Seanus
11 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Polish Education Grading and Uk Edu. Grading? [73]
What is your point, nincompoop_not? I don't get it.
What is your point, nincompoop_not? I don't get it.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Polish Education Grading and Uk Edu. Grading? [73]
The other side of the coin is that it is seen as investing in learning and they are respectable enough qualifications (FCE and CAE). The fact is, you can go beyond GCSE's to first degree level, then second degree level and still struggle to get a job. Everyone must build from somewhere and the Cambridge qualifications provide basic guarantees to employers. Also, some say that CPE is worth having. Even then, yes and no. It gives your English undoubtable polish but is seen as redundant by some.
I have also taught CPE and found it useful though not everyone sees it that way. It could be perceived as sth akin to being overly academic. I also think it depends on monitoring personal development. This is true in a career sense through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and also on the learning curve in general. Yes, I got seven Highers but didn't do that well, only getting BBBCCCC. However, one year later, I was doing much harder legal modules like Jurisprudence and scoring much higher (my undergrad). I got a few first-class passes and that spurred me on even more.
So, the point is that you should be proud of your foundation from which to build. You are in a position to grow now as I was after doing my CELTA. You learn by doing ;)
Keep up the good work, Sławek :)
Frd, super commentary!!! Right on the mark!!! Reflection happens a lot.
The other side of the coin is that it is seen as investing in learning and they are respectable enough qualifications (FCE and CAE). The fact is, you can go beyond GCSE's to first degree level, then second degree level and still struggle to get a job. Everyone must build from somewhere and the Cambridge qualifications provide basic guarantees to employers. Also, some say that CPE is worth having. Even then, yes and no. It gives your English undoubtable polish but is seen as redundant by some.
I have also taught CPE and found it useful though not everyone sees it that way. It could be perceived as sth akin to being overly academic. I also think it depends on monitoring personal development. This is true in a career sense through Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and also on the learning curve in general. Yes, I got seven Highers but didn't do that well, only getting BBBCCCC. However, one year later, I was doing much harder legal modules like Jurisprudence and scoring much higher (my undergrad). I got a few first-class passes and that spurred me on even more.
So, the point is that you should be proud of your foundation from which to build. You are in a position to grow now as I was after doing my CELTA. You learn by doing ;)
Keep up the good work, Sławek :)
Frd, super commentary!!! Right on the mark!!! Reflection happens a lot.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Polish Education Grading and Uk Edu. Grading? [73]
I don't think it's as clear cut as you think. English O grades and A grades are seen as higher than their Scottish counterparts, S Grades and Higher (Revised) Grades. Simply put, FCE and CAE are general proficiency courses done by foreigners but GCSE's are done by natives. Sorry, I've been a mentor of CAE and FCE groups and taught them for 4 years. I know what I'm talking about, Scottish Highers are much harder thematically than them. FCE and CAE would have been a walk in the park for me at 16 but Highers can really put you to the sword.
I have to say, even weaker students in Scotland have better written English than some of the writing assignments I read. Speaking? No comparison.
I don't think it's as clear cut as you think. English O grades and A grades are seen as higher than their Scottish counterparts, S Grades and Higher (Revised) Grades. Simply put, FCE and CAE are general proficiency courses done by foreigners but GCSE's are done by natives. Sorry, I've been a mentor of CAE and FCE groups and taught them for 4 years. I know what I'm talking about, Scottish Highers are much harder thematically than them. FCE and CAE would have been a walk in the park for me at 16 but Highers can really put you to the sword.
I have to say, even weaker students in Scotland have better written English than some of the writing assignments I read. Speaking? No comparison.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
Life / What are people in Poland REALLY saying about 'swine flu'? [41]
Poles are aware of the position near the border. I know a girl from Przemysł and she is a little concerned about going back having heard a few tales.
However, there is not much said about it generally and the response has been swift and effective.
Poles are aware of the position near the border. I know a girl from Przemysł and she is a little concerned about going back having heard a few tales.
However, there is not much said about it generally and the response has been swift and effective.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Polish Education Grading and Uk Edu. Grading? [73]
Polish education is seen as higher and I can testify, first hand, that young Poles are generally very bright and sharp. My question is, what happens to them? I think they get squeezed by harsh reality and their conditions are often not as good as in the UK.
