B1

Organize Your Way to Success: Strategies for Students

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organize

Look at this article about strategies to organize for students do the exercises to improve your English reading skills.

Preparation

Match the words with similar meanings.

  1. Due dates
  2. Duties
  3. Productivity
  4. Obligations
  5. Interruptions
  6. Self-control

a. Assignments b. Deadlines c. Responsibilities d. Efficiency e. Commitments f. Distractions g. Discipline

Reading

Organize Your Way to Success: Strategies for Students

Being a student can sometimes feel overwhelming with multiple assignments, deadlines, and responsibilities. However, with effective organization skills, you can navigate through your academic journey with ease and confidence. In this article, we will explore some practical tips that will help you become a super-organized student, enabling you to stay on top of your tasks, manage your time efficiently, and achieve academic success.

Create a Study Schedule

Developing a study schedule is crucial for effective time management. Allocate specific time slots for studying each subject, completing assignments, and reviewing material. Be realistic about the time needed for each task and ensure you include breaks to maintain focus and prevent burnout. Having a well-structured study schedule will help you stay organized and make the most of your study time.

Use a Planner or Digital Calendar

Invest in a planner or use a digital calendar to keep track of important dates, deadlines, and upcoming exams. Write down your assignments, project due dates, and extracurricular commitments. Review your planner or calendar regularly to ensure you stay on track and avoid any last-minute surprises. This visual aid will provide a clear overview of your commitments and help you prioritize tasks effectively.

Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks

Large assignments or projects can seem daunting when viewed as a whole. Break them down into smaller, manageable tasks. Create a to-do list and tackle each task systematically. This approach not only helps you stay organized but also allows you to track your progress and maintain motivation as you complete each smaller task.

Utilize Effective Note-Taking Techniques

Develop effective note-taking techniques to enhance your learning and organization. During lectures or when reading textbooks, highlight key points, write concise summaries, and use headings and subheadings. Color coding and using symbols or abbreviations can also make your notes more organized and visually appealing. These techniques will make it easier to review and revise your notes later.

Keep a Clean and Organized Study Space

Maintaining a clean and organized study environment can significantly impact your productivity. Ensure your study space is clutter-free, well-lit, and stocked with essential supplies like pens, notebooks, and reference materials. Keep everything in its designated place to minimize distractions and maximize focus.

Prioritize and Set Goals

Learning to prioritize tasks and set goals is crucial for effective organization. Identify your most important tasks and deadlines and prioritize them accordingly. Setting short-term and long-term goals will provide you with a clear sense of direction and help you stay focused on what truly matters.

Practice Regular Review and Reflection

Allocate time each week to review and reflect on your progress. Assess your study methods, identify areas for improvement, and make necessary adjustments. Regular review and reflection will not only enhance your organization skills but also allow you to track your growth and make informed decisions regarding your study habits.

Conclusion

Becoming a super-organized student is a journey that requires commitment, discipline, and consistent effort. By implementing these tips into your daily routine, you can develop effective organizational habits that will benefit you not only academically but also in other areas of life. Remember, organization is a skill that can be learned and refined, so stay motivated, stay focused, and enjoy the rewards of being a super-organized student!

True or False

Select true or false for each statement about this article.

  1. True or False: Developing a study schedule is crucial for effective time management.
  2. True or False: Using a planner or digital calendar can help you keep track of important dates and deadlines.
  3. True or False: Breaking tasks into manageable chunks can help you stay organized and maintain motivation.
  4. True or False: Effective note-taking techniques can enhance your learning and organization.
  5. True or False: Maintaining a clean and organized study space can positively impact your productivity.
  6. True or False: Prioritizing tasks and setting goals are essential for effective organization.

