NFL Football

September 7, 2026July 14, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

There are many professional sports in the United States, but none is more popular than the NFL. With the start of the new season just around the corner on Wednesday, September 9th, let’s learn a little about the game that millions of people love.

The person most often called the “Father of American Football” is Walter Camp, a Yale player who helped shape the game. American football developed from a combination of soccer and rugby, and Camp introduced several important rule changes in the 1880s. These included the line of scrimmage (where the ball is snapped), the system of downs (the team’s attempts to move the ball), and teams of 11 players.

Walter Camp, the “Father of American Football “

In 1920, the American Professional Football Association was founded in Canton, Ohio. Two years later, it changed its name to the National Football League (NFL), the league we know today.

Today, the NFL has 32 teams. They are divided into two conferences: the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). Each conference is divided into four divisions – East, North, South, and West – with four teams in each division.

Key Vocabulary:

Offense – The team with the ball.
Defense – The team trying to stop the offense.
Receiver (WR) – A player who catches passes.
Running Back (RB) – A player who primarily runs with the ball.
Huddle – When players gather to discuss the next play.
Audible – A last-second change to the play called by the quarterback.
Blitz – When extra defenders rush the quarterback.
Playoff – Postseason tournament to determine the champion.

The AFC

The AFC East: Buffalo Bills, Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots, and New York Jets.
The AFC North: the Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers.
The AFC South: the Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, and Tennessee Titans
The AFC West: the Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Las Vegas Raiders, and Los Angeles Chargers.

The NFC

The NFC East: the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders.
The NFC North: the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings.
The NFC South: the Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, New Orleans Saints, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
The NFC West: the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks.

During the regular season, teams compete within their divisions and conferences for playoff spots, and the champions of the AFC and NFC face each other in the Super Bowl to determine the NFL champion.

Photos from Past Super Bowls

The Basic Rules:

Each team has an offense and a defense, with 11 players on each side. The offense tries to move the ball down a 100-yard field and into the opponent’s end zone, while the defense tries to stop them.

Downs: The offense gets four chances (called downs) to move the ball 10 yards. If they gain 10 yards or more, they earn a first down and receive a new set of four downs. If they fail to do this, possession is turned over to the other team, and the offense and defense switch roles.

The Clock: A game lasts 60 minutes, divided into four 15-minute quarters. However, because the clock stops frequently, a televised game usually takes about three hours to complete.

How Scoring Works

Touchdown (6 points): Running or catching the ball in the opponent’s end zone.
Extra Point / Two-Point Conversion (1 or 2 points): Attempted immediately after a touchdown. Kicking the ball through the uprights earns 1 point; running or passing it into the end zone earns 2 points.
Field Goal (3 points): Kicking the ball through the uprights, usually on fourth down, when the offense is close enough to score but unlikely to reach the end zone.
Safety (2 points): A rare play in which the defense tackles an offensive player holding the ball in their own end zone.

More Vocabulary:

Touchdown: Scoring 6 points by getting the ball into the opponent’s end zone.
Quarterback (QB): The player who leads the offense and usually throws the ball.
End Zone: The scoring area at each end of the field.
First Down: Earning another set of four downs by gaining 10 yards.
Down: One of the offense’s four chances to advance the ball 10 yards.
Line of Scrimmage: The spot where the ball is placed before each play begins.
Snap: The action that starts a play when the center gives the ball to the quarterback.
Pass: Throwing the ball to a teammate.
Run: Carrying the ball instead of throwing it.
Tackle: Bringing the ball carrier to the ground.
Field Goal: A kick through the uprights worth 3 points.
Interception: When the defense catches a pass intended for the offense.
Fumble: When a player loses possession of the ball before being down.
Sack: Tackling the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage.
Turnover: When possession changes because of an interception, fumble, or failed fourth down.
Punt: A kick to the other team, usually on fourth down.
Red Zone: The area inside the opponent’s 20-yard line where scoring is likely.
Penalty: A rule violation that results in a loss or gain of yards.
Overtime: Extra playing time if the score is tied after regulation.
Super Bowl: The NFL championship game played each February.

