GRAMMAR REQUIREMENTS FOR LEVEL

B1
This publication has made use of the English Grammar Profile. This resource is
based on extensive research using the Cambridge Learner Corpus and is part of
the English Profile programme, which aims to provide evidence about language
use that helps to produce better language teaching materials.
See http://www.englishprofile.org/ for more information.

Compiled electronically by Efthimios Mavrogeorgiadis.

http://www.toe.gr/
ADJECTIVES

COMBINING
FORM: BEFORE THE NOUN
Can use a comma to combine two adjectives used before the noun, following the usual order
of adjective types.

Corrected Learner Examples

It was the biggest TV in the bazaar, with its huge, black screen.
My house was built in 1864. It's an old, Victorian-style house.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It was the biggest TV in bazaar with its huge, black screen.
My house has been build in 1864. It's an old, Victorian style house.

Comments
L1 has a strong influence on order of adjectives. Because of this we haven't been able to
capture a general view of the order in which adjectives emerge. We flag it for future study
within a L1 comparative context.

FORM: COMBINING COMPARATIVE ADJECTIVES WITH 'AND'

Can use 'and' to join a limited range of comparative adjectives.► adjectives: comparatives

Corrected Learner Examples

In the winter you can go to the fitness centre, there you can get stronger and fitter.
The cars will fly around the buildings like planes, and they will be faster and cheaper.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

In the winter you can go in the fitness center, there can you get stronger and fitter.
The car will fly around the buildings like planes and it they will be faster and cheaper.

FORM: COMBINING MORE THAN TWO ADJECTIVES

Can use commas and 'and' to join more than two adjectives, after 'be'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Her name is Cassia, she is beautiful, intelligent, funny and very reliable.
He is tall, thin and not very handsome, but he is very nice and friendly.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Her name is Cassia, she is beautiful, inteligent, funny and very reliable.
He is tall, thin and not very handsome, but he is very nice and friendly.

FORM: COMBINING THE SAME COMPARATIVE ADJECTIVE WITH 'AND'

Can use 'and' to repeat a comparative adjective to indicate change over time, usually after
'become' or get. ► adjectives: comparatives

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 Corrected Learner Examples
I could see how the fire was burning the door, and the room became hotter and hotter.
I think that's a good question, because nowadays television is getting worse and worse, but
there are still some good programmes.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I could see how the fire was burning the door and the room became hotter and hotter.
Dear Paul, I think that's a good question because nowadays television is getting worse and
worse, but there are still some good programmes: for example I like the quiz show called
"Who wants to be a millanaire".

FORM: COMPOUND ADJECTIVES

Can use a limited range of compound adjectives ('good-looking', 'well-known')

Corrected Learner Examples

He was tall and good-looking.
This programme is presented by "Gato Feobranto," a well-known comedy group.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

He was tall and good-looking.
This programme is presented by "Gato Feobranto," a well-known comedy group.

COMPARATIVES
FORM/USE: WITH '(SO) MUCH'
Can use '(so) much' to modify and intensify comparative adjectives used predicatively after a
verb, usually 'be'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think the teacher in the new class is much better than the last one.
The house is beautiful, and so much bigger than the previous one.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I think the teacher is the new class is much better than the last one.
The house is beautiful and so much bigger than the previous one.

FORM/USE: WITH 'A (LITTLE) BIT'

Can use 'a (little) bit' to modify comparative adjectives used predicatively after a verb, usually
'be'.

Corrected Learner Examples

He's 15, a bit smaller than me, dark hair, brown eyes.
Our first lesson was a bit shorter, but very unusual.
She's a little bit older than me.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

He's 15, a bit smaller than me, dark hair, brown eyes.
Our first lesson was a bit shorter, but very unusual.
She's a little bit older than me.

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 FORM/USE: WITH 'AND'
Can use 'and' to repeat a comparative adjective to indicate change over time, usually after
'become' or 'get'. ► adjectives: comparatives

Corrected Learner Examples

I saw everything become smaller and smaller.
I think that's a good question, because nowadays television is getting worse and worse, but
there are still some good programmes.
Summer is coming. Days become longer and longer.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I saw all the things become smaller and smaller.
I think that's a good question because nowadays television is getting worse and worse, but
there are still some good programmes:
Days become longer and longer.

FORM/USE: WITH 'EVEN'

Can use 'even' to modify and intensify comparative adjectives used predicatively after a verb,
usually 'be' and 'get'.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about a series of films] I'm sure you've seen part one already, but part two was even
better!
As I finished, my smile got even bigger.
I think that it is awful, because that means that in Spain it will be even hotter than it is now.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I'm sure you've seen part one already, but part two was even better !
As I finished, my smile got even bigger.
They said in the documentarie that in a few years the average temperature will rose some
degres, I think that it is awful, because that mean that in Spain it will be even hotter than it is
now.

MODIFYING
FORM: ADJECTIVE PHRASE + NOUN
Can use adjective phrases attributively, before a noun.

Corrected Learner Examples

… my boss told me that at 10.15 am I have a very important meeting.
… she's also a really good friend.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We wanted to meet us next Tuesday at 10am in front of the cinema but yesterday my boss
told me, that at 10.15am I have a very important meeting.
I love being with her so much because everytime we see each other we can't stop laughing
about everything we're going through; she's hilarious but she's also a really good friend.

FORM: WITH 'ENOUGH'

Can use 'enough' to modify adjectives.

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 Corrected Learner Examples
My room is big enough, there is a lot of space, and for this reason I will buy a stereo.
I thought they had the same problem as me: we don't think our English is good enough.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

My room is big enough and there is a lot of space and for this reason I will buy a stereo.
I thought they got the same problem as me, we don't think our English is good enough.

Comments
There are lots of errors with word order for this feature, e.g. … 'you are enough responsible to
stay for some days without your parents' - but at B1 the structure is there.

FORM: WITH 'QUITE A'

Can form adjective phrases with 'quite a' + adjective.

Corrected Learner Examples

I been thinking about your last letter for quite a long time and I came to the following
conclusion.
This is quite a difficult situation you have.
I personally think going to a large school is quite a good idea.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I been thinking about your last letter for quite a long time and I came to the following
conclusion.
This is quite a difficult situation you have.
I personally think going to a large school is quite a good idea as it is in the centre of town, you
probably could do some shoping afterward and it's more stuffs to do than the one in the
countryside you know.

