Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and exercises for English for Other courses

Letter of Inquiry for Tennis Club Membership

Dear Sir and Madam,

I am interested in joining your tennis club. I have intermediate experience, having played tennis for five years at another club in my previous city. I would like to improve my skills and meet other tennis enthusiasts. Specifically, I am eager to refine my techniques and gain better control during matches.

I have a few questions: Could you provide me with information about membership fees and available schedules? Do you offer group or individual lessons? Do you organize tournaments for members?

Thank you for your consideration.
Yours faithfully,
Mrs. Ana Paula

Invitation to Join a Tennis Club

Dear Ana,

I thought I'd write to you about a new tennis club in our town that's offering classes....

Polygyny in Spain: A Societal Debate

Should polygyny be permitted in Spain today? This is a complex question with various viewpoints.

Arguments Against Polygyny in Spain

• Historically, polygyny has often been practiced in underdeveloped countries, frequently linked to a lack of resources or specific cultural traditions.
• From a societal perspective, many believe polygyny is not a sustainable way for people to live together, particularly regarding the sharing of a single man among multiple women.

Societal and Cultural Challenges in Spain

While some women might accept polygyny to ensure their financial sustenance, this system of relationships would likely face significant challenges in Spain:

• Spain is predominantly a Catholic society, and its cultural

Dear [MP’s Name],

The Lie of Perfection: Why Body Image Culture Must Change

I am writing to you not only as a concerned citizen but as someone who can no longer stay silent about the devastating impact body image culture is having on young people in our country.

Right now, somewhere, a teenager is standing in front of the mirror, eyes full of disappointment, asking themselves a question no child should ever have to ask: “What’s wrong with me?”

The Reality of Unattainable Digital Ideals

Not because they’ve done something wrong. Not because they’ve made a mistake. But simply because their body doesn’t look like the ones they see on screens that never sleep—flat stomachs, smooth skin, and unrealistic perfection wrapped in likes and...

Two Englands: Child Poverty and Cultural History

1. Karen and the Documentary on Child Poverty

Karen is a television director who is preparing a documentary about children living in poverty in England. The idea comes after she reads in the newspaper that many English children live in difficult economic situations. Karen thinks that there are two different Englands: a rich one and a poor one.

Her producer, Adrian, agrees with her. They first talk about the differences between the North and the South of England. Adrian also explains that people from the North can suffer from prejudice. He gives Linda as an example. Linda works as a researcher at the production company and comes from Manchester. Some people think she is not intelligent because of...

Understanding Formal Dress Codes

Nowadays, people are accustomed to wearing whatever they like for every occasion, but that is not always appropriate in formal settings. Generally, there are specific rules regarding what you can and cannot wear.

Formal Attire Requirements

For events such as weddings or business meetings, individuals are expected to wear elegant clothing:

• Men: Suits, dress shirts, and formal shoes.
• Women: Dresses or sophisticated formal outfits.

Casual items like jeans, sneakers, or T-shirts are typically prohibited. Furthermore, many restaurants and theaters enforce a strict dress code where shorts or sportswear are not accepted. Dressing appropriately is essential to show respect and adhere to venue regulations.

My Personal Approach

Advanced English Grammar and Sentence Correction

Reported Speech and Indirect Questions

• The woman explained to him that the man had stolen some money the previous day.
• He offered to buy Laura a coffee.
• Sam agreed that he shouldn't have taken the watch.
• Eva apologised for answering late.
• He asked if I had seen Mary.
• He suggested going to Málaga on holiday next summer.
• He asked if I could repeat what I had said.
• The mother said that her daughter was telling the truth.

Passive Voice Transformations

• Christmas cards will be sent to my friend by me.
• A DVD presentation is being shown to the students, or the students are being shown a DVD presentation by the staff.
• Food donations have been given to a local charity, or a local charity has been given food donations

Understanding Tense Changes in Reported Speech

When converting direct speech to reported (or indirect) speech, verb tenses often shift backward. This process is known as "backshift." Below are common tense transformations:

Welcome to Your New Flat and School!

Your Flat

I'm excited to tell you I've found a wonderful, comfortable, and affordable flat for you in the city center! It's conveniently located near shops, taxis, the town hall, parks, and other essential places. The flat is on the second floor with a lift, so no need to worry about stairs.

It has five rooms: a kitchen, a living room, a bathroom, a double bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and a single bedroom for your children.

The Living Room

My favorite room is the living room, and I think you'll love it too. It's very bright, with four huge windows, and painted a cheerful light yellow. There's a comfortable big sofa with cushions and an armchair. Opposite the sofa, there's a piece of furniture with a TV,...

The Controversial Nature of Modern Practices

The importance of -1-, which has always been debatable, has now become increasingly controversial. While some argue that it offers a distinct advantage, others contend that it presents significant disadvantages. This essay examines both positive and negative aspects to reach a balanced conclusion.

Key Benefits and Positive Perspectives

There are several reasons why -2- is considered beneficial, with the most significant being -you1-. For example, 20% of Australians believe it provides advantages in almost every sphere of life, making it a crucial factor in the current climate.

Drawbacks and Critical Concerns

Conversely, there are reasons why -3- is viewed negatively, the most vital being -you2-. For instance,...