You and Me vs You and I - What's the Difference?

Many have been told that listening to English songs can help them learn English. Indeed, listening to these is a good practice; however, one should also be keen in noticing grammar mistakes on their lyrics. Some songs use very good grammar while some might have overlooked grammar rules. One of these problems is that usage of "you and I" and "you and me."

First, let us discuss what pronouns are. Pronouns are words that are used to substitute nouns in the sentences. They avoid redundancy and make the sentence much more pleasing to look at and even listen to. 

Compare the two sentences:

John made a cup of coffee for Jenny. Jenny was in the living room reading Jenny’s book while John was in the kitchen making some snacks.  

John made a cup of coffee for Jenny. She was in the living room reading her book while he was in the kitchen making some snacks. 

With the usage of pronouns, we avoid repeating the same nouns and the sentence sounds much better and smarter. 

There are different kinds of pronouns and personal pronouns are one of them. Personal pronouns are used in place of the name of the person or people we are talking about in the sentence. Personal pronouns are divided into two: subject pronouns and object pronouns

• Subject pronouns function as the subject of the sentence. I, You, He, She, It, They, and We are subject pronouns. 
• Object pronouns basically function as objects in the sentence: whether it is object of the verb or object of the preposition. 

In the case of "You and I" and "You and me", the former is used as the subject of the sentence while the latter is used as the object of the sentence or the object of the preposition.

Examples:

• We have been fighting for weeks for such stupid reasons. You and I need to have a serious talk. 
• You and I were chosen to represent the class to the national championships. 
• You and I are best friends. We have been together for many years now. 

• The school chose you and me to represent in the national quiz bee championships. 
• My aunt gave you and me tickets for the play. I am so excited!
• Between you and me, I think Prof. Kim needs to get some rest. He is so stressed. 

Remembering this can save you from grammar errors, both in speaking and writing. Hence, think first on which to use.

List of Useful Blogs for the IELTS Test

When some people choose a movie to watch on the weekend, they first search ratings online to check whether this particular movie is good or not. Further, some people check book reviews online to make sure that a new released book will be worth their money. Indeed, there are a lot of people who make decisions based on online reviews and even blogs.

Blogs, from the word web log, are a site where individuals can write entries known to be posts about anything under the sun. Some of these blogs are about health, entertainment, news, and just their own opinion on anything. In truth, blogs are also useful to English learners, most especially those taking the International English Language Testing System examination or the IELTS. 

There are different blogs that cater to information, skill building, and practice tests for the IELTS. Here are some blogs IELTS test takers can visit in preparation for their test. 

· http://www.ieltsexamstips.com/

The websites hosts different posts on helping candidates understand the IELTS. Moreover, some blogs provide tips and how to get a good score for the exam. They have tips on how to be better at grammar, practice tests for the examination and a compilation of speaking questions for the test. Candidates will have a variety of readings to do in this blog. 

· http://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/

The British Council also has a number of entries to help candidates with the test. The advice given and tips on each of the test’s section is detailed and very helpful. There are also free IELTS practice tests that candidates can take advantage of. 

· http://www.philippines.idp.com/ielts.aspx

IDP’s site also provides basic information about the test. They also have some recommended books in which the candidate can purchase for them to practice on. They also have a practice test that can test the candidate’s English skills for no charge at all. 

· http://www.jroozreview.com/ielts-blog

IELTS training and review tips are the focus on this blog. There are tips on how to avoid getting stressed before the examination. In addition, there are topics that discuss common mistakes candidates do in the IELTS test and solutions not to commit the same mistake again. Further, the blog is owned by a reputable IELTS review center so candidates can take time to browse the center’s training program for the test. 

The IELTS examination should not stress the test takers. There are a lot of information, practice tests, and tips to be more familiar with the examination. Visit the blogs today and discover what the best tip in excelling the IELTS examination is.

IELTS Schedule in Baguio 2014

With the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination being made available in Baguio City, residents now are able to take the examination right in the convenience of their city. 

For many years ago, Baguio residents had to undergo a really had time to take the IELTS examination. Travelling for about five hours going to Manila and spending an ample amount of money to stay in hotels were common activities involved; not to mention the test fee that is quite expensive, travel and accommodations were additional expenses they had to experience. Fortunately, the availability of the examination not only saves money and time but also the energy of having to travel far just to take the examination. 