FORM: WITH 'TOO' + 'TO'-INFINITIVE

Can use 'too' before adjectives followed by 'to'-infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

He always told me that he was too busy to write a letter to me, his wife.
We took two days to mend it, but the machine is too old to work well.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

He always told me that he was too busy to write a letter to me, his wife.
We took two days to mend it, but the machine is too old to work well.

POSITION
FORM: ADJECTIVES WITH PREFIX 'A-'
Can use adjectives with the prefix a- ('asleep', 'awake', 'alive', 'alone') predicatively only, after
linking verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

I was very nervious because I was alone at the bus station …
On that night while I was watching TV, I was almost asleep , the door bell rang.
We went in the room and I was very happy that my father was still alive.

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 Uncorrected Learner Examples
I was very nervious because I was alone at the bus station, I didn't know anybody, and the
worst!
On that night while I was watching TV, I was almost asleep, the door bell rang, I became
wondered.
We went in the room and I was very happy that my father was still alive.

FORM: ATTRIBUTIVE (WITH NOUNS)

Can use an increasing range of adjectives attributively, before a noun.► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

The main character in the programme is a journalist who is visiting the town.
Dear Fiona, I see you are in a complicated situation, aren't you?
The first of them had long dark hair and the second one had short fair curly hair.
In the evening, we used to go to a famous restaurant where you can eat delicious local food.
I decided to see the "Zorro's Mask" because it's an amusing and entertaining action film and
love-story.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

The main character in the programme is a journalist who is visiting the town.
Dear Fiona, I see you are in a complicated situation, aren't you?
First of them had long dark hair and the second one had short fair curly hair.
In the evening, we used to go to a famous restaurant where you can eat delicious local food.
I decided to see the "Zorro's mask" because it's an amusing and entertaining action film and
love-story.

FORM: WITH 'MAKE' AS OBJECT COMPLEMENT

Can use adjectives as object complement after 'make'.

Corrected Learner Examples

That's something that makes me angry!
… you should tell them that you don't want to make them sad but you really want to go on
holiday with your friends.
Maria realised that being kind and trying to make other people happy is always the best way!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

That's something that makes me angry!
Furthermore, you should tell them that you don't want to make them sad but you really want
to go on holiday with your friends and that you have arranged it a long time ago, and that you
don't want to miss this holiday.
The man thanks her and Maria also realised that being kind and trying to make other people
happy is always the best way!

FORM: WITH PRONOUN

Can use an adjective or adjective phrase after pronouns like 'something', 'nothing',
'somewhere', 'nowhere'.

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 Corrected Learner Examples
I like cooking and I want to cook something special.
But something terrible happened next; I was so nervous that I stopped breathing!
There is nothing interesting on TV, nothing for teenagers.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I like cooking and I want to cook something special.
But something terrible happened next, I was so nervous that I stop breathing!
There is nothing interesting on TV, nothing for teenagers.

SUPERLATIVES
FORM/USE: 'THE BEST' WITH NOUN AND PRESENT PERFECT
Can use 'the best' before a noun + present perfect to talk about a unique experience.

Corrected Learner Examples

It was the best birthday present I have ever had.
That is the best game I've ever played.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I can't describe the emotions and the feeling I had during the flight but I very well just like you
know it was the best birthday present I have ever had.
That is the best game I've ever played.

FORM/USE: COMPLEX NOUN PHRASES

Can form an increasing range of complex noun phrases with a superlative adjective +
prepositional phrase, to talk about something unique. ► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

Yesterday was the most exciting day of my life!
Well, exercise is undoubtedly the most important thing in our lives for our health.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Yesterday was the most exciting day of my life!
Well, excercise is undoubtelly the most important thing in our lives for our health.

FORM: 'ONE OF THE'

Can use 'one of the' before a superlative adjective, followed by a plural noun. ► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

It was one of the best days of my life.
I recommend that you should go to Akihabara, which is one of the most famous places in
Tokyo.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It was one of the best days of my life.
I recommend you should go to Akihabara, which is one of the most famous places in Tokyo.

FORM: 'THE BEST' WITH NOUN AND 'TO-' INFINITIVE

Can use 'the best' before a noun + 'to'-infinitive. ► clauses: comparative

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 Corrected Learner Examples
Summer is the best time to visit Poland.
I'm sorry but I'm afraid that I'm not the best person to ask about TV, because I'm up to my
eyes at work and I don't have any time to spend watching TV.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Summer is the best time to visit Poland.
I'm sorry but I'm afraid that I'm not the best person to ask about TV, because I'm up to my
eyes at work and I don't have any time to spend watching TV.

FORM: WITH DETERMINERS

Can form noun phrases with a range of determiners before a superlative adjective. ► noun
phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

There, people wear their best clothes.
Tomorrow I'm expecting a delivery of our latest catalogues.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

There, people wear their best clothes.
Tomorrow I'm expecting a delivery of our latest catalogues.

ADVERBS

ADVERB PHRASES - FORM

FORM: ADVERB + ADVERB
Can modify an increasing range of adverbs with other adverbs.► adverbs and adverb phrases:
types and meanings

Corrected Learner Examples

We get along quite well.
It will be really big and at first you will feel lonely, but there are so many people, you can find
new friends really fast.
My style is almost always the same: light blue jeans, with a shirt and my old brown boots.
The pizza is just too good.
[about a film] It came out just yesterday.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We get along quite well.
It will be really big and at first you will feel lonely, but there are so many people, … so you can
find new friends really fast.
My style is almost always the same: light blue jeans, with shirt and my old brown boots.
The pizza is just too good.
[about a film] It's came out just yesterday.

Comments
At B2, there is little development in terms of the adverbs used to modify adverbs. Note, we
predict a greater range in spoken data, particularly in intensifiers.

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ADVERBS AND ADVERB PHRASES: TYPES AND MEANINGS
FORM/USE: MODIFYING CLAUSES, STANCE
Can use adverbs to modify clauses and sentences to indicate stance or attitude.

Corrected Learner Examples

But, obviously, you prefer going with your friends because you will have a better time.
Luckily, I arrived in time.
I think you should walk with a friend, otherwise it could be boring.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

But, obviously, you prefer going with your friends because you will have a better time.
Luckily, I arrived in time.
I think you should walk with a friend, otherwise it could be boring.

FORM: DEGREE, MODIFYING ADVERBS

Can use a limited range of degree adverbs to modify adverbs. ► adverb phrases: form

Corrected Learner Examples

We left really early on a Friday morning.
So I couldn't wait and I opened it very carefully.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We left really early on a Friday morning.
So I couldn't wait and I opened it very carefully.

