Language Resources
I know what you’re thinking. Japanese has three – sometimes four – writing systems. Where do you start? As I shared in one of my earlier Clear the List posts, I recently took on what I think will be my last language – Japanese. I wanted to do things differently this time, so I decided to take a conversational approach to the language, meaning I’d focus...
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Travel
From Marina Bay in Singapore, there’s one building in particular that catches the eyes of visitors – the Marina Bay Sands. Three buildings connected by a ship-shaped pool and dining area at the top, this hotel is often #1 on visitors lists when they visit the city. But the gorgeous infinity pool and exotic drinks aren’t the only reasons to visit the hotel. Here are...
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Language Resources
I’m no stranger to learning new writing systems. And while taking on another system gets easier after you’ve done it once or twice, the practice still needs to happen. There are no shortcuts to learning a language. Even though the work still needs to be done, doesn’t mean that you can’t have a little fun along the way. An important part of taking on a...
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Language Resources
One whole month of Japanese study is now under my belt – I can’t believe it! The good news is that though I’m starting to get into more challenging content, I am still completely in love with the language. On to #clearthelist If you’re new around these parts, #clearthelist is a linkup where we share our monthly goals, and by we, I mean myself, and...
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Language Resources
Writing is one of the most important exercises related to language learning and a very effective way of converting passive vocabulary to active. Other benefits include its ability to polish the learner’s grammar, particularly when you have the opportunity to have your writing corrected. And, as a creative activity, the process can be rather enjoyable. School, again, often gets in the way when it comes...
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Language Resources
Last month, the Language Reading Challenge theme was to read an introduction to your target language. Those who were at an intermediate or advanced level could find an article or chapter in their coursebook that explained something that they were struggling with in particular. Because my focus language, at the moment, is a language that’s new to me, I was able to read an introduction....
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Travel
Delicious food, fun decor and the chance to dress up as your favourite characters from Harry Potter. It’s all part of the experience of dining at Platform 1094. Located on Serangoon Road, the interior is beautifully decorated with wood and brick. You certainly feel as though your in the Hogwarts dining hall or somewhere similar. The food was excellent and gorgeously presented. You have the...
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Language Resources
Are you using cartoons to expose your kids to a new language? Here’s how to turn it from a passive experience to an effective language learning activity for both of you. Let’s start by clearing something up. Just sitting your kid in front of 2 hours of Tintin a day isn’t going to do the job ok? If it did, this would be a really...
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Travel
When M and I were in Malaysia a few year’s back, we discovered pandan. Pandan, for those of you unfamiliar with it, is a plant that is used in South Asian cuisine. It’s a popular ingredient in sweets and savory items alike, and it’s incredibly delicious. In the US, pandan items are hard to find – though the 99 Ranch Market near us often carries...
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Language Resources
At first, learning Japanese can seem daunting. Not only do you need to learn three separate writing systems (four if you count romaji), but you have to deal with honorifics and particles. Thankfully, there are several aspects of the Japanese language that aren’t nearly as challenging as your first impression may lead you to believe. Plus, there are a variety of high quality materials available...
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