What is one of the best ways to study English on your own? Read! CISL students often ask what novels they can read to improve their language skills. CISL teachers put together a list of some of their favorite books to read and teach. Try some of these and see how quickly your reading and...
Category: <span>Learning English</span>
The Best of TED: 5 Great Videos for English Learners
TED.com is a much-loved website for learning about everything from the wonders of the ocean to how the internet is so powerful. Because of its vast amount of videos on many subjects, its transcripts, and its subtitles in many languages, TED is also a great place to learn English! Want to learn a little more...
Grammar Lesson of the Month: Preposition/gerund combinations + things a CISL student can be thankful for
November 1st marks the day that Americans put away their Halloween decorations (and costumes!) and turn their focus to the next exciting holiday: Thanksgiving! Many Americans consider this to be their favorite holiday because of the warm traditions surrounding it: dinner with friends and family, lots of delicious home-cooked food, and a holiday focused on...
SD Gaslamp + “nightlife” idioms
Sure, San Diego is all about beaches and beautiful weather, but did you know that Downtown San Diego is home to a beautiful, historic, and exciting area called the Gaslamp Quarter? SD’s Gaslamp Quarter, called “The Historic Heart of San Diego,” is located just a few streets from CISL San Diego. The streets are lined...
Best bike routes in SD and SF + biking vocabulary
There are so many ways to enjoy nature and stay in shape while studying English at CISL San Diego or CISL San Francisco. From the running routes to the hiking trails to the yoga classes, there is always something to do that will keep you in shape! Another great way to exercise while you are an...
Adverbs of Frequency + a day in the life of a CISL student
For October’s Grammar Lesson of the Month, we are looking at adverbs of frequency. We use adverbs of frequency to state how often we do (or do not) do something. These words are perfect for describing actions on a daily basis, so we will use them to talk about the day in the life of...
Running vocabulary + running routes in San Francisco
San Franciscans are some of the most in-shape people in the U.S., and it’s no wonder why: the city’s abundant farmer’s markets selling fresh California produce and the numerous parks and open spaces suit those who love the outdoors! San Francisco’s terrain and cool weather also make it a runner’s paradise. Whether you’re a novice...
TOEFL Writing: Agree or Disagree Prompt Tips
The TOEFL Agree or Disagree prompt can be challenging. Do you know the tips you need to succeed? Read on and learn how to master this writing section of the TOEFL exam. Note: The TOEFL Writing section can include many other types of prompts: check out our article on Types of TOEFL Writing Prompts to learn...
College and University Vocabulary for ESL Students
CISL’s Pathway Program gives international students the chance to study at a U.S. university or college. Students have the choice of attending any of CISL’s partner schools: this includes community colleges, private colleges and universities, and even technical schools such as aviation academies and film schools! Before you hit the books*, make sure that you understand...
Grammar Lesson of the Month: Latin in English
“Omnia mutantur, nihil interit (everything changes, nothing perishes).” ― Ovid, Metamorphoses People often say that English comes from Latin. But how “Latin” is English? According to experts, English is about 29% Latin. Understanding the origins of English (and specifically how Latin works within it) will help you have a better understanding of the English language. Latin...