THE A2 CLUB : octubre 2024

About this blog

Welcome to our blog dedicated to students who wish to reach A2 level in grammar!

Grammar is a fundamental pillar in learning a new language, such as English, and its importance cannot be underestimated. Learning grammar allows students to communicate clearly and coherently, which is an achievement worthy of recognition. At A2 level, acquiring knowledge of grammar helps them to construct more complex sentences and use the language correctly, which is truly amazing.That is why it is so important to devote time and effort to this subject, as it provides a solid foundation for developing all language skills. Without a proper understanding of grammar, achieving fluency and successfully dealing with everyday and academic situations becomes a challenging task. By valuing and valuing grammar learning, students are on the road to language proficiency and, consequently, a future full of opportunities.

Here you will find a space specially designed to facilitate your English learning in a fun and effective way. We focus on providing you with practical and accessible resources, such as illustrated flashcards that will help you memorize vocabulary and verbs, as well as grammar posters that highlight key sentence structures and rules.

In addition, you can enjoy activity workbooks full of exercises that reinforce your knowledge, from completing sentences to correcting mistakes. To make learning even more dynamic, we include Quizzes and topic sections that can help you with the comprehension of the topics covered, as well as the necessary material to reinforce your knowledge in an interactive environment where practice becomes a game. Join us on this exciting journey to English mastery, and discover how easy and fun it can be to learn grammar!

Topic 3 : Past continuous

Past Continuous

The Past Continuous tense, also known as the Past Progressive, describes actions that were ongoing at a specific moment in the past. It’s constructed using the past tense of "to be" (was/were) followed by the present participle (verb + -ing).

When to Use Past Continuous

1. Ongoing actions at a specific time in the past

This tense highlights actions that were happening at a particular moment or period.

Example:

At 8 PM yesterday, I was watching TV.

2. Simultaneous actions

It is used when two or more actions were happening at the same time in the past.

Example:

While I was preparing dinner, my brother was doing his homework.

3. Interrupted actions

The Past Continuous often shows an action in progress that was interrupted by a shorter action, typically in the Simple Past.

Example:

I was walking home when it started to rain.

4. Setting the scene

In stories, the Past Continuous helps describe background details or set the scene.

Example:

The wind was blowing, and the leaves were falling as we walked through the park.

Structure of Past Continuous

- Affirmative sentences:

Subject + was/were + verb (ing)

Example:

-They were dancing.

- Negative sentences:

Subject + was/were + not + verb (ing)

Example:

He wasn’t sleeping.

- Questions:

Was/were + subject + verb (ing)?

Example:

Were they waiting for the bus?

Common Time Expressions

- While

- When

- At that moment

- As

These phrases often accompany the Past Continuous to clarify when the action was happening.

Confusing verb tenses: The Past Continuous is for actions in progress, not completed actions.

Incorrect: I was went to school.

Correct: I was going to school.

- Mixing up "was" and "were": Remember, was is for singular subjects (I/he/she/it), while were is for plural subjects (we/you/they).

Topic 8: Superlative and comparative

Superlative and comparative

Comparatives and Superlatives are crucial for making comparisons between two or more items, individuals, or ideas. They help us express differences effectively.

Comparatives

Comparatives are used to compare two entities. The formation depends on the adjective's length:

1. Short adjectives (one syllable or two syllables ending in -y):

Add -er to the adjective and use than after it.

- Examples:

small → smaller

happy → happier

- Example sentence:

This book is smaller than that one.

2. Long adjectives (two or more syllables):

Use more or less before the adjective, followed by than.

- Examples:

interesting → more interesting / less interesting

expensive → more expensive / less expensive

- Example sentence:

This movie is more interesting than the previous one.

Irregular Comparatives

Certain adjectives have irregular forms that don’t follow standard rules:

- good → better

- bad → worse

- far → farther/further

Example sentence:

He is a better player than his brother.

Superlatives

Superlatives are used to compare one item against a group, indicating that it is the most or least in a specific aspect.

1. Short adjectives:

Add -est to the adjective and use the before it.

- Examples:

small → the smallest

happy → the happiest

- Example sentence:

She is the tallest student in the class.