Multiple Choice

  1. What is the benefit of creating a study schedule? a) It helps you avoid studying altogether. b) It allows you to allocate specific time slots for each task. c) It increases the number of breaks you can take. d) It eliminates the need for time management.
  2. How can a planner or digital calendar help you stay organized? a) By keeping track of your social media notifications. b) By providing a clear overview of your commitments. c) By automatically completing your assignments for you. d) By reminding you to skip important deadlines.
  3. Why is it beneficial to break down large assignments into smaller tasks? a) It helps you procrastinate effectively. b) It allows you to finish assignments quicker. c) It reduces the need for note-taking techniques. d) It helps you stay organized and motivated
  4. How can effective note-taking techniques enhance your learning and organization? a) By making your notes look visually appealing. b) By preventing you from reviewing and revising your notes. c) By helping you track your progress and maintain motivation. d) By replacing the need for a clean and organized study space.
  5. What is the purpose of regular review and reflection? a) To avoid studying altogether. b) To make random adjustments to your study habits. c) To enhance your organization skills and track your growth. d) To eliminate the need for prioritizing tasks and setting goals.

Discussion

Which of the practical tips for becoming a super-organized student resonates with you the most? Why do you think it would be beneficial for your academic journey?

If this is too difficult to understand, check out the B1 grammar points to help out!

Mastering Adjective Order in English

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Adjective Order

Adjective order is an essential aspect of the English language that learners must understand to communicate effectively. When using multiple adjectives to describe a noun, it is crucial to know the correct order in which to place them. This article will explain the rules for adjective order in English.

What are adjectives?

Adjectives are words that modify or describe nouns. They provide more information about the characteristics, qualities, or attributes of a noun. In English, adjectives are usually placed before the noun they modify. For example, “the red car” or “the beautiful garden.” However, when using multiple adjectives, there is a specific order that should be followed.

Adjective Order

The order of adjectives in English is as follows: opinion, size, age, shape, color, origin, material, and purpose. This order is often referred to as OSASCOMP, an acronym that stands for the first letter of each category.

Let’s take a closer look at each category and some examples:

  1. Opinion: Adjectives that express opinions or attitudes about the noun are placed first. Examples include “lovely,” “nice,” “amazing,” “horrible,” and “fantastic.” For example, “the lovely day.”
  2. Size: Adjectives that describe the size of the noun come next. Examples include “big,” “small,” “tiny,” “huge,” and “narrow.” For example, “the big house.”
  3. Age: Adjectives that describe the age of the noun follow. Examples include “old,” “young,” “ancient,” “new,” and “modern.” For example, “the ancient building.”
  4. Shape: Adjectives that describe the shape of the noun come next. Examples include “round,” “square,” “oblong,” “circular,” and “triangular.” For example, “the triangular parcel.”
  5. Color: Adjectives that describe the color of the noun follow. Examples include “blue,” “green,” “red,” “yellow,” and “black.” For example, “the blue sky.”
  6. Origin: Adjectives that describe the origin of the noun come next. Examples include “Italian,” “French,” “Spanish,” “American,” and “Chinese.” For example, “the Italian restaurant.”
  7. Material: Adjectives that describe the material of the noun follow. Examples include “wooden,” “metallic,” “plastic,” “leather,” and “ceramic.” For example, “the wooden chair.”
  8. Purpose: Adjectives that describe the purpose of the noun come last. Examples include “cooking,” “sleeping,” “fishing,” “writing,” and “dining.” For example, “the writing desk.”

It is important to note that not all adjectives will fit into these categories, and there may be exceptions to this order. However, the OSASCOMP order is a general guideline that will help learners use multiple adjectives correctly in most situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the order of adjectives in English is crucial for effective communication. By following the OSASCOMP order, learners can describe nouns accurately and concisely. Practice using this order with different adjectives to improve your English language skills.

Example Exercises

 10%

Question 1 of 10

1. He carried a _______ canvas backpack.

Question 1 of 10

Question 2 of 10

2. She bought a _______ wooden jewelry box.

Question 2 of 10

Question 3 of 10

3. She made a _______ cheese omelette.

Question 3 of 10

Question 4 of 10

4. They ordered a _______ Greek salad.

Question 4 of 10

Question 5 of 10

5. She wore a _______ silk scarf.

Question 5 of 10

Question 6 of 10

6. He saw a _______ fast sports car.

Question 6 of 10

Question 7 of 10

7. They saw a _______ striped zebra.

Question 7 of 10

Question 8 of 10

8. He drank a _______ cold lemonade.

Question 8 of 10

Question 9 of 10

9. They tasted a _______ spicy Indian curry.

Question 9 of 10

Question 10 of 10

10. He bought a _______ leather jacket.

Question 10 of 10


 

Writing a Resume

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Look at the resume and do the exercises to help improve your skills in writing a resume.[1]https://learnenglishteens.britishcouncil.org/skills/writing/intermediate-b1-writing/cv

Writing a Resume

writing a resume

Multiple Choice

Read the questions and choose the correct answers.

