BBC Learning English
Learn English with the BBC. We publish new videos, podcasts, tutorials and lessons every week to help you learn and improve your English speaking, listening, vocabulary and pronunciation. Subscribe to our channel and hit the bell so you never miss our video uploads! We love receiving, reading, and responding to your comments! We ask you all to please use English when you comment. Scroll down for a link to our house rules. For more videos and content to help you learn English, visit our website. We're also on TikTok, Facebook and Instagram! Happy learning!

863 videos
Essential English vocabulary: climate change and COP26 Essential English vocabulary: climate change and COP26
3 years ago En
Learn vocabulary to speak about climate change and the environment with BBC Learning English! Here are three useful English words to improve your vocabulary and help you speak about important global issues. 0:00 Vocabulary to understand climate change 0:23 What does 'net zero' mean? 0:37 What is a circular economy? 01:01 Why is everyone talking about 1.5 degrees? 01.14 Is it too late? Learn more about the environment and related vocabulary here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk968HT-s-4i_95oWY2RAmsWJ4 For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment.
Should fast food sponsor sport? - 6 Minute English Should fast food sponsor sport? - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Is it right for companies selling unhealthy products to sponsor sporting events? Why do some companies that make unhealthy food and drinks advertise during the Olympics? That's what Sam and Neil talk about, as they teach you related vocabulary. This week's question McDonalds had a long history with the Olympic Games until the company ended the partnership ahead of the 2024 games in Paris. But why did McDonalds choose to quit? Was it because: a) they wanted to change the name of French fries to McFries? b) they didn’t want to call their hamburger, ‘Le Big Mac’? or, c) they wanted to be the only company selling cheese for cheeseburgers? Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary sponsor pay for an event or tournament in order to advertise a company or brand in return fast food hot, often unhealthy, food such as hamburgers or pizza that is quick to cook and serve brand attachment a deep emotional connection between humans and brands health halo the perception that something is healthy for
Why do we need international law? An animated explainer Why do we need international law? An animated explainer
3 years ago En
Learn all about international law with BBC Learning English. We take a look at why international law is needed, how it is used to 'bridge' the gaps between sovereign states and how it can be used to help solve global problems like climate change. 0:00 Why do we need international law? 0:45 How international law provides a framework between countries 1:05: International law and global issues Learn more about: Space and International Law: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk96_5JslVyzoYB_uCxUJnj4dY Water and International Law: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk96-KrgJmOCytLiQulcQnwSN2 The Environment and the Law: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk96-AdmkxPgizwq1AZnOgjdRC #law #internationallaw For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment.
Countries try to change UN climate report - BBC Learning English Countries try to change UN climate report - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
COP26 is underway in Glasgow, but leading up to the conference a leaked report seen by the BBC showed how some countries are trying to change a scientific report on climate change. Roy and Neil discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it too. Related stories: The smell of coffee - 6 Minute English https://youtu.be/5R3WdBE1-JM Fixing things to help the planet: BBC News Review https://youtu.be/J8hDuZHGPR0 Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:35 - Story 1:23- Headline 1: Leaked documents show major polluters trying to water down UN climate report 5:15 - Headline 2: These countries plan to throw a spanner in CoP26 works, warn BBC 8:35 - Headline 3: COP26: Document leak reveals nations lobbying to change key climate report 10:50 - Language summary Key words and phrases: water down make something less effective; weaken * The initial plan was watered down after some of the ideas were seen as too radical. * The pure orange juice is sometimes a bit strong,
What is international law? An animated explainer What is international law? An animated explainer
3 years ago En
What is international law and why is it important? As the world sees the devastation caused by climate change, as the availability of fresh water becomes more and more limited, and as corporations become bigger than countries and race to Mars, what is the responsibility of countries and companies to current and future generations? What is the role of international law – and where is it lacking? Can it help protect individuals and manage the behaviour of countries and companies? Is international law even worth the paper it is written on? We examine how individuals can use international law to create positive change – and even change the law itself. For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #law #internationallaw #explainer
The future of water - BBC Learning English The future of water - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Is there enough water for everyone and how long will it last? What could the increasing demand for water do to society? And how can the law help? Watch this to find out…. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water
