Learning Outcomes

The Nature of Metaphor

Top-Level Metaphors

More Top-Level Metaphors

Brainy Metaphors

Internet Metaphors

Orientational Metaphors

Lesson Summary

This module examines one of the basic structures and functions of English -- that is, metaphor. You will be introduced to the “metaphor as conceptual mapping” explanation of the metaphor-making process. This is central to our examination of common metaphors throughout the course and will give you a method of interpreting new metaphors.

Appreciating Metaphor - Course Assessment

This free online course will give you the necessary skills to understand English at its fundamental metaphorical level.

Appreciating Metaphor

You may have been given the impression that metaphor is a limited feature of English writing or idiomatic spoken language but nothing could be further from the truth. In this course, you will understand how metaphor creates meaning in English and how to use this knowledge to understand English at a deeper level. You will also learn how to unlock new metaphors by applying knowledge of their structure and function.

We are all familiar with the metaphor. It is a fundamental part of our language, to the point that we are often not aware when we are using it. The metaphor was long considered a linguistic embellishment, along with the simile, metonymy and analogy that offer alternatives to expressing the same ideas in literal language. That has now changed. With the understanding that a metaphor is a way of thinking, we have ideas like ‘conceptual mapping’ and ‘blending’, which open new ways to understand language at a deeper level and appreciate the creativity that language makes possible. We have realised that metaphorical thinking is fundamental to our ability to make sense of the world.
Beginning with the ground-breaking conceptual mapping ideas of George Lakoff, we analyse metaphors and identify the source and target domains that provide the relationships and structure within both superordinate (top-level) and basic-level metaphors. We discuss standard, widely-used and understood metaphors such as ‘life is a journey’ and ‘argument is war’. Explore the concept of the ‘conduit’ metaphor that presents language as a conduit through which words convey meaning. Explore how metaphors, such as ‘the mind is a container’ and ‘ideas are objects’, provide a new perspective on communication. Marshall McLuhan’s idea of a ‘global village’ will be critically examined in relation to the power of the internet. Gain insight into how orientational metaphors are constructed using simple prepositions in ways that bring together a multitude of meaningful relationships - all of which are firmly fixed in our everyday language.
By the end of this course, you will be able to appreciate how metaphor is both a fundamental part of the language and a powerful creative device that expands the expressive potential of the language. Discover both the artistry and the power of metaphor, gain a deeper appreciation of how you have access to a wealth of expressive potential and acquire new analytical powers to unearth the metaphorical treasures in texts and speech. Start this course and begin your linguistic journey today!

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Understanding Apraxia

Principles and Treatment

Handling Apraxia and Dysarthria

In this module, you will learn about childhood apraxia of speech, its characteristics, and the principles of motor learning. We discuss the treatment, including the planning and organising the education of a child with CAS and associated language disorders. We identify the symptoms, causes and ways of treating dysarthria.

Dysarthria and Apraxia: Overview, Assessment, and Treatment - Course Assessment

This free online psychology course explains how to diagnose and treat the speech disorders dysarthria and apraxia.

Dysarthria and Apraxia: Overview, Assessment and Treatment

The motor speech disorder known as ‘childhood apraxia of speech’ (CAS) can afflict children as they learn to speak. This psychology course takes you through the causes, characteristics and symptoms of apraxia to show you how to assess and diagnose the disorder. We compare CAS to speech delay and discuss the role of speech therapy. We then move on to dysarthria, a slurring of speech caused by brain or nerve damage that affects the vocal muscles.

Signs for Numbers 0 - 10 and Words with A

Signs for Words Starting With B and C

Words Beginning with Letters C, D, and E

Group 1 - 3 Review

In this module, we will introduce the different types of signs and numbers that form a part of the American sign language. Signs for the counting series' first ten numbers will be examined. We will also look at different words starting from the letter A to the letter E, along with a set of practice tests for the learner to check their progress.

Words Beginning with Letters F and G

Signs for Words Starting With H

Signs for Words Starting With H, I, and L

Group 4 - 6 Review

In this module, we will explore the signs for words beginning with the letters F to L. These signs include common words that can improve everyday communication and help the learner convey their message more clearly. The module also includes a practice test and a review of all the signs covered.

Signs for Words Starting With M and N

Signs for Words Starting With N and O

Signs for Words Starting With P. R, and S

Group 7 - 9 Review

In this module, we will take the learner's knowledge further by exploring the signs for words that start from the letter M up until the letter Y. The words that will be taught are part of the everyday vocabulary. A series of final tests will also be provided for learners to test their progress.

Signs for Words Starting With S and T

Signs for Words Starting With T, U, and W

Signs for Words Starting With W and Y

Group 10 - 12 Review

Test Format and Practice Questions

Test Format and Understanding

In this module, we will take the learner's knowledge further by exploring the signs for words that start from M to Y. The words that will be taught are part of the everyday vocabulary. A series of final tests will also be provided along with their solutions for learners to test their progress.

Diploma in Basics of American Sign Language - Course assessment

Master the basic features and common gestures of American Sign Language with this free online communications course.

