Showing posts with label Grammar. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Grammar. Show all posts

8 May 2012

Relative clauses and Taboo

This is a very good game to practice relative clauses. Students are given cards with words to describe. You can tell them that they must use relative clauses or just see if it comes out naturally from the game.



Taboo rules: 


The objective of the game is for a player to have his/her partner(s) guess the word on his/her card without using the word itself or five additional words listed on the card.


You can easily find the cards online, just type taboo cards on google and you will have many options to choose from. If you want to make your own set of cards you can go to http://www.monzy.com/taboo/ .


Enjoy:)



16 April 2012

British vs. American English


It's import to expose your students to everything regarding English, so they can be "culturally fluent". Cultural fluency doesn't mean memorizing every cultural nuance. It's knowing when to listen, when to ask for help, and when finally to speak.
There are several areas in which British and American English differ. This video shows the main ones to be aware of. Enjoy!

13 March 2012

Correcting COMMON mistakes!



It's not an easy task, but we need to be aware of  how our students are doing and try to keep a balance between fluency vs. accuracy in the classroom 
There is a tension where too much desire  for accuracy denies a student fluency.  And too much emphasis on fluency can result in spoken language that follows no rules at all.
Bring exercises where they can access and correct COMMON mistakes is a great way to do it without putting them in the spotlight. 

This activity can be done in groups or individually,  set a time limit and ask your students to correct the mistakes in the sentences below. 


1. I have twenty one years old.
2. My friend he is a system analyst.
3. This is for to use in the computer.
4. Could you borrow me your book?
5. He don´t work here anymore.
6. That store is near to my house.
7. How long time were you in Mexico?
8. She can to go right now.
9. How frequent do you watch sitcoms?
10. I go to the gym one time a week.
11. I need do my homework today.
12. How long do you work here?
13. Childrens usually don´t like vegetables very much.
14. I´m not understanding. Could you repeat, please?
15. Did you went to the movies in the last week?
16. I´ve knowing my best friend since for 10 years.
17. I don´t have nothing to do.
18. I want you to tell to her I am very busy.
19. The peoples usually like to work in a group.
20. I´ll attend the phone.
21. I borned in SP.
22. I have afraid of ghosts.
23. I was doing my homework yesterday night.
24. I told my wife to change your car. She bought a very old one!
25. I got up late and I lost my bus!!!
26. A: Have a nice weekend.
B: For you too!
27. Have twenty five people in my department.
28. I have particular Spanish classes.
29. We have differents products in your company.
30. I tripped to London last year.
31. Always I ask my boss to take easy.
32. We go out work at 6:00 pm.
33. When I will win the lottery, I will buy a huge apartment.
34. Are you calling me today at night?
35. You must train your Spanish.
36. Did you used to play a lot as a kid?




23 November 2011

Imperative Mood:)


This activity aims to teach the imperative mood of verbs in a fun way.


Grammar:

Imperatives are verbs used to give orders, commands, warning or instructions, and (if you use "please") to make a request. It is one of the three moods of an English verb (indicative, imperative and subjunctive).
You can also use "let's" before the verb if you are including yourself in the imperative. The negative of "let's" is "let's not".
Note that an imperative sentence does not require a subject; the pronoun "you" is implied.

Activity:

The students watch a video in which the participants are given several instructions to accomplish tasks.




The students should list down all the instructions given throughout the event.
After that, they have to order the events according to when they happened in the video.

Extension:
Ask the students to imagine they are in charge of commanding those participants in the video and they have to add three or more instructions for them to perform. Depending on the group, they can choose the student who gave the best instructions and role play it in the classroom (Simon says).

Brainstorm:
Have your student discuss about the following:
What are social networks?
Is it possible  to coordinate similar events to the one they saw in the video? Give examples.
Have they ever participated in any similar event? Talk about it.

11 October 2011

Spot the difference using COMPARATIVES!

A great activity to consolidate comparatives is the online game "The Daily Diff".
"The Daily Diff"(Play at http://www.shockwave.com/gamelanding/dailydiff.jsp) is a game where students have to spot the 10 differences in the pictures, encourage them to use comparatives. There is a different picture everyday.

Eg.: 
The right side hat is bigger than the left side one.
The left hat is bluer than than the pink one.