FORM: MANNER, MODIFYING VERBS

Can use an increasing range of manner adverbs to modify verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

You have to choose carefully.
My smile slowly disappeared as I finished my reading.
She looked at me seriously and said "Can you sing a song right now?”

Uncorrected Learner Examples

You have to choose carefully.
My smile slowly disappeared as I finished my reading.
She looked at me seriously and said "Can you sing a song right now?

ADVERBS AS MODIFIERS
USE: CERTAINTY
Can use an increasing range of adverbs to indicate degrees of certainty.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about a film] And it will probably be on TV next month!
If I were you I'd certainly choose not to go with your parents.
I will definitely give you the bicycle by 5.30 pm or latest by 5.45 pm.

USE: DEGREE WITH VERBS

Can use an increasing range of degree adverbs ('a little', 'a bit') with verbs to indicate degree or
intensity. ► determiners

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 Corrected Learner Examples
When I came to England, one year ago, I didn't know any English word, now I'm very happy
because I don't speak very well but I can understand and speak a little.
I suggest you to take a little break of about one minute between hours and walk to relax a bit.
I go to bed and I read just a little bit.

USE: DEGREE, 'REALLY REALLY'

Can use 'really really' with verbs and adjectives for emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

Oh, I really really like her very friendly and lovely smile.
I am not keen on football so, I think it is really really borring.

USE: FOCUS
Can use an increasing range of focusing adverbs ('particularly', 'especially') to point to or
highlight something. ► adverbs: position

Corrected Learner Examples

I usually read in my free time but particularly in the evenings before I go to the bed.
As you know I love dolphins and all programmes about Nature and Wild life, especially the
Discovery Channel.

USE: LINKING
Can use an increasing range of adverbs ('therefore', 'furthermore', 'otherwise') to show a
relationship between two clauses or sentences.

Corrected Learner Examples

You don't like city's with a lot of people. Therefore I suggest you go to a small school in the
countryside, near your new home.
I decided to join these classes because I have to improve my reading, writing and speaking in
English. Furthermore I want to write my thesis in an English-speaking country next year.
(Austria; B1 THRESHOLD; 2002; German; Pass).
Please let me know if you can collect it otherwise I will ask my other Turkish friend.

USE: MANNER
Can use an increasing range of manner adverbs and adverb phrases to modify how something
happens.

Corrected Learner Examples

They are like my sisters. We go everywhere together.
You are a sweet and caring guy and wherever you'll go, you'll fit in easily!
Of course you have to eat carefully.
Then I took a knife and opened it very carfully and slowly like there was something breakable
in it.

USE: ORGANISING
Can use adverbs as discourse markers to organise text. ► adverbs: position ► Discourse
markers

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 Corrected Learner Examples
Firstly, I advise you to visit both schools.
Firstly, we need a good expert to run the course.
Secondly, good materials are needed.
What's more, this topic is very useful, it could offer so many professional suggestions .
Finally , in my opinion, this topic is very interesting.
My boss' talk will be about the advantages and drawbacks which overseas sells bring . Actually
, he is very interested in this subject because our company is trying to expand and sell abroad.

USE: PLACE
Can use an increasing range of adverbs and adverb phrases ('near', 'far away', 'upstairs',
'downstairs') to indicate place.

Corrected Learner Examples

You can't go far away because I don't think your parents want to pay for it.
He went downstairs.
After the film we went to a shop nearby for lunch and after that we went to a park and played
all sorts of games.

USE: STANCE
Can use an increasing range of adverbs ('completely', 'obviously', 'clearly', 'actually', 'luckily',
'honestly', 'sadly', 'basically', 'obviously', 'hopefully') to indicate an attitude or viewpoint.

Corrected Learner Examples

I am completely sure.
It's obviously much more fun to go on vacation with your friends, but your parents will be sad
and worry about you all the time you're gone.
I am clearly a fashion victim and it's not a fault.
Actually she's my best friend I met her this year when the school started.
Luckily my cousin is now recovering of his illness and all my family is really happy.
I don't watch a lot of TV, sadly I don't have time.
Surely it depends where your family goes, and where you are going to go with your friends!

USE: TIME
Can use an increasing range of adverbs to refer to the timing of an event.

Corrected Learner Examples

Dear Kate, I went to the cinema with a new friend recently.
I immediately called her to see if everything was O.K.

CLAUSES

COMPARATIVES
FORM/USE: 'AS … AS'
Can use '(not) as' + adjective/adverb + 'as' to introduce a clause (often with a substitute
auxiliary verb) to talk about two things being equal or unequal in some way.

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 Corrected Learner Examples
When I come back from the hospital, I will try to cover the work as much as I can.
The weather is the best, it is not as cold as I expected, it is just perfect.
Now I've bought a computer and I'm not watching T.V. as often as I did.
I really don't like trousers as much as you do.

FORM/USE: 'RATHER THAN' + PHRASE

Can use 'rather than' + noun phrase or prepositional phrase to stress one element in a
comparison.

Corrected Learner Examples

Use the stairs rather than the lift, the bike rather than the tube and whenever you've got
enough time, try running around the neighbourhood in the morning before going to work.
Well, to me, it's better going to a large school, rather than a small one.
Eat healthy foods rather than fatty foods.

FORM/USE: 'THE BEST (THAT)'

Can use 'the best (that)' followed by a clause with the present perfect to talk about something
unique.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's the best place that I have ever seen.
Well, the best decision that I've ever made was the decision to go to France for a year.
I think that's why this was the best decision I've ever made.

FORM/USE: NON-FINITE AFTER 'THAN'

Can use 'than' + a limited range of non-finite clauses (with -ing), forming the second part of a
comparison after a comparative adjective

Corrected Learner Examples

Well, If I were you I would go to a small school in the countryside because it's less complicated
than going to a large school in a town.
But if they refuse, you should go with your friends, because it will be more interesting than
spending your holiday with parents.
Going away with friends will be more fun than sitting at home, so you should go with them.

FORM: 'SO' + ADJECTIVE + 'THAT' CLAUSE

Can use 'so' + adjective + 'that' clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

I was so tired that I didn't have the strength to stand up and ask him for a photograph.
I was so nervous that when the teacher talked to me, I shouted to answer him!

