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Language teaching: What is pragmatics and why is it important when teaching languages?

What is pragmatics? Pragmatics is a language in use, or even better, a meaning in use (the actual use of the language). We need pragmatics to understand how language is used in a specific context and to be able to use it appropriately. Why is pragmatics important when teaching? Pragmatics is a set of skills…
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Travelling Corner: Polish Mountains in Autumn

I think I last visited Poland in autumn around 4 years ago and the Polish mountains even longer ago, so it was a real treat to go there in October this year. It was beautiful, colourful and foggy with pretty autumnal vibes. Beskidy (Polish mountain range) I went hiking in the Polish mountain range of…
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Language learning–pleasant and fun? Yes, absolutely, if you know what type of learner you are!

Everyone can learn a new skill, and everyone can learn a new language – but did you know that different people learn in different ways?  Not all people’s learning techniques are the same.  The type of learner you are depends on how your brain is wired.  The categories of learner are: visual learner, auditory learner,…
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BLS 5-year anniversary party: what an evening! (photo blog)

BLS 5-year anniversary party was a fantastic event. I’m still re-living the whole evening: the concert, the home-made chocolate cake and our wonderful attendees. Next year, we’ll be 6 years old. That’s a good reason to celebrate again, right? 😉 If you missed our party, see our photos below and a video here.   Speak soon, Kinga Read More...

Like a Fairy Tale: Literary Translation – what’s it all about?

In this blog post we continue our investigation into different types of translation.  We take a look at what is meant by literary translation, what kinds of methods it uses, why you might like to consider a career in literary translation – and how to get started in it if you would like to. We…
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Travelling Corner: Breathtaking Views in a Croatian National Park (photo blog)

I visited The Krka National Park during my travels to Croatia this autumn. I was planning to go to Pltvice National Park too, but on the day I had planned to go there were a series of storms, so I’ve postponed it until next time I’m in Croatia. The Krka National Park was created by…
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Travelling Corner: Croatia through my Eyes: 7 Curiosities you won’t find in a Travel Guide!

What makes Croatia special? I gathered my memories, impressions, fascinations and surprises throughout my stay there last autumn. Below are my 7 favourite curiosities about Croatia (all very subjective!): 1 No iPhones everywhere Yes, Croatians actually talk to each other! Even when they commute, travel or queue. People (all of them!) sit in a café…
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On Languages: Japanese

Japanese (日本語 [nihõŋɡo]) is the ninth most widely spoken language in the world.  It is the official language of Japan, which has a population of over 125 million people.  There are also around 2.5 million people of Japanese origin, many of whom speak Japanese as their first language, living in the Americas, particularly Brazil and…
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Interview with Polish & English Singer Katy Carr

Even though you only lived in Poland for the first few years of your life, this experience has obviously had a great impact on you. Do you think of yourself as Polish? 🙂 I am very proud to have Polish blood and so pleased that my Polish heritage has become a huge inspiration for my…
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Easy Ways to Improve Your Reading Skills in a Foreign Language

Reading is a key skill to develop when you are learning a new language.  Reading in another language makes us comfortable with the words and grammar used in that language.  Seeing words written down helps us remember them.  You can improve your reading and understanding skills – and your writing and speaking skills if you…
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