24 March
Computer Programs, Mobile Applications, and PC/Mobile Games
What are your favourite computer programs?
What are your favourite mobile applications?
Do you play any mobile games or computer games?
What apps do you use every day?
What is the most useful app on your phone? Why?
Do you prefer using a computer or a smartphone? Why?
What is the best social media app? Why?
Have you ever paid for an app or a game? What was it?
What was the first computer or mobile game you ever played?
If you could create an app or a game, what would it be about?
5 Words That Make You Appear Less Confident, According to Research
Daniel M. Oppenheimer, a professor of psychology at Princeton University, conducted a study revealing five words that can make you seem less intelligent or confident in conversations. These words, although common, have negative psychological effects and can diminish your authority. Here are the five words to avoid:
Just: Often used as a filler, the word “just” can make you sound less confident. It conveys the idea of “merely,” which can minimise your message. For example, “I was just wondering” can be interpreted as “I was merely wondering,” weakening your point.
But: “But” has the power to negate or diminish what was said before it, often undermining the speaker or their point. It can unintentionally downplay the importance of the previous statement and may create conflict in conversations.
Should: The word “should” often involves self-criticism, implying that you’re not fully accepting your current state. Clinical psychologist Sophie Mort explains that using “should” creates an internal cycle of stress and self-rejection, making you feel inadequate.
Always: Using “always” is often an exaggeration and can make your statement seem less credible. It’s rare for anything to be true all the time, so when you use “always,” your message might sound exaggerated and less truthful.
Can’t: Saying “can’t” creates negative emotions and reduces your sense of control. Research shows that this word not only lowers your confidence but can also make you feel defeated and helpless.
By eliminating these words from your vocabulary, you can communicate with more confidence and clarity, making a more positive impression on others.
READ/SPEAK
What are the words you most commonly use in English and your mother tongue? What are the words that irritate you when other people say, and why do they bother you?
Which of these words do you think you use the most? Why?
Do you try to eliminate certain words when you speak? Which ones?
Sleep very well, without being woken by any noises:
“I slept like a log – I didn’t even hear the thunderstorm.”
LEARN THE IDIOM AND SPEAK
Do you usually sleep like a log or are you a light sleeper? Why do you think you are a heavy/light sleeper?