Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is English and Culture different from other English tutoring services?

We believe that in order for you to be successful in the United States, you need both English skills and cultural competence.

We customize our learning materials to help you gain not only language skills, but also cultural competence.

Our students gain the skills they need to succeed in their careers and their lives in the United States. Read more about cultural training.

2. Who studies with English and Culture?

• Business professionals who are busy and need to communicate in English at work
• Researchers who need to conduct research and give presentations in English
• Graduate students who want to perform better in class
• Short term travelers who want to take an English course while visiting the United States
• Expatriate spouses who want to improve their ability to communicate in English in daily life

3. When can I schedule my English lesson?

The lesson times are customized based on your schedule. 

Our tutors are available in the morning, at lunch time, in the afternoon, in the evening and on weekends.

Our language tutors are flexible and can occasionally change the lesson time with 24 hours' notice if something comes up in your schedule.

4. Where are the English lessons held?

We are located in New York City, Boston, and online.

The English lessons are held in person, in a location that is convenient for you.

We can work with you at your office, in a quiet cafe in your neighborhood or in a public library.

5. Do you offer English lessons online?

We offer online lessons through Skype. Skype lessons are usually 1 or 1.5 hours. We also offer a conversation program online with native conversation partners. Get more details here.

6. How long are the English lessons?

For the English lessons, we recommend 1.5 hours per lesson.

You can request 1 hour lessons or 2 hour lessons as well.

7. Do you have private and group English classes?

We only offer private or semi-private English lessons that are customized specifically for your needs and goals.

This allows you to improve as quickly as possible and to get the best return on your investment of time and money.

This also allows us to create a course that is designed around your schedule .

8. What is the curriculum for the English classes ?

For our premium course, the curriculum is designed for each student based on needs and goals.

During your free trial lesson, we will discuss your goals and your tutor will continue to work with you to design the right curriculum for you.

Your lesson curriculum can include business English, general fluency, idioms and expressions, vocabulary, grammar, interview skills, reading, writing, TOEFL and more. View our English course options.

If you choose our Speakative conversation course, we have a very specific curriculum designed to help you build strong conversation skills.

9. Do you use a specific textbook?

For the premium tutoring program, the needs and goals of each student are very different; therefore, your tutor will bring lesson materials that are appropriate for your level and goals.

You do not need to purchase a specific textbook for your English course.

If you choose the Speakative conversation program, we have a very specific curriculum designed to help you deepen your vocabulary, conversation skills, and cultural competence.

10. What teaching style do you use?

Our English tutors use the communicative appproach.

The English lessons are usually conversation based and you will learn new grammar, vocabulary and pronunciation skills within the context of natural and realistic role plays, discussions, interviews and conversations.

This style of learning encourages independent use of the language and will help you build confidence and stay motivated. Read more about the English and Culture method.

11. Who will be my English tutor?

When you choose to work with English and Culture, we will match you with a private tutor who has experience in the area that you want to improve (business English, TOEFL, pronunciation).

Our tutors are native speakers of English, they have academic credentials in the field of teaching English as a second language as well as many years of experience teaching ESL in the United States and around the world.

Our tutors are patient, flexible and will create a positive learning environment for your English course.

12. Can I try a lesson for free?

We offer a 30 minute free trial lesson with Lindsay, our Director of Studies.

During your trial lesson, we will discuss your learning style, your goals and a possible schedule. Read more about the free trial lesson.

13. What are the prices?

We have different package options available. Prices vary based on the number of lessons and cultural training sessions you purchase. Please view our packages and contact us for specific prices.