Frequently Asked Questions

Class Details

 

What can I expect to do in my class?

If you are doing a speaking class, you can expect to be speaking for a majority of the time. We often introduce or review useful vocabulary and natural grammar structures connected to our speaking topics. You will always receive feedback from us on your grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation.

Do I need anything for my class?

We recommend that you have a pen and paper if you would like to take notes. However, this can also be done on your computer, phone or tablet. Also, please bring a positive attitude!

Will you send me any notes after class?

Yes, we will send you what was discussed in class and additional feedback, if needed.

What kind of materials do you use in your classes?

We use a variety of online resources and articles, and sometimes textbooks. As most of our classes have a speaking focus we do not rely heavily on written materials; however, we do include them in many of our classes.

Do I need to buy a textbook?

No, you don’t need to buy a textbook. However, if you really want to use a textbook in class you might need to buy one. We always discuss the style of class and the materials used before we start classes with you.

Do you have materials I can use to practice at home between classes?

Yes, we often give students articles or exercises to do for extra practice outside of class. The amount of extra practice really depends on how much time the student has for this. If you want a lot of extra practice outside of class, great! If you feel like you are too busy with work or school, no problem. Having said that, we do encourage students to practice English outside of the classroom as much as possible.

Can I do a class focused on reading, writing or listening?

Yes. Although our two main areas of focus are test preparation and speaking, we are happy to teach classes focusing on reading, writing or listening.

Connecting

 

How can I contact you if I am interested in taking a class?

Please see our “Contact Us” page for our two email addresses. You can also contact us from that page by sending us “a note”. Furthermore, if you would like to connect with us on social media, please click on the Facebook or Instagram symbols to see our related pages.

Once classes have started we often communicate with students by email or by WhatsApp or LINE.

Do you offer a free trial class or consultation?

Yes! We offer one free online trial class/consultation. This is a good chance to learn about our teaching style, get a taste of what our class will be like, and ask any questions you might have.

Could I join the online Happy Hour even if I have never been a paying student?

Yes! All are welcome. We enjoy meeting new people from around the world.

Online Classes

 

Which platform do you use for online classes?

We primarily use Zoom, Google Meet or Skype depending on what is easier for the student.

Can anyone who lives abroad take online classes?

Yes, as long as you have internet access, and we can decide on a time to meet that is reasonable in both countries.

Are all of your classes online?

Yes. Due to the spread of Covid-19 all of our classes are online until further notice.

Payment

 

How can I pay?

For students living outside of Canada we ask that you register for a PayPal account. PayPal is normally connected to either your bank account or your credit card. With payments through PayPal, we ask that students pay the additional 4 percent PayPal fee. For example, if you pay for a package that costs 150 dollars, your total price with the 4 percent PayPal fee will be 156 dollars.

For students living in Canada, we accept e-transfers, payments by PayPal, and cash.

What is your refund policy?

We deal with refund requests on a case-by-case basis. This means that it depends on the situation; however, we try to be as accommodating as we can.

Test Preparation Classes

 

For which tests do you offer preparation classes?

The two most common tests we prepare people for are the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).

If you have another test you would like help preparing for, we are open to discussing that with you.

What will I do in my test preparation class?

Well, we offer classes for all the different sections of these tests, so there can be a lot of variety. In general, you will learn about the structure of the test, useful strategies for success, and you will also get a lot of practice and feedback to help you improve.

Is it ok if I only want to have a class for one section of the class?

Yes. In fact, this is very common. Many of our students focus on only speaking and writing, as these are often the most difficult sections.

What level do I need to be to take a test preparation class?

We recommend that students be at an intermediate level for this type of class. However, if you have more time to prepare for the test, we are open to discussing this with you.

What materials do you use?

We use a lot of practice tests and also online material. For the speaking and writing sections, we often create our own test-like questions and activities.

Are you affiliated with IELTS or CELPIP in anyway?

No, we’re not.

Can you guarantee that I get a certain score?

No. While we promise to support you, and help you improve your knowledge of the test and your language ability, we recognize that your ability to achieve a certain score still depends mostly on you, the student.