FORM: 'THE SAME' (+ NOUN) + 'AS' + PRONOUN OR NOUN

Can use 'the same' (+ noun) + 'as' + pronoun or noun.

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 Corrected Learner Examples
I wasn't the only one in my class, there were many others at the same level as me.
In my opinion it's better to be with people who are the same age as you.
You like the same things as your friends.
When I read your letter, it reminded me of a problem I had … and which was almost the same
as yours.

FORM: 'TOO' + 'TO'-INFINITIVE

Can use 'too' + adjective + 'to'-infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

First of all, I think you are too young to go on holiday by yourself.
He always told me that he was too busy to write a letter to me.

FORM: FINITE AFTER 'THAN'

Can use 'than' + a finite clause forming the second part of a comparison after a comparative
adjective

Corrected Learner Examples

I wish our schools could become better than they are.
He is almost 60 years old, but he's faster than you can imagine.
The price of the delivery company we are now using is a little bit higher than we expected.
The floor is dark but the walls are white, so the room seems to be bigger than it is really.

FORM: LINKING VERB + 'LIKE' OR 'SIMILAR TO'

Can use linking verbs + 'like' or 'similar to'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Some people have told me that I look like a pop star when I wear it.
First he heard a disconcerting noise that sounded like a gun shot and then he saw a man
running away holding a gun.
It smelled like roses.
Everything seemed tiny and small from above and I felt like a bird.
Your story is similar to my last dream.
The weather is sunny and hot, it's similar to Valencia's weather.

Comments
There are examples with 'be like' at A2 and then a broadening of use with other linking verbs
at B1.

FORM: SENSE VERBS + 'AS IF' OR 'AS THOUGH' + FINITE CLAUSE

Can use verbs of the senses + 'as if' or 'as though' + finite clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

I was excited and I felt as if I was a bird.
So when you enter the restaurant you feel as if you are in Italy.
I think I will have to buy an umbrella because it looks as if it'll rain.
I got your letter last Friday, and it looks as if you've got a problem.
I enjoyed it a lot because as it was built many years ago. I felt as though I was in the year
1830!

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 Comments
As if examples are much more frequent than as though examples

CONDITIONAL
FORM/USE: 'IF I WERE YOU' + 'WOULD', FUTURE, IMAGINED SITUATION
Can use 'if I were you' and 'would' in the main clause often in the context of advice or opinion-
giving.

Corrected Learner Examples

Well, if I were you I would go to a small school in the countryside because it's less complicated
than going to a large school in a town.
If I were you, I would talk to everybody and tell them when are you free, and spend the
summer with both friends and parents.
[deciding between two holiday options] If I were you, I would accept both of them.

FORM/USE: 'IF' + PAST PERFECT + 'WOULD HAVE' + '-ED', IMAGINED SITUATION, REGRET|(THIRD
CONDITIONAL)
Can form conditional subordinate clauses with 'if' + past perfect simple and 'would have' + '-
ed' in the main clause, to talk about imagined situations in the past, often with regret.

Corrected Learner Examples

If they had not been there, I would have been very lonely.
If I hadn't gone to these horse-riding lessons, I wouldn't have lost my watch.
I realise that if I hadn't agreed with my parents to go to the concert I wouldn't have met Britney
Spears.

Comments
This is often taught at B2 but there is sufficient evidence in the CLC to show that learners are
successfully using it at B1.

FORM/USE: 'IF' + PAST SIMPLE + 'COULD', FUTURE, IMAGINED SITUATION

Can form conditional subordinate clauses with 'if' + past simple, and 'could' in the main clause
to talk about an imagined situation, often in the context of suggesting.

Corrected Learner Examples

If you wanted to do some outdoor activities, we could go fishing or even walking through the
green fields.
If you arrived in town the day before, we could arrange accommodation for you at the nearest
Hotel.

FORM/USE: 'IF' + PAST SIMPLE + 'WOULD', FUTURE, IMAGINED SITUATION|(SECOND

CONDITIONAL)
Can form conditional subordinate clauses with 'if' + past simple, and would in the main clause,
to talk about an imagined situation, often in the context of advice or opinion-giving.

Corrected Learner Examples

Maybe it would be more fun if you went with your friends.
If you went on holiday with your friends, where would you go?
But, if I was able to move, I would like to live near the coast, because I love the sea, I like
sunbathing and swimming.

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FORM/USE: 'UNLESS', EXCEPTIONS
Can use 'unless' + present simple to talk about an exception, with present and future
reference.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think I am going to pay by cash, unless you accept credit cards.
If I were you I'd go to work on foot, unless it's far away from your house.
But unless you do some sports activities you will gain a lot of weight.

FORM/USE: ELLIPTED 'IF NOT', ALTERNATIVE

Can use 'If not' as a conditional clause to offer an alternative to refer to a previous direct or
indirect 'yes-no' question where the answer might be ?no?.

Corrected Learner Examples

Is the Sheraton Hotel ok for you? If not, call me as soon as possible.
Do you work on Sundays? If not, you could do exercise on Sundays.
I hope it's ok for you. If not, call me on my mobile phone.

FORM/USE: ELLIPTED 'IF SO', CONFIRMING

Can use 'If so' as a conditional clause to refer a previous direct or indirect 'yes-no' question
where the answer might be ?yes?. ► Clauses coordinated

Corrected Learner Examples

Do you think we could have an extra class? If so, I'd like to do it to cover the work I'll miss.
Is it possible to pay by credit card? If so, which ones do you take?

FORM/USE: PRESENT CONTINUOUS 'IF' CLAUSE , PLANS & ADVICE

Can use 'if' + present continuous or 'going to' to introduce a possible plan, with modal verbs
or imperatives in the main clause to give advice.

Corrected Learner Examples

Billy, if you are moving you should think a lot, first you have to go and see the two schools.
However, if you are looking for fun and excitement, I would go for the city.
But if you are going to live in a town you should choose the large school.
In addition, if you are going to travel, please choose your partner very carefully.

FORM/USE: PRESENT SIMPLE 'IF' CLAUSE + 'WILL', FUTURE, LIKELY OUTCOME (FIRST CONDITIONAL)
Can use 'if' + present simple to introduce a possible future condition, with 'will' in the main
clause to talk about a likely result.

Corrected Learner Examples

I talked to my parents and I think if you tell them your reasons, they will accept it.
I'm sure your parents will be happy if you go with them.
If you live in the countryside you will see beautiful nature.

