Saying a lot while saying nothing at all
By Craig, October 30 2017
In speaking tests like the G.B.C., you may get questions that you have never thought of before. You should say something intelligent, but you need time to think of what to say.
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G.B.C. sample answer - What would you change about your job if you could?
By Craig, October 10 2017
In the G.B.C. test, the examiner will almost certainly ask about your job. It’s a relatively easy subject because you don’t have to think of a long story or an abstract answer. You can just talk about what you know.
Value or values—know which one you bring to clients
By The English Farm, September 07 2017
While the words "value" and "values" are deceptively alike, they actually have two different meanings.
- Value (uncountable) is your worth. What you bring to the table. In Japanese, the equivalent to it would be the word 価値.
- Values (countable, usually used with “s”) are your important and lasting beliefs or ideals. In other words, your principles. The Japanese word here would be 価値観.
Avoid saying DELICIOUS
By The English Farm, August 30 2017
Japanese people say "delicious" far more often than native English speakers do. The reason is that "delicious" is a direct translation from a Japanese word that is very commonly used in Japanese. But translating directly from your native language is a big roadblock when you are learning a language.
Your accent may be okay
By The English Farm, August 05 2017
There is no such thing as a "native English accent". English speakers from Boston sound much different than those from South London, Sydney or Delhi. Sometimes the differences in accents between native speakers can be so great, we can't understand each other!
Speaking tests: Structure answers like you are talking to a colleague
By The English Farm, July 28 2017
Speaking tests are meant to measure a variety of English skills, including the ability to communicate with friends or colleagues. Learn how to use an answer structure more appropriate for talking with a colleague, classmate or friend.
G.B.C. sample answer: The best city
By Matthew, July 26 2017
Have you had this question on the G.B.C. before? Which city is the best city in the world to live?
Why saying YOU HAD BETTER can sound scary
By The English Farm, July 12 2017
I've often heard non-native English speakers say something like, "You had better do it." But to a native English speaker, this sounds like a threat! If "better" is a positive word, why does "you had better" seem scary?
G.B.C. sample answer: Is a sugar tax a good idea?
By Matthew, July 09 2017
In the G.B.C. test, there are often abstract questions that can cause difficulties, because you have to think very quickly about a topic you may never have considered before. In other words, expect the unexpected!
Giving emphasis
By Kevin, June 25 2017
Use emphatic phrases to make your spoken English more effective.
Fighting motivation
By The English Farm, June 23 2017
Keeping motivated is something that everyone struggles with from time to time. Whether it’s motivation to exercise, eat healthy, study, or learn a new language, we’ve all found ourselves lacking the drive and energy to work at whatever goals we’ve set for ourselves.
G.B.C. sample answer: Japan cultural experience
By Kevin, June 01 2017
Here, we are going to look at a very common question which usually comes up at the start of a GBC interview. Of course, the answer to questions about Japanese cultural experiences is a very subjective one. I'm sure all of you will have his or her own answer.