Grime: Music from architecture - 6 Minute English Grime: Music from architecture - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
In this programme, we talk about grime – a style of music which originated in the derelict tower blocks of London. Famous artists are Wiley and Stormzy. We discuss the topic and teach you vocabulary. This week's question Stormzy is one of the most famous grime artists, but what is his real name? a) Michael Omari b) Martin Owusu c) Marvin Appiah Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary eclectic describes taste which includes a wide variety of styles contentious creating or causing conflict coming of age becoming an adult predominant the strongest or most important chants sings the same thing over and over again existential relating to human existence To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-211028 [Cover: Getty Images] More 6 Minute English episodes: How to disagree better https://youtu.be/rWHGKGS7zSc​​ Meditation and your brain https://youtu.be/sm6EtQg-hxw​​ No more bosses https://youtu.be/ktgDXNML
Water crisis - BBC Learning English Water crisis - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
There are more than 7.8 billion of us on the planet. That number is going up. We're using more and more water, but there's only a limited amount available. As populations and temperatures rise, how will the law stop a crisis? And... can the law stop businesses taking the water you need to live? You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water
Is lack of access to water discriminatory? - BBC Learning English Is lack of access to water discriminatory? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
This episode will show you how simply getting hold of water is often deeply unfair... and how campaigners are using the law to fight this. We look at the relationships between race, gender and water... and how the law can help overcome everyday discrimination. Why fetching water usually falls to women, and how that furthers inequality, and the state that had to pay $600 million after a town's water supply was poisoned. Everyone needs water, but is the way we get it causing problems unfairly? You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water
BBC News Review: Trump to launch new social media platform BBC News Review: Trump to launch new social media platform
3 years ago En
Former US President Donald Trump has announced plans to launch a new social media network, called TRUTH Social. He said the platform would "stand up to the tyranny of big tech", accusing them of silencing opposing voices in the US. Rob and Neil discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: Earthshot prize https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/course/newsreview/unit-20/session-216 News Review: Trump acquitted https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/course/newsreview/unit-17/session-181 Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:27 - Story 2:04 - Headline 1: TRUTH Social: Donald Trump to launch social network, saying 'your favourite president has been silenced' 5:08 - Headline 2: Trump announces he is launching his own social media platform called TRUTH Social to 'stand up to the tyranny of big tech'. Ex-president's enterprise will also create subscription video service 9:00 - Headline 3: Here's Donald Trump's P
Do you have a right to water? - BBC Learning English Do you have a right to water? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Two billion people worldwide don't have access to safe water... how the UN wants to change that by 2030. And can you use the law to make sure your community is kept supplied with water? Watch the video to find out. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water #resources #bbc_law
Who owns water? - BBC Learning English Who owns water? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
How can water be owned? It falls from the sky, so should it be free for all? And if we all need it to live, shouldn't the law make sure that no one can stop us from having it? Watch the video to find out. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water #naturalresources
When states don't behave - BBC Learning English When states don't behave - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Can governments be forced to take the tough steps needed to save the environment? This episode will show you how even lawmakers aren't bigger than the law. What happens when a country breaks an agreement over the environment? Can the law help? Watch the video. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange
Where do your tips go? - 6 Minute English Where do your tips go? - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
In this programme, Sam and Neil talk about tipping - the act of giving extra money to the waiter or waitress that have served you so well. But are these employees allowed to keep it? And how do they feel when they aren't? We discuss the topic and teach you vocabulary. This week's question The highest restaurant in the world, At.mosphere, is in Dubai, in the building known as the Burj Khalifa – but how high up is that restaurant? Is it: a) 442 metres b) 532 metres c) 622 metres Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary discretionary choice or option to do something; non-obligatory consistent acting the same way over time mandatory describes something you must do imposed forced on someone cashless not using cash or coins pool collect, group together To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-211021 [Cover: Getty Images] More 6 Minute English episodes: How to disagree better https://youtu.be/r