Comments
Note on punctuation: many grammar books stress that when the 'if' clause precedes the main
clause, it must use a comma. We cannot establish a consistent competency for this (and
punctuation in general). It seems too idiosyncratic. L1 can be a skewing factor.

16
 FORM/USE: PRESENT SIMPLE 'IF' CLAUSE + MODAL, FUTURE, POSSIBLE OUTCOME
Can use 'if' + present simple to introduce a possible future condition, with modal verbs in the
main clause, to talk about a possible result. ► modality

Corrected Learner Examples

I think that it would be very good if you start going to the gym or you start cycling.
I would be very glad if you come and visit us.
If you come to Brazil you can stay at my home.

Comments
L1 users frequently use combinations of different tenses and forms in the if-clause and main
clause, as shown in these examples. The traditional second conditional form can be seen
below.

COORDINATED
FORM/USE: MULTIPLE MAIN CLAUSES, NARRATIVE
Can combine multiple main clauses with a range of conjunctions, often in a narrative context.

Corrected Learner Examples

By the time his mother arrived home, the suitcase was still lost, so Larry decided to tell her the
truth, but then his mother showed him his suitcase and told Larry that he left it in the car.
If you want to go somewhere with your friends then do it and promise your parents that you
will go with them the next holidays, or arrange a family day with them, because then your
parents will know that you love them and that they are still very important to you.

Comments
This is common in informal spoken language in NS data.

FORM: 'EITHER … OR'

Can combine two main clauses of the same type using 'either' in front or mid position,
followed by 'or' to introduce the second clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

Regarding your future plans, we would like to know which city you are going to move to, so
that if we get the chance, we can either visit you or write to you.
In my opinion, you should either ask your parents if you can invite a few friends, or ask them
to share your holidays.
You can either go to the gym or attend some special classes where you get gentle exercises.
I thought: "Either I talk to her now or I won't be able to talk to her anytime!

FORM: COMBINING CLAUSES OF THE SAME TYPE

Can combine clauses of the same type, main or subordinate, finite or non-finite, with
conjunctions.

17
 Corrected Learner Examples
You will have a great time with your friends, because I know they are going to the seaside and
staying in a hotel near the sea.
They chose our school because it's very modern and there are a lot of students.
Otherwise, if you want to relax and see your friend, the countryside will be the best.
You asked for my advice about either going on holiday with your parents or staying with your
friends.

Comments
There is a greater range of clauses that are being combined at B2.|For example: But it is a
deciding question if animals are held to widen our human understanding and for instance to
create new remedies to cure people from illnesses or if they are held just to amuse the people.
(561803_2; FCE; Germany; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; German)

DECLARATIVE
FORM/USE: AUXILIARY 'DO', FOR EMPHASIS
Can use the auxiliary verb 'do' in an affirmative declarative clause, for emphasis and
affirmation.

Corrected Learner Examples

Yes, I do have a favorite restaurant.
I do miss you.
I do apologise for the change but I can't be there on the 28th of June.
After all, you did say that you wanted go somewhere with your friends.

IMPERATIVES
FORM/USE: 'DO', EMPHASIS
Can use 'do' + base form of a main verb, for emphasis or in formal contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

Do write back and let me know all your news.
Do let me know your views on this.
Do follow the instructions.

FORM/USE: 'LET ME', FOCUS

Can use an imperative clause with 'let me' + base form of a main verb, as a focusing device, to
introduce something

Corrected Learner Examples

Let me tell you my story.
Let me explain something.
Let me answer your question.

USE: INVITATION
Can use the imperative to make an offer or an invitation.

Corrected Learner Examples

Come and visit us after the New Year, we've got so much to talk about.
Come and stay with us this weekend!

18
 Comments
This is more likely in spoken contexts. There is no evidence of imperative form with indefinite
subject, e.g. someone tell me, everyone stand still etc.

INTERROGATIVES
FORM: 'WH-' INTERROGATIVE, SUBJECT
Can form questions with a 'wh-' word as subject, without an auxiliary verb.

Corrected Learner Examples

What happened?
Who cares?
Who knows?

Comments
Results dominated by Spanish/ Portuguese. Note that these are generally spoken forms.

FORM: 'WHICH', 'WHOSE'

Comments
There are no examples in the whole CLC of 'which/whose' + subject noun + verb e.g. 'Which
horse won? Whose phone rang?'

FORM: INTERROGATIVE + ADVERB

Can form interrogative clauses with an adverb in mid position, between the subject and the
main verb.

Corrected Learner Examples

Have you ever been to Marseille?
What kind of books do you usually read?
Do you still remember my best friend?

PHRASES/EXCLAMATIONS
FORM: 'HOW' + ADJECTIVE
Can use 'How' + adjective.

Corrected Learner Examples

How exciting!
How terrible!
How amazing! This is my first flight in a hot-air balloon.

FORM: 'HOW' + ADJECTIVE + CLAUSE

Can use 'How' + adjective + clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

How lucky you are to have visited that exhibition!
How lovely to get your letter.

RELATIVE
FORM/USE: 'THE REASON WHY', FOCUS
Can use defining relative clauses with 'why' after 'reason', to give an explanation and for focus.

19
 Corrected Learner Examples
The reason why I love it is that it's quite original because it's about a woman who can see
ghosts.
This is the reason why we are changing our working hours.
This is the main reason why it is so famous and popular as well.

FORM/USE: 'THE' + NOUN + 'WHO/THAT', FOCUS

Can use defining relative clauses, 'the person who/that, the thing that, the (only) one
who/that' as a focusing device.

Corrected Learner Examples

The thing that was great is that the weather was really warm and it didn't rain.
The thing that I love most is going to the shops.
The person who sat next to me was her.
The person who called me was my best friend.

Comments
There is not a great spread of L1s. Very romance language dominated.

FORM/USE: 'WHEN', FOCUS

Can use defining relative clauses with 'when' to define nouns relating to time.

Corrected Learner Examples

The day when he had to go back to Korea, I could not stop myself crying.
I really remember the day when I lost my suitcase in the airport.
I was in the class at the time when they made the movie, so you will be able to see me on TV.

FORM: DEFINING, OBJECT, WITH 'WHO/THAT'

Can use a defining relative clause with 'who' or 'that' as the object.

Corrected Learner Examples

My friends are the people who I love most.
They filmed two actors who I don't really know arguing and kissing after it.
It was Sarah, a girl who I met in Spain on my holiday last year.
We are going with my friends Paolo and Ontorio, the guys who you met yesterday.
So I sent a letter to the school and they have sent me the details of the people that I'm going
to stay with.