Here there are some examples of "The Daily Diff" pictures:








10 October 2011

Personality Adjectives


Interpret others characteristics using Numerology.
Make copies of each number meaning and display them where all students can read it. Then ask them to write down a classmate’s full name and count each letter of their mate’s name following the formula below. 


1= a, j, s;
2= b, k, t;
3= c, l, u;
4= d, m, v;
5= e, n, w;
6= f, o, x;
7= g, p, y;
8= h, q, z;
9= i, r
E.g.: Steve = 1+2+5+4+5= 17 = 1+7= 8


After finding their friend’s number, ask your students to write their classmates' profile based on the description using personality adjectives. Ask your students to share with their pair.

VARIATION: If you don’t want to put your students on the spot, instead of getting their names ask your students to interpret their favorite celebrity's name, and make a poster using cut outs from magazines illustrating the celebrity’s characteristics.

This activity can also help students practice first conditional.  

e.g.: “If your number is 4, you will be successful in arts.

This activity promotes interaction amongst the students, and it makes students curious and interested. They will have a lot of fun with it:D

Interpretations:

Number 1 is the most individualistic of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 1 appears in your numerology chart:
Extraordinary leadership skills, very ambitious, driven, goal-oriented, strong will power, courageous, unconventional, inventive, creative, original, pioneer, unique approach to problems, independent, individualistic, great potential for success. 
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 1 is predominant in your chart:
Entrepreneur, leader, manager, business person, inventor, scientist, ideally you should be your own boss.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 1, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
Stubborn, dominant, impatient, concerned with status and appearance, selfish, egotistic, angry, aggressive, demands respect and attention, pride, need to feel in command.


Number 2 is the most sensitive of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 2 appears in your numerology chart:
You are gentle, subtle, cooperative, tactful, diplomatic, patient, sincere, harmonious, artistic, emphatic, intuitive, supportive, loving, humble and peaceful. You are considerate and sensitive to the needs of others.
You sense what other want and how they feel, you are a great team-worker and an organizational talent. You have an eye for beauty and you are often the power behind the throne.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 2 is predominant in your chart:
Healer, counselor, teacher, musician, designer, architect, diplomat, advisor
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 2, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
Timidity, fear, low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence, depressed. You are vulnerable and easily hurt and you try to escape from all kinds of confrontation and criticism.

Number 3 is the most playful of all numbers. 
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 3 appears in your numerology chart:
You are creative, socially active, artistic, very positive and optimistic, playful, happy and fun-loving, inspirational, imaginative, motivating, enthusiastic and uplifting.
You have great verbal skills and a talent for self expression. You are a great communicator, you enjoy life and you don't take things too seriously.
For more information on how to calculate your numbers, please check out my
numerology calculation chart and my article on numerology calculation.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 3 is predominant in your chart:
Entertainer, writer, actor, musician.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 3, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
You are disorganized, irresponsible, moody, emotional and vulnerable. You can be moody and cynical, you lack focus and discipline and you might have difficulties with handling money.
You tend to scatter your energies, you often lack direction and it might be difficult for you to finish projects.


Number 4 is the most practical of all numbers. 
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 4 appears in your numerology chart:
You are practical, detail-oriented, organized, orderly, systematic, methodical, precise, reliable, punctual, dependable, honest, trustworthy, without artifice.
You are the rock and cornerstone of an enterprise, you don't give up easily, you are perseverant and a hard worker.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 4 is predominant in your chart:
Banker, accountant, manager, scientist, lawyer.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 4, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
You can be rigid, judgmental, stubborn, too detail-oriented, bossy, overly cautious and too serious. You might lack flexibility and adaptability.
It is difficult for you to deal with changes and you are often too conventional in your approach.

Number 5 is the most flexible of all numbers. 
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 5 appears in your numerology chart:
You make friends easily, you are versatile and multi-talented, upbeat and inspirational and a good communicator and motivator. You have great verbal skills and you are very dynamic, persuasive, adaptable, versatile and curious, courageous, bright and quick-witted.
You are an explorer and adventurer who wants to experience all of life, you also like to perform in front of audiences and you like to do several things at the same time.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 5 is predominant in your chart:
Salesperson, promoter, entertainer, scientist, travel agent.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 5, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
It is difficult for you to commit to one relationship and you have difficulties to finish projects. You lack discipline and order, you are impatient, restless, easily distracted and you can be very impulsive.
You might also be susceptible to overindulgence in sensual pleasures. Discipline and focus are the keys to your success.



