My Patreon members voted to focus on prepositions this month, and I kicked things off with a straightforward quiz to establish a baseline. Those who have taken it so far have done well, as I expected, but one item shed light on the slippery nature of prepositions. Just when we think we can pin things…
Interested in Prepositions?
It’s easy enough to find lists of collocations online. Adjective + preposition. Noun + preposition. Verb + preposition. A Google search will lead you in the right direction. The challenge is finding the time to identify the most useful phrases and create exercises with them. Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. – The Answer to…
Fast Forward to February
Plenty of ideas for February lessons! Customized PDF valentines included.
Flexibility in One’s Writing
Helping advanced students gain skill with conjunctions and transitions. PDF included.
Nailing Down FANBOYS
Short writing practice with the coordinating conjunctions FOR, YET, NOR. PDF included!
Finding Purpose and Motivation in a New Year
Happy New Year to one and all! May 2023 be kind to everyone near and far. The start of a new calendar year is an opportunity to step forward on a positive note despite anything that didn’t quite materialize in the past. How many times have we heard that the future is in our hands?…
Turning Towards a New Year: Welcoming 2023!
Saying goodbye to 2022 is going to be harder than I thought because this week a dear friend and colleague passed away. Vicki Hollett, author and content creator, was a key part of my online support network. (See tribute on Instagram.) I enjoyed every collaboration I did with her and her husband Jay over the…
What Happens When the Teacher Is Wrong?
I recently discovered that I had mistakenly drawn a conclusion and taught my inaccurate understanding in more than one grammar video. I don’t think “Oops!” or “My bad” will suffice in this situation. My first reaction was strong disappointment, and it hit me straight in the gut. The weight of responsibility then fell hard on…
Ditransitive Verbs: Are You Seeing Double?
I always find it interesting to research a grammar point because it can be like a treasure hunt for matching pieces. I try to find sources that confirm my current understanding (Match type #1), though I’m eager to find new insights that will expand it. I also feel reassured when I’m able to see that…
Facilitating a Happy Holiday Season
Santa Claus may be the only one who can fit down the chimney, but when it comes to fitting his special day (or Eve, as is the case) on the calendar, he needs to make room for other celebrations. The month of December is a time of great festivity. Diverse traditions fill the calendar, and…
Taking Culture and History beyond a Single Holiday
Thanksgiving is clearly noted on any U.S. calendar. It’s always the fourth Thursday of November. Not every calendar marks the day after Thanksgiving as another holiday, however. My kitchen wall calendar is empty of text on November 25, but the calendar on my phone correctly observes that today is Native American Heritage Day. Did you…
Student Stumper 56: “Early” vs. “Earlier”
QUESTION: What’s the difference between “five minutes early” and “five minutes earlier”? ANSWER: Context is key. You can arrive early for a meeting. This means you arrive before the scheduled time. If the meeting starts at 10 AM, it’s good to arrive at least five minutes early — by 9:55. Punctual people show up on…
English with Jennifer 