FORM: NON-DEFINING, OBJECT, WITH 'WHO'

Can use a non-defining relative clause with 'who' as the object.

Corrected Learner Examples

What I liked most was the friend I made there, a green-eyed chubby boy, who I played with till
dinner time, when I had to go home.
She turned around and, she couldn't believe it, it was an old classmate Tom, who she hadn't
seen for ages!

FORM: WITH 'WHERE', PLACE

Can use defining relative clauses with 'where' to define nouns referring to place.

20
 Corrected Learner Examples
The city where I live is very nice and extremely charming.
But if they are going to a place where you go every year you should go with your friends, you
will have more fun.
We went to the area where I used to live when I was a child near the Highlands.

FORM: WITH 'WHOSE NAME'

Can use defining and non-defining relative clauses with 'whose name'.

Corrected Learner Examples

We have a new employee whose name is Mary Watts.
It was a very famous football player, whose name was known all over the world.
I have many friends but I'll tell you about my best friend, whose name is Nicos.
He has got a friend whose name is Robert.
The man whose name I can't remember, wrote a serious looking message.

SUBORDINATED
FORM/USE: CONTRAST
Can use a finite subordinate clause with conjunctions ('even though, (al)though, while if') to
introduce contrast, before or after a main clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

You should come with your sister even though you would rather be alone.
Even though I am currently quite busy, I will be very glad to take part in the Conference
dinner.
Although he was famous, I didn't like him.
Though we are not studying at the same school now, we always keep in touch.
The main actor is my favorite actor, although I can't remember his name.
I think going on holiday with your parents won't be very much fun, while if you go with your
friends you will enjoy yourself much more.

Comments
Note even though is at B2 in EVP and commonly taught for First Certificate but there are 109
instances on pass-level scripts at B1. Note that while with the meaning of contrast is low
frequency overall, with the dominant meaning relating to time. As vocabulary evolves, whereas
and whilst are used at B2.

FORM/USE: NON-FINITE WITH '-ING'

Can use a non-finite subordinate clause with 'before' and 'after' + '-ing', before or after a main
clause, to refer to time.

Corrected Learner Examples

Instead I buy books once a month and I read them in the evening before going to bed.
We can relax after working hard at school.
Before going back home we ate a hot meal in a beautiful restaurant called “Palladium”.
After having breakfast I started doing my homework.

Comments
The non-finite clauses occur much more frequently after the main clause than before it.

21
 FORM/USE: PURPOSE, RESULT
Can use a finite subordinate clause with conjunctions ('so (that), in order that') to introduce
purpose and result, after a main clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think it is important to write about this topic so that young students and other people who
are working with business, can get some inspiration.
Could you please give me some extra exercises so that I can cover the work I missed?
Please contact me if you need accommodation so I can book it for you.
If you come, please bring your camera in order that we can take some photos.

Comments
In order that is not very frequent.

FORM/USE: REASON
Can use a finite subordinate clause with conjunctions to introduce reasons, after a main
clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

I prefer to speak on 14 July, as I have got another appointment on the next day.
I am going to be absent from my English class next week, as I am travelling to Italy.
Unfortunately I will not be able to go to your class tomorrow since I have an appointment with
the doctor.
A budget of €10,000 is approved to replace our old copier machine, since it is not working
properly.

CONJUNCTIONS

COORDINATING
FORM/USE: 'BOTH … AND' WITH NOUNS
Can use 'both … and' to combine noun phrases, to give emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

I felt sorry for you because both friends and family are very important and having to pick one
is very hard.
As a result of our aggressive and successful expansion strategy, both our market share and
the number of our staff are increasing tremendously.
Argentina has both wonderful country landscapes and excellent towns to enjoy.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I felt sorry for you because both friends and family are very important and the decision of
picking one is very hard.
As a result of our agressive and successful expansion strategy, both our market share and the
number of our staff are increasing tremendously.
Argentina has both wonderful country landscapes and excellent town places to enjoy.

22
FORM/USE: 'PLUS' WITH CLAUSES
Can use 'plus' to connect clauses and sentences, often to point out a positive addition or
advantage.

Corrected Learner Examples

I would be more than pleased to receive you at home, it's not too big, but we could have a lot
of fun, plus you won't have to pay a thing!
It's around 200 so it's pretty cheap for a good game. Plus, it's really addictive and fun!
It will be fun because everyone is going to be there. Plus, the park is the best place for a
picnic, we can run and just have fun!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I would be more than pleased to receive you at home, it's not too big, but we could have a lot
of fun, plus, you won't have to pay a thing!
It's around 200 so it's pretty cheap for a good game.
Plus, the park is the best place for a picnic, we can run and just have fun!

FORM: 'EITHER … OR'

Can use 'either … or' to connect two words, phrases or clauses.

Corrected Learner Examples

The men wear suits, either white or black, and the bride and women wear special long
dresses, usually the same colour.
We can go either to the beach or to the inner part of Uruguay which is mainly a huge meadow.
I'll either write or phone you soon.
You can either go to the gym or attend some special classes, where you do gentle exercises.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

The men wear suits, either white or black, and the bride and women wear special long
dresses, usally with the same collor.
We can go either to the beach or to the inner part of Uruguay wich is mainly a huge meadow.
I'll either write or phone you soon.
You can either go to the gym or attend some special classes, where you get gentle exercises.

FORM: 'PLUS' WITH NOUNS

Can use 'plus' as coordinating conjunction, often in relation to numbers.

Corrected Learner Examples

In my house we are six people, my mother, my father, my sister and my two brothers, plus my
two cats, which are members of the family too.
It cost me £2,500 plus the taxes.
At the moment I pay 550 pounds monthly plus bills.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

In my house we are six people, My mother, My father, my sister and my two brothers, plus my
two cats which are members of the family too
It cost me £2,500 plus the taxes.
At the moment I pay 550 pounds monthly plus bills.

23
 FORM: COMPLEX ADDING
Can use a range of conjunctions ('and, but, or, so, then') to combine more complex strings of
clauses and sentences.

