English Lesson: Past Perfect Continuous Tense & Exercises

 

English Lesson: Past Perfect Continuous Tense & Exercises

Introduction:

The past perfect continuous tense, also known as the past perfect progressive tense, is used to express an ongoing action that started in the past, continued for some time, and was still in progress at a certain point in the past. In this lesson, we will explore the structure, usage, and examples of the past perfect continuous tense.

1. Structure:

The past perfect continuous tense is formed using the following structure:
Positive Form:

• Subject + had been + Verb-ing (present participle form) + Object

Negative Form:

• Subject + had not been + Verb-ing (present participle form) + Object

Question Form:

• Had + Subject + been + Verb-ing (present participle form) + Object?

2. Usage:

The past perfect continuous tense is used to:

• Emphasize the duration of an action that had been happening before another action or event in the past.
• Describe an action that started in the past and continued up to a certain point in the past.
• Express an action that was in progress when another action occurred in the past.

3. Examples:

1. Positive Form:
   • She had been waiting for the bus for over an hour.
   • They had been working on the project since morning.
2. Negative Form:
   • She had not been studying for the exam all day.
   • They had not been practicing the piano for very long.
3. Question Form:
   • Had she been living in New York for a long time?
   • Had they been playing tennis before it started raining?

4. Signal Words:

Certain words and expressions are often used with the past perfect continuous tense to indicate time and duration, such as:
- For, since, all day, all night, how long, the whole day, before, etc.

English Lesson: Adverbs and Adverbial Phrases & Exercises

 

English Lesson: Adverbs and Adverbial Phrases & Exercises 

Introduction:

In English grammar, adverbs play a crucial role in providing more information about verbs, adjectives, other adverbs, or even entire sentences. Additionally, adverbial phrases also enhance the quality of writing by offering more details about the manner, place, time, frequency, or degree of an action. Let's delve into a comprehensive lesson on adverbs and adverbial phrases.

1. Adverbs:

• Adverbs are words that modify or describe verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs in a sentence.
• They answer questions such as how, when, where, why, and to what extent an action is performed.
• Examples of adverbs include quickly, carefully, happily, very, and always.

Types of Adverbs:

1. Adverbs of Manner: These adverbs describe how an action is performed. E.g., She sings beautifully.
2. Adverbs of Place: These adverbs indicate where an action takes place. E.g., The cat is sitting there.
3. Adverbs of Time: These adverbs specify when an action occurs. E.g., I will meet you later.
4. Adverbs of Degree: These adverbs show the intensity or degree of an action. E.g., He is quite tall.
5. Adverbs of Frequency: These adverbs explain how often an action occurs. E.g., They usually go for a walk.

2. Adverbial Phrases:

• Adverbial phrases consist of more than one word that function as an adverb in a sentence.
• They provide additional information about the action, similar to adverbs but with more complexity.
• Adverbial phrases usually begin with prepositions like in, on, at, with, or without.

Examples of Adverbial Phrases:

1. At the top of the hill, they found a hidden treasure.
2. In the early morning, the birds chirped loudly.
3. With great care, she handled the fragile vase.
4. Without hesitation, he jumped into the icy water.
5. On a sunny day, they enjoyed a picnic in the park.

English lesson : The Passive with "It" for Reporting Verbs

 

The Passive with "It" for Reporting Verbs

The English language is wonderfully complex and offers numerous ways to convey messages with subtlety and variety. One such nuance is the use of the passive voice with reporting verbs, especially involving the pronoun “it.” This lesson will delve into how to effectively use this structure to improve clarity, formality, and detachment in your written and spoken English. Let’s break this down into simple, digestible parts to master this useful grammar tool.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the passive with "it," let’s clarify what we mean by reporting verbs and passive constructions.

Reporting Verbs

Reporting verbs are used when speaking about or reporting on someone's words, thoughts, or actions. Common examples include: say, report, claim, and believe.

