Ecuador Earthquake, Animated Film Review, and Essential English Grammar

Ecuador Earthquake: A Call for Aid

Last week, a terrible earthquake struck Ecuador. Although I don't personally know many people there, this event has been truly devastating. I have visited Ecuador twice, and both experiences were very rewarding. I feel a strong desire to return and help, as it is a country where many people are suffering and dying. I constantly follow the news and feel deep pity for the people and the nation. On one hand, it's a great tragedy, but on the other hand, many buildings were not well-designed, contributing to the disaster's impact. In conclusion, it is imperative that we help the people of Ecuador.

Film Review: The Book of Life

The Book of Life is a fantastic movie. First and foremost, this is a 3D computer-animated film, featuring no live actors on screen. The animation, directed by Jorge Rodriguez, is truly terrific. The film tells the story of its main character, Manolo, who finds himself in a situation where he must decide whether to fulfill his family's expectations for his life or simply follow his heart and pursue his own desires, which are contrary to his family's wishes. As he grapples with this decision, many fun and exciting things happen. I wholeheartedly recommend this film. It offers something for everyone: bright colors, wonderful animation, very original character designs, spectacular voice acting, and music composed by one of the best, Gustavo Santaolalla. Unexpected events unfold every minute, ensuring both children and adults will laugh a lot. So, when it comes out, go and enjoy it!

Essential Vocabulary

Marriage

matrimonio

Drop out

dejar de hacer algo

Rent

alquilar

Queue

cola

Charge

recargar

Move

mudarse

Hide

esconder

Make sure

asegurarse

End up

terminar

Spot

observar

Alone

solo

Bother

molestar

Social Issues Vocabulary

Unemployment

desempleo

Poverty

pobreza

Gangs

banda

Ignorance

ignorancia

Violence

violencia

Wages

salarios

Drugs

drogas

Hunger

hambre

Elderly

ancianos

Prejudice

prejuicio

Crime

crimen

Inequality

desigualdad

Education

educación

Slums

barrio bajo

Shelter

refugio

Homeless

sin techo

Successful

exitoso

Scruffy

desaliñado

English Grammar Focus

Reported Speech Examples

Direct vs. Reported Speech: Present Simple to Past Simple

• “He is American,” she said.
• She said he was American.

Direct vs. Reported Speech: Present Perfect Continuous to Past Perfect Continuous

• “I’ve been studying English for two years,” he said.
• He said he’d been studying English for two years.

Direct vs. Reported Speech: Present Continuous to Past Continuous

• “Dan is living in San Francisco,” she said.
• She said Dan was living in San Francisco.

Direct vs. Reported Speech: Past Simple to Past Perfect Simple

• “We went to the movies last night,” he said.
• He told me they had gone to the movies the night before.

Direct vs. Reported Speech: Past Continuous to Past Perfect Continuous

• “I was working late last night,” Vicki said.
• Vicki told me she’d been working late the night before.

Active and Passive Voice