Number 6 is the most loving of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 6 appears in your numerology chart:
You are compassionate, responsible, sacrificing and unselfish, harmonious and balanced, generous, kind, humble, charismatic and charming.
You are also committed, protective, nurturing, domestic, community conscious and family oriented. You like to offer a shoulder for others and you are a good parent.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 6 is predominant in your chart:
Musician, actor, teacher, healer, artist, craftsperson.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 6, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
You can be too emotional and overly sentimental. You are susceptible to flattery. You also might sacrifice yourself too much for the sake of others and suppresses your own talents.
You have to find a balance truly between helping and interfering. Sometimes you are also self-righteousness, stubborn and egotistical and you tend to dominate family and friends.



Number 7 is the most spiritual of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 7 appears in your numerology chart:
You are analytical, intellectual, focused, scientific and inventive, contemplative, meditative, spiritual and enigmatic. You are a seeker of truth and an accumulator of knowledge and wisdom.
You prefer working alone and you need space and privacy. You enjoy solitude, but you also like to display your knowledge in public. You are an abstract thinker, you are self-oriented, a perfectionist and you possess great mental strength
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 7 is predominant in your chart:
Scientist, religious leader, philosopher, scholar, preacher, sage, teacher, inventor, researcher.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 7, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
Intimacy might be difficult for you. You can be cynical, selfish, egocentric, withdrawn, aloof, lonely, overly reserved and suspicions.
Maintain your independence, but be careful not to become too inward and isolated.

Number 8 is the most powerful of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 8 appears in your numerology chart:
You are inspiring, result-oriented, powerful, ambitious, visionary, generous, perseverant, forgiving, broad-minded, money-conscious and self-disciplined.
You have the potential for enormous success and the possibility to accumulate great wealth. You are also a good judge of character a natural leader and a survivor.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 8 is predominant in your chart:
Manager, investor, entrepreneur, business person, scientist, politician, financial expert, real estate, politician, athlete.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 8, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
You might be stubborn, intolerant, impatient, stressed, materialistic, impatient with people, arrogant and reckless. You have the power to accumulate great wealth, but you also susceptible to loosing everything.
You are a gambler, you have a strong desire for luxuries and you can fall for corruption. You have to find a balance between the spiritual and the material world. Learn to use your power for benefit of mankind.

Number 9 is the most humanitarian of all numbers.
You most likely have some of the following strengths and talents at your disposal if the number 9 appears in your numerology chart:
You are socially conscious, concerned about the betterment of the world, idealistic, visionary, tolerant, imaginative and creative, compassionate, romantic, selfless and generous. are also giving, sharing, loving, caring, noble and aristocratic.
You don't mind sacrificing time, money and energy for a better world. You usually finish what you start and you are ready to sacrifice without the need for reward.
Here are some of the career choices that might suit you particularly well if the number 9 is predominant in your chart:
Designer, photographer, politician, lawyer, teacher, healer, statesperson, writer, philosopher, artist.
Some of the following weaknesses, which are associated with the number 9, could slow down or even prevent your progress. But don't worry, it's very unlikely that all of the listed characteristics are part of your personality.
Most probably, only one or a few of them will belong to you:
You can be aloof, withdrawn, distracted, possessive, moody, timid and uncertain. You are often unsatisfied with achieved results and you might get disappointed with life's realities. You also tend to be careless with your finances.

Formula and interpretation's source:

4 October 2011

Modal Verbs Hot Potato:)

Teaching a Modal Verbs?
This is the hot potato dare game.
First create your dares on separate slips of paper. 
Eg.: 
Ask permission to touch someone's nose.
Can you you stand on one foot for 15 seconds?
Ask someone to sing you a song.
Ask permission to sing a song to someone.
Give an advice to someone.

Make sure to create dares that will either make your students use modal verbs or express an ability.

Ask your students to seat in a circle formation and give them a ball, or a hot potato (if you have one) to pass around. When the song stops ask the student holding the ball to get a slip of paper. Play an upbeat song and have fun!!

