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

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" »

Perceptions of British People

At first, Antonio perceived British people as unfriendly. However, as he traveled, he realized their inherent kindness. This shift in perception was shaped by several encounters:

• A man engaged him in conversation in Trafalgar Square on New Year’s Eve.
• A woman on a train to York spoke to him and even recommended a guest house.
• In a pub in Cornwall, a man sat with him and shared local stories.

Embracing British Traditions and Celebrations

Festivals and Events

• Royal National Eisteddfod: This modern version of an ancient competition for poets and musicians is one of Europe's largest cultural festivals. It celebrates the Welsh language, art, drama, music, and poetry.
• New Year's Eve: Celebrations take place in iconic locations

Entertainment and Performance Terminology

This section covers key vocabulary related to the entertainment industry, live performances, and artistic endeavors.

Performance and Production Essentials

• Act out: To perform a role or an event with actions and gestures.
• Attend: To be present at an event, meeting, or performance.
• Character: A person or an animal in a play, film, or book.
• Conduct: To organize and carry out an activity or performance.
• Costume: The set of clothes worn by an actor or performer.
• Dance routine: A sequence of dance steps and movements.
• Deliver a decent performance: To perform well enough to be considered satisfactory.
• Go all out: To put all one's energy or resources into an effort.
• Lines: The words spoken by an actor in a play or film.

Ozymandias vs. London: A Poetic Comparison

Key Quotes and Their Significance

1. Ozymandias – "Look on my Works, ye Mighty, and despair!"

   • Command Verb (Imperative)

     The verb "Look" conveys Ozymandias’s arrogance, attempting to assert dominance over future generations, suggesting an inflated sense of power. This contrasts with the powerless citizens in London, whose suffering is imposed upon them by external forces, not self-proclaimed power.

   • Irony

     The juxtaposition of "despair" with the ruined state of the statue highlights the futility of Ozymandias’s power, emphasizing the transience of human legacy. Similarly, London highlights the decaying impact of unchecked power through the physical and emotional scarring of the city’s inhabitants.

   • Noun:

Stranger Things: A Thrilling Netflix Series Review

Stranger Things is a thrilling and suspenseful Netflix original series that masterfully combines science fiction with horror. Set in the 1980s, the story unfolds amidst mysterious occurrences in the small town of Hawkins.

Unraveling the Mystery of Hawkins

The narrative begins with the sudden disappearance of a boy named Will. His friends and family embark on a desperate search, encountering a girl with extraordinary psychokinetic powers named Eleven. As the series progresses, they uncover deep government secrets, explore alternate dimensions, and confront terrifying creatures. Each season introduces new characters and escalating adventures, maintaining high viewer engagement.

Why Stranger Things

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 ...

Engaging Your Voice Assistant: Essential Prompts

Discover a comprehensive list of questions and commands to interact with your voice assistant, from everyday queries to humorous and thought-provoking prompts. Enhance your experience and uncover unique responses.

Basic Interactions & Everyday Commands

• Call me [Name]: Your assistant will use this name when addressing you.
• Knock Knock.
• Show me the money.
• What are you wearing?
• How are you?
• Where are you?
• What do you look like?
• Where are you from?
• How's it going?
• Thank you.
• Talk to me.
• Good morning. (Try saying this at night for a unique response.)
• Happy Birthday!
• Merry Christmas.
• LOL.
• Ha Ha!
• Ha Ha Ha!
• Why?
• Why not?
• It's all good.
• Blah blah blah.
• Guess What? ...Correct.
• You're right!
• I'm happy.
• I'm tired.
• You are boring.