Category: C1

Exploring the World of Stinky Cheeses: A Whiff of Adventure!

Have you heard of stinky cheeses? Yes, those smelly ones your grandparents might have eaten. Don’t wrinkle your nose just yet – these cheeses might surprise you with their amazing flavors and textures. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of stinky cheeses and discover what makes them special.
First things first, why do they smell so much? The secret is bacteria – not the bad kind, though! One type of bacteria, b. linens is responsible for the smell. It’s the same bacteria that makes your sweat smell! But in cheese, it’s intentional and adds a unique aroma. The bacteria come from washing the cheese’s rind in salty brine or alcohol. That’s what gives these cheeses their special funkiness.

Now, let’s meet some of these cheesy champions:

Epoisses: This cheese is like the rockstar of stinkiness! People say it was banned from trains because of its strong smell. It’s soft and gooey when ripe, and it’s washed with brandy. Try it with sweet apricot jam for a taste explosion!

Ardrahan: Imagine the salty air from the sea turning into cheese. That’s Ardrahan for you! Made in Ireland, it has a sticky orange rind and comes in different flavors – from slightly tangy to nutty.

Affine au Chablis: This cheese is like Epoisses’ calm cousin. It’s washed in wine and has a bit of smell. Not too strong, though! Spread it on toast with jam for a morning treat.

Rush Creek Reserve: This cheese is wrapped in bark – like a cheesy present! It’s creamy and best enjoyed by spooning it out. The cheese maker in Wisconsin came up with the idea to use winter milk.

Taleggio: Italy brings us Taleggio, a cheese that’s not super stinky, but super tasty! It has a yeasty flavor and can be used in many ways – on sandwiches or even on pizzas.

Cowgirl Creamery Red Hawk: All the way from California, this cheese is like a flavor adventure. It’s creamy and gooey, and it gets better as it ages. Just like a good story!

Adapted from this article.

 

So, if you’re feeling brave and adventurous, give stinky cheeses a try. They might be smelly, but they’re also full of surprises and deliciousness. Just remember, the smellier the cheese, the more exciting the taste!

Stinky Cheeses Quiz:

FILL IN THE BLANK

Past Modals

When we are referring to different events, things, and situations speculatively, or in a way that is based on guessing or on opinions that have been formed without knowing all the facts it’s pivotal that we understand the past modals and how to use them.

Past modals, also known as modal verbs in the past, are used to express various degrees of necessity, possibility, or probability in the past. They include modal verbs like “must have,” “should have,” “could have,” “might have,” and “ought to have.” These modals help us talk about events or actions that happened in the past, with a sense of certainty, possibility, or obligation.

Here are some examples of past modals with explanations:

  1. Must have: This expresses a strong deduction or certainty about something that happened in the past.
    • She must have forgotten her keys at home. (I’m sure she forgot her keys.)
    • He must have arrived early. (I’m certain he arrived early.)

2. Should have: This expresses an expectation or a recommendation about something that was expected to happen in the past.

      • You should have called me last night. (I expected you to call, but you didn’t.)
      • She should have studied more for the exam. (It was recommended, but she may not have done it.)

3. Could have: This indicates a possibility or ability in the past, even if the action did not actually happen.

        • They could have taken a different route. (They had the option to take a different route.)
        • I could have gone to the party, but I chose not to.* (I had the ability to go, but I didn’t.)

4. Might have: This suggests a possibility or a small degree of probability in the past.

          1. She might have left already. (There is a chance that she has already left.)
          2. They might have finished the project by now. (It’s possible they have completed it.)

5. Ought to have: This expresses an expectation or obligation that was present in the past.

            1. You ought to have finished your homework by now. (There was an expectation that you would finish it.)
            2. He ought to have apologized for his behavior. (He had an obligation to apologize.)

In all these examples, the modal verbs are followed by a past participle (e.g., have forgotten, arrived, called). The combination of the modal verb and the past participle conveys the specific meaning associated with each modal.

