📚 English Speeches' Newsletter #31

Hello, English Speeches community!

Welcome to the 31st edition of our newsletter, just in time for the festive season! As we celebrate this special time of year, we're excited to bring you a variety of engaging and informative content:

• 📰 English with News delves into the history and customs of Christmas, exploring this beloved festival's roots and traditions.
  

• 🤔 Discover the origins of "Boxing Day" in Did You Know?, a term unique to English-speaking countries post-Christmas.
  

• 🌐 In Article of the Week, learn how apps are revolutionizing English learning, making it more interactive and enjoyable.
  

• 🎤 Our English Speeches section features Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream," a speech rich in historical and cultural insights.

As we wrap up this edition, we want to extend our warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas to all of you. May this festive season bring joy, peace, and an opportunity to create wonderful memories with your loved ones. Join us on this educational journey as we delve into the fascinating aspects of English language and culture. Happy learning, exploring, and Merry Christmas! 🎄✨

ENGLISH WITH NEWS

Understanding the History of Christmas

This week, we delve into the fascinating history of Christmas, a globally celebrated festival. Originating as a Christian festival, Christmas has evolved over centuries, incorporating various traditions and customs. It's a time for family, giving, and reflecting on the year gone by. The festival is marked by distinctive traditions like Santa Claus, Christmas trees, carols, and more, each with its unique history.

Key Words:

• Christmas: (n.) An annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ, observed primarily on December 25 as a religious and cultural celebration among billions of people around the world.
  

• Santa Claus: (n.) A legendary figure originating from St. Nicholas, known for delivering gifts to children during the Christmas season.
  

• Carols: (n.) Joyful songs or hymns, particularly associated with Christmas.
  

• Tradition: (n.) A long-established custom or belief passed down from generation to generation.

The history of Christmas offers English learners an opportunity to explore a blend of religious, cultural, and folk traditions. It's a chance to learn about the evolution of festivals, the significance of various customs, and the way they shape cultural identity. Understanding Christmas traditions also helps in grasping the cultural diversity and global influence of this festival, making it a valuable topic for those studying English and global cultures.

DID YOU KNOW?

"Boxing Day": A Post-Christmas Tradition

Have you ever wondered about the term "Boxing Day," widely used in English-speaking countries following Christmas Day? Contrary to what the name might suggest, it has nothing to do with the sport of boxing.

Instead, the term originates from a historical practice in Britain where the wealthy would give Christmas boxes containing money or gifts to their servants or to the needy on the day after Christmas. This tradition was a way of thanking them for their service throughout the year.

Today, Boxing Day, celebrated on December 26th, is known for shopping deals, sports events, and family time. It's a fascinating example of how English terms can evolve from historical customs and gain new meanings over time.

ARTICLE OF THE WEEK

How to Learn English with Apps

This week, we're focusing on the innovative and accessible world of learning English through apps. In the digital age, apps have become a crucial tool for language learners, offering a range of interactive and engaging methods to improve English skills.

Here's a snapshot of the key insights:

1. Duolingo – The Best All-Rounder: Known for its game-like learning experience, Duolingo offers a fun way to learn English, with a leaderboard challenge and virtual rewards. It's effective for building vocabulary and grammatical structures.
   

2. Quiz Your English – The Best For Exam Prep: Designed by Cambridge Assessment English, this app is ideal for those preparing for exams like the Cambridge B2 First and IELTS. It offers real exam vocabulary and grammar practice.
   

3. The British Council – The Best For Grammar: This app provides lessons and games on various grammar topics, from beginner to advanced levels, making it an excellent resource for mastering English grammar.
   

4. Grammarly – The Best For Writing: An instant correction tool that not only checks for mistakes but also explains them, helping to improve writing skills and ensuring formal tone where necessary.

These four apps represent just a glimpse into the diverse and dynamic world of English learning through technology. Each app offers unique features to enhance different aspects of language learning, making the process both enjoyable and effective. To discover more apps and delve deeper into their specific benefits, be sure to check out the full list in our detailed article.

ENGLISH RESOURCES

Ultimate English Mastery Combo

Unlock the power of English with this comprehensive combo, meticulously crafted by the English Speeches team, celebrated creators with over 4.5 million YouTube subscribers.

+3000 English Phrasal Verbs: Delve into the intricacies of English phrasal verbs with over 3000 entries, each accompanied by clear explanations and examples.

