The English Trainer

Recipes are a good way to learn the imperative- orders -in English. The imperative is most often used speaking to children "Go to bed now!" or in military situations with a command structure, "Stand up!". Usually we don't use the imperative in general conversations as it's seen to be rude. It can be used in arguments "Get out!" Back to recipes. "Add the milk to the bowl", "Mix in the sugar" are examples of the imperative used to make something. Scones are a typical British food that originates in the south west of England. They are traditionally served with jam and cream. A special type of cream which comes from Cornwall is known as 'clotted', it's more like the consistency of butter, with a high fat content. This is particularly good in a 'cream tea'- scones, cream and jam, served with a classic pot of tea.  I use a scones recipe to illustrate the imperative to my students. As an added treat I make sco...

I teach at a local centre and last week it was graduation. It was so great to see so many students who have worked solidly all year, be rewarded for their hard work. A lot of them received certificates for learning English as a second language. They have shown a great amount of dedication and inspiration which will hold them in good stead for their next steps in learning English. I have been doing a course at the centre myself, on volunteering and the impact on the community, and I also got a certificate. The teacher must also be a learner. The head of the centre had the best advice. "Be greedy with education, when you have had some, have a bit more. When you think that you have had enough, have a bit more". Advice I think we all can take.