15 Everyday English Idioms Every ESL Student Should Know

I love using idioms! I remember a student once asked, “Teacher, what does break the ice mean? Are we talking about ice cubes here?” I laughed, then paused—how do you explain something that doesn’t mean what it says? Expressions like this pop up everywhere—in casual chats, movies, and even work emails. But for many ESL students, idioms can feel like a secret club where everyone … Continue reading 15 Everyday English Idioms Every ESL Student Should Know

Must-Watch English Shows for ESL Learners: Tutor-Approved Picks

Back when I was still learning English, I didn’t have fancy apps or online classes. What I had were my aunt’s Betamax and VHS tapes—movies she brought home from her job in the Middle East. I must’ve watched Mrs. Doubtfire a hundred times. Not because I planned to “study” it, but because it made me laugh. And somewhere between the jokes and the drama, I … Continue reading Must-Watch English Shows for ESL Learners: Tutor-Approved Picks

Common Mistakes Japanese ESL Students Make and How to Correct Them Gently

Teaching English to Japanese students has been an eye-opening experience. As a work-from-home mom tutoring part-time at RareJob, I’ve had my fair share of lessons—not just for my students but for myself, too. One thing I quickly realized? Learning English isn’t just about memorizing words and grammar rules. It’s about unlearning habits deeply rooted in one’s native language. Japanese learners, in particular, bring unique challenges … Continue reading Common Mistakes Japanese ESL Students Make and How to Correct Them Gently

The Global Demand for English: Why It’s Still a Must-Learn Language

“Why do I still need to learn English when I have Google Translate?” I hear this question a lot as an ESL tutor, especially from younger students who think technology can do all the heavy lifting. Some adults, on the other hand, feel too old to learn and believe they can get by without it. But here’s the thing—whether you’re a student, a working professional, … Continue reading The Global Demand for English: Why It’s Still a Must-Learn Language