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Thomas Ashcroft

Have you ever struggled to follow the dialogue in British films or TV series? Or have you heard a conversation between natives and noticed how many words they use that you don't understand? Or maybe you simply have an interest in learning the common British English that we actually use in everyday life? Then this course is for you.

Welcome.

This course is a series of short video lessons. Each video covers one word and is usually between 2-3 minutes. Currently, there are 51 words covered in the course, but I will increase this over time to at least 100 and probably more.

About Me:

Read more

Have you ever struggled to follow the dialogue in British films or TV series? Or have you heard a conversation between natives and noticed how many words they use that you don't understand? Or maybe you simply have an interest in learning the common British English that we actually use in everyday life? Then this course is for you.

Welcome.

This course is a series of short video lessons. Each video covers one word and is usually between 2-3 minutes. Currently, there are 51 words covered in the course, but I will increase this over time to at least 100 and probably more.

About Me:

I'm Tom. I've been an English Tutor for five years now, and I specialise in teaching informal, conversational British English to students around the world. During my lessons, I noticed how many of my students complained that despite having a good level of English and being able to understand me in class, they couldn't understand films or TV series without subtitles. This gave me an idea.

I have a passion for cinema, and I think that films can be a great tool to help learn a language, especially the informal spoken version. So I've created a course here that attempts to use clips from British films to help teach slang and informal words. I think this makes the content much more engaging and more likely to stick in your memory for the long run.

Lesson Structure:

Each video covers one word and takes on the following structure:

  • Word definition and explanation.

  • 3 listen and repeat exercises to practise pronunciation.

  • Example conversation where I use the word in a typical spoken sentence structure.

  • Clips from films will be inserted throughout the video to provide further demonstration and familiarisation.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Learn new slang, informal words and phrases used in everyday british english.
  • Better understand the dialogue in british film and tv series.
  • Improve pronunciation of spoken british english.
  • Have fun!

Syllabus

Introduction
Additional Note
10 of the best words to know in British English
1 - Cheers
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Uses clips from British films, which provides authentic examples of slang and informal language in context
Focuses on informal, conversational British English, which is often difficult to learn from textbooks
Includes listen and repeat exercises, which helps learners improve their pronunciation of spoken British English
Covers a variety of informal British words, which expands learners' vocabulary and understanding of the language
Features short video lessons, which makes it easy for learners to fit the course into their busy schedules
Teaches slang terms, some of which may have different connotations or be considered offensive in certain contexts