Please go to Writing a Resume to view this quiz

Practice

Write a sample resume to apply for a job of your choosing.

If this is too difficult to understand, check out the B1 grammar points to help out!

References[+]

The Difference Between A – An – Some – Any

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The difference between a, an, some, and any can be quite confusing for many people.

Most simply “a” and “an” are used with singular countable nouns while “some” and “any” are used with countable and uncountable plural nouns.

a - an - some - any

A vs. An

“A” is used with singular nouns that begin with a consonant.[1]https://www.ecenglish.com/learnenglish/lessons/when-use-a-some-any-elementary

For example:

  • Can I have a cup of water?
  • There is a dog in the pool.
  • This is a cool car.

“An” is used with singular nouns that begin with a vowel.

For example:

  • Can I have an enormous cup of water?
  • There is an excited dog in the pool.
  • This is an ancient car.

Some vs. Any

“Some” is used with plural countable and uncountable nouns in positive statements.

For example:

  • There is some cheese in the refrigerator.
  • I have to do some homework.
  • She has some work to do.

“Any” is used with plural countable and uncountable nouns in negative statements and questions.

For example:

  • I don’t have any cheese in my fridge.
  • She doesn’t have any homework.
  • Is there any work to do?

Exceptions with Some and Any

Normally with questions, you use “any” for plural countable and uncountable nouns. However, there are 3 major exceptions to this rule.[2]https://www.grammar.cl/Notes/Some_Any_A_An.htm

  1. Offer

Would you like some coffee?

  1. Ask for

Can I have some coffee?

  1. Suggestion

How about we go out for some coffee?

Practice Exercises

Complete the following sentences with either “a”, “an”, “some”, or “any”.

Please go to The Difference Between A – An – Some – Any to view this quiz

References[+]

Travel Guide

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Look at this travel guide for tourists visiting Los Angeles and do the exercises to improve your English reading skills.

Preparation

Match the vocabulary words with their definitions.

pier/rollercoaster/gym/amusement park/museum

  1. a fairground attraction that consists of a light railway track which has many tight turns and steep slopes on which people ride in small, fast open carriages
  2. a building in which objects of historical, scientific, artistic, or cultural interest are stored and exhibited
  3. a platform on pillars projecting from the shore into the sea, typically incorporating entertainment arcades and places to eat
  4. a room or building equipped for gymnastics, games, and other physical exercise
  5. a large outdoor area with fairground rides, shows, and other entertainments
1. rollercoaster 2. museum 3. pier 4. gym 5. amusement park

Reading

Discover Los Angeles

Universal Studios Hollywood

travel guide

Universal Studios Hollywood is the ultimate Hollywood experience. This place is a mix of amusement park, movie studio, restaurants, and stores. It is a great place for the entire family to spend the day together. Rides include a variety of rollercoasters with virtual reality elements. In addition, you can explore the Universal Studios blacklot where some of the most famous movies such as Jaws, Mission Impossible III, and Pirates of the Caribbean were shot! You can end your day on Universal CityWalk which is filled with additional entertainment, dining, and shopping.[1]https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32655-d104417-Reviews-Universal_Studios_Hollywood-Los_Angeles_California.html

The Getty Center

travel guide

The Getty Center is one of the most popular museums to visit in Los Angeles. It features an impressive collection of art work from artists such as Cezanne, Monet, and Van Gogh. In addition, its buildings and gardens are great examples of beautiful architecture. To top it all off, it sits perched on the Santa Monica hills, where you can get a great look of the rest of Los Angeles.[2]https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32655-d147966-Reviews-The_Getty_Center-Los_Angeles_California.html