The 10 greatest players of all time

10. EMMITT SMITH, RUNNING BACK(RB) (1990-2004), 9. JOE MONTANA, QUARTERBACK(QB) (1979-1994), 8. PATRICK MAHOMES, QUARTERBACK (QB) (2017-PRESENT), 7. REGGIE WHITE, DEFENSIVE END(DE) (1985-1998, 2000), 6. WALTER PAYTON, RUNNING BACK(RB) (1975-1987), 5. PEYTON MANNING, QUARTERBACK(QB) (1998-2015), 4. LAWRENCE TAYLOR, LINEBACKER(LB) (1981-1993), 3. JIM BROWN, RUNNING BACK(RB) (1957-1965), 2. JERRY RICE, WIDE RECEIVER(WR) (1985-04), 1. TOM BRADY, QUARTERBACK(QB) (2000-2022)

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Start Strong: Seven Study Habits for English Language Learners

September 1, 2026July 23, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Simple ways to study, remember new words, and feel ready for the school year.

The beginning of the school year is a fresh start. New classmates, new books, and new routines mean that school can feel exciting and hard at the same time.

The good news is this: you do not need to study for many hours all at once. It is better to use small, strong habits every day. Testing yourself, reviewing over time, and taking breaks can help you remember more than only rereading or highlighting. These habits can help you build confidence, learn vocabulary, and understand class lessons better.

1. Space Out Your Studying

Do not wait until the night before a test. Study a little bit frequently. For example, review new vocabulary on Monday, practice again on Wednesday, and quiz yourself on Friday. This helps your brain remember words and ideas for a longer time. Short study times are also less tiring.

2. Practice Active Recall

Reading your notes again can help, but it is not enough. Active recall means you close your book and try to remember. You can use flashcards, answer practice questions, or write what you remember on a blank page This is a great way to practice vocabulary, sentence patterns, and important class ideas.

3. Use the Pomodoro Technique

The Pomodoro Technique is simple. Study for 25 minutes. Then take a 5-minute break. During study time, choose one job, such as “learn 8 new words”. During the break, stand up, stretch, or drink water. This helps your brain stay fresh.

4. Teach the Material

One good way to check your understanding is to teach the lesson to someone else. You can explain it to a classmate, a family member, or even to yourself. Use simple English. If you cannot explain an idea, you will know what to study again.

5. Establish a Dedicated Study Routine

Try to study at the same time each day. A routine helps your brain know, “This is study time.” Choose a small goal before you begin. Instead of saying, “I will study English,” say, “I will practice 10 vocabulary words,” or “I will write five sentences using the past tense.” Small goals are easier to achieve.

6. Eliminate Distractions

It is hard to learn when your phone, games, or noise keep pulling your attention away. Put your phone in another room or turn on “Do Not Disturb.” Keep your study space clean. Put only the things you need on your desk: your book, notebook, pencil, and dictionary or translation tool if needed.

7. Prioritize Your Physical Health

Your body helps your brain learn. Try to sleep 7 to 9 hours each night. Sleep helps your brain save what you learned. It can also help to review new words or notes for a few minutes before bed. Eat healthy food, drink water, and move your body. A rested brain can focus better.

A Simple Plan for the First Month

Start small. Choose two habits this week, such as using flashcards and studying for 25 minutes. Next week, add one more habit. You do not have to be perfect. The goal is to practice often. Little by little, these habits will help you learn English, understand your classes, and feel ready for the school year.

Don’t forget, classes start _________!

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Simple Past vs. Present Perfect

August 10, 2026July 13, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Use the Simple Past when the action happened at a finished time in the past.

Ask yourself: When did it happen? If you can answer with a finished time (yesterday, last year, in 2020, two hours ago), use the Simple Past.

Subject + past tense verb

I visited Boston.
She bought a new phone.
They arrived late.

Common time expressions

yesterday
last week/month/year
in 2018
two days ago
this morning (if the morning is over)
when I was a child

Examples

I saw that movie yesterday.
We met in 2022.
She finished her homework an hour ago.

Use the Present Perfect when the exact time is not important or the action has a connection to the present.

Ask yourself: Is the result or experience important now? If yes, use the Present Perfect.

Subject + have/has + past participle

I have visited Boston.
She has bought a new phone.
They have arrived.

The Four Main Uses of the Present Perfect

1️⃣ The time doesn’t matter.

I have been to Japan.
She has never ridden a horse.
Have you ever eaten sushi?

2️⃣ An Action That Happened Recently

Usually with:	Examples:
just	I’ve just finished.
already	She’s already left.
yet	Have you eaten yet?