They seem to go off the boil.
Polish education is seen as higher and I can testify, first hand, that young Poles are generally very bright and sharp. My question is, what happens to them? I think they get squeezed by harsh reality and their conditions are often not as good as in the UK.
They seem to go off the boil.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
Love / How do u know if a polish man likes u? [37]
How do you know if a Polish man likes you? Hmm...I guess he shares his quality vodka with you :)
How do you know if a Polish man likes you? Hmm...I guess he shares his quality vodka with you :)
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Polish Education Grading and Uk Edu. Grading? [73]
Sławek, you do a course. As an experienced teacher, I disagree. There are many students with FCE and CAE that really aren't up to scratch. Those certificates don't cut the mustard a lot of the time.
It will give you some confidence with the language but it's just the start of your learning curve. It's like the CELTA, it's a baseline course and there are many ways to build on it. You come out of it with a basic awareness of methodological issues but, truth be told, you barely scrape the surface.
It depends what you need. Your English is more than good enough for communicating. Your article use is a little askew but, then again, I can say the same about Polish teachers of English.
Sławek, you do a course. As an experienced teacher, I disagree. There are many students with FCE and CAE that really aren't up to scratch. Those certificates don't cut the mustard a lot of the time.
It will give you some confidence with the language but it's just the start of your learning curve. It's like the CELTA, it's a baseline course and there are many ways to build on it. You come out of it with a basic awareness of methodological issues but, truth be told, you barely scrape the surface.
It depends what you need. Your English is more than good enough for communicating. Your article use is a little askew but, then again, I can say the same about Polish teachers of English.
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
Seanus
11 Nov 2009
History / Farewell of Slavianka - who is able to understand Poles ? [48]
CK, Bob Dylan said it very well in his song, 'The Times, they are a' Changin', when he said "don't criticise what you can't understand".
Do you really understand Poles or do you have some form of superiority complex?
CK, Bob Dylan said it very well in his song, 'The Times, they are a' Changin', when he said "don't criticise what you can't understand".
Do you really understand Poles or do you have some form of superiority complex?
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
Love / Help-my polish bf doesn't fancy me! [94]
There are ways and means to make him like you. Poles can appear disinterested but you just need to push the right buttons or pull the right levers ;) ;) ;)
There are ways and means to make him like you. Poles can appear disinterested but you just need to push the right buttons or pull the right levers ;) ;) ;)
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
Life / More Polish supermarket griping...this time about customers [29]
Well, I agree with BLS. I will almost always give up my place in the queue if sb has far fewer items than I have. If they have 3 or 4 things to be scanned then they will be let passed.
As for bumping, I take the Chris approach. I will reverse to create more space. There was a little girl right behind me in Tesco the other day and I just stared her down. Poor little kid ;) ;) I do the same with big guys and they back off.
Well, I agree with BLS. I will almost always give up my place in the queue if sb has far fewer items than I have. If they have 3 or 4 things to be scanned then they will be let passed.
As for bumping, I take the Chris approach. I will reverse to create more space. There was a little girl right behind me in Tesco the other day and I just stared her down. Poor little kid ;) ;) I do the same with big guys and they back off.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
It was 7.2:1 when I arrived in Sep 2004. A basic job for 1000 pounds a month could attract 7000PLN a month. For those a little more skilled, they could easily rake in 2000 a month, so 14000PLN. Very healthy indeed!
It was 7.2:1 when I arrived in Sep 2004. A basic job for 1000 pounds a month could attract 7000PLN a month. For those a little more skilled, they could easily rake in 2000 a month, so 14000PLN. Very healthy indeed!
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
If some Poles didn't view life as a boxing match but more of a collaborative effort then they'd see real progress. Let's face it, many went to England to escape and get more money. The exchange rate was around 7:1 in May 2004.
If some Poles didn't view life as a boxing match but more of a collaborative effort then they'd see real progress. Let's face it, many went to England to escape and get more money. The exchange rate was around 7:1 in May 2004.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
Many have this romantic vision of better times in the land of pierogi and holy roads ;)
England is the big cash cow for them and they suck the teets quite the thing. I like sucking on 'teets' too ;)
Many have this romantic vision of better times in the land of pierogi and holy roads ;)
England is the big cash cow for them and they suck the teets quite the thing. I like sucking on 'teets' too ;)
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
The English can be that way too, you are right. What is an Eastern European attitude? Americans don't tend to mix business with pleasure but the Poles often look for a social occasion to lighten the load.