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Reviews summary

Learn british slang with movie clips

According to learners, this course is a highly positive and engaging way to learn practical British slang and informal English. Many found the use of authentic movie clips particularly helpful for context and pronunciation, making the learning stick. Students appreciated the bite-sized format of the lessons, focusing on one word at a time, which makes it easy to follow and fit into a busy schedule. While the course focuses specifically on slang and informal language, reviewers found it highly effective for its stated purpose, leading to a better understanding of British media and everyday conversations.
Strictly informal slang, not general English.
"This course is strictly about slang, don't expect formal language here."
"If you need general English, this isn't for you; it's very specific to slang."
"Know that this is informal British English only, which is what I wanted."
Instructor is clear, knowledgeable, and engaging.
"Tom explains everything very clearly and makes the lessons enjoyable."
"The instructor's passion for the topic is evident, making the course engaging."
"Great teaching style, easy to understand the explanations."
"Tom is a fantastic teacher who knows his stuff."
Short, focused lessons are easy to digest.
"The short, focused lessons are perfect for learning a bit each day."
"I appreciate the bite-sized approach; it keeps me from feeling overwhelmed."
"Each video covering one word is a smart structure, very effective."
"Easy to fit into a busy schedule because the videos are so short."
Focuses on commonly used everyday slang.
"Finally, a course that teaches you the words Brits actually use, not just textbook English."
"The slang and informal phrases taught are super useful for understanding natives and media."
"I feel much more confident understanding everyday conversations now."
"Great selection of words, really helped me decode some British TV shows."
Clips provide real-world context for slang.
"The movie clips are really helpful for seeing how the words are used in real conversations."
"Seeing the slang used in film excerpts makes it so much easier to understand and remember."
"I love how the course incorporates movie clips; it makes learning fun and practical."
"It’s great to hear the words used by native speakers in actual scenes, not just examples."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Learn British Slang & Informal English with Movie Clips with these activities:
Watching the English (Revised and Updated): The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour
Provide cultural context for the slang terms learned in the course.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Watching the English'.
  • Read chapters related to social interactions and communication.
  • Take notes on key cultural differences and behaviors.
Review Basic English Grammar
Reinforce foundational grammar skills to better understand sentence structure and usage of slang within context.
Browse courses on Sentence Structure
Show steps
  • Review basic grammar rules online.
  • Complete practice exercises on grammar websites.
  • Focus on sentence construction and verb usage.
Create a Slang Dictionary
Solidify understanding of slang terms by creating a personalized dictionary with definitions and example sentences.
Show steps
  • Compile a list of slang words from the course.
  • Write definitions in your own words.
  • Create example sentences using each word.
  • Share your dictionary with other learners.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Slang Role-Playing
Practice using slang in conversation with other learners to improve fluency and confidence.
Show steps
  • Find a partner or group of learners.
  • Create scenarios for role-playing.
  • Use slang terms in your conversations.
  • Provide feedback to each other.
Analyze British Film Dialogue
Deepen understanding of slang usage by analyzing dialogue from British films and TV shows.
Show steps
  • Choose a British film or TV show.
  • Identify instances of slang usage.
  • Analyze the context and meaning of the slang.
  • Write a report on your findings.
The Rough Guide to British Cult Comedy
Provide cultural context for slang terms used in British comedy.
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Rough Guide to British Cult Comedy'.
  • Read chapters related to specific comedy shows or comedians.
  • Identify slang terms used in the comedy.
Create a British Slang Video
Apply learned slang terms by creating a video showcasing their usage in different scenarios.
Show steps
  • Write a script using various slang terms.
  • Film the video with actors or animation.
  • Edit the video and add subtitles.
  • Share the video online and get feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Learn British Slang & Informal English with Movie Clips will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Subtitler
Subtitlers create subtitles for films and television shows, making content accessible to a wider audience. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps subtitlers accurately translate and convey the meaning of British dialogue. The course's use of film clips provides context for understanding slang terms. A subtitler working with British media will find it helpful to have a familiarity with informal language. This course ensures the subtitler renders the dialogue accurately and engagingly.
Screenwriter
Screenwriters craft stories for film and television, where authentic dialogue is crucial. This course, centered on British slang and informal English, helps screenwriters infuse their scripts with realism and cultural accuracy. The course's use of movie clips provides practical examples of how slang is used in context. A screenwriter interested in developing stories set in Britain or featuring British characters gains a valuable resource. For a screenwriter, learning the nuances of informal language will make their scripts stand out.
Dialogue Writer
Dialogue Writers need to create realistic and engaging conversations for various media. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps writers create believable British characters and scenarios. The course's use of film clips will be particularly helpful, as it provides examples of natural speech patterns. Understanding the nuances of informal language is especially useful for writers working on projects set in the United Kingdom. A dialogue writer will find the material directly applicable to their work.
Translator