Corrected Learner Examples

I was scared and closed the window, but I couldn't sleep, so a few minutes later I opened the
window again, but they were gone.
Then we went to his limousine and we went to his studio and he was singing "Thriller" then I
heard a strange voice, I woke up, and there was my mom waking me up.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I was scare and closed the window, but I couden't sleep so few minut later I opened window
again, but they were gon.
Then we went to his limosine and we went to his studio and he was singing "Thriller" then I
heard a strange voice, I woke up, and there was my mom waking me up.

SUBORDINATING
FORM: SIMPLE
Can use an increasing range of simple subordinating conjunctions ('as, after, before since,
until, although, whether, so (that), though') to introduce a subordinate clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

In fact, I have to buy a desk, as I don't have one.
I usually read during the afternoon after I have finished my homework.
Before going out in the centre, we went to a pub in order to eat something together, but I
didn't see my boyfriend because he stayed at home.
I haven't seen him since we were at school.
I'm really sorry that I'm not available to attend this since I'll be in China for an important
meeting with a customer.
But I didn't remember my ring until I got back home.
Although the holiday was fantastic, I wished that you were with us.
My parents also want me to go on holiday with them this summer, although I want to stay with
my friends.
There were lots of people waiting for us though we had never met them before.
You gave it to me so that I could fix it!

24
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
In fact, I have to buy a desk, as I don't have one.
I usually read during the afternoon after I have finished my homework.
Before going out, in centre, we went to a pub in order to eat something togheter, but I didn't
see my boyfriend because he was staying at home.
I haven't seen him since we were at school.
I'm really sorry that I'm not available to attend this since I'll be in China for an important
meeting with a customer.
But I didn't remember my ring until I came back at home.
There was also onther peopl from many cantries visiting this place. becuas it is famus for
holidays spicialy cycling ones Although the holiday was fantastice, I wishid that you were with
us.
My parents also want me to go on holiday with them this summer, although I want to stay with
my friends, but I go with them, because it will be the last time I'm able to.
There were a lots of people waiting for us though we had never seen them before.
You gave it to me so that I could fix it!

DETERMINERS

ARTICLES
FORM/USE: 'THE OTHER'
Can use 'the other' with a singular noun to refer to the second or the opposite of two things,
and with a plural noun to refer to one of a set of things. ► pronouns ► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

She saw his blue jacket in a shop on the other side of the street.
I moved to this house because the other house was very small, and my brother and I have to
share a bedroom.
We need a new distribution company, because the other companies are very expensive.
In the first lesson we did some games in English, so I met all the other people in the class.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Just before she wanted to return to the café she saw his blue jacket in a shop on the other side
of the street.
I move to this house because the other house was very small, and my brother and my have to
shear a bedroom.
He lives at the other end of the city.
We need a new distribution company, because the other companies are very expensive.
At the first lesson we did some games in English, so I met all the other people in the class.
I think that's a good election, because black is a colour that can be use with all the other
colors, like red, white, etc.

FORM/USE: NO ARTICLE
Can use no article before an increasing range of singular and plural nouns when referring to
things in general.

25
 Corrected Learner Examples
Education in the future will change in a good way.
But remember this: friends are important, but they are not for life. Your family will always be
there to support you.
Yes, sometimes I like shopping for clothes.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Education in the future will change in a good way.
Yes, sometimes I like shopping for clothes.

FORM: 'ANOTHER' |
Can use 'another' with singular nouns. ► pronouns ► determiners

Corrected Learner Examples

Every 5 minutes, he makes another great joke.
Maria cried, but after a few minutes, she dried her tears and said: "Tomorrow will be another
day!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Every 5 minutes, he makes another great joke.
" ... Maria cried, but after a few minutes, she dried his tears and said: "Tomorrow will be
another day!

FORM: PREPOSITION + NO ARTICLE

Can use no article before an increasing range of nouns in some fixed expressions with
prepositions.

Corrected Learner Examples

The weather is very cold at night.
This programme will be shown on television next Friday.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I feel very cool at here, but the weather is very cold at night.
This programme will be shown on television next Friday.

USE: DIFFERENT (WITH 'ANOTHER')

Can use 'another' to talk about something different.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'm sorry but I won't be able to go to the English class tomorrow because I'll go to Maldonado
to see my mother that is ill. But I can go another day to cover the work I've missed.
Personally I think that it is better to stay at another hotel such as a Holiday Inn.

USE: ONE MORE (WITH 'ANOTHER')

Can use 'another' to talk about something additional.

Corrected Learner Examples

Dear Mary, I spent a week in Dubai and I am going to spend another week in Al Ain.
In 'Master' they've got excellent pasta, which is another reason why I love the restaurant.

26
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
Dear Mary, I spent a week in Dubai and I am going to spend another week in Al Ain.
I like it because the food is great, and it is beautiful inside. My favourite food is pasta. In
'Master' they've got excellent pasta, which is another reason why I love the restaurant.

DEMONSTRATIVES
USE: 'THIS', PAST
Can use 'this' with time and date words to refer to the past.

Corrected Learner Examples

Hi Mark, Thank you for your lovely letter which I received this morning.
It was the best decision I've ever made. It happened this summer.

POSSESSIVES
FORM: 'THEIR'
Can use possessive determiner 'their'. ► noun phrases ► possessive pronouns

Corrected Learner Examples

They were having the time of their lives, watching all the animals the zoo had, but when they
returned to their car, they saw that someone was stealing Paul's suitcase.
They filmed the artists and their work.
I couldn't see their faces.

Comments
These possessives are very L1 influenced. For example there is only 3% error with 'their' at B1
but almost 50% of those are Romance languages.

FORM: IRREGULAR PLURAL NOUN + ''S'

Can use ''s' after irregular plural nouns to indicate possession.

Corrected Learner Examples

When I go out with my friends, I actually like wearing clothes that attract people's attention.
The second reason is: it is too far from the children's school and, unfortunately, I haven't got a
car.

QUANTITY
FORM/USE: WITH UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS
Can use quantifying determiners with uncountable nouns, often in informal and/or spoken
contexts ('a little', 'a bit of' and 'a little bit of').

Corrected Learner Examples

I went with my friends so we could spend a little time together.
I had a bit of free time, so I took the bus and I went to my friend's house.
I just watch a little bit of TV when I come home from school.

Comments
Note that these determiners can be used with uncountable nouns only.

FORM: 'MANY' WITH PLURAL NOUNS, INTERROGATIVE

Can use 'many' with plural nouns in interrogative contexts.

27
 Corrected Learner Examples
Have you got many friends in England?
[talking about TV] How many channels are there in Britain?

