Why do we love doing quizzes?

Why do we love doing quizzes?

17, March, 2025

Episode 251: Why do we love quizzes so much?

In this podcast, we wonder we we love doing quizzes so much. People seem to love quizzes because they’re like tiny brain workouts—minus the sweat and there’s something oddly satisfying about proving you know the capital of Uzbekistan! Listen in for why we like doing quizzes so much.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk “intelligence”… or is it? Do quizzes really test our intelligence, our memory or our zxperience. Listen in to find out.

Notes

All quizzes are popular and these days pub quizzes are especially popular because they combine socializing, entertainment, and friendly competition in a relaxed setting. They offer a fun way for friends, colleagues, or strangers to test their knowledge while enjoying food and drinks, making for a lively and engaging night out. The mix of trivia categories ensures that everyone can contribute, fostering camaraderie. Additionally, the challenge of answering questions correctly, the chance to win prizes, and the bragging rights of being the smartest team in the room add to the excitement. Plus, even if you don’t win, you still get to have a good time and maybe learn a few fun facts!

However, we delve into why quizzes primarily test the “what” i.e. factual knowledge—specific pieces of information that can be recalled quickly. For example, a quiz might ask, “What is the capital of France?” This type of question evaluates recognition and recall but doesn’t necessarily require deep understanding.

Whereas the “why” and “how” questions require explanation, reasoning, and critical thinking. Quizzes, especially multiple-choice or short-answer formats, typically aren’t suited for these in-depth explorations because they prioritize quick assessment over deep comprehension.

 

.

Recap & Takeaways

LEARNING TIP

What would you say are the benefits of doing quizzes? Listed below are 4 reasons; can you expand on them after listening to the podcast. Try to write 50 words for each reason and then speak about it naturally. 

  1. Boosts Memory & Learning –  Can you expand on this point?
  2. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills –  Try to say more about this.
  3. Provides Instant Feedback – What is your experience?
  4. Fun & Engaging – Do you do quizzes with your friends and family?

 

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Subscribe to our Facebook group and page, our Youtube channel and to our Instagram to get all the latest podcasts, quizzes and blog posts.

What if…..the moon vanished?

What if…..the moon vanished?

17, March, 2025

Episode 248: What if… the moon simply disappeared?

This podcast is another episode in our “The Curious Case of…” series. Don’t be put off it’s not just for scientists, but for anyone with a curious mind.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we go on a thought experiement when we ask ourselves, what would happen if the moon didn’t exist, if it just dispeared one day. You’ll see that we cover many suprising factors.

Notes

You don’t need to be an astrophysicist to wonder about the moon. Does it do anything, except for shining a light at night ? Well, yes it does ! Is it made of cheese? The answer to that is definately no !  Listen in as we delve into quite a few good reasons to be thankful it does! In the video you can see pictures and guide words to help you follow the conversation.

Without the moon, life on earth would be very different. Just think about the tides, the earth’s tilt and the length of the day.

Intrigued? Just listen in… what if…

 

.

Recap & Takeaways

In this podcast you’ll hear lots of vocabulary to talk about the moon, the tides, the earth’s tilt and the length of the day.

This is above all a “What if..” thought exercise, so expect to hear a lot of grammar using the conditionals (1st, 2nd and 3rd).

Also listen out for the pronunciation of these words:

Skeptical

Implausible

Unlikely

Inconceivable

 

 

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Subscribe to our Facebook group and page, our Youtube channel and to our Instagram to get all the latest podcasts, quizzes and blog posts.

Why do we crave spicy food?

Why do we crave spicy food?

17, March, 2025

Episode 246: Why do we crave spicy food?

In this podcast, we are on fire ! We delve into the world of spices, the hottest ones on the planet and why they are good for you.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we talk HOT ! Hot spices, Hot curries, Hot mouths, Hot countries… in short everything you need to know about VERY hot spices and chilies.