Passive Voice

Passive voice is a sentence construction where the subject of the sentence is acted upon by the verb. It’s often used to prioritize the action or the recipient of the action rather than who or what is performing the action.

The Role of "It" in Passive Reporting Structures

Using "it" in passive constructions with reporting verbs allows for a more formal or academic tone. It can also help to depersonalize the statement, which can be particularly useful in written reports or academic papers.

How It Works

• Standard Structure: The standard structure for including "it" in passive reporting sentences is:

  {It is + past participle of reporting verb + that + clause} 

• Example:
  • Active Voice: "Scientists say that the medication is effective."
  • Passive Voice: "It is said that the medication is effective."

Benefits of Using This Structure

• Emphasizes the Statement: This structure focuses more on the information or claim itself rather than the speaker.
• Adds Formality: It provides a more formal tone, which is preferred in academic and professional settings.
• Useful for Unspecified Sources: Ideal when the source is general, unknown, or not important.

Examples in Context

To further understand the application, here are more examples:

1. Active to Passive Conversion:
   • Active: "Experts believe the solution is feasible."
   • Passive: "It is believed that the solution is feasible."
2. Varying Reporting Verbs:
   • "The manager stated that the project would be delayed."
   • "It was stated that the project would be delayed."
3. Impersonal Statements:
   • "People think that the policy might change."
   • "It is thought that the policy might change."

Tips for Practice

• Identify Opportunities: Look for sentences in news articles or academic papers where shifting to a passive construction might add clarity or formality.
• Rewrite Sentences: Take active sentences and convert them into passive constructions using "it."
• Peer Review: Exchange exercises with peers to gain feedback and see other uses of passive voice.

Mastering the use of "it" with reporting verbs in passive constructions can significantly elevate the quality of your English writing and speaking. This approach not only adds sophistication but also allows you to communicate more effectively in formal contexts. Practice this structure, and soon it will become an integral part of your English communication toolkit!

By integrating the above strategies and examples into your daily English practice, you'll not only grow more comfortable with passive constructions but also enhance your overall ability to communicate with nuance and precision.

Top 6 Websites That Will Pay You to Teach English

6 Websites That Will Pay You to Teach English 

Teaching English online has become an increasingly popular way to earn income, whether as a full-time job or a side hustle. The convenience of working from home, flexible schedules, and the joy of interacting with students from around the globe make it an attractive proposition. For those skilled in the English language and passionate about teaching, there are several websites where you can connect with students in need of learning. Here are the top 6 platforms that pay you to teach English, each with its unique advantages and opportunities.

1. VIPKid

VIPKid stands as one of the most well-known platforms dedicated to teaching English to children in China. Teachers can earn between $14 - $22 per hour, depending on experience and performance in demo lessons. The platform offers 1-on-1 classes, and all lesson plans are provided, allowing teachers to focus solely on teaching. You'll need a bachelor's degree (in any field) and some teaching experience to qualify.

2. EF Education First

EF Education First offers a variety of teaching options, including online classes, abroad teaching, and private tutoring to students across the globe. Pay rates vary by location and format but are competitive. Notably, EF prioritizes professional development, offering teachers resources and training to advance their skills. Requirements include being a native English speaker and holding a bachelor's degree.

3. Cambly

Cambly is unique in its approach, offering an on-demand tutoring service where students can instantly connect with a tutor without a scheduled lesson. Payment is by the minute, with a rate of $0.17 per minute ($10.20 per hour). It's an ideal platform for those looking for more flexible teaching hours and it doesn’t require a degree or teaching certificate.

4. italki

Italki caters to adults looking for 1-on-1 lessons in multiple languages, including English. Teachers set their rates, which can range widely depending on experience and specializations. Italki takes a commission from the lesson price. It's an excellent platform for those looking to set their schedules, prices, and teaching style. Requirements vary by the type of teacher (Professional Teacher or Community Tutor).

