"Being a Cassandra"

In this installment, we're exploring the expression "being a Cassandra," a phrase that originates from Greek mythology. Cassandra was a character who was given the gift of prophecy but cursed to never be believed.

Being a Cassandra: This idiom is used to describe someone who predicts negative or disastrous events, but is not believed until it's too late.

Example: "In her speech, Leen Al Kassab referenced the idea of 'being a Cassandra' in the context of advocating for change and being met with skepticism or disbelief."

💬 QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In your journey of learning English, courage is the key. It's the virtue that enables all others in your language adventure.

Having the bravery to speak, even when you're unsure, to make mistakes and learn from them, that's where true progress starts. It's not just about memorizing words or grammar—it's about daring to use them, to communicate, and to express yourself.

This courage helps you practice consistently, face challenges head-on, and embrace each learning opportunity.

So, as you learn, remember that your greatest tool isn't just knowledge, but the courage to use and grow that knowledge every day. Be brave, and watch how your English flourishes!

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

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