2. Long adjectives:

Use the most or the least before the adjective.

- Examples:

interesting → the most interesting / the least interesting

expensive → the most expensive / the least expensive

- Example sentence:

This is the most beautiful painting in the gallery.

Irregular Superlatives

Similar to comparatives, some superlatives have irregular forms:

- good → the best

- bad → the worst

- far → the farthest/furthest

Example sentence:

She is the best singer in the competition.

Important Points to Note:

- Comparatives compare two items, while superlatives compare one item against a group.

- Short adjectives typically take -er (comparative) and -est (superlative) endings.

- Long adjectives use more/less (comparative) and the most/the least (superlative).

- Some adjectives have irregular forms, such as good → better → best

Topic 7 : Conditional Type 2

Conditional Type 2

The Second Conditional, or Conditional Type 2, is used to discuss hypothetical or unreal scenarios in the present or future. It’s great for talking about events that are unlikely or impossible to happen, and imagining what would result if those conditions were true.

When to Use the Second Conditional

1. Unlikely or Hypothetical Future Situations

This structure is ideal for discussing scenarios that are not expected to happen but allow us to imagine the outcome.

Example:

If I won the lottery, I’d travel the world.

(Winning the lottery is unlikely, but the outcome is imagined.)

2. Impossible or Unreal Present Situations

It’s also used for imagining impossible situations in the present or creating hypothetical scenarios that differ from reality.

Example:

If I were you, I would take that job.

(This is hypothetical because it's impossible to actually be someone else.)

3. Hypothetical Advice

The Second Conditional can offer advice based on hypothetical or unreal situations.

Example:

If I were in your shoes, I’d speak to the boss.

Structure of the Second Conditional

The Second Conditional is structured as follows:

- If + past simple, would + base verb (for the result)

Here’s how it works:

- If clause (condition): If + past simple

- Main clause (result): would + base verb

Example:

If I had more free time, I would learn a new language.

More Examples

- If she knew the answer, she would help you.

- If I lived in Paris, I would visit museums every weekend.

- If they didn’t have so much work, they’d go on vacation.

Using "Were" for All Subjects

In the Second Conditional, it's common to use "were" instead of "was" in formal or hypothetical statements. This is true for all subjects, even singular ones.

Example:

If I were rich, I would donate to charity.

(“Were” replaces “was” for hypothetical situations.)

Modal Verb Variations

Instead of using "would," you can substitute modal verbs like could or might to express different levels of possibility or certainty.

Example:

If I had the skills, I could apply for the position.

If they knew about the problem, they might fix it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong tense in the if-clause

The if-clause in the Second Conditional should always be in the past simple, even if you’re referring to a hypothetical present or future situation.

Incorrect: If I win the lottery, I would buy a house.

Correct: If I won the lottery, I would buy a house.

2. Mixing with the First Conditional

The Second Conditional is for unreal or hypothetical situations, while the First Conditional deals with real possibilities. Keep them separate!

Incorrect: If I am rich, I would travel the world.

Correct: If I were rich, I would travel the world.

Topic 6: Conditional type 1

Conditional Type 1

The First Conditional, also known as Conditional Type 1, is used to talk about situations that are possible or likely to happen in the present or future, provided a certain condition is met. This structure is essential for discussing real and probable events.

When to Use the First Conditional

1. Future Possibilities

This conditional is used when you believe something could happen in the future if a specific condition is fulfilled.

Example:

If it rains tomorrow, we’ll stay inside.

2. Promises and Warnings

You can use the First Conditional to make promises, offer solutions, or give warnings depending on certain conditions.

Example:

If you study hard, you’ll pass the exam.

If you don’t hurry, you’ll miss the train.

3. Suggestions and Advice

It’s also useful for giving advice or making suggestions based on certain situations.

Example:

If you feel tired, you should take a break.

Structure of the First Conditional

The First Conditional follows this basic structure:

- If + present simple, will + base verb (for the result)

Let’s break it down:

- If clause (the condition): If + present simple

- Main clause (the result): will + base verb

Example:

If you eat too much, you will get a stomach ache.