Santa Monica Pier

travel guide

The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic beach locations to visit in Los Angeles. One of the most famous parts of the piers is Pacific Park, a family amusement park famous for its Ferris Wheel, roller coaster, and other small rides. In addition, there are many other things to do on the pier such as go to the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, shop, eat, fish, and look at the beautiful Pacific Ocean sunset.[3]https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g33052-d104238-Reviews-Santa_Monica_Pier-Santa_Monica_California.html

Venice Beach

travel guide

Venice Beach, not to be confused with Venice, Italy, is an area of Los Angeles that is very unique, bohemian, and artistic. It is famous for its canals, Ocean Front Walk, and multitude of performers and personalities. One of the most famous locations on Venice Beach is Muscle Beach where you can see perform great acrobatic and bodybuilding feats outdoors on the beach.[4]https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32655-d104591-Reviews-Venice_Beach-Los_Angeles_California.html

The Grove

travel guide

If shopping is more your style, then look no further than the iconic Grove! Shop at famous stores such as Nordstrom, DvF, and even take a look at Tesla cars! In addition, the place is stylish with great restaurants to eat at as well as the popular water fountain that places a choreographed water show to music every hour. This place is also a great place to go people watching. There is even a great chance that you will get to see some famous stars walking around and shopping! [5]https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g32655-d547175-Reviews-The_Grove-Los_Angeles_California.html

Hollywood Walk of Fame

travel guide

While locals may avoid it, as a tourist, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must on any Los Angeles bucket list. With more than 2,600 stars commemorating directors, musicians, and actors, it is one of the greatest memorials to Hollywood history in the world. One of the best things to do is walk around and try to find your favorite stars on the walk.[6]https://www.thecrazytourist.com/top-25-things-to-do-in-los-angeles/

El Matador State Beach

travel guide

If you are looking to “get out” of Los Angeles and experience a little bit of that famous California nature and weather, look no further than El matador State Beach located in Malibu, California! Due the magnificent rocks and caves along the beach, this spot is popular for photographers to take photos of models. If you would like to walk along the beach, the best time is at low tide.[7]https://www.californiabeaches.com/beach/el-matador-state-beach/

Dodger Stadium

travel guide

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without visiting a shrine to America’s pastime, baseball. Dodger Stadium is the 3rd oldest baseball stadium in the US as well as the largest one with a capacity of 56,000 people! While seeing a game eat some popular baseball game foods such as hot dogs and nachos while you root for the home team! If you would like to learn more about the stadium, there are even tours offered that let you get in the dugout and walk on the field.((https://www.thecrazytourist.com/top-25-things-to-do-in-los-angeles/))

True or False

Select true or false for each statement about this travel guide.

  1. Dodger Stadium is the 2nd biggest baseball stadium in the USA. True/False
  2. El Matador State Beach is located in Santa Monica, CA. True/False
  3. The Grove is a great place to see movie stars. True/False
  4. There are rollercoasters at Universal Studios. True/False
  5. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is popular with locals. True/False
  6. Venice Beach is famous for its canals. True/False
1. False 2. False 3. True 4. True 5. False 6. True

Matching

The following are several people who want to visit Los Angeles, but don’t know what to do or see. Match each person with the place that they would like most based on what they say using the information from the travel guide.

  1. “I don’t really like the big city, but I love nature and the ocean.”
  2. “Movies are my passion. Some of my favorite actors are Johnny Depp, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Brad Pitt.”
  3. “I love sports, especially baseball.”
  4. “I’m not really into sports. I consider myself more of an artistic, alternative type.”
  5. “Shopping, shopping, and more shopping. I love shopping!”
  6. “Rollercoasters are my jam, I especially like it when they incorporate virtual reality elements!”
1. El Matador State Beach 2. Hollywood Walk of Fame 3. Dodger Stadium 4. Venice Beach 5. The Grove 6. Universal Studios Hollywood

Discussion

Which of these places for this travel guide in Los Angeles is the most interesting to you? Why?

If this is too difficult to understand, check out the B1 grammar points to help out!

References[+]

Reported Speech

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Reported speech is when tell what someone else said.[1]https://www.perfect-english-grammar.com/reported-speech.html

Direct vs. Indirect Speech

There are two ways to use reported speech.

