Imperatives

When we need to tell someone what to do, such as in instruction manuals, giving directions, and when learning lessons at school, we use verbs in the imperative form.  In other words, imperatives are commands. For example: Fold the paper. Turn left at the corner. Shut the door please. Watch the video to learn more about imperatives, and then play the popular American game, Simon Says.

The best way to speak English fluently is to think in English!  Stop translating and start thinking in English with some of these good tips from Accent's Way

Fourth of July in the United States - American Independence Day

Directions:

Listen to the song, America the Beautiful by the Quad and follow along with the lyrics below.  After listening, discuss with a partner what values you heard expressed that are important to Americans.

Directions:

Go to the CNN YouTube Channel and watch three videos.  Write a 10-line summary, or a short report, describing what you saw.  

Questions to consider when writing:

• Who were the subjects of the stories? (Men? Women? Children? Animals? Companies?)
• What was/were the main idea(s) being talked about in the video? 
• When were the stories taking place?  What day(s), month(s), or year(s)?
• Where did the stories happen?  What country/countries?  What cities/towns/villages?
• Why are these stories important?  Why are the ideas valuable for other people to know?
• How do you feel after listening to the stories?
• Are there any similarities between your life and the details described in the stories?  Are there any differences?
• Now that you know this information, what do you think you can do with this new knowledge?

Critical Thinking Exercise - Mass Media

Directions:

Go to the BBC homepage and browse (look around) the site's main page.  Look at the headlines and choose one article to read.  After reading, try to answer the following questions related to the article:

1. Who is the target audience for this article?
2. What is the goal of the article?  What idea does it give the reader?  
3. Is the topic or main idea in the article controversial?  Why or why not?
4. Does the author share a balanced perspective?  Why or why not?  
5. What sources does the author use to support her or his claims in the article?  Are the sources well-known or have a good record of being accurate?
6. Do you think there is any bias in the article?  If so, where?  If not, why?
7. What kind of responsibilities do you think journalists have when reporting the news?  
8. Journalism is sometimes called the "Fourth Estate of Democracy", meaning it is an essential part of a democratic government.  Do you agree with this opinion?  Why or why not?