Comments
There is very little evidence of interrogative use because of the lack of spoken data. It may be
that in spoken data we see this at lower levels.

FORM: 'MUCH' WITH UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS, INTERROGATIVE

Can use 'much' with uncountable nouns in interrogative contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

How much television do you watch?
Do you watch much TV?

Comments
There is very little evidence of interrogative use because of the lack of spoken data. It may be
that in spoken data we see this at lower levels.

FORM: 'SO MUCH', 'TOO MUCH' WITH UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS

Can use 'so much' and 'too much' with uncountable nouns.

Corrected Learner Examples

Hello Marina. Unfortunately I have so much work at the moment that I can't help you.
My neighbours are making too much noise.

Comments
Although there is evidence at A2 with so much fun there is not enough evidence of generalised
use with other nouns. e.g. 'I had so much fun'. (2668084_1; KETfS; Vietnam; A2 WAYSTAGE;
2009; Vietnamese; Pass) |

FORM: DETERMINER + 'OF' + DETERMINER

Can use an increasing range of quantifying determiners + 'of' + determiner ('half of', 'enough
of', 'none of',).► pronouns

Corrected Learner Examples

In my opinion you should spend half of your holiday with your parents and the other half with
your friends: I think this would be the best thing to do.
Anyway that's enough of my news!
Although I knew which kind of dress I wanted, none of the stores had it.

FORM: MODIFYING
Can modify determiners with adverbs. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

Because almost all of the programmes are stupid.
His name is Richard and since we were just little kids, we've spent nearly every day together.

FORM: WITH PLURAL AND UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS

Can use an increasing range of quantifying determiners with both plural nouns and
uncountable nouns ('most', 'enough', 'plenty of', 'loads of').

28
 Corrected Learner Examples
I'm convinced that most people watch too much TV these days.
If you haven't got enough credit on your phone, we can meet at 11 am at the bookshop.
I think if we meet at 8 pm, we'll have plenty of time to buy the tickets and some drinks.
We went to loads of beautiful places.

FORM: WITH PLURAL NOUNS

Can use a wide range of quantifying determiners with plural nouns ('several', 'millions of', 'a
few of').

Corrected Learner Examples

So several days ago we received a complaint.
I took it and wished to have millions of dollars.
They interviewed a few of the students, the teachers and the headmistress.

Comments
Note that these determiners can be used with plural nouns only.

DISCOURSE MARKERS

DISCOURSE MARKERS IN WRITING

FORM/USE: ADVERBS, STANCE
Can use adverbs as discourse markers to indicate an attitude or viewpoint.

Corrected Learner Examples

Unfortunately, they filmed only the building and the garden, not the students!
Actually, I do not have much time to watch television.
Surprisingly, the suitcase was Lucy's.

Comments
There is evidence of this use at A2 but more convincing at B1.

FORM/USE: ORGANISING, ADDING

Can use a range of words and phrases as discourse markers to add information.

Corrected Learner Examples

Moreover the health of our staff and customers is essential.
In addition it is wonderful to see the prize that the winner gets at the end, sometimes it is
money or a nice holiday.
Besides, you're 18 years old and you aren't a baby.
What is more, you could go to "Estadio Centerano" to watch football matches and to Maroias
to go horseriding.
Furthermore, I think that you should do some small exercises during your break, for example
you could go running in the morning and evening.

29
 Comments
Note that there are 54 instances of items such as 'moreover', 'in addition' and 'besides' at A2;
they are mostly from Romance languages, especially French learners. At B1, the frequency is
1,500 and across a wider L1 range.

FORM/USE: ORGANISING, CONTRASTING

Can use a range of phrases as discourse markers to introduce contrasting statements.

Corrected Learner Examples

On the one hand going to a large school is better for making friends, but on the other hand I
think you can learn better in a small school.
My new teacher, on the contrary, understands us and I think she is skilful, because during the
first lesson she organised a game.

Comments
There is evidence of use of other contrasting phrases: 'in contrast' at B2 and 'conversely' at C2.

FORM/USE: ORGANISING, MARKING NEW KNOWLEDGE, INFORMAL

Can use 'you see', 'the thing is' as discourse markers to mark new knowledge, usually in
informal contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

You see, in the park, you can enjoy fresh air?
The thing is, if I could move I'd go to the countryside.

FORM/USE: SEQUENCING
Can use sequencing adverbs as discourse markers to organise text.

Corrected Learner Examples

Firstly, we need a good expert to run the course. Secondly, good materials are needed.
? Secondly, I know you like a healthy life so if you don't eat too much candy and unhealthy
food, you can keep fit easily. And lastly, please believe in yourself, I know you can do it, and
don't give up the exercise?
Finally, I would be grateful if you would arrange a car from this airport.
First of all, I must tell you that it always depends on how badly you want to do something.

FOCUS

FOCUS
FORM/USE: 'IT' + 'BE' ADJECTIVE + 'THAT' CLAUSE
Can use 'it' + 'be' + adjective + 'that-'clause for focus.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's great that you have got a new job!
It's true that there are one or two programmes that are interesting or funny, but the rest...
they're horrible!
It?s important that you are happy.
It is really sad that you have to move to a different area.

30
 FORM/USE: FRONTING, ADVERBS
Can use adverbs in the front position for focus.

Corrected Learner Examples

That's my diary, the dearest thing I had. Here I wrote how I felt, what I did, who I met and all
my problems.
Quickly I opened the envelope, took out a white piece of paper and started to read.
Suddenly, the door opened.
Outside, it wasn't a sunny day any longer, it was raining a lot.

FUTURE

FUTURE CONTINUOUS
FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form with 'will' and 'shall'.

Corrected Learner Examples

However, I shall be attending class the day after tomorrow and I shall cover the work I miss by
copying it from John.
We will be waiting for you at the River's Café at 6.30.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

However, I shall be attending class the day after tomorrow and I shall cover the work I miss by
copying it from John.
We will be waiting for you at the River's Café at 6:30.

FORM: NEGATIVE WITH 'WILL'

Can use the negative form with 'will' ('won’t').

Corrected Learner Examples

I would like you to know that I won't be attending your English class next week.
I won't be coming because my family and I are going on a tour of London.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I would like you to know that I won't be attending your English class next week.
I won't be coming because my family and I are going on a tour of London.

Comments
There are no results in the CLC of the negative form of 'shall'.

FUTURE IN THE PAST

USE: 'BE GOING TO'
Can use the simