📚 English Speeches' Newsletter #40

Hello, English Speeches community!

Welcome to our 40th newsletter, a milestone edition in our journey together towards mastering the English language. This week, we've curated a blend of inspiring content, insightful articles, and engaging learning materials designed to not only improve your English skills but also to broaden your understanding of global issues and cultural nuances.

• English with News takes you to Ukraine, sharing a powerful story of endurance and hope amidst conflict, enriching your vocabulary and understanding of global events.
  

• Speak Like a Native delves into the idiom "Bite the Bullet," revealing its historical origins and current meaning, enhancing your idiomatic expression knowledge.
  

• Article of the Week offers valuable strategies for improving your English speaking skills, from foundational grammar to pronunciation and listening practices, aimed at boosting your confidence and fluency.
  

• English Speeches features Alicia Keys' inspiring speech at the Black Ball event, focusing on philanthropy and community support, providing a rich source of advanced vocabulary and persuasive speaking techniques.

This edition is crafted to inspire, inform, and improve your English learning experience. Whether you're drawn to the courage of communities, the depth of idioms, the art of communication, or the power of speech, there's something here for everyone. Join us in exploring these diverse themes, and let's continue to grow together in our English learning adventure.

ENGLISH WITH NEWS

Two Years into Russia's Invasion: The Ongoing Conflict

This week, we explore a poignant story from Ukraine, two years after Russia's invasion began. Despite exhaustion and significant challenges, the spirit of the Ukrainian people remains unbroken. This narrative not only sheds light on the current situation but also highlights the resilience and determination of those affected by the conflict.

Key Words:

• Invasion: (n.) An instance of invading a country or region with an armed force. (Two years into Russia's invasion, Ukrainians refuse to give up.)

• Exhausted: (adj.) Drained of one's physical or mental resources; very tired. (Exhausted Ukrainians refuse to give up.)

• Resilience: (n.) The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. (The resilience of Ukrainians is evident as they continue to fight for their country.)

• Aid: (n.) Help, typically of a practical nature. (Blocked Western military aid is hampering Ukrainian forces on the front line.)

• Conscripted: (v.) Enlist (someone) compulsorily, typically into the armed services. (Many men are fearful of being conscripted.)

The story from Ukraine is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to endure and resist in the face of overwhelming adversity. It highlights the ongoing conflict's complexities and the international community's role in providing support. This news piece not only informs us about the current events but also serves as a reminder of the importance of global awareness and empathy towards those in conflict zones.

SPEAK LIKE A NATIVE

"Bite the Bullet": Bravery in the Face of Pain

The phrase "bite the bullet" takes us back to the days before modern anesthesia, when soldiers had to endure surgery on the battlefield without pain relief. To help manage the pain, they were given a bullet to bite on. This act was a way to distract from the pain and stay quiet during the procedure.

Today, "bite the bullet" means to face a difficult situation with courage. Just like soldiers showed bravery, using this idiom encourages us to tackle tough challenges head-on, despite our fears or discomfort.

ARTICLE OF THE WEEK

Improve Your English Speaking Skills

This week, we spotlight a valuable resource for those aiming to enhance their English speaking abilities. Whether for personal growth or professional advancement, mastering English speaking is a goal shared by many non-native speakers. The article provides a wealth of strategies and tools designed to boost your confidence and fluency in English communication.

Key Insights:

• Foundational Skills: A strong grasp of grammar and vocabulary is essential. Utilizing resources like the British Council’s English Learning site and Grammarly can significantly improve your understanding and application of English grammar.
  

• Pronunciation Practice: Overcoming pronunciation challenges is possible with resources like BBC Learning English and Forvo, which offer pronunciation guides and exercises. Apps like Elsa Speak and FluentU provide personalized feedback to refine your pronunciation skills.
  

• Listening for Improvement: Engaging with English through podcasts, movies, TV shows, and speeches can improve your understanding of the language's nuances, aiding in better speaking skills.
  

• Engaging with Online Resources: Platforms like Duolingo, Babbel, iTalki, and language learning communities offer interactive modules and opportunities to practice with native speakers and peers.

This guide not only equips you with practical tips and resources but also encourages a persistent and fearless approach to learning English. Dive into the full article for a deeper understanding and more detailed strategies to improve your English speaking skills, making your journey both effective and enjoyable.

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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• 🌱 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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ENGLISH SPEECHES

Alicia Keys: Keep a Child Alive

In this moving speech at the Black Ball event, Alicia Keys, a renowned artist and founder of Keep a Child Alive, shares her passionate plea for a world free from AIDS. She emphasizes the critical role of philanthropy in business, the power of community support, and the necessity of unwavering commitment to the cause. Through her personal journey and the stories of those directly affected, Alicia underscores the urgent need for collective action and generosity.

Key Points for English Learners:

• Philanthropy: (n.) The desire to promote the welfare of others, expressed especially by the generous donation of money to good causes. (Alicia highlights the importance of philanthropy in business.)
  

• Commitment: (n.) The state or quality of being dedicated to a cause or activity. (She praises the attendees' commitment to fighting AIDS.)
  

• Generosity: (n.) The quality of being kind and generous. (Alicia calls for generosity to support the fight against AIDS.)

🤔 SPEECH RECAP QUIZ

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

1. "Just so grateful to be here with you tonight. Thank you so much to everybody who's in this room, who everybody has been on this journey with us. Your support of our mission, you know, it just fills me with ________ to see all of you."

   A. joy

   B. hope

   C. sadness

2. "Honestly, businesses, business and philanthropy belongs together. It has to be this way. And so this is very important what you're ________."

   A. avoiding

   B. doing

   C. ignoring

3. "It's not right that the same people that first inspired me to join this movement and to join the fight against AIDS are still disproportionately ________ and impacted by it."

   A. affected

   B. ignored

   C. supported

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 focuses on the words 'philanthropy' and 'commitment' from Alicia Keys' speech.

Philanthropy: This noun describes the act of wanting to help others, especially by giving money to those who need it. Alicia Keys emphasizes the importance of philanthropy in making a positive change in the world.

• Example in a sentence: "Alicia Keys praised the philanthropy of the Black Ball sponsors, highlighting their vital role in the fight against AIDS."

Commitment: As a noun, it refers to a promise or firm decision to do something. In her speech, Alicia Keys commends the unwavering commitment of her supporters and their dedication to the cause.

• Example in a sentence: "The commitment of everyone involved with Keep a Child Alive is crucial to its success, as Alicia Keys noted in her heartfelt speech."

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 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!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

In the realm of learning English, embracing change is not just beneficial—it's essential. While it's uncertain how each adjustment in your study habits or methods will pan out, one thing is clear: improvement hinges on the willingness to evolve.

If you find yourself hitting a plateau or not making the progress you hoped for, it might be time to switch things up. Whether it's trying a new learning app, engaging with native speakers, or changing your study routine, these shifts are crucial for growth.

So, remember, while change might seem daunting or filled with uncertainties, it's a necessary step towards improvement. Your journey to English fluency will thrive on your ability to adapt and embrace new strategies. Keep open to change, and watch as your language skills blossom in response.

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.b | 3.a

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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