Diploma in Basics of American Sign Language

In this course on sign language basics, we develop a concrete understanding of the building blocks of American Sign Language (ASL). If you are new to ASL, this course will provide you with the essential features and gestures crucial for meaningful conversations via sign language. We will cover finger signals for numbers and more than a hundred words that will lay the foundation for your learning journey. So enroll now and get signing!

Overview of Freelance Translation

Finding Clients and Managing Work

Ethics of Freelance Translators

In this module, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of translation, you will learn the work of a freelance translator, how to find clients, manage workflow and get paid. Explore the benefits of the computer-assisted translation tool and how to set up a home office. Discover the ethics of a freelance translator and tips to ensure work quality

Working as a Freelance Translator - Course Assessment

This free online course provides the skills and tools required to find clients and succeed as a freelance translator.

Working as a Freelance Translator

In a world of many languages and cultures faced with the need for constant and accurate global communication, there is a need for intermediate translators. This role is often performed by freelance translators. This course explains how translators can find clients, manage translation projects, maintain professional ethics and thrive in the ever-evolving world of language and communication. Sign up to turn your language skills into a career.

Vocabulary: Prefixes and Suffixes

Grammar 1: Indirect Speech

Grammar 2: Reporting Verbs

Prefixes and Suffixes with Reporting Verbs - Student Practice

This module focuses on teaching common English prefixes and suffixes to a wide range of root words. It will also cover the different tenses and reporting verbs used in indirect speech.

Learn English: Prefixes and Suffixes with Reporting Verbs - Course Assessment

This free online English course covers prefixes and suffixes and explains how to use indirect speech.

Learn English: Prefixes and Suffixes with Reporting Verbs

This English course teaches you how to add common English prefixes and suffixes to a wide range of root words to form new ones. We then discuss the grammatical rules surrounding indirect speech. We show you how to use various forms of reporting verbs in the present and past tenses to ask questions. This course suits those with a basic grasp of English who want to improve their language skills and confidence in this global tongue.

Countable and Uncountable Nouns

Quantifiers

Modal Verbs: Asking for things

Language: cooking a recipe

Elementary Level English - Talk about Food and Drink: Course Summary

Four lesson topics using audio by native speakers to help improve your listening and speaking skills, interactive slides with images, practical tasks to help consolidate your knowledge and test questions to reinforce what you learn. Complete the end of course assessment so you can prove to teachers and potential employers that you are competent at this level of English. For full details on what's covered in each topic, see the individual topic descriptions.

Course Assessment - Elementary Level English: Talk about Food & Drink

Gain confidence in English and learn how to discuss food and drink in this free online English speaking course.

English Language - Talk about Food and Drink (Elementary level)

This English grammar and vocabulary course teaches you how to talk about food and drink. We go over singular and plural nouns and study the difference between countable and uncountable nouns. We explain how to form positive and negative questions, form plural nouns by adding 's' or 'es' and form sentences related to food. We also show you how to answer questions using the verb 'to be' and more, so sign up to polish your English speaking skills.

Introduction

Pronunciation and Teaching Methodologies

Receptive and Productive Skills

In this module, you will be introduced to the basics of TEFL, you will learn the language teaching methodologies, how to teach receptive reading skills, and also how to teach receptive skill writing skills and receptive listening skills.

Teaching Methods and Planning

Distance Teaching and Classroom Management

Teaching Strategies and Employment Opportunities

In this module, you will learn the teaching methods of TEFL, and how to manage the classroom, and plan and create materials for learning. Learn the use of technology in grammar and vocabulary and also employment opportunities in TEFL.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) - Course Assessment

Learn how to teach English as a second language in this free online TEFL training course and climb up the TEFL ladder.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is one of the world's fastest-growing educational fields. With over 100 000 open TEFL positions around the world, not including online learning, this field offers excellent employment opportunities for teaching English. This course is designed to train you to meet the standards required of a successful TEFL teacher. Sign up to turn your English skills into exciting work and travel opportunities.

Introduction to TEFL

Understanding Learners

Comprehensive Teaching Methodologies

This module discusses various instructional methods and approaches to teaching English to individuals whose first language is not English. You'll learn about the crucial qualifications English language educators must have to enhance their employability, meet international standards and effectively teach the language to different learners worldwide.

Core Language Skills Development

Special Needs Education in TEFL

Effective Lesson Planning

This module teaches to structure lesson plans following the TEFL methodologies that help non-native speakers build their vocabulary, reading-writing skills, and accurate pronunciation of the English language. You'll explore study adaptations for special needs and cross-cultural communication in TEFL, enhancing learners' engagement and retention.

Classroom Management Strategies

Professional Development and Career Opportunities

Future Trends in TEFL

This module introduces you to classroom management strategies for fostering a conducive learning environment and maximising student success. You'll explore various sustainable educational tools used in TEFL to meet diverse educational objectives and accommodate various learner styles. Additionally, you'll discover the benefits of teaching aboard.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Essentials - Assessment

Familiarise yourself with the fundamentals of TEFL and boost your English teaching skills with this free online course.

Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Essentials

Are you interested in transforming lives through language? Enrol in our free online TEFL Essentials course to master foundational teaching skills, understand diverse learning environments, and leverage modern methodologies. Start your journey to becoming a skilled, culturally competent English teacher today! This course was reviewed and approved by qualified subject matter expert Emily Melville, an ESL Teacher and Writer.