Climate campaigners - BBC Learning English Climate campaigners - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Environmental activists are on the news a lot, but are they making a real difference? We'll show you whether the law, supports their cause. She's the climate superstar, but what has Greta Thunberg actually achieved? You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange
How can I get help? - BBC Learning English How can I get help? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Humans have been polluting the world for a long time. So, how can you take action about something like climate change? Who would you blame? It's not any one person, company, country, or government's fault... or is it? Watch the video to find out. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water
Earthshot Prize: Prince William's new awards - BBC News Review Earthshot Prize: Prince William's new awards - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
The Earthshot Prize was created by Prince William and awards those who come up with creative solutions to deal with climate change. The winners receive a million pounds to help them build on their ideas. The ceremony, which was the first ever Earthshot Prize, were held in North London. Neil and Roy discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: Golden Globes 2021 - https://youtu.be/W95gbUmUwU8 Exam time - The Storytellers - https://youtu.be/6JVgD_QQLlY Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:36 - Story 1:42 - Headline 1: Earthshot Prize: First winners of Prince William's £5m awards revealed at star-studded ceremony 4:37 - Headline 2: As COP looms, Prince William awards debut Earthshot Prize 7:47 - Headline 3: Upcycled style on a green carpet as Earthshot Prize guests make do and mend the planet 9:58 - Summary The story: Two friends who’ve come up with a system for quickly growing coral to save reefs in the Bahamas, were am
How do we stop islands sinking? - BBC Learning English How do we stop islands sinking? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Rising sea levels and an increase in severe storms destroy homes and ruin livelihoods. How can the law help? Can it help provide a solution? You'll learn what lawmakers are doing to deal with this. Watch the video. You'll find more videos about international law on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english #COP26 #bbclearningenglish #environment #globalwarming #climatechange #water
How and why is the environment protected? - BBC Learning English How and why is the environment protected? - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
People are facing a threat we've never faced before: environmental disasters. This programme will show you how the law is adapting to keep the world itself safe, by protecting our environment. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/international_law_environment/how_and_why_is_the_environment_protected For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com #learningenglish #businessEnglish #COP26 #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
The future of companies - BBC Learning English The future of companies - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Multinational companies are getting bigger and bigger. This show will look at what the future might hold. Will countries start to use that power for themselves? And could the law make companies a force for good? Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/international_law_big_business/the_future_of_companies For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #learningenglish #businessEnglish #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
Angela Merkel - 6 Minute English Angela Merkel - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Angela Merkel has often been referred to as 'mutti' - which means mother in German. Where did this nickname come from and who is she really? That's what Sam and Neil talk about, as they teach you related vocabulary. This week's question Who was Germany’s first ever chancellor? Was it: a) Otto von Bismarck b) Helmut Schmidt c) Or Franz von Papen Listen to the programme to find out the answer. chancellor person in the highest position in a government or a university hardline describes someone with traditional and strict beliefs that can’t be easily changed put down insult, used to make someone feel stupid or embarrassed put in their place made to feel less important than they are trying to be cliches phrases or ideas that have become meaningless because they’ve been overused deadpan serious facial expression that shows no emotion To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish... [Cover: Getty Images] More 6 Minute English episodes: Going through the menopause h
The people vs big business - BBC Learning English The people vs big business - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Multinational corporations can be huge – even richer than some countries. We'll show you how ordinary people have taken on massive corporations, using the power of the law. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/international_law_big_business/the_people_vs_big_business For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #learningenglish #businessEnglish #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
Companies vs countries - BBC Learning English Companies vs countries - BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Multinational corporations can be really big – bigger even than some countries. But does that mean they're more powerful than a country? We'll show you how the law keeps things balanced. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/international_law_big_business/companies_vs_countries For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #learningenglish #businessEnglish #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
