The tutor discusses a polarizing element of language. A cliché used in a formal essay will likely be cordoned with red ink. The English professor wants original content, rather than what everyone already says. In everyday life, however, uttering a …
The tutor shares a habit he recently began. Let’s imagine writing a large essay or computer program, then reaching a point of satisfaction. You save it to disk, then contentedly go off to celebrate with a visit to a friend, …
For many living in today’s society, the equivocal answer is an essential tool. Many a person in a responsible position feels they are a glorified servant. Why? Because they have power, they are often asked for things. They can just …
The tutor enjoys homophones (and homonyms). Here’s a great pair. I’ve written more than one post about the closely related terms homophone and homonym. (See here and here.) Today I’ll highlight a pair of words that qualify as both homophones …
There is no more important skill in high school English than essay writing. The tutor gives more commentary about choosing a thesis statement. I first piped up about the thesis statement in my post last May 30. In that post, …
The tutor grew up with this word. (It was, believe it or not, sometimes directed at your correspondent!) The word “brash” I always thought to mean “tending towards behaviour bold and challenging.” You might imagine a few half-drunk young men …
The tutor was never taught these terms in school. However, what if someone asks about them…? You could be a great writer without knowing the terms finite verb and non-finite verb. Yet, books sit on shelves, waiting to explain these …
What might a tutor read casually? Here’s the latest. Although I have a degree in math, I’ve been told that “logic” and math are different. Logic, it seems, is more often claimed by English and philosophy students. So be it. …
The tutor, also a parent, receives not only entertainment from the Nancy Drew Mysteries, but education as well. Last night, I was reading my children to sleep. I might have read past normal time, but my wife is away:) We …
English: the Nancy Drew series: what does “titian” mean? Read more »
As the father of a ten and a twelve year-old, the tutor is a purveyor and reader of children’s stories. As a parent, I’ve made lots of mistakes – especially with off-the-cuff decisions. With the long game, I hope I’ve …