Additionally, together with the IELTS exam, the growth of IELTS review centers in the city is undeniable. A good number of review centers have started operating to provide services for Baguio test takers brining the best review courses possible. Aside from the lectures they offer, they also help candidates review for the examination. Here are the common IELTS review test centers in Baguio City:

· CAP CONVENTION CENTER


Camp John Hay, Loakan Road, Baguio City


· COOYESAN HOTEL


Naguilian Corner Asid Road, Baguio City


· AZALEA RESIDENCES


7 Leonard Wood Loop, Baguio City


Here is the schedule of the exam for both IDP and British Council:

IELTS Baguio Test Schedule 2014

Candidates should register as early as possible for the exam in Baguio City is only done once in a month. Therefore, slots are easily reserved.

It has been mentioned earlier that IELTS review centers in Baguio City have started operating. These review centers aim to provide the highest quality of training for IELTS candidates. Composed of classroom lectures and weekly mock examinations, students’ progress is recorded and made known for them to know their strengths and weaknesses. With this great program, students are sure to be well-prepared in taking the real IELTS examination.

Company Profile: Jrooz Review Center Inc.

The English language is considered to be the second language used in the Philippines. A huge percentage of the Filipino population can understand and speak the said language. This fluency in English is the result of having English as one of the mediums of communication in school and the office. The familiarity with the said language has brought progress and development to every Filipino. 

In a world where English has become a factor to ones professional and personal success, the emergence of English proficiency test has been a big help to certify one’s expertise in using English. English proficiency examinations such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as Foreign Language are just some tests where Filipinos need to take as a main requirement for work, study and immigrant visas in English speaking countries overseas. 

To help Filipinos achieve good scores on the mentioned examinations, reviewing is an option one should not overlook. When it comes to English review courses, one name is known to deliver the best results in each candidate – Jrooz Review Center Inc. 

Established in 2001, JRooz Review Center was primarily build to bring the best possible opportunity for Filipinos seeking to achieve international standards of English proficiency examinations as a requirement of companies, academic institutions and immigration departments. Not only offering TOEFL and IELTS review courses, Jrooz Review Center Inc. also provides review services to individuals who want to pass the Philippine Physical therapy examination and even Filipino physical therapists wishing to be licensed in the United States of America through the National Physical Therapist Exam (NPTE). 

JRooz Review Center Inc is proud to have several branches operating nationwide: Manila, Makati, Cebu and Davao. And with its new addition, Baguio, JRooz Review Center’s effective review programs in achieving target scores in these exams can be taken advantage of by different individuals in these cities. 

With the number of individuals learning and passing the examinations, Jrooz Review Center has made it to be one of the trusted review centers of top migration and consultation agencies. Additionally, Jrooz Review Center is an authorized and registered agent of international organizations – the IDP and British Council. 

With effective review programs and professional trainers and teachers, achieving target scores in IELTS and TOEFL iBT is possible. The number of enrolees has been increasing over time making JRooz Review Center Inc. a trusted company. The center lives by with this thought – Success does not come by chance.

Most Commonly Misused Words in the English Language

Learn these words and you'll improve your English proficiency.

Commonly Misused Words in the English Language (IELTS and TOEFL Training) from Nina Santos

8 Words for Your IELTS and TOEFL Vocabulary Bank

Enjoy these 8 words to add up on your vocabulary bank!

copyright: http://www.jroozreview.com

Cebu as a Language Training Center Hub in the Philippines

The Queen City of the South – Cebu City is known as one of the booming cities here in the Philippines. If you have visited Cebu City, you will find their IT Park where most of the business process outsourcing (BPO) companies are located. Hence, the city has been attracting more and more investors making them grow financially. In addition, since there are quite a number of BPO companies in the city, more and more Filipinos are recognized with their ability to speak English fluently. 

Cebu City has been known to be one of the language training centers here in the country. How did that happen?