Notes

Food would be boring without spices. They give aroma, color, flavor, and sometimes even texture to food. Each spice, chili, or herb has specific, unique chemical compounds that create the sensual qualities for which we value them. But in this podcast we focus on very hot spices and chilies.

You’ll hear about the Scoville scale, which indicates the concentration of capsaicin in each spice and chili. The higher the number, the spicier the sauce. Which peppers do you think are the hottest and could you possibly eat them? And would you cool down with a glass of water or a glass of milk?

Spices and chilies also have health properties which protect the heart.

Are you ready to kick up the heat? Tune in and find out more.

 

.

Recap & Takeaways

In this podcast you’ll hear lots of vocabulary to describe spices from hot to mild.

Listen out for other words to describe how we feel about hot, spicy food:

It’s torture.

It’s pain and pleasure.

It numbs your mouth.

Don’t be nervous.

It’s exciting.

It’s a challenge.

It’s awful.

It’s terrifying.

 

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Subscribe to our Facebook group and page, our Youtube channel and to our Instagram to get all the latest podcasts, quizzes and blog posts.

National Pet Day

National Pet Day

17, March, 2025

Episode 194: National Pet Day

In this podcast, we have fun with fun facts about cats, dogs, fish, tigers and even an elephant.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we delve into fun facts around pets… and there are lots of them. The video, the pictures and wriiten clues will help you follow the conversation.  

Notes

National Pet Day is April 11, although if you’re a pet owner, you know there’s not a day that goes by that you don’t celebrate your animal companion! So hug your hedgehog, bond with your bunny, and cut your kitty some catnip! That critter makes you happy — and that’s not all. Over the past 10 years, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has been a partner in research to determine the physical and mental benefits of having a pet. It turns out that not only can pets steal our hearts, but they also contribute to overall cardiovascular health by lowering cortisol, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels.

Recap & Takeaways

National Pet Day is an excellent time to do a few checks for your pets.

  • Go through your furever family member’s toys. Throw away any items that are no longer safe.
  • Maintain your pet-friendly home. Keep cords and toxins secure from your four-legged friends. This includes phone chargers.
  • Verify when vaccinations are due and schedule an appointment to update if they are due.
  • Check collars to ensure tags are secure and numbers are current. We sometimes forget to update this information when we move or change numbers.

 

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Subscribe to our Facebook group and page, our Youtube channel and to our Instagram to get all the latest podcasts, quizzes and blog posts.

The Great Sock Mystery

The Great Sock Mystery

17, March, 2025

Episode 244: The Great Sock Mystery

In this podcast, we delve into one of life’s mysteries; why do socks disappear in the washing machine?.

Welcome back to English-Podcasts In this episode we dive into a problem most of us have… losing socks in the washing machine! What really happens to them ?

Notes

The following text will use much of the vocabulary you’ll hear in the podcast.

Look for lost socks behind the washing machine, and then check that dark space between the washer and the dryer.

Front loader machines: some socks get caught in the washer’s filter. If your washing machine has a clean-out area, open it and look for socks. You definitely don’t want socks to get caught in the drain pump.

Socks can often get stuck fitted sheets, the socks can end up stuck in the corner pockets. Baby socks tend to hide in trouser legs.

Attach each pair of socks together with saftey pins.

Use a mesh laudry bag.

Or just… embrace the “mixmatch”, that’s much more fun.

 

Recap & Takeaways

A good way to practice vocabulary is to use the Lost Sock Calculator…. yes it really exists ! Check it out here:

https://www.omnicalculator.com/everyday-life/socks-loss-index

How often do you use the washing machine?

What is the size of your laudry basket?

How many people in your household?

What is your attitude to doing the laudry?

Can you think of any other factors which could affect sock loss?

 

Stay Tuned For Our Latest Episodes

Subscribe to our Facebook group and page, our Youtube channel and to our Instagram to get all the latest podcasts, quizzes and blog posts.

English Podcasts

Pin It on Pinterest