Afghan female footballers get UK visas - BBC News Review Afghan female footballers get UK visas - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
A group of young female Afghan footballers and their families are being given visas to come and live in the UK. They left Afghanistan to get away from the Taliban and have been staying in Pakistan. Roy and Neil discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: Townsville: Crocodiles seen in Australia's flooded streets https://youtu.be/HhAXFb0_-uQ Business English: Who owns space? https://youtu.be/GgEHMzzs1mc Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:32 - Story 1:32 - Headline 1: Afghan female footballers and families to be resettled in the UK 4:54 - Headline 2: Afghan women's football squad granted UK visas 8:45 - Headline 3: Afghan girls football team WILL be allowed to come to Britain to flee the Taliban 11:05 - Language summary The story: A team of promising young women footballers who fled the Taliban in Afghanistan have been told they can come to live in the UK with their families. The Home Office has said it's finalisi
Are companies above the law? BBC Learning English Are companies above the law? BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
Can anything be done to stop a multinational company that wants to abuse your rights? In this episode, we'll show you how international law keeps the world's biggest companies in line. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/international_law_big_business/are_companies_above_the_law For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #learningenglish #businessEnglish #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
What is a multinational? BBC Learning English What is a multinational? BBC Learning English
3 years ago En
They're bigger than many countries, but what exactly is a multinational corporation? With huge resources and growing power, what keeps them in line? And is the law keeping up as these companies change themselves and the world around us? Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #learningenglish #businessEnglish #bbcle_law #bbclearningenglish
World Space Week: For all humankind World Space Week: For all humankind
3 years ago En
Can you commit a crime in space? Who's responsible for clearing up space junk? And who owns Mars? Explore the international laws which govern the cosmos. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/business-english For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #womeninspace #spaceweek2021 #space #spaceexploration #bbcle_law
Smart Tech and Climate Change - 6 Minute English Smart Tech and Climate Change - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Smart technology is becoming more and more commonplace in people's homes, but coulld it help with the fight against climate change? With many people now trying to reduce their carbon footprint, is AI the answer? That's what Sam and Neil talk about, as they teach you related vocabulary. This week's question How many tonnes of carbon dioxide are humans responsible for emitting into the atmosphere every year? a) 30 billion b) 40 billion c) 50 billion Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary dig something up excavate; remove something from the ground intermittent irregular; not continuous blackouts periods of time without electricity or energy in real time no delay; live machine learning way computers learn and adapt based on collated data simulate produce a computer model To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-minute-english/ep-211007 [Cover: Getty Images] More 6 Minute English episodes: Going through the menopause htt
World Space Week: Junk in space World Space Week: Junk in space
3 years ago En
Can you commit a crime in space? Who's responsible for clearing up space junk? And who owns Mars? Explore the international laws which govern the cosmos. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/international_law_space/junk_in_space For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #womeninspace #spaceweek2021 #space #junkinspace #bbcle_law
World Space Week: War in space World Space Week: War in space
3 years ago En
Can you commit a crime in space? Who's responsible for clearing up space junk? And who owns Mars? Explore the international laws which govern the cosmos. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/ For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #womeninspace #spaceweek2021 #space #bbcle_law #spacerace
Pandora Papers: Rich exposed - BBC News Review Pandora Papers: Rich exposed - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
A large number of documents have been obtained by The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. The documents expose the financial lives and money dealings of many politicians and rich people around the world. These documents have been called the ‘Pandora Papers’. Roy and Neil discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: Slippery toilets could save billions of litres of water https://youtu.be/Qj1kVX57p-o I love my language! - 6 Minute English https://youtu.be/2z6A62BO2zc Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:34 - Story 1:51 - Headline 1: Pandora papers: biggest ever leak of offshore data exposes financial secrets of rich and powerful 5:14 - Headline 2: From Claudia Schiffer to Shakira - the rich and famous faces caught up in the Pandora Papers leak 8:25 - Headline 3: Pandora Papers: An offshore data tsunami 11:02 - Language summary The story: A huge leak of financial documents has exposed the secret deal
World Space Week: Who owns space? World Space Week: Who owns space?
3 years ago En
Can you commit a crime in space? Who's responsible for clearing up space junk? And who owns Mars? Explore the international laws which govern the cosmos. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/ For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #womeninspace #spaceweek2021 #space #spaceexploration #bbcle_law
World Space Week: Can you commit a crime in space? World Space Week: Can you commit a crime in space?
3 years ago En
Can you commit a crime in space? Who's responsible for clearing up space junk? And who owns Mars? Explore the international laws which govern the cosmos. Find out more on our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/features/international_law_space For more English videos and English lessons to help you learn English: www.bbclearningenglish.com We like receiving and reading your comments - please use English when you comment. #womeninspace #spaceweek2021 #space
The Long 'e' in English Spelling and Pronunciation | A Quick Guide! The Long 'e' in English Spelling and Pronunciation | A Quick Guide!
3 years ago En
Eek! ???? Do you have difficulty spelling and pronouncing English words with a long 'ee' sound? The long 'ee' sound has six different spellings in English... but don't despair! Thomas is here to explain all! 0:00 Intro - the long 'ee' sound and how to spell it 0:34 Sound and spelling of long 'ee' words 1:06 Making sense of English spelling and pronunciation 2:00 A quick history or English vocabulary 2:40 6 patterns of English spelling Do you find spelling tricky? Then check out our 6 minute guide to English spelling: https://youtu.be/5G9jN2mJFlw Learn about words with more than one spelling here: https://youtu.be/wVkMMD6A3ZM Or, visit our website here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/
Going through the menopause - 6 Minute English Going through the menopause - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
The menopause can be a difficult time in a woman’s life. But with age comes wisdom and experience and in more and more societies around the world the menopause is being talked about more openly. That's what Sam and Georgina talk about, as they teach you related vocabulary. What is the average age for a woman to reach the menopause in Britain? a) 49 b) 51 c) 53 Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary taboo custom to avoid publicly talking about certain topics or doing certain activities for social or religious reasons, or because people find discussing them uncomfortable pay your dues do what’s expected of you; do your duty (UK) surplus to requirements no longer needed ageism the unfair treatment of older people because of their age symptom something wrong with your body or mind that is a sign of some illness or physical process double whammy situation where two unpleasant things happen at the same time (informal) To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co
German elections - BBC News Review German elections - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
Germany elections: Centre-left claim narrow win over Merkel's party: Germany's centre-left Social Democrats (SPD) have claimed victory in the federal election, telling the party of outgoing Chancellor Angela Merkel it should no longer be in power. Rob and Neil discuss the news story and teach you some related vocabulary so you can talk about it as well. Related stories: News Review: Brexit - deal or no deal https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HqvGOXSCM1s&t=3s English Class: Phrasal verbs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q7HBdzgvmIs Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:26 - Story 2:00 - Headline 1: CNBC: ‘I’ll be darned’: Biden reacts to pivotal German election result' 5:00 - Headline 2: BBC News online: German elections usher in political change with a small ‘c’ 8:25 - Headline 3: The Guardian: Germany election: what happens next as parties vie to form government. 11:10 - Language summary The story: It was an election night on a knife edge, with Germany's two main political parties jostling for p
How to be Polite in English - | Top Tips for Language Learners! How to be Polite in English - | Top Tips for Language Learners!
