I'm an English teacher and I've created this blog for 7th, 8th and 9th grade students from Escola Básica Hermenegildo Capelo, Palmela, and their teachers. The purpose is to motivate students to participate in English. I/ We/They can share opinions, curiosities, information, thoughts, short comments and/ or texts about topics discussed in classes. Learning English can be fun!
16th November 2025
International
Day for Tolerance
11th November 2025
"Every year people across the UK come
together to remember those who have died
in wars across the world.
Remembrance Day marks the day World War One ended - at the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, in 1918. It is also known as Armistice Day.Today Armistice Day is used to remember all the people who have died in all wars since.
This year also marks 80 years since World War Two ended, in 1945. (...)
Why do people wear poppies?
From the end of October through to November, you may start seeing people wearing poppies and see poppy wreaths at memorials in towns and villages.
During World War One much of the land in France and Belgium that was fought on was churned up and destroyed by battle.
But one of the first plants to reappear were delicate red poppies, which grew on the soil and rubble.
The poppy became a symbol of loss and of hope - a reminder of the sacrifice made by those who died in war and hope for the future.(...)"
5th November 2025
Guy Fawkes
On the eve of the 5th of November, the people in the UK go out onto the streets to light a bonfire and burn an effigy of ‘Guy Fawkes’. This is followed by the setting off of magnificent fireworks to celebrate.
‘Guy Fawkes Night’ originated in 1605, after the so-called ‘Gunpowder Plot’. At that time in British history, the ruler of the Kingdom changed after Queen Elizabeth I. died and King James I. became the new King. The country was split by religion, and the Catholics had hoped that with the new King their lives would become easier – but things didn’t quite work out that way. Thirteen men were especially frustrated with the situation and resorted to using violence. Under Robert Catesby, they came up with a plan to blow up the Houses of Parliament and kill the King in doing so.
On the night of the 5th of November, they managed to sneak thirty-six old wooden barrels of gunpowder into a cellar beneath the houses of Lords. Guy Fawkes was the person in charge of guarding them.
Even today there are still some mysteries surrounding this event, such as a rumoured letter from one of the men involved in the plot to his friend, warning him not to go to parliament on that day. The letter was forwarded to the King, and he ordered a thorough search of the whole building. Guy Fawkes was caught in the cellar with the gunpowder and arrested that night. He was later interrogated and executed with the other twelve revolters who plotted against the King.
On that night, the 5th of November 1605, the English people lit bonfires to celebrate that the King was well and had survived the gunpowder plot.
This tradition is continued to this day and is called ‘Guy Fawkes Night’ or ‘Bonfire Night’. An interesting fact is that the effigy of Guy Fawkes is burned annually in bonfires all over the UK, except in York where the community refuses to celebrate Bonfire night – because Guy Fawkes went to school there, the people of York thought it would be inappropriate.
If you’re living abroad in the UK, be mindful of Guy Fawkes Night as it is really important to a lot of English citizens. On the night you can expect to see fireworks light up the sky and great roaring bonfires in every city and village across the country.
Written by Jana Dorozala from EF Academy Torbay
Health Day
10th October 2025
"World Mental Health Day serves as a powerful reminder that there is no health without mental health. This year’s campaign focuses on the urgent need to support the mental health and psychosocial needs of people affected by humanitarian emergencies.
Crises such as natural disasters, conflicts, and public health emergencies cause emotional distress, with one in five individuals experiencing a mental health condition. Supporting the mental well-being of individuals during such crises is not just important – it saves lives, gives people the strength to cope, the space to heal and to recover and rebuild not only as individuals but as communities. That’s why it is essential for everyone, including government officials, health and social care providers, school staff and community groups to come together. By working hand in hand, we can ensure the most vulnerable have access to the support they need while protecting the well-being of everyone. (...)"
in https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-mental-health-day/2025
Challenge
World Teacher's Day
in https://www.unesco.org/en/days/teachers
World Music Day
1st October 2025
"The International Music Day is celebrated annually
on October 1st. This event is dedicated to celebrating the universal language of music, which unites people of all ages, nationalities, and cultures. (...)
International Music Day reminds us that music has the power to
inspire, heal, and unite people."
in https://dayspedia.com/pt/calendar/holiday/998/
And do you know that the theme for World Music Day in 2025 is "Healiing Through Harmony"?
Good Job - Alicia Keys (click on the link and enjoy).
International Day of Peace
21st September 2025
In a time of turbulence, tumult, and uncertainty, it is critical for everyone to take concrete action to mobilize for peace.
From peacekeepers on the front lines of conflict, to community members, to students in classrooms around the world, everyone has a role to play. We must speak up against violence, hate, discrimination, and inequality; practice respect; and embrace the diversity of our world.
There are many ways to act right now. Spark conversations about the urgent need for understanding, non-violence, and disarmament. Volunteer in your community, listen to voices different from your own, challenge discriminatory language in your workplace, report bullying both online and off-line, and take the time to verify facts before you post on social media. (...)"
in IDP
António Guterres's speech (United Nation Chief message)
End of the school year 2024-2025
English Language Day
On this date, the English language is commemorated: its history and culture.
William Shakespeare is also celebrated as it is his date of birth and death.
He is a very famous English playwright.
This year 2025, the theme for this day at the United Nations is "Shakespeare at the U.N.".
Watch here about Shakespeare at the UN William Shakespeare .
Wikipedia
3rd term
We're back again. Third term has already started!
And Earth Day is celebrated today.
What a great way to start.
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