28 September 2011

Reported Speech Interview!


Divide your class in pairs. Tell pairs that one of them will be the reporter, and he or she is going to interview a famous person, show who the famous people are (check below for pictures you can use). Ask them to prepare questions. The other will be a famous celebrity, so he or she has to think about the answers.
Next, ask them to role-play the interview.
Finally, the reporters have to report the famous person's answers, and the celebrity has to report the questions.
This way students can practice reported statements, and also reported questions, pretending they are talking to their idols or being one.
If you prefer, you can use cut outs from magazines and students can make their own magazine, perhaps a poster with their idol's interview is also a good idea.


This activity is really fun, and they love doing it!










27 September 2011

ED and ING Adjectives



This is a video of a proposal. This guy made a trailer for his girlfriend to ask her hand in marriage. It's a great video to practice  ED and ING adjectives, because we can see her reactions throughout the movie.


First write a brief explanation on the board.


ing adjectives are used to describe things: 
'The lecture was boring.' ed adjectives are used to describe our feelings: 
'I felt very bored.' 


Ask your students to watch the video then create sentences using the adjectives below.



E.g.


She is shocked.


The proposal was amazing.


It was surprising.



25 September 2011

Narrate a story and practice Present Tenses!

This activity is done in three steps and it is a great way to consolidate Simple Present and Present Continuous. When narrating a story, we can use these present tenses to recreate the events in an active, dynamic way. The narrator can relate the story as if it is happening at the moment.

1) Set your students in pairs. One of them will have to face the back wall and not watch the animation. Show the first 3 minutes of it (check video below), and ask the student watching to narrate the events while the other writes them down.

E.g.

The film is set in Washington.

The man is crossing the street.

The man gets a bag from another man.

The man is eating a donuts.


2) Stop the video at the three minute mark and ask the pairs to switch. Now the narrator will write down and the writer will narrate. Show the remaining 3 minutes.

3) To make sure the students didn't miss any event in the animation, show the video for the second time and ask the pairs to check it.

Enjoy!

**Special thanks to our friend and fellow  teacher Karla Silva for showing us this amazing video!

24 September 2011

Present and Past DEDUCTIONS!


This is a trailer for a new movie that is very popular with teens, and it's great to work present and past deductions.





Show your students this movie trailer and request them to make deductions using the structures below. Engage them by asking questions:

E.g
Who could they be?
Why may this be happening? 
What could have happened?



Making Present Deductions:

We use the modals
Could / may /might + infinitive to say that something is possible
Must + infinitive to say that something is certain
Can’t + infinitive to say that something is impossible
e.g: They might be friends


Making Past Deductions:

We use the modals
Must + past participle to make a logical deduction about what has happened
Could / may /might + past participle to offer possible explanations for what happened
We use can’t + past participle to say that it is impossible that something has happened
 e.g.: He could have been abducted when he was a child



23 September 2011

A glimpse of the FUTURE!



Future Simple and Future Continuous

Prepare:
Tell your students they are going to watch a video made by microsoft predicting what the world will be like in the near future.



Practice:
After watching the video, show the future simple and future continuous structure:

Future Simple

Subject
+
Auxiliary verb
+
verb
I
He/she/it
We/you/they
Will
Be
Have
Work


e.g.: Houses will be sustainable. 
        People will have internet connection everywhere.



Future Continuous

Subject
+
Auxiliary verb
+
Auxiliary verb
+
Verb + ing
I
He
She
it
We
you
they
Will
Be
Working
Going
making




e.g.: People will be living in sustainable houses;
        Schools will be virtual.


Tell students to sit in pairs and write future simple and future continuous sentences about the video’s predictions for the future. 
According to the video, what will this these things be like in the future? 

  • Homes;
  • Schools;
  • Transportation;
  • The use of technology: tools and devices (cell phones, tablets and lap tops);
  • Languages;
  • Communication (text messages, instant messages, news and magazines);
  • Jobs and work place;
  • The environment;
  • Energy;
  • GPS (global positional system);              




Write some future adjectives on the board to help their thoughts:


Personalize
Finally, ask the students to predict the future by reflecting and answering the questions below.

Are your predictions similar to those in the video?

What else do you think will be invented?

How smart do you think home appliances will get?