3️⃣ An Action That Started in the Past and Continues Now ( The action is still true now. )

Often with:	Examples:
for	I have lived here for ten years.
since	She has worked here since 2020.

4️⃣ A Past Action with a Present Result

Examples:

I’ve lost my keys.
(I don’t have them now.)
She’s broken her leg.
(Her leg is still broken.)
We’ve missed the bus.
(We’re still waiting.)

The Golden Rule

Simple Past = Finished Time

When did it happen?

yesterday
last week
in 2015
two hours ago

Present Perfect = Unfinished Time or Present Connection

Has it happened before now?

Compare the Difference

Example one:

Simple Past	Present Perfect
I lost my keys yesterday.	I’ve lost my keys.
(The time is important.)	(The result is important—I can’t find them.)

Example two:

Simple Past	Present Perfect
Did you eat breakfast this morning?	Have you eaten breakfast today?
(The morning is finished.)	(Today is not finished.)

Example three:

Simple Past	Present Perfect
She worked here from 2018 to 2022.	She has worked here since 2018.
(She doesn’t work here anymore.)	(She still works here.)

Signal Words

Simple Past	Present Perfect
yesterday	ever
last…	never
ago	already
in ( 2010 )	yet
when I was…	just
then	since
before	for
after	recently
If you see one of these, the Simple Past is almost always correct.	lately
	so far
	up to now
	this week (if the week isn’t over)
	today (if today isn’t over)

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Dancin’ the (summer) night away…

August 3, 2026July 21, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Vocabulary:

To take advantage — exp., to enjoy something that’s given to you, usually at no cost.

waterfront — n. the edge of a body of water; a lake, ocean, or river shoreline.

revel — v., to enjoy something very much, to celebrate

beloved — adj., something that is deeply loved.

culture — n., a set of beliefs, values, and behaviors belonging to a group of people.

Do you like to dance? Do you like free events? Do you like taking advantage of NYC’s summer offerings?

There are many opportunities to have fun on the dance floor this summer. Here are a few:

Sunset Salsa on the river!

Sunset Salsa is a Thursday evening salsa series at Pier 76 in Hudson River Park, bringing outdoor dancing to Manhattan’s west side.

The evening starts at 6:30 PM with a beginner-friendly salsa lesson, then opens into social dancing from 7:15 PM. Talía Castro-Pozo leads and curates the series.

The waterfront setting gives the event a relaxed summer feel, with room for new dancers to jump into the lesson and experienced dancers to stay for the social. It is a strong option for anyone looking for an outdoor salsa night with Hudson River views.

For dancers who want salsa outside a studio or club, Sunset Salsa offers a lively summer gathering along the river.

Modern Dance

Modern dance in Bryant park!

Saturday mornings, 10 – 11 am through September 19th. Experience the joy of movement with dancers from the world-renowned Limón Dance Company, this free modern dance class is open to all levels and ages. Join us this summer and revel in the joy of dance!

https://bryantpark.org/activities/limon-dance

Zumba in Gotham Park!

Ger ready for Zumba under the Brooklyn Bridge! Tuesday and Wednesday evenings 5:30 – 6:15. All ages and abilities welcome! Come and dance, sweat, and have a great time with friends and fellow Zumba enthusiasts. No experience requires, just come with a positive attitude and be ready to move to the music. Dates and ticket availability below.

https://vinylnightsnyc.com/events

Vinyl Nights is a beloved NYC institution – celebrating dance, music, club & DJ culture.

Experience what it was like to party in NYC in the early 70’s to the 90’s, when DJ’s played strictly Vinyl. Dance to the hits that shaped NYC – Disco, Funk, Soul, House, Boogie, Latin, Freestyle and 80’s & 90’s Hip Hop.

Have fun and we hope you can sleep late the next day!

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Summer Activities 😎

July 27, 2026July 27, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

There’s something special about New York City on a summer evening. On a hot day, the air cools down in the evening, the breeze off the river feels refreshing, and parks across the city are busy with people enjoying movies, concerts, and theater under the stars. Best of all, many of these events are completely free.

If you’re looking for some fun outdoor events in NYC this summer, here are three you won’t want to miss.

Movies at Brooklyn Bridge Park 🎥 🍿

Watching a movie with the Manhattan skyline in the background is hard to beat. Brooklyn Bridge Park’s popular Movies with a View series returns to Harbor View Lawn (Pier 1) for its 26th season.