5. DaDa

DaDa partners with English learners aged 4 to 16, providing a platform for one-on-one English education. Teachers can earn up to $25 per hour, based on qualifications and experience. DaDa requires a Bachelor’s degree or above, TEFL certification (or equivalent), and a commitment to a minimum number of hours per month.

6. SayABC

SayABC is known for its interactive platform and the opportunity to teach up to four students per session. This can be a more dynamic and engaging teaching experience. Teachers can earn up to $21 per 40-minute lesson, including bonuses. Requirements include having a bachelor's degree and a TEFL certification or equivalent teaching experience.

Before diving into teaching English online, carefully consider the requirements and commitments of each platform. Some require long-term contracts, while others are more flexible. Don't forget to consider the tech requirements, such as a stable internet connection and a quiet workspace.

Teaching English online offers a rewarding opportunity to impact students' lives while earning an income from the comfort and safety of your home. These top 6 platforms offer varied opportunities tailored to different teaching styles, schedules, and career goals. Whether you're looking for a full-time job or a side project, teaching English online could be the perfect fit.

 

5 Online Programs That Pay You to Study

In the current education landscape, the traditional model of paying for your own education is increasingly being complemented by innovative programs that actually pay you to study. These programs, often funded by educational institutions, tech companies, or philanthropic organizations, aim to remove financial barriers to education, empower learners, and in many cases, fill skill gaps in high-demand industries. Here's a closer look at five such online programs, each with its unique offerings and incentives for learners.

1. Lambda School's Income Share Agreements

Lambda School offers a novel approach to financing tech education. Specializing in coding and data science, the school uses an Income Share Agreement (ISA). This means students only start paying for their education once they land a job that pays above a certain threshold.

• Benefits: Pay nothing upfront; comprehensive curriculum in high-demand fields.
• Fields Covered: Coding, Data Science, and UX/UI Design.
• How it Works: Students repay a percentage of their income for a set number of years after employment.

Learn more about Lambda School

2. Coursera's Workforce Recovery Initiative

Coursera has partnered with governments across the globe to offer free access to its course catalog for unemployed workers. The initiative aims to provide displaced workers with the opportunity to develop new skills and make a career pivot.

• Benefits: Free access to Coursera’s vast library of courses.
• Fields Covered: Business, Technology, Data Science, Personal Development, and more.
• How it Works: Government-sponsored free access with a focus on unemployed or displaced workers.

Explore Coursera's Workforce Recovery Initiative

3. Google Career Certificates Scholarship Program

Google offers scholarships for its career certificates, covering in-demand skills such as IT support, data analytics, project management, and user experience design. These scholarships are often distributed through nonprofit organizations and community colleges.

• Benefits: Prepare for high-demand jobs with no experience necessary.
• Fields Covered: IT Support, Data Analytics, Project Management, UX Design.
• How it Works: Apply through partner organizations for a scholarship covering the full cost of the certificate.

Discover Google’s Career Certificates

4. App Academy Open

App Academy offers a free version of its coding boot camp online, known as App Academy Open. While the full access to tutoring and job placement assistance comes with a fee, the core curriculum is available to anyone, free of charge.

• Benefits: Free access to the coding curriculum.
• Fields Covered: Software Engineering with a focus on Web Development.
• How it Works: Self-paced learning with an option for paid mentorship and career services.

Check out App Academy Open

5. edX MicroMasters Programs Financial Assistance

edX, founded by Harvard and MIT, offers MicroMasters programs as a pathway to an accelerated master's degree or to boost your career. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify, reducing the cost of these programs by up to 90%.

• Benefits: Advanced learning at a fraction of the cost; pathway to an accelerated master’s degree.
• Fields Covered: Various, including Robotics, Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Global Hospitality Management.
• How it Works: Apply for financial assistance during the course application process.

Learn about edX MicroMasters Programs

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 These programs represent a shift towards more accessible and affordable education, making it possible for individuals to develop new skills, enhance their careers, and even pivot to entirely new fields without the burden of upfront costs. As the demand for skilled professionals in various industries continues to grow, these initiatives play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education and employment.