Cebu City

If you happen to visit Cebu City, there are a lot of ESL centers that teach English to non-native English speakers. These non-native English speakers can be Filipinos or even foreigners like Koreans, Japanese and Chinese. As a matter of fact, the number of foreign nationals like the ones mentioned above has increased yearly in Cebu. These foreign nationals are in Cebu to study the English language. They choose to study in the Philippines, particularly in Cebu, because of the expertise of teachers and trainers in Cebu City. 

Aside from the ESL programs these centers offer, they also have programs like the TOEFL or the Test of English as Foreign Language and the IELTS or the International English Language testing System examination. These two exams are English proficiency examinations. English proficiency examinations are exams that evaluate an individual’s fluency in using the English language. Furthermore, the TOEFL and the IELTS are commonly used as a requirement for employment and school overseas. Standard scores are set by companies and academic institutions respective of which candidates need to attain. Because of this, IELTS and TOEFL candidates have to undergo English training in centers to prepare them for the exam. 

In Cebu City, there are a good number of review centers that cater the need of these individuals. Moreover, these review centers have very professional trainers and coaches that will hone the English skills of these candidates. Their English is very fluent and they are known experts in the English language. 

Because of the increasing English review centers in Cebu City, it is not surprising that Cebu City has slowly becoming a center for English training in the Philippines. With good English speakers found in the city, the city will be known around the globe to be the best training center for the English language.

List of Accredited IELTS Review Centers in Cebu City, Philippines

Why do people need to get an IELTS certificate before working or studying overseas? What is the IELTS?

The IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination is an English proficiency examination. This means that any candidate for the examination will be undergoing different tasks where their English skills are put to test. These tasks are varied in the English’s four language skills – reading, listening, speaking and writing. The scores are scored from bands 0 to 9.0 with 9.0 as the highest and perfect score. In Cebu City, people taking the IELTS have been notably increasing over the years.

Many companies and academic institutions require an IELTS score upon application. This is done to ensure the applicant’s quality and competitiveness in the usage of English once he or she is accepted. Since English is not Cebu’s mother tongue, reviewing for the examination is needed and highly recommended.

Some choose to review alone for the examination whilst others look for training in accredited review centers in the city. Luckily, the city does not only have one but a number of good review centers a candidate can choose from. Here are some IELTS review centers in Cebu City. 

1. 9.0 Niner IELTS Review and Tutorial Center

Crash course programs and unlimited review packages are available in Niners. Niners is one of the review centers in the country that has a number of branches in cities nationwide. 

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Niner-IELTS-Review-Center-Cebu-Branch/595245997204427

2. Jrooz Review Center Cebu City

In 2011, IELTS review was given by Jrooz to Cebu residents. Since then, it has been chosen by most residents for quality review – regular or intensive programs. Candidates are grouped in classes according to their level making sure that no one gets left behind. 

http://www.jroozreview.com/jrooz-ielts-review-center-cebu/

3. American Dream Review Institute

This institute is an affiliate of a Los Angeles based company that operates here in the Philippines. It serves to be a springboard of its Asian operations. One-on-one coaching, free refresher sessions, and free final coaching are some perks enrolees can get in this institute. 

www.americandreamreview.com

4. Atheneum Global Services, Inc

It was primarily established to address the needs of students and professionals who keep on failing the IELTS test. It aims to produce candidates who are globally competitive and be a partner towards their candidate’s hopes and dreams. 

www.myatheneum.com

5. Exams Advantage 

Their review programs can be customized according to the needs of their clients. Moreover, they have professional instructors that help candidates with their IELTS needs. However, they do not have a website, feel free to contact them on their email at examadvantage@yahoo.com. 

6. California English Language Center

Foreign nationals such as Americans, British and Canadians are instructors in this institute. They offer IELTS and TOEFL review programs as well. Email them at celcebu@yahoo.com. 

More and more review centers are being established in Cebu City. This only means that the demand for quality review and training is much needed in the city. Choose one and learn from the best IELTS review center.

Grammar Errors You Need to Avoid to Pass the TOEFL and IELTS

Getting a good score in English proficiency tests such as the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination and the TOEFL or the Test of English as a Foreign Language is highly possible when you put more effort in learning the English language, most especially grammar. Having a good foundation in grammar helps you create better responses and more intelligent ideas and opinions. Hence, it is important for you, the candidates, to remember certain grammar errors that you need to avoid in order to get a good score in the TOEFL and the IELTS.