Movies are shown every Thursday evening in July and August. The lawn opens at 6:00pm, and the movie begins at sunset.

This year’s lineup includes:

July 16: Bend It Like Beckham
July 23: The Talented Mr. Ripley
July 30: Clueless
August 6: Jurassic Park
August 13: Do the Right Thing
August 20: Bridesmaids

If you’re planning to go, arrive early. Seating on the lawn fills up quickly, so getting there when it opens gives you plenty of time to grab a good spot.

link: https://brooklynbridgepark.org/event-series/movies-with-a-view/

Free Shakespeare in Central Park 🎭

To go or not to go? That shouldn’t even be a question. Go! The Delacorte Theater is welcoming audiences back for another season of Free Shakespeare in the Park, one of New York City’s favorite summer traditions.

This year’s production is The Winter’s Tale, directed by Tony Award winner Daniel Sullivan.

The Winter’s Tale, running from July 25 – August 23

Tickets are free and are available the day of each performance. You can wait in line at Central Park, visit one of the ticket distribution locations in the five boroughs, or enter the digital lottery through the TodayTix app.

link: https://publictheater.org/free-shakespeare-in-the-park/

Art and Performances on Governors Island 🎺

Governors Island is a 172-acre island in New York Harbor, just a short ferry ride from Manhattan and Brooklyn. It’s the perfect summer escape, with scenic parks, public art, historic sites, bike paths, food vendors, and cultural events – all set against some of the city’s best skyline views.

Along with beautiful views, bike paths, and plenty of green space, the island hosts a variety of events as part of the River To River Festival. Presented by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC), the festival features public art, live performances, and interactive exhibits throughout the summer.

Upcoming events:

The Unintended Blues is a new exhibition by Leslie Wayne featuring paintings and multimedia works that explore rising sea levels, melting Arctic ice, and the impact of climate change on the natural world. – Friday, July 24 – Sunday, September 27
Esperanza Spalding: In Concert – August 8 at 7:00 pm

River To River Festival link: https://lmcc.net/river-to-river-2026/

Governors Island link: https://www.govisland.com/

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Hands writing notes in a lined journal with a pen on a wooden table

Grow as a Writer at University Settlement

July 13, 2026May 21, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

Do you enjoy writing? Do you want to get better and feel more confident? The Advanced Writing Class at University Settlement is a welcoming place for you. It is open to anyone who loves writing and wants to improve. In this class, people learn together, share ideas, and support each other as writers.

The class is taught by a professor from New York University (NYU). NYU is a respected university with a strong writing program. This means students can learn from an experienced teacher who can help them grow, improve their skills, and try new ways of writing.

At the end of the year, students have the special chance to see their work published in a collection of writing. This is a proud moment for many writers. It is also a wonderful way to celebrate each person’s hard work, progress, and voice.

If you or someone you know may be interested, please reach out to the Adult Literacy office at the beginning of the school year. We would love to welcome new writers into our community. Whether you have been writing for years or are just starting again, this class is a place to learn, connect, and grow.

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Stack of vintage hardcover books arranged on a wooden table indoors

Summer Reading

July 10, 2026July 10, 2026 US Adult LiteracyLeave a comment

For many of us, summer is the time when we have more time for ourselves. No classes, no rushed schedule of school, kids and work. Things move at a slower pace, maybe it’s the heat of a NYC summer, but maybe it’s just all of us taking the time to slow down a little, a change from the busy-ness of the rest of the year. What’s better to do with this found time than read a book? Or read several books?

First things first! Get a library card!

If you’re 13 or older, and live, work, attend, or pay property taxes in NY State, you are eligible for a card. Your card can be physical or digital.

https://www.nypl.org/help/library-card

If you prefer to complete the application for a physical library card in person, please visit an NYPL location with proof of ID and address. Find a location near you.

The New York Public Library even has a special card for this year!

With thanks to the New York Times, University Settlement has prepared a reading challenge list:

📖 ☐ Read a really short book.
📘 ☐ Read a really long book.
🕵️ ☐ Read a mystery book.
🎬 ☐ Read a book that’s been adapted for a movie.
☀️ ☐ Read a book that takes place in the summer.
🎧 ☐ Listen to an audiobook.

READ A BOOK RECOMMENDED BY A LIBRARIAN!

Audiobook suggestion: Wahala, Nikki May

Happy Reading! Enjoy your book choices!

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