3 years ago En
Learning to speak English in a polite way is generally very important, especially if you want people to help you with something. If you want someone to do something for you, there are different ways of expressing it in English, depending on how polite you want to be. Joanne shares our top tips on how to use language to improve your levels of politeness in English. 0:00 Intro 0:25 An order or a request? 0:50 Why questions are politer than imperatives 1:02 'Can' or 'could'? 3:00 Past forms and modal structures 3:22 Tone of voice Sian teaches more about being polite in English here: https://youtu.be/rQN4-l5AXE0 Tim shows how avoiding direct language can make you sound more polite: https://youtu.be/3FYxqDFstFo Or, for lots more great English learning content, visit our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/
I love my language! - 6 Minute English I love my language! - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Languages carry people’s history, culture, and identity. Some indigenous languages are at risk of disappearing and, when this happens, so too does the culture it's linked to. In this programme, Neil and Sam talk about a woman's effort to keep her language alive. She's from Canada, or ‘Turtle Island’ as it’s called by her tribe. This week's question The dominance of international languages, including English, has endangered other less-spoken languages. Did you know that nearly 7,000 different languages are spoken around the world? But how many of these are indigenous? a) 3,000 b) 4,000 c) 5,000 Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary indigenous relating to the people who originally lived in a place, rather than people who moved there from somewhere else glee a feeling of happiness, pleasure or excitement pass (something) on to to give something to someone, usually in your family, who lives on after you die (phrasal verb) bumps in the road small problems or delays that slo
La Palma: Volcano erupts - BBC News Review La Palma: Volcano erupts - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
On the Spanish island of La Palma, a volcano has erupted and has seen thousands of people evacuated from their homes. La Palma is one of the Canary Islands and is located off the coast of Africa. Neil and Roy talk about the vocabulary from this story so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: California Wildfires https://youtu.be/TaiS8S_0DW8 Lingohack: Turning moon dust into water https://youtu.be/50P4oSsZXng Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:30 - Story 1:32 - Headline 1: Volcano erupts on Canary Islands spewing lava into air after 'earthquake swarm' 4:53 - Headline 2: Spanish Canary Island volcano erupts, sending lava streaming towards villages 8:04 - Headline 3: Volcano erupts on Spanish island La Palma as rescuers scramble to evacuate 5,000 residents 11:22 - Language summary The story: A volcano has erupted on the island of La Palma in the Canaries. Thousands of people living in four villages were evacuated as rivers of lava poured down the hillside. The volcano last
Is 'ough' the Trickiest Sound in English? | English Spelling & Prounciation Lesson Is 'ough' the Trickiest Sound in English? | English Spelling & Prounciation Lesson
3 years ago En
The way we spell things in English is not always the way we pronounce them. Take these four letters, for example, o-u-g-h. How do we pronounce them? There are up to 11 different ways of pronouncing this sound - learn them with Thomas! 0:00 Intro 0:22 How we do pronounce 'ough' words? 1:30 More ways to pronounce 'ough' words 1:47 Why are there so many ways of pronouncing 'ough'? 2:44 Are there any rules for 'ough' words? Discover more of our top pronunciation tips in Tim's Pronunciation Workshop: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk96-ayXj5thbTpbh2vHWpP08o Or visit our website for lots more great content: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/
Robot artists - 6 Minute English Robot artists - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Ai-Da is a robot that paints and creates art - but what else could they do in the future? Neil and Sam discuss the topic and teach you related vocabulary. This week's question The name, Ai-Da, uses the abbreviation for ‘artificial intelligence’ - AI - to make a woman’s first name, but which famous, real-life Ada was the robot named after? Was it: a) Ada Brown?, b) Ada Lovelace? or, c) Ada Maris? Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary dystopia an imaginary future society where everything is bad non-verbal communication communication that does not involve speaking such as using physical gestures and facial expressions appeal the quality in someone that makes them attractive and interesting compelling so exciting and interesting that it holds your attention battles to win problems to be solved; obstacles to be overcome iron (something) out remove or find solutions to a problem To download the audio and a transcript, go to: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/features/6-