Direct speech: “I am a teacher,” Fred said.

Indirect speech: Fred said that he was a teacher.

Depending on the original tense, we must change the tense in the indirect reported speech. This is called a backshift.

reported speech

Present Simple

When using reported speech, we must backshift from the present simple to past simple.

For example:

  • I work a lot. → He said that he travelled a lot.
  • Susie is a teacher. → Susie said that she was a teacher.
  • We are sick. → They said that they were sick.

Present Continuous

For the present continuous, we must backshift to the past continuous.

For example:

  • They are talking very loudly. → She told me that they were talking very loudly.
  • We are singing. → She said that we were singing.
  • I am studying for the test. → He said that I was studying for the test.

Present Perfect

For the present perfect, we must change to the past perfect.

For example:

  • She has hurt her arm. → She said that she had hurt her arm.
  • I have studied for the test. → He said that he had studied for the test.
  • We have lived in the house for a long time. → They said that they had lived in the house for a long time.

Past Simple

For the past simple, we must change to the past perfect simple.

For example:

  • We lived in Paris for 2 years. → They said that they had lived in Paris for 2 years.

Past Continuous

For the past continuous, we must change to the past perfect continuous.

For example:

  • It was snowing all day. → The weatherman said that it had been snowing all day.
  • We were working hard yesterday. → They said that they had been working hard yesterday.
  • Susie was studying last night. → She said that she had been studying last night.

Past Perfect

The past perfect does not change when using reported speech.

Example Exercises

Change the following sentences into the reported speech.

Please go to Reported Speech to view this quiz

References[+]

Linking Words – Cause and Effect

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In English, linking words help to express cause and effect between different actions or events.

There are three main linking words categories.[1]https://web2.uvcs.uvic.ca/courses/elc/studyzone/570/pulp/hemp5.htm

  • Conjunctions
  • Prepositions
  • Transitions

They can be used with all the different verb tenses in English.

Conjunctions

Conjunctions can be used to both express cause and effect. They link two complete thoughts together.

The most important linking words for cause are “because” and “since”.

For example:

  • I am going to eat because I am hungry.
  • Since it is late, she is going to sleep.

As you can see, if the conjugation is in the beginning of the sentence, you must use a comma to separate the two clauses.

The most important linking word for effect is “so”.

For example:

  • It was raining outside, so I brought an umbrella.
  • They test is tomorrow, so I can’t go out to the party. I must study instead.

As you can see, with the conjunction “so”, you must always use a comma to separate the first and second clauses.

Examples of other linking word conjugations include[2]https://writesite.elearn.usyd.edu.au/m3/m3u5/m3u5s6/m3u5s6_3.htm

  • As
  • Thus
  • Hence

Prepositions

Linking words can form a noun phrase in order to talk about cause.

The most important ones are “due to” and “because of”.

For example:

  • Because of the snow, all the roads were closed.
  • I didn’t go to school due to my flu.

Transitions

Linking words can be used in transitions to express effect.

When doing so, you are joining two complete sentences together.

The most important ones are “therefore”, “consequently”, and “as a result”.

For example:

  • There is a test tomorrow; therefore, I need to study tonight.
  • It snowed a lot last night. Consequently, school was canceled today.
  • We didn’t study for the test. As a result, we all failed.

As you can see, you can use the transition linking words in one of two ways:

  • 1st sentence; transition word, 2nd sentence.
  • 1st sentence. Transition word, 2nd sentence.

References[+]

Short Answers – Past Tense

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In English, it is possible to ask questions using the past tense. When answering these questions, you have the option of replying with long answers or short answers.[1]https://www.grammar.cl/Past/Short_Answers.htm

Short Answers

short answers

Certain questions in English allow you to respond back with a short answer.

Did

You can respond with a short answer for questions that begin with the word “Did”.

For example:

  • Did you eat dinner yet? Yes, I did / No, I didn’t.
  • Did she study for the exam? Yes, she did / No, she didn’t.
  • Did he park the car? Yes, he did / No, he didn’t.

Was/Were

You can respond with a short answer for questions that begin with the words “Was” or “Were”.