In Japan, entertaining is a must. It's encouraged here too but not compulsory.
The English can be that way too, you are right. What is an Eastern European attitude? Americans don't tend to mix business with pleasure but the Poles often look for a social occasion to lighten the load.
In Japan, entertaining is a must. It's encouraged here too but not compulsory.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
Sławek, you'd be surprised at the people who accept agency work. Straight after my Masters in Nov 2000, I worked 3 contracts til Oct 2001 when I left for Japan. It was a humbling experience and we need to experience humility. It gave me some good computer and teamwork experience, though. I like the more laid-back attitude that was there. The money sucked but it didn't matter if I was off my game (in teaching it DOES).
The problem is one of perception when it comes to Englishmen and Poles. The Poles often see themselves as skilled workers (this is generally true, many are) whereas quite a few English folk see them as Eastern European ants to be trampled on (ants work hard ;) ;)).
However, having talked to many Poles and watched enough accounts, Poles often come to England for money. Scotland too of course. The first Poles I met were in my CELTA in Apr-May 2004. A few of them were dour-faced basta*ds but a couple really got me interested (no, not females, LOL). Socialising was encouraged so we had a blast. What I noticed was that Poles were defensive until you wrestled with that and got them out of their shells. It takes them a while to trust.
Sławek, you'd be surprised at the people who accept agency work. Straight after my Masters in Nov 2000, I worked 3 contracts til Oct 2001 when I left for Japan. It was a humbling experience and we need to experience humility. It gave me some good computer and teamwork experience, though. I like the more laid-back attitude that was there. The money sucked but it didn't matter if I was off my game (in teaching it DOES).
The problem is one of perception when it comes to Englishmen and Poles. The Poles often see themselves as skilled workers (this is generally true, many are) whereas quite a few English folk see them as Eastern European ants to be trampled on (ants work hard ;) ;)).
However, having talked to many Poles and watched enough accounts, Poles often come to England for money. Scotland too of course. The first Poles I met were in my CELTA in Apr-May 2004. A few of them were dour-faced basta*ds but a couple really got me interested (no, not females, LOL). Socialising was encouraged so we had a blast. What I noticed was that Poles were defensive until you wrestled with that and got them out of their shells. It takes them a while to trust.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
Crow's best hope is to go and talk to some metalheads who share in their Slavic brotherhood. These people are more in touch with their roots than opportunistic politicians.
Crow's best hope is to go and talk to some metalheads who share in their Slavic brotherhood. These people are more in touch with their roots than opportunistic politicians.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
UK, Ireland / Why do Poles come to England? [514]
Oh, I don't think Brits always get good jobs Sławek. The most important thing is what steps they took to get employment in the first place. Everything is by contract so Poles have a choice as to what jobs they accept or don't. You have to admit that many Poles were taken on in Britain and Ireland in high numbers and that they must accept the economic downturn like everyone else.
Brits get a 90-day headstart in America, Shelley ;)
Oh, I don't think Brits always get good jobs Sławek. The most important thing is what steps they took to get employment in the first place. Everything is by contract so Poles have a choice as to what jobs they accept or don't. You have to admit that many Poles were taken on in Britain and Ireland in high numbers and that they must accept the economic downturn like everyone else.
Brits get a 90-day headstart in America, Shelley ;)
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
Good points, M-G. Russia already has extensive business dealings with Montenegro and I dare say Serbia. The EU would bring a whole new dimension.
Good points, M-G. Russia already has extensive business dealings with Montenegro and I dare say Serbia. The EU would bring a whole new dimension.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
Tusk is crafty though, Crow. He bundles along, doing nothing spectacular, and people see him as a safe politician. I really wonder what your average Polish person would do differently.
Given that Tusk is broadly pro-EU, as is Tadic, I can't see them discussing Slavic Federation issues. However, Tusk and Tadic likely know more than the rubbish spread by some media over the gas crisis. Putin did a conference on that where he answered all questions from journalists. I think you can take heart from that as he answered to the satisfaction of many journalists there, including the Polish ones.