Emma Raducanu wins US Open: BBC News Review Emma Raducanu wins US Open: BBC News Review
3 years ago En
Emma Raducanu ended Britain's 44-year wait for a women's Grand Slam singles champion as she beat Leylah Fernandez to win the US Open in the most thrilling style. The 18-year-old ended her scarcely believable run in New York with a 6-4 6-3 win over her 19-year-old Canadian opponent in a high-quality final. Rob and Catherine talk about the vocabulary from this story so you can talk about it too. Related stories: News Review: Wimbledon: Return of tennis tournament https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5uKieSFcwss News Review: Record breaking snow hits Spain https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QPIQAyVwBxI Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:30 - Story 1:32 - Headline 1: Emma Raducanu: Teenager’s US Open run captures imagination 4:50 - Headline 2: The Guardian: Anatomy of a tennis sensation: Emma Raducanu’s run to final is no fluke 7:36 - Headline 3: Metro: How New York has fallen for Britain’s tennis sensation Emma Raducanu 11:00 - Language summary The story: Emma Raducanu has ended Britain’s 44 year w
Using the Historical Present to Improve YOUR Jokes and Stories! | English Grammar Lesson Using the Historical Present to Improve YOUR Jokes and Stories! | English Grammar Lesson
3 years ago En
Learn this English grammar trick to make your jokes and anecdotes more interesting by playing with tenses! The dramatic present in English can add a sense of immediacy to your story-telling to make it funnier, more engaging, or more interesting for the listener! So, yes, we can sometimes use the present to talk about the past! (No time machine needed.) 0:00 Intro 0:06 Using the present to talk about the past 1:14 The historical present 2:12 How does using past forms change the story? 2:38 Is 'will' the future and 'would' the past? Sian explains more about using the present to talk about the past here: https://youtu.be/WbtrD-As0Nw Discover more grammar lessons with 6 Minute Grammar here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcetZ6gSk96_zHuVg6Ecy2F7j4Aq4valQ Or, visit our website to discover lots more English learning content: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/
Is the planet warming up faster? - 6 Minute English Is the planet warming up faster? - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Episodes of extreme weather seem to be more frequent and some scientists suspect this might be caused by human-induced climate change. Climatologist Geert Jan van Oldenborgh talks about a heatwave that surprised climate modellers because it exceeded even the worst expectations. Neil and Sam discuss the topic and teach you related vocabulary. This week's question On 1st July Canada saw the temperature break records in Lytton. But just how hot did it get? a) 39 point 6 degrees Celsius b) 49 point 6 degrees Celsius c) 59 point 6 degrees Celsius Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary wildfire a fire that is burning strongly and out of control in the countryside wake-up call shocking event which should make people realise that we need to take to change a situation heatwave short period of time, such as few weeks, when the weather is much hotter than usual jump a sudden increase gradual happening slowly over a long period of time shake someone’s confidence make someone doubt somethin
Abba: Pop superstars are back - BBC News Review Abba: Pop superstars are back - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
ABBA are back! This is every music fan’s dream to see their favourite band make a comeback, and now, for ABBA fans – that dream has become a reality. Not only have they announced a new album, but also they will be going on tour – but in digital format – replaced by avatars – or 'Abbatars' as some are calling them. Roy and Neil talk about the vocabulary from this story so you can talk about it too. Related stories: Why do people like sad music? - 6 Minute English https://youtu.be/Mqnlb_yj3bY Spotless reputation - Learn English vocabulary & idioms with Shakespeare Speaks https://youtu.be/-ZjfID4S0N8 Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:31 - Story 1:45 - Headline 1: Abba's so-called 'return' is an utterly dismal prospect 4:50 - Headline 2: Abba are back – with the old magic intact 7:45 - Headline 3: Abba, I Still Have Faith in You, review: comeback single is a bit of a damp squib 11:22 - Language summary The story: Now they famously sang ‘Thank you for the music’. And now, after 40 years, the
3 Ways to Pronounce 'ch' - English Pronunciation Lesson 3 Ways to Pronounce 'ch' - English Pronunciation Lesson
3 years ago En
When learning English pronunciation, you may have noticed that the words 'chemist' and 'cheese' start with the same two letters but are pronounced in a very different way. Why does this happen? ????It's all about history! Here we give you some interesting facts about the English language and give you the reason why 'ch' has so many different pronunciations! 0:00 Intro 0:19 Example words with 'ch' 0:41 The History of English 1:03 The History of 'ch' 2:00 Pronunciation of 'ch' words 2:48 Unusual pronunciations 3:07 Pronunciation of 'schedule' For more pronunciation lessons, check out our Full Guide To English Pronunciation: https://youtu.be/QxQUapA-2w4 Or, Tim's Pronunciation Workshop: https://youtu.be/psI7E_J1zPo For LOTS more great content, be sure to visit our website: https://www.bbc.co.uk/learningenglish/english/