More Examples

- If I study tonight, I’ll be ready for the test tomorrow.

- If she calls, I’ll give her the message.

- If they don’t show up on time, we’ll go without them.

Variations of the First Conditional

While "will" is typically used, you can also use other modal verbs like might, could, or may to show different levels of certainty.

Example:

If you leave now, you might catch the train.

You can also switch the order of the clauses without changing the meaning. Just remember to omit the comma when the result comes first.

Example:

We’ll go to the park if it’s sunny.

If it’s sunny, we’ll go to the park.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the wrong tense

A common mistake is using "will" in the if-clause. Remember, the "if" part always takes the present tense.

Incorrect: If it will rain, we’ll stay home.

Correct: If it rains, we’ll stay home.

2. Mixing it with other conditionals

The First Conditional deals with real possibilities in the future, so don’t confuse it with the Second Conditional, which talks about hypothetical or imaginary situations.

Mastering the First Conditional will allow you to talk about future events and outcomes, give advice, and make promises or warnings based on real-life possibilities.

Topic 5 : Future with going to

Future with "Going To"

In addition to "will," we also use "going to" to describe future actions, especially in the following cases:

- Plans or intentions:

When you’ve already decided to do something in the future.

Example:

I am going to visit my grandparents this weekend.

- Predictions based on evidence:

When you have some visible or known signs about what’s going to happen.

Example:

Look at the dark sky! It’s going to rain.

Common Time Expressions with Simple Future

- Tomorrow

- Next week/month/year

- In (time frame): in an hour, in a few days

- Soon

- Later

Mistakes to Avoid

- Using "will" for planned actions:

For actions you have already decided on, it’s better to use "going to."

Incorrect: I will travel next month (if it’s a plan).

Correct: I’m going to travel next month.

- Omitting "will" in questions or negative forms:

Always use "will" when forming questions or negatives.

Incorrect: She go to the party?

Correct: Will she go to the party?

Using the Simple Future properly allows you to talk about future plans, predictions, and decisions with ease and accuracy.

Topic 4 : Simple future

Simple Future

The Simple Future tense is used to talk about actions that will take place in the future. It’s usually formed by using the auxiliary verb "will" followed by the base form of the main verb.

When to Use Simple Future

1. Predictions

This tense is used to express what we think might happen in the future, without any firm evidence.

Example:

I believe it will rain tomorrow.

2. Decisions made at the moment

We use the Simple Future to talk about decisions made instantly, at the time of speaking.

Example:

I forgot to buy milk. I’ll get some now.

3. Offers and Promises

It is used when making a promise or offering to do something.

Example:

I will help you with the assignment.

4. Future Facts

The Simple Future can describe events that are certain to happen.

Example:

The plane will land at 7 PM.

Structure of Simple Future

- Affirmative Sentences:

Subject + will + base verb

Example:

She will call you later.

- Negative Sentences:

Subject + will not (won’t) + base verb

Example:

They won’t attend the meeting.

- Questions:

Will + subject + base verb?

Example:

Will you join us for dinner?

Complementary material

Topic 1:

https://youtu.be/W3HdjN3cLiM?si=aYvklF71r5bMVMQ0

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/present-simple-or-present-continuous

Topic 2 :

https://youtu.be/mwh_IWwwN8Y?si=Sg-kC7yxbBpojISt

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/past-simple-i-worked?q=Past+simple

Topic 3:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdhwwqVaFLc

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/es/gramatica/gramatica-britanica/past-continuous-i-was-working

Topic 4:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pSXLl3wW4XI

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/future-perfect-simple-i-will-have-worked-eight-hours

Topic 5:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_-8yPyCDHI

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/future-be-going-to-i-am-going-to-work

Topic 6:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D2Oy-epFENo

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/conditionals-if

Topic 7:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WolVu3IFD8

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/conditionals-if

Topic 8:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jz8Fy5qQXu8

https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/comparative-and-superlative-adjectives

Study material

Topic 1: Present simple and present continuous

1. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_B3V7KmeDKQ7SainR7YRzzzIswl-2c2q/view?usp=drivesdk

2. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_B3V7KmeDKQ7SainR7YRzzzIswl-2c2q/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 2 : Past simple

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_GnAbUZwLZPhnJGa3uWBVjDiidLOOrKP/view?usp=drivesdk

Worksheet:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_RwzgZBpsaevaN8rKW9rR0VHd46CxMy-/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 3: Past continuous

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_h3YD0MQbPArcK6H7j4Jvb0YMNh3wBEJ/view?usp=drivesdk

Worksheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_RwzgZBpsaevaN8rKW9rR0VHd46CxMy-/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 4 : Simple future

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_spHQEsPg24Fsk74_x6Ni3vTCu1AsZ-h/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 5: Future with Going to

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aPIf1gwuttE1Ai0bvZrm-O7HGlwqRXy6/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 6: Conditional Type 1

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1aZ2VpqHgRwVBA-OUsnSz8a-ZOX92yVyl/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 7 : Conditional Type 2

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ad_yrLD0t-zt99bbpIMBNqocJK_xYmMY/view?usp=drivesdk

Topic 8 : Superlative and Comparative

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1agmAWzED1vRy74zTnsxCs8CSsr23fl25/view?usp=drivesdk

Evaluations

Test 1 :

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/grammar-finals-are-you-ready-to-ace-it

Test 2 :

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-2-pasado-simple

Test 3:

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-3-pasado-continuo

Test 4:

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-4-futuro-simple-wil

Test 5 :

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-5-futuro-con-going-to

Test 6:

https://syevrus.com/appSurvey/default.aspx?ENC=PP6xbPSPFJbB/imbkm89UQ==

Test 7:

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-7-condicional-tipo-2

Test 8:

https://www.sporcle.com/games/jsuarezc15/evaluacin-8-comparativos-y-superlativos

Topic 2

Past Simple

The past simple is used for acts that have begun and ended in the past. Depending on whether the verb is regular or irregular, one or the other is used.

The past simple in English is formed with regular verbs, we will use the infinitive and add the ending “ed” (infinitive verb + ed). Let's see it with an example:

I (clean) cleaned my house yesterday = Yo ayer limpié mi casa.

For verbs that are regular we will have to know several exceptions, so we avoid making mistakes. The exceptions are as follows:

● For verbs that end in “e”, only a “d” is added. For example: (change) changed, believed.

● If the verb ends in a short vowel and a consonant, with the exception of “w” and “y”, we will have to double the last consonant. For example: (stop) stopped.

● With verbs ending in a consonant + “y”, we change the “y” to “i”. For example: (study) studied or (try) tried.

To construct the past tense of an irregular verb there is no set method, therefore, we will have to learn the forms by heart.

How is the past simple used in affirmative sentences?

Regarding the structure in affirmative sentences we will use the subject + verb in past tense. It is very simple, and with these examples it will be even simpler:

She (subject) wanted (verb) to play = Ella quería jugar = She wanted to play

And in negative sentences?

In negative sentences it is just as simple, we will use the following structure: subject + did + not + infinitive main verb.

I didn't play handball yesterday = Yo ayer no jugué al balón mano.

(subject) + did not + (verb)

When is the past simple used to ask a question?

In interrogative sentences it is very simple to understand, we will use did + subject + infinitive main verb.

Did you eat ice cream? ¿Comiste helado?

did + (subject) + (verb)

The same happens if we want to use the verb to be, the structure will be: verb to be in past tense + subject.

Was the water in the fridge? = ¿Estaba el agua en la nevera?

(verb) + (subject)

Grammar For You

En grammar for you podras encontrar los distintos temas de gramatica a tratar en este blog, mismos que cuenta con una pequeña evaluacion, donde puedes poner en practica tu conocimiento.

asi mismo cuentas con el material de apoyo de necesario para comprender de mejor manera el tema

Topic 1: Verbal tense Past Simple and Continuous

Topic 2: Past Simple

Topic 3: Past continuous

Topic 4: Simple future

Topic 5 : Future with going to

Topic 6: Conditional type 1

Topic 7 : Conditional Type 2

Topic 8: Superlative and comparative