Tusk has a far better relationship with Putin than Jarosław Kaczyński did.
Tusk is crafty though, Crow. He bundles along, doing nothing spectacular, and people see him as a safe politician. I really wonder what your average Polish person would do differently.
Given that Tusk is broadly pro-EU, as is Tadic, I can't see them discussing Slavic Federation issues. However, Tusk and Tadic likely know more than the rubbish spread by some media over the gas crisis. Putin did a conference on that where he answered all questions from journalists. I think you can take heart from that as he answered to the satisfaction of many journalists there, including the Polish ones.
Tusk has a far better relationship with Putin than Jarosław Kaczyński did.
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
What serious problems? Poland recognises Kosovo as independent, doesn't that tell you sth? Tusk doesn't care about Serbia. Has he even met Tadic?
What serious problems? Poland recognises Kosovo as independent, doesn't that tell you sth? Tusk doesn't care about Serbia. Has he even met Tadic?
Seanus
9 Nov 2009
Love / Do not marry Polish woman [212]
I can see your points, torny, as I thought that way for a long time. However, it is about making sth work, like a lifelong project. It's just the tendency of some people to cop out and not make a good fist of it that cheapens the whole thing.
Taking those vows meant a lot to me. They went beyond mere formality and I'll do my utmost to honour them.
I can see your points, torny, as I thought that way for a long time. However, it is about making sth work, like a lifelong project. It's just the tendency of some people to cop out and not make a good fist of it that cheapens the whole thing.
Taking those vows meant a lot to me. They went beyond mere formality and I'll do my utmost to honour them.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
Love / Do not marry Polish woman [212]
Nomaderol, that's not the case. I received that info from discussions with my wife's mum. She often tells tales of how it was.
Nomaderol, that's not the case. I received that info from discussions with my wife's mum. She often tells tales of how it was.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
Hehehe, nothing quite like voter 'confidence' in a thriving democracy ;) ;)
We have to ask ourselves, what is the significance of rising up the ladder in the world order? We all know that the US and Russia are no longer classic exemplars of what a hyperpower and superpower are but is it like the first-past-the-post system in politics in that there are no prizes for not being the leader?
What leeway and power do they have to dictate significant events? Not much IMHO. They are more likely to be treated like a pawn in such acts as the missile shield.
Hehehe, nothing quite like voter 'confidence' in a thriving democracy ;) ;)
We have to ask ourselves, what is the significance of rising up the ladder in the world order? We all know that the US and Russia are no longer classic exemplars of what a hyperpower and superpower are but is it like the first-past-the-post system in politics in that there are no prizes for not being the leader?
What leeway and power do they have to dictate significant events? Not much IMHO. They are more likely to be treated like a pawn in such acts as the missile shield.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
Well, scrappleton, don't be too envious because of the ailing US economy and burgeoning European growth.
Poland is really benefitting from casting the net wider. They have had good trade relations with China for some time and Alex Salmond of the SNP in Scotland knows sth about the value of this. To my knowledge, they are not punting off their debts to China ;) ;)
Southern, it is true that vast funds are coming in but it's also the case of how constructively you use them. Politicians and squandering are often synonymous terms.
Well, scrappleton, don't be too envious because of the ailing US economy and burgeoning European growth.
Poland is really benefitting from casting the net wider. They have had good trade relations with China for some time and Alex Salmond of the SNP in Scotland knows sth about the value of this. To my knowledge, they are not punting off their debts to China ;) ;)
Southern, it is true that vast funds are coming in but it's also the case of how constructively you use them. Politicians and squandering are often synonymous terms.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
News / Poland's place in changing world order? [74]
There was once a poster called Luke
Who often made use of a book
By producing a map
And a whole lot of crap
He quickly landed in shtook
Poland has an ever-growing GDP, southern. Where are your figures? Even in the space of a few years we saw a notable increase.
What factors change the place in the world order, southern? What would you say?
There was once a poster called Luke
Who often made use of a book
By producing a map
And a whole lot of crap
He quickly landed in shtook
Poland has an ever-growing GDP, southern. Where are your figures? Even in the space of a few years we saw a notable increase.
What factors change the place in the world order, southern? What would you say?