Translators convert written or spoken material from one language to another, and need a deep understanding of cultural nuances. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps translators accurately convey the meaning and tone of British media. The use of film clips provides context for understanding slang terms. A translator working with British English will find it helpful to have a working knowledge of informal language. This course is especially useful when translating literature, films, and television content.
English as a Second Language Teacher
As an English as a Second Language Teacher, the ability to connect with students through engaging and relevant content helps build a strong learning environment. This course, which uses film clips to teach British slang, provides a foundation for understanding and teaching informal English. For those planning to teach conversational English, this course ensures that their students will better understand native speakers and popular media. The course's focus on pronunciation and common phrases is particularly relevant when preparing lessons. Students learning from the course will be particularly interested in the practical application of informal language.
Content Creator
Content Creators for online platforms often need to produce engaging and relevant material that resonates with their target audience. This course, which uses film clips to teach British slang, helps build a strong foundation for creating content that appeals to those interested in British culture. A content creator might use film clips or informal language from this course to connect with viewers. The course's focus on pronunciation assists in producing audio and video content. Creators will improve their content by understanding the nuances of informal language.
Copywriter
Copywriters write persuasive marketing content, and it helps to connect with the target audience. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps copywriters craft compelling ads and marketing campaigns. Understanding informal language is useful for creating content that resonates with British consumers. A copywriter working on campaigns in the United Kingdom will use the insights from the course to improve their writing and increase sales.
Linguist
Linguists study language and its structure, including regional dialects and informal speech patterns. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps linguists expand their knowledge of contemporary language use. The course provides concrete examples of slang terms and their meanings. A linguist interested in sociolinguistics or dialectology might find the course particularly relevant. The course's emphasis on pronunciation and usage will support research and analysis.
Voice Actor
Voice Actors provide voices for characters in various media, and it is important that they have a strong command of pronunciation and expression. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps voice actors accurately portray British characters in animation, video games, and audiobooks. The course's emphasis on pronunciation and context provides nuances in their performances. A voice actor will find it helpful to accurately deliver lines and create believable characters.
Foreign Correspondent
Foreign Correspondents report on news and events from other countries, and it helps to have a strong understanding of local language and culture. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps those correspondents better understand and communicate with people in the United Kingdom. The use of film clips provides valuable context for understanding slang terms in real-world situations. The course's emphasis on pronunciation helps the correspondent communicate more effectively.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers oversee a company's online presence, and it is important that they communicate effectively with their target audience. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps social media managers craft content that resonates with British users. Understanding informal language allows the manager to create more engaging and authentic posts. A social media manager will enhance their online presence and boost audience engagement.
Travel Blogger
Travel Bloggers document their experiences and share insights about different cultures through writing. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps travel bloggers capture the nuances of British culture and language in their posts. The course's use of film clips makes the learning experience more engaging. A travel blogger will use insights from the course to write more authentically about life in the United Kingdom. This course helps the blogger stand out from the crowd.
Tour Guide
Tour Guides lead visitors around a specific location and need to be well-versed in local customs and language. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, helps tour guides in the United Kingdom connect with visitors by explaining common phrases and expressions. The course's content will help in understanding questions from diverse backgrounds. A tour guide who understands British slang will provide visitors with a more authentic and immersive experience.
Speech Writer
Speech Writers craft speeches for individuals in various fields, and it is important they tailor their writing to the audience. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, may allow speech writers craft speeches for a British audience. A speech writer will improve their skill for creating speeches for a specific audience. This course may help when writing a speech with a British theme.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create user manuals and documentation, and clear communication is key. This course, focused on British slang and informal English, may help technical writers working on projects with a British audience. Understanding informal language helps them create documentation that is more relatable and accessible. A technical writer working with British clients will use this course's lessons to improve client communication.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Learn British Slang & Informal English with Movie Clips.
Provides invaluable insight into the nuances of English culture and behavior. It helps learners understand the unspoken rules and social cues that often accompany British slang. Understanding these cultural contexts will greatly enhance comprehension and appropriate usage of the slang terms taught in the course. This book is highly recommended for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of British culture.
Explores the history and cultural impact of British comedy. It provides context for many slang terms and phrases that originate from or are popularized by comedy shows. Reading this book will enhance your understanding of the cultural references and humor associated with British slang. It valuable resource for anyone interested in British comedy and its influence on language.

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