For example:

  • Was she there? Yes, she was / No, she wasn’t.
  • Were they coming? Yes, there were / No, there weren’t.
  • Was it busy? Yes, it was. No, she wasn’t.

Long Answers

Not all questions in English allow you to respond back with a short answer.

Questions that begin with the question words who, where, when, why, what, which, or how often require more detailed explanations.

For example:

  • Who are you? I am Fred.
  • Where are you from? I am from the United States.
  • Why are you studying French? I am studying French because I want to visit Paris.
  • What are you doing? I am reading a book.
  • Which book are you reading? I am reading Harry Potter.
  • How often do you work out? I work out 3 times a week.

References[+]

Modal Verbs of Deduction – Must/Can’t/May (not) & Might (not)

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In English, there are several modal verbs of deduction. They allow us to guess if something is true based on the information available. Four very important ones to know are must, can’t, may (not), and might (not).[1]https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/intermediate-to-upper-intermediate/modals-deductions-about-the-present

modal verbs of deduction

Must

You use the word “must” when you are 100% (or nearly) positive that something is true.[2]https://smitkit10-11.weebly.com/deduction.html

For example:

  • You must be tired after that workout. (I am very sure that you are tired)
  • I don’t have my phone. It must be on my desk. (I am sure that the phone is on my desk)
  • She must study for the test if she wants to do well. (I am very sure that if she wants to pass the test it is required that she study)

May (not) & Might (not)

You use the words “may (not)” or “might (not)” if you are 50% sure of a fact.

For example:

  • They are not here yet. They might be stuck in track. (I am not exactly sure why they aren’t here)
  • Frank may be able to help us with the problem. (There is a 50% chance that Frank can help)
  • The airline told us that the flight might be delayed due to weather. (There is a 50% chance that the flight gets delayed due to weather)

Difference between Might and May

May is used for situations that could be factual or could be possible.

Might is used for speculative situations that didn’t actually happen.[3]https://writingexplained.org/may-vs-might-difference

Can’t

You use the word “can’t” when you are 100% (or nearly) sure that something is false.[4]https://www.test-english.com/explanation/b1/modal-verbs-deduction-must-might-cant/

For example:

  • Sorry, I can’t do that. It’s against the law. (I am 100% unable to do the task)
  • You can’t stay in the house while they paint it. The fumes are toxic. (You are 100% not allowed to be in the house)
  • I can’t drive today. I just had an eye test and can’t see. (Due to the eye test, I am 100% unable to drive)

Example Exercises

Please go to Modal Verbs of Deduction – Must/Can’t/May (not) & Might (not) to view this quiz

References[+]

Embedded Questions

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Embedded questions are questions that appear inside another statement or question.[1]https://esllibrary.com/blog/embedded-questions

This can be confusing for many English learners because of the usual sentence pattern in English.

Sentence Patterns

embedded questions

Normally in English a question follows the (Question Word)-Auxiliary Verb-Subject-Main Verb pattern.

For example:

  • What did you do yesterday?
  • Where are we going to go for dinner?
  • Did you swim last night?

However, embedded questions do not follow the inverted pattern. Instead, they follow the Subject-Verb pattern of a statement. These sentences end with a question mark.

For example:

  • Do you know when we start the test?
  • Do you think your mom will bake a cake for your birthday?
  • Could you tell me when you plan on arriving?

You can also find imbedded questions in phrases that don’t end with a question mark.

For example:

  • I wonder whether the test is today.
  • I asked if I could help with the assignment.
  • Let’s ask them if they like horror movies.

Usage of Embedded Questions

So why do we used embedded questions rather than the usual inverted question format?

Be Polite

You can use an embedded question to be more polite.

For example:

  • Inverted Question: Where is the restroom?
  • Imbedded Question: Can you tell me where the restroom is?

Give Additional Information

You can use an embedded question to add additional information. This usually helps express intent.

For example:

  • Inverted Question: Will he call me?
  • Imbedded Question: I wonder if he will call me. (this expresses the intent of curiosity)

Change from Direct to Indirect Speech

You can use an embedded question to change direct speech to indirect speech.

For example:

  • Inverted Question: What did you do yesterday?
  • Imbedded Question: She asked me what I did yesterday.

References[+]