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
History / The most influencial socialists leaders in Polish lands? [26]
True enough! His main task should have been towards modernising military equipment as he knew that Poland could not rely on its agreements with Germany and Russia. He broke down on this point and even had a legendary quote on it.
Poland was streets ahead of Nazi Germany in 1933 when it came to war-winning potential. Yes, the Nazis developed exponentially at an unrelenting pace but wasn't it in Sep or Oct of 1933 that Piłsudski is said to have proposed a pre-emptive war partnership with France and only the Brits to convince?? The British foreign minister of that time, Sir John Simon, had swathes of data on the suspicious activities of the Nazis and would likely have convinced Chamberlain.
Forgive my ignorance, my Polish history is sketchy but wasn't it the fault of his successor? I can't remember his name, Smyś or sth like that? He made a forecast for Polish readiness/preparedness by 1942. By 1936 even, the Nazis were ahead of the game.
True enough! His main task should have been towards modernising military equipment as he knew that Poland could not rely on its agreements with Germany and Russia. He broke down on this point and even had a legendary quote on it.
Poland was streets ahead of Nazi Germany in 1933 when it came to war-winning potential. Yes, the Nazis developed exponentially at an unrelenting pace but wasn't it in Sep or Oct of 1933 that Piłsudski is said to have proposed a pre-emptive war partnership with France and only the Brits to convince?? The British foreign minister of that time, Sir John Simon, had swathes of data on the suspicious activities of the Nazis and would likely have convinced Chamberlain.
Forgive my ignorance, my Polish history is sketchy but wasn't it the fault of his successor? I can't remember his name, Smyś or sth like that? He made a forecast for Polish readiness/preparedness by 1942. By 1936 even, the Nazis were ahead of the game.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
Love / Do not marry Polish woman [212]
Poles are more upwardly mobile now. Under communism, there were travel restrictions and you were interrogated upon your return. Huge suspicion and widespread paranoia. Now, many move abroad and relationships are made more complicated. Many discover that the notion of the distance relationship doesn't really work.
However, I'd say that, if you make an effort to make the marriage agreeable, happy and lasting then courts shouldn't really grant divorces. You are fulfilling the vows of the marriage and there is no 'irretrievable breakdown' of the marriage. What is the Polish terminology for divorce? You cannot shortcut to divorce, you have to go through counselling and there should always be room for salvage. People should be forgiven when right to do so.
It depends on the woman but I feel safe with mine. No pre-nuptial needed.
Poles are more upwardly mobile now. Under communism, there were travel restrictions and you were interrogated upon your return. Huge suspicion and widespread paranoia. Now, many move abroad and relationships are made more complicated. Many discover that the notion of the distance relationship doesn't really work.
However, I'd say that, if you make an effort to make the marriage agreeable, happy and lasting then courts shouldn't really grant divorces. You are fulfilling the vows of the marriage and there is no 'irretrievable breakdown' of the marriage. What is the Polish terminology for divorce? You cannot shortcut to divorce, you have to go through counselling and there should always be room for salvage. People should be forgiven when right to do so.
It depends on the woman but I feel safe with mine. No pre-nuptial needed.
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
History / The most influencial socialists leaders in Polish lands? [26]
You didn't appreciate his efforts to integrate people into the vision of a collective state and not exclude or isolate people like the Jews? Being in opposition to his political platform is a subjective stance but some of his achievements speak for themselves and we have to see these in an objective light, agreed?
You didn't appreciate his efforts to integrate people into the vision of a collective state and not exclude or isolate people like the Jews? Being in opposition to his political platform is a subjective stance but some of his achievements speak for themselves and we have to see these in an objective light, agreed?
Seanus
8 Nov 2009
History / The most influencial socialists leaders in Polish lands? [26]
He does or he doesn't deserve to be mentioned, lesser? If you put it solely down to the wielding of power then only 2 choices are available. Piłsudski too was a dictator of sorts and had a huge influence.
However, it's rather silly as Russia and Germany were both much bigger than Poland.
He does or he doesn't deserve to be mentioned, lesser? If you put it solely down to the wielding of power then only 2 choices are available. Piłsudski too was a dictator of sorts and had a huge influence.
However, it's rather silly as Russia and Germany were both much bigger than Poland.