Homonyms are words in the English language that sound or pronounced similarly; however, their spelling and definition are different. For example, Toad and Towed, they both sound the same but toad refers to a frog while towed means to be taken away. In writing, candidates have to be careful with these for it creates a whole new meaning to the point you are referring to. 

The use of the passive form of the verb often brings confusion to a lot. Most of the time, we use the active form of the verb – the subject is the one doing the action. For example, the man can use this place. If we make in its passive form, the object of the sentence becomes the subject with the pattern: subject + verb + be + past participle of the verb. So, we say, “This place can be used by the man.”

Not only grammar but spelling plays a huge role in English especially in writing. Committing this mistake is such a no-no. To be more familiar with spelling, do spelling exercises. There are lots of exercises and spelling activities online. Like in the picture, PICNICK should be spelled as PICNIC.

Have you ever experienced explaining something that you find yourself saying “something” instead of the right vocabulary? In speaking, using “something” as a replacement of specific word should be avoided. To avoid this problem, it is important to improve your vocabulary bank by reading a lot. Read different English materials like newspapers, magazines, and even journals.

Parabolic? Does this word suit in the signage? Parabolic means something similar to a parable or parabola. Using words that do not fit in your writing or even in speaking creates confusion to your reader or listener respectively. Poorly used words signify a weakness in your vocabulary too.

Your and You’re are common mistakes committed in writing. “Your” is followed by a noun while “You’re” is a contraction of “You are”. So, the signage should be written as, “Sometimes you’re the dog, sometimes you’re the hydrant.”

Know when to use your possessives. In this case, salads should be written not in its possessive form but in its plural form. Apostrophes are only used to show that somebody possess or owns something. For example, this is Lauren’s bag.

Always be careful in using adjectives and adverbs in your sentences. When you describe a verb, use an adverb while an adjective should be used to describe a noun. Here, it should be written as Drive Slowly.

Verb tenses are crucial in determining the time when the action happens. In this announcement, it should be written as, “We are open at 3am on Black Friday.” We use the present simple to show a fact just like what the announcement wants to emphasize.

Lose versus Loose. Some words are so confusing that we end up using the wrong ones. Loose means something is not tight while lose means failure to maintain or keep. Hence, it should be written as Lose it.

Grammar errors can be funny but it is a serious case most especially if you are taking English proficiency examinations. To deal with this problem, better read books on the correct usage in grammar or enrol in an English review center.

Foods That Are Good for Your Memory (Foods for the Brain)

Check out the following foods to help you improve your memory and cognitive thinking!

• cauliflowers
• salmon
• eggs
• whole grains
• pumpkin and sunflower seeds
• berries
• coffee
• avocados
• brocolli

Top Ten Foods for Memory Retention from stephlowe91

Rules in Using the Apostrophe

Below are useful infographics for you to remember the rules in using the apostrophe. Enjoy learning and improve your writing skills.

rules in using the apostrophe - Youtube version | Slide (PPT) version | PDF version

source: JRooz Review Center for IELTS and TOEFL

Celebrity Tweets Corrected by Young Brazilian Students (Grammar Matters)

This is what I called "epic." Young students from Brazil corrected the grammar and spelling mistakes committed by famous celebrities in Twitter. These celebrities include Justin Bieber, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian. Grammar indeed matters! Keep the good work guys. At least these youngsters knew the proper use of social media other than posting unnecessary memes. Have fun while learning the English language. 

were vs we're

were vs we're (again) - someone please teach Kim when to use were and we're

brain, not brane! spelling matters Charlie!

it have been - it has been ; amaizing - amazing! Dan, I love you in Harry Potter but be sure to check the spelling first before tweeting!

Justin thanks for helping the typhoon victims in Tacloban but please use "we're" not "we". This young Brazilian student is particular with grammar!

I never saw I've never seen (Hi there John!)

herd heard - we are not talking about animals here Ryan. 

I love your songs Riri but you need to correct your grammar here! It should be "her" not "she". 

Thanks TheBerry for the heads up! Not all native English speakers know the proper use of grammar! Boost up your confidence when conversing or writing in the English language. You are not only preparing yourself for an English proficiency exam like the IELTS but you are also improving the world!