Learn English with Speeches: Embark on a transformative journey through iconic speeches. This eBook not only offers clear explanations and practical exercises but also provides insights into the cultural nuances and real-life contexts of English.

Together, these resources promise a holistic learning experience, ensuring you communicate effectively and confidently. Don't miss out on this limited-time offer to elevate your English proficiency!

ENGLISH SPEECHES

Martin Luther King Jr.: "I Have a Dream"

In this iconic speech, Martin Luther King Jr. eloquently expresses his vision for equality and justice. Delivered during the historic March on Washington, King's words resonate with the aspirations of millions for a society free from discrimination and segregation. His powerful rhetoric and compelling vision continue to inspire the quest for civil rights and freedom for all.

Key Points for English Learners:

• Historical Context and Vocabulary: This speech is rich in historical references and vocabulary related to civil rights, such as 'Emancipation Proclamation', 'segregation', and 'discrimination'.
  

• Rhetorical Devices: King's speech is an excellent example of rhetorical techniques like repetition and metaphor, enhancing the emotional impact of his message.
  

• Cultural Significance: Understanding this speech provides insight into a pivotal moment in American history and the ongoing struggle for racial equality.

🤔 SPEECH RECAP QUIZ

Let's test your understanding of English grammar and the key points in the speech above:

1. "Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the ________."

   A. Constitution
   B. Emancipation Proclamation
   C. Declaration of Independence
   

2. "I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia, the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of ________."

   A. unity

   B. equality

   C. brotherhood
   

3. "This nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are ________.'"

   A. united

   B. free

   C. equal

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 'emancipation' and 'creed' from the speech.

Emancipation: As a noun, it refers to the fact or process of being set free from legal, social, or political restrictions; liberation. In the context of the speech, it relates to the freedom of slaves.

• Example in a sentence: "The Emancipation Proclamation was a significant step towards the abolition of slavery in the United States."

Creed: This noun refers to a system of religious belief or a set of principles. In King's speech, it refers to the fundamental beliefs of American democracy.

• Example in a sentence: "Martin Luther King Jr. called for America to live up to the ideals stated in its national creed."

🗣️ SPEAK LIKE A NATIVE

"Table of Brotherhood"

In this installment, we're examining the phrase "table of brotherhood" used by Martin Luther King Jr. in his speech.

"Table of Brotherhood" symbolizes a place where people of different races and backgrounds can come together in unity and equality. It's a powerful metaphor for racial harmony and integration.

• Example in a sentence: "Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of the 'table of brotherhood' remains a guiding principle in the fight for racial equality."

ENGLISH RESOURCES

Download our PDFs, audio, and lessons!

For those of you who have been eagerly waiting for more ways to delve deeper into our content, here is what you will get:

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

• 📩 Weekly Learning Boost: Every week, receive an email with the latest speech's PDF transcript, audio, and a specially designed English lesson. Dive in, learn, and repeat!

• 🌱 Stay Updated & Engaged: With new premium content added regularly, your learning experience will always feel fresh and engaging.

Learning is a journey, and every speech is a new destination. We deeply trust in the value of our work and its impact on those learning English. That's why we're offering a 30-day trial for you to explore and experience firsthand.

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QUOTE OF THE WEEK

As the festive season of Christmas and New Year approaches, it brings a special opportunity in your English learning journey. This time of year, filled with joy and new beginnings, is perfect for embracing the challenges that make you uncomfortable.

Whether it's trying to understand holiday-themed songs, joining in festive conversations, or writing a season's greetings message in English, each effort is a valuable step in your growth.

These moments, rich with cultural learning and language practice, are not just about improving your English. They're about expanding your world, celebrating progress, and stepping confidently into the New Year with enhanced skills and experiences.

So, as you immerse yourself in the festivities, remember each challenge is a gift of growth. Merry learning and a Happy New English Journey! Keep growing and enjoying every step of this wonderful season! 🎄✨

NEWSLETTER RECOMMENDATIONS

Are you on the lookout for something intriguing and enriching? Dive into our specially selected collection of newsletters. We've scoured various topics to bring you the best, ensuring there's something for everyone. 🌍✨

From the latest trends to timeless wisdom, our recommendations are a gateway to a world of knowledge and discovery. Whether it's for learning, inspiration, or just a good read, you're sure to find something that piques your interest.

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

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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