Javier’s English Corner

We have forgotten about our rain-related-song challenge in the last few days, but here we go again with an absolute all-time classic some of you have mentioned. I’m talking about Singin’ In The Rain, a wonderful song performed by Gene Kelly in the film with the same title which offers a comic depiction of Hollywood’s transition from silent films to “talkies”. In the unforgettable scene you can see below, according to Wikipedia sources, Gene Kelly was actually dancing in water with a little bit of milk added, so that the water puddles and raindrops would show up in the filming. Kelly was sick with a 103 degree fever at the time. We’re talking Fahrenheit here, which would be 39.4 Celsius. That is what I call a true professional. Ok, watch and enjoy!

This is a historic time for America and the rest of the world. There is a new wave of optimism and hope after eight horrible years. I have followed this campaign with great interest and both presidential candidates have not disappointed me. Just last night I got two emails from the best friends I made in the US. One of them voted for Obama and the other did so for McCain, but both of them share the same hope and wish that the now President-elect will do his best to see his country through these difficult times.

I intend to show you here two more videos on these past elections because I believe they can be interesting and useful for your English learning, but today I’ve decided to share the joy I feel at this historic moment by posting the music video “Yes, We Can”, based on Obama’s already historic speech at the New Hampshire primary. I must admit it touches me every time I watch it…

Last Thursday we did a listening comprehension exercise on a Halloween video, a sort of guide on how to trick or treat to be precise. If you didn’t show up that day, go to the materials section and you’ll find it there.

And now back to our on-going rain related songs. I must tell you I’m amazed at the number of songs some of you have suggested so far, and I have decided that I’ll start by posting those songs which have been mentioned by more than one student. Okey dokey, so let’s go with ‘It’s Raining Again’, by Supertramp.