Notes, summaries, assignments, exams, and problems for English

Key Literary Concepts: Short Notes

1. Duality of Human Nature in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde

Robert Louis Stevenson beautifully explores the idea that every human carries both good and evil within. Dr. Jekyll creates Mr. Hyde to experience freedom without guilt, separating his moral self from his darker desires. But once unleashed, Hyde grows stronger, overpowering Jekyll's control. The story reflects how suppressing our dark side only gives it more power, and that human nature is never purely one or the other—it's a constant inner conflict.

2. Symbolism of Venice in Death in Venice

Venice stands as a haunting symbol of beauty hiding decay. Its stunning scenery and rich culture reflect Aschenbach's admiration for youth and perfection. But underneath,... Continue reading "Classic Novels: Themes, Characters, and Symbolism" »

The Plan Unfolds

Jeremy turned his gaze back towards the old dance studio. He could see movement inside, and he knew that in just a few short moments his chance would come. He thought back to his plan. To start a new life, he would have to take someone with him...

The Abduction

Slowly he crept out of his van. The harsh wind slapped him across his face, and it was raining harder than ever. He slowly and silently made his way over to the door of the studio and stood beyond a pole. The door creaked as it was suddenly pushed open. Someone was coming out. Jeremy leapt out from the darkness of his hiding place. He had to be sure it was the right person. In the light shining out from the door, he could make out a small figure with wispy blonde hair.... Continue reading "A New Life's Dark Beginning" »

The Power of Love in Ernest Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls

In For Whom the Bell Tolls, Ernest Hemingway masterfully portrays a poignant love story between Robert Jordan and Maria. Their relationship unfolds during the Spanish Civil War, illustrating how love can instill hope even amidst the most terrible circumstances. Despite their brief time together, their love feels profoundly deep and strong, underscoring the vital role love can play during wartime.

A Fateful Encounter Amidst Conflict

Robert and Maria's paths converge during a profoundly difficult period. Maria, a young Spanish woman, has been severely traumatized by the war, having endured abuse by the Nationalists. Initially, she is fearful and uncertain if she can ever love again.... Continue reading "Love and Survival in Hemingway's For Whom the Bell Tolls" »

Black Beauty: A Horse's Enduring Story

"Black Beauty" is a timeless classic novel, told from the unique perspective of a horse. This poignant narrative by Anna Sewell delves into themes of animal welfare, human kindness, and the harsh realities faced by working animals in Victorian England.

Early Life and Birtwick Hall

The story begins on Farmer Grey’s farm, where young Black Beauty grows up content and happy, learning obedience and strength in a calm, peaceful setting. His idyllic early life, however, takes a significant turn when he is sold to Squire Gordon and moved to the esteemed Birtwick Hall. Here, he experiences a period of excellent care, treated kindly by the compassionate coachman John Manly. At Birtwick, Black Beauty forms bonds... Continue reading "Black Beauty's Journey: A Horse's Tale of Resilience" »

Writing for and Against

Introduction (No Opinion)

Lately, not only has ____ been a popular topic, but it has also led some collectives to voice criticism of the mainstream attitude. It should be a crucial target for the (administration, government, state, whole society) to____, due to____. In this paper, two approaches which ought to be taken into account will be discussed.

Advantages

Those who are in favour claim that ____. To begin with ____. Besides ____. Another major advantage is that ____.

Disadvantages

Nevertheless, in spite of the advantages, there are the main drawbacks. One of the biggest concerns is ____, in other words, _____. Another negative aspect is that ____. Lastly ____.

Conclusion

Having looked at both sides of the argument, I really... Continue reading "Crafting Persuasive Essays: Argumentation and Opinion Writing" »

Section 1: Comprehension and Vocabulary

1.1 Emotional Impact & Symbolism

1. They can provoke strong feelings, similar to how personal photos do. (Lines 3-4)
2. It is important because the polar bear on melting ice represents global warming and the human effect. (Lines 17-18)

1.2 Vocabulary: Synonyms

• Conducted: Carried out
• Very funny: Hilarious
• Extremely sad: Heart-breaking
• Brutal: Harsh

1.3 True or False Statements

• False. (Lines indicate a third of the participants would save their photographs.)
• False. (The birds made the writer smile.)
• True. (Lines indicate he froze in fear.)

1.4 Multiple Choice Answers

• c)
• c)
• a)

Section 2: Grammar Practice

2.1 Verb Tenses & Conditionals

1. left / will be relaxing
2. not to take / had listened / wouldn't have made
3. wanted / had ...

A Retrieved Reformation Questions

1. Jimmy's Plans Clue

   Which of Jimmy’s actions gives a clue to his plans for continuing to crack safes?

   Answer: B. He goes to his room to pick up his burglar’s tools.

2. Jimmy's Character

   Jimmy wears fancy clothes, eats well, and robs banks for quick money. What does this tell you about him?

   Answer: B. He likes “the good life.”

3. Ben Price's Interest

   Why is Ben Price interested in Jimmy Valentine?

   Answer: B. Ben Price wants to arrest Jimmy.

4. Jimmy's Reaction Prediction

   What can you predict that Jimmy will do when he notices Annabel coming out of the bank?

   Answer: A. He will find a way to meet her.

5. Shoe Business Reason

   Why does Jimmy Valentine decide to go into the shoe business?

   Answer: A. He likes fancy clothes.

6. Plot Element

English Verb Tenses: Active and Passive Voice

Past Perfect

• Affirmative: Subject + had + past participle
• Negative: Subject + hadn't + past participle
• Interrogative: Had + subject + past participle + ?

Passive Voice

• Present Simple: writes ~ is written
• Past Simple: wrote ~ was written
• Future (will): will write ~ will be written
• Present Continuous: is writing ~ is being written
• Past Continuous: was writing ~ was being written
• Present Perfect: has written ~ has been written
• Past Perfect: had written ~ had been written
• Be going to: is going to write ~ is going to be written
• Modal Verbs: can write ~ can be written

Past Perfect

• Affirmative: Subject + had + past participle
• Negative: Subject + hadn't + past participle
• Interrogative: Had + subject + past participle + ?

Victor's Journey to Geneva and Encounter with the Monster

1. On his journey to Geneva, Victor spent the night in the village of Secheron, but he couldn't sleep.

Victor couldn't sleep, and he decided to go and find the place where William had been murdered. During the storm, he saw a figure standing beside some trees; it was the monster.

Justine's Trial and Conviction

2. Justine defended herself in court.

Justine was called to defend herself. Crying, she told them what she remembered.

But it did no good. The judge had reached his verdict, and Justine had been found guilty. She was sentenced to death and would be executed the next day.

The Monster's Plea and Victor's Reaction

3. The monster raised his hand and began to speak.

Victor was shocked.

The monster... Continue reading "Frankenstein: Key Plot Points and Analysis" »

The Crucial Role of English Proficiency Today

In past years, many people could build a career with only basic English knowledge. However, things have changed, and now a high level of English is often required for any career or job. For example, in Spain, to pursue a career, one must pass a selectividad exam, and English is one of the required subjects. Therefore, if you don't speak English, it will be very difficult to establish a career.

Also, in Spain, students can obtain Becas Erasmus (Erasmus scholarships) to travel to another country and study their chosen field for a year. Knowing English also allows you to study or work in English-speaking countries like England, which is a very interesting country. Furthermore, having a career path may... Continue reading "Essential Skills for Today: Language Proficiency and Technology Use" »