Past Modals Quiz 1

Answer the following questions using the correct form of must have/should have/could have + past participle:

Past Modals Quiz 2

Answer the following questions using might have/ought to have.

 

Well, that’s all we have for the past modals today, folks!  You ought to have had a wonderful time figuring these out, because it was so much fun for us to make this activity!

5 Best Motivational Speeches in Films to Learn English

Are you studying English in Milan and seeking an extra dose of inspiration? At Scrambled Eggs English School, we understand the significance of motivation in your language learning journey. That’s why we’ve handpicked five powerful motivational speeches from films that will ignite your passion for mastering English. Join us as we delve into the world of cinema, exploring the transformative impact of motivational words and the immersive experience of our English courses led by native English teachers in the vibrant city of Milan.

  1. The Pursuit of Happyness (2006):

    “Don’t ever let somebody tell you you can’t do something. You got a dream, you gotta protect it. When people can’t do something themselves, they’re gonna tell you that you can’t do it. You want something, go get it. Period.” – Chris Gardner

In this heartwarming film, Will Smith’s portrayal of Chris Gardner reminds us that determination and perseverance are the keys to success. At Scrambled Eggs English School, our English courses empower you to conquer the challenges of learning English, providing the necessary tools and support to achieve your dreams.

2) Rocky Balboa (2006):

“The world ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. It’s a very mean and nasty place, and I don’t care how tough you are, it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.” – Rocky Balboa

Rocky Balboa’s motivational speech reminds us of the resilience needed to overcome life’s challenges. Similarly, at Scrambled Eggs English School, our native English teachers equip you with the strength and tenacity to face linguistic obstacles head-on. We believe that setbacks are temporary, and with determination, you can achieve fluency in English.

3) Dead Poets Society (1989):

“But only in their dreams can men be truly free. It was always thus, and always thus will be.” – John Keating

Robin Williams’ iconic role as John Keating in “Dead Poets Society” encourages us to break free from societal expectations and embrace our passions. In Milan, a city filled with diverse cultures and opportunities, our English courses enable you to express yourself confidently and authentically, paving the way for personal and linguistic growth.

 

4. The Great Dictator (1940):

“You, the people, have the power to make this life free and beautiful, to make this life a wonderful adventure. Let us fight to free the world, to do away with national barriers, to do away with greed, with hate and intolerance. Let us fight for a world of reason, a world where science and progress will lead to all men’s happiness.” – Charlie Chaplin

Charlie Chaplin’s timeless speech from “The Great Dictator” reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, and progress. At Scrambled Eggs English School, we foster an inclusive community where students from Milan and beyond come together to learn English, exchange ideas, and build lasting connections. Our English courses not only provide language skills but also promote cultural understanding and global citizenship.

5. Any Given Sunday (1999):

“Now I can’t make you do it. You got to look at the guy next to you. Look into his eyes! Now I think you’re gonna see a guy who will go that inch with you.” – Tony D’Amato

In Oliver Stone’s sports drama film “Any Given Sunday,” Al Pacino delivers a powerful and impassioned speech that holds valuable lessons for English language learners. As the seasoned coach Tony D’Amato, Pacino’s character inspires his students, highlighting the importance of unity, determination, and the relentless pursuit of improvement. Just as in the game of football, studying English is a journey of small victories and inch-by-inch progress. Pacino’s electrifying performance reminds us that success in language learning requires perseverance, seizing every opportunity to learn and grow. His words resonate with English students, instilling a sense of motivation and resilience to overcome challenges and reach fluency. The speech serves as a timeless reminder that with dedication and a fighting spirit, mastery of the English language is within reach.

 

And that’s it for our list of top 5 motivational speeches! Did we mention watching them over and over again can help with English listening comprehension? If, on the other hand, you think we missed a few, be sure to let us know in the comment section!