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

The Boat to Fuerteventura

Two summers ago, my friend Jose and I had tickets for a water park in Fuerteventura. We decided to take the early boat to have more time during the day and be able to go shopping.

When Jose and I arrived at the port, it was crowded. My friend said, “If we had come earlier, we would be the first ones here.” During the trip, Jose got seasick and vomited on me. I told him, “If I had known this was going to happen, I wouldn't have sat next to you!” As soon as we arrived in Fuerteventura, we went straight to the water park because it was scorching.

We had a fantastic time at the water park. All in all, it was an unforgettable experience, and I would definitely repeat the trip.

Party Fail

Last summer, my best friend and... Continue reading "Unforgettable Summer Adventures: From Fuerteventura to Camping Chaos" »

TRAINING SESSIONS

Who wants to learn to sing? We are holding coaching activities for new members on Monday and Friday in the afternoon. Meet in the auditorium of Lorca at five o'clock.

SOCIAL EVENTS

We are very happy to announce that the club is organizing a show about song pop for all members next Saturday at eight o'clock in the auditorium of Lorca. In this show, old members usually give new members singing tricks.

VISIT FROM JASON HADDERLY

All members can go to the conference with singer David Bisbal, who is going to talk about the types of songs.

NEW CLUB WEBSITE

We're pleased to announce that we're launching a club website to inform members of all the events in Lorca about music. Don't forget to register your email address to receive all the... Continue reading "Club Events and Activities in Lorca: Singing Training, Social Show, Conference, and Website Launch" »

Vocabulary

1.

• 1. Trash
• 2. Voyage
• 3. Avoid
• 4. Landfills
• 5. Shortcut
• 6. Amount
• 7. Harmful
• 8. Halfway
• 9. A drop in the ocean

2.

1. E
2. F
3. D
4. C
5. A
6. B

3.

1. Carbon footprint
2. Renewable energy
3. Litter
4. Fuel

Grammar

4.

1. Could do / Could have done
2. Shouldn’t wear
3. May / Can / Could … have
4. Can’t believe
5. May / Might not have seen
6. Needn’t / Don’t have to pay

5.

1. Susan shouldn’t / needn’t have brought so many bottles. / Susan didn’t have to bring so many bottles.
2. Otherwise, I would have mentioned it.
3. That’s why I didn’t have to get up so early.
4. Could / Can we give you a lift?

6.

1. We had better leave immediately.
2. He shouldn’t wear pale colors.
3. You had better not say a word to anyone!

Vocabulary

1.

1. Went bald
2. Picked up
3. Ingest
4. Inhabit
5. Used up
6. Emits
7. Fool

2.

1. Caught the waiter’s eye
2. Pick up so many languages
3. Cut

Ability: Can - Could - Be Able to

We use 'can' and 'could' to talk about a skill or ability. She can speak six languages - My grandfather could play golf very well. I can't drive - I won't be able to drive that lorry.

Probability: May, Might (something is possible)

He may be in his office (perhaps) (may not) - John might not be in his office (mightn't)

When talking about possible plans, I may (might) be going to Italy in July (it's possible) - I may (might) go to Italy in July (it's possible)

Deduction: Can't Be - Must Be

It's snowing, so it must be very cold outside - This bill can't be right (£200 for two cups of coffee!)

Obligation: Must (possibly based on the speaker's opinion)

Children must do their homework - We have to wear a uniform at work... Continue reading "English Grammar: Ability, Probability, Deduction, Obligation, Permission, Advice, and Suggestions" »

Bullying: A Growing Concern

I think that bullying is an important problem in our country and society. Furthermore, bullying is dangerous for children and young people because their feelings at those ages are very sensitive. When children feel threatened, they don't know what to do and they can commit suicide or simply avoid society. Many children don't tell their parents when they are being bullied by other children in their school because they are frightened. Although, I'd like these children to be less afraid over time. Last month, I watched on TV an incident in a school in Spain. One boy killed a classmate because he thought that the boy was saying private things. In my opinion, adults should be careful with the bullying their children face.... Continue reading "Addressing Social and Environmental Issues" »

Diverse Historical Topics

Wallis Simpson and the Abdication

1. She went with her second husband to Leicestershire to spend a week there, and the prince was there too.
2. She didn't feel quite confident because she didn't know anything about hunting and she didn't know about etiquette.
3. As he was not allowed to marry a divorcee, he decided to abdicate because he could not live without her.
4. TRUE (line 7): "She and her mother... some money"
5. FALSE (line 13): "None of the royal... to the wedding"

• blond
• reasonable
• to attend
• on

10. It was believed that Wallis was worried about royal etiquette.
11. The Prince fell in love with her although she was not young or beautiful.
12. When did her father die?
13. Wallis, who was very poor as a child, wanted a life of luxury.

Reflections on a Funeral

1. It

Technology's Impact on Teenagers

Benefits of Technology for Teens

Teenagers use technology constantly because it simplifies their lives and offers opportunities for learning. They primarily use the internet to search for information and connect with others through social networking sites like Facebook and Twitter. This allows them to expand their knowledge and interact with people worldwide.

Potential Downsides of Technology Use

However, internet use can become addictive for some young people, leading to significant problems in their lives. Excessive screen time can negatively impact their personal lives and relationships.

The Rapid Pace of Technological Advancements

In recent years, technology has advanced so rapidly that it's been difficult to... Continue reading "How Technology Impacts Teenagers: Benefits and Challenges" »

The Beginnings of English Literature: Beowulf

Why Study Beowulf?

• Historical Information
• Understanding Language Use by Famous Writers
• Vocabulary Development

Literary Devices in Beowulf

Beowulf utilizes various literary devices, including alliteration, assonance, caesura, and kennings, to enhance the reader's understanding and interpretation of the text. For example, the alliteration in "Marshes, and made his home in hell" emphasizes the hellish nature of Grendel's dwelling.

Anglo-Saxon Culture

Anglo-Saxon England saw the emergence of a distinct culture, with the Northumbrian dialect playing a significant role. Despite the destruction caused by Viking invasions, around 30,000 lines of Anglo-Saxon poetry have survived. King Alfred the Great played a crucial... Continue reading "A History of English Literature: From Beowulf to Milton" »

English Language Exercises

Phrases

1. Settle for
2. Inherited
3. Faked
4. Overheard
5. Nodded
6. Flee
7. Got to
8. Take a break

Reasons

1. Because he is jealous
2. Because she cheated on him
3. Because both are artists
4. Because he prefers to ignore them
5. Because she is very strong
6. He doesn't want to know anything about him.

Vocabulary

1. Marriage
2. Appreciative
3. Dedicated
4. Enjoyable
5. Sense
6. Origin
7. Use
8. Lose

More Phrases

1. She has a boyfriend
2. Are overprotective
3. To have a brother
4. Barça scored the goal
5. Be married
6. Very strong
7. Nullify the goal
8. Take after

Relative Clauses

Defining Relative Clauses

1. Alice didn't recognise the man who called out her name.
2. Have you met Jules who you will be staying with next week?
3. They visited the old cathedral, which was very impressive.
4. In the forest, we found a cottage where an old farmer lives.
5. I'm