Is chimp politics like ours? - 6 Minute English Is chimp politics like ours? - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Just like humans, chimps are highly intelligent. They live in social groups, have leaders and a desire for power. Neil and Sam talk about the topic and teach you related vocabulary along the way. This week's question Research shows that the reason chimpanzee behaviour so closely resembles human politics is because biologically we are almost identical. Did you know that a chimp is more like a human than like a gorilla? So, Sam, my quiz question is this: biologically, how close are chimpanzees to humans? a) 79 % b) 89 % c) 99 % Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary alpha male the most successful and powerful male in any group over the hill used to describe someone who is old and no longer useful or attractive the power behind the throne someone who does not have official power but who secretly controls things coalition different political groups who join together for a limited time to form a government get together join together as a group; combine spoils benefits, advantages
Charlie Watts: Rolling Stones drummer dies - BBC News Review Charlie Watts: Rolling Stones drummer dies - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
Newspapers in the UK and abroad have featured this story to pay their respects to Charlie Watts, drummer of the Rolling Stones, who died at the age of 80. He had recently cancelled his appearance on a tour with the band. Tom and Neil talk about the vocabulary from this story so you can talk about it too. Related stories: Is music getting faster? - 6 Minute English https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zFpk5FsNndM Can Death Metal bring you joy? - 6 Minute English https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4qC_ed3dRg Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:25 - Story 1:32 - Headline 1: Drummer Charlie Watts, Rolling Stones backbone, dies at 80 4:48 - Headline 2: Charlie Watts, ‘rock’ of the Rolling Stones, dies at 80 7:27 - Headline 3: Paul McCartney, Ringo Starr Pay Tribute to Charlie Watts: ‘Charlie Was a Rock’ 10:07 - Language summary The story: His face is on the front pages of all the papers this morning, even the Financial Times finds room, and that’s because Charlie Watts, who died yesterday at the age
Making sense of the census - 6 Minute English Making sense of the census - 6 Minute English
3 years ago En
Millions of people have tried to trace their family history and discover how their ancestors lived hundreds of years ago. And one of the most useful documents for research is the census. What is a census for? Why was it created? That's what Neil and Sam discuss as they teach you vocabulary. This week's question When BBC television programme, Who Do You Think You Are?, researched the family history of the British actor Danny Dyer, they discovered that the actor was related to someone very famous – but who? A) King Edward III B) William Shakespeare C) Winston Churchill Listen to the programme to find out the answer. Vocabulary census system of officially counting and classifying every person of a nation’s population figure out understand something; find the answer to something conscription the act of forcing people to join the army by law taxation system of taxing people an amount of money to be paid to the government to fund public services clerk office worker whose job involves keeping records tabul
‘Delay Afghan withdrawal’ UK asks US - BBC News Review ‘Delay Afghan withdrawal’ UK asks US - BBC News Review
3 years ago En
US soldiers, who are helping with the evacuation effort, are due to leave Kabul Airport in under a week. UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson is expected to ask President Biden to delay that withdrawal. Roy and Catherine talk about the vocabulary from this story so you can talk about it too. Related stories: Why we press buttons - 6 Minute English https://youtu.be/xwbAWiqMuNE Asking Questions - 6 Minute Grammar https://youtu.be/j9b1CNN_rFU Video chapters: 0:00​​​​​​​​​​ - Introduction 0:33 - Story 1:50 - Headline 1: Afghanistan: PM to press Biden to delay Kabul withdrawal 4:45 - Headline 2: Afghanistan: Boris Johnson to personally plead with Joe Biden to extend deadline for US withdrawal 7:02 - Headline 3: Boris Johnson will push Joe Biden to delay US withdrawal from Afghanistan 9:30 - Language summary The story: Boris Johnson is expected to personally ask President Biden to delay withdrawing the last American forces from Afghanistan to allow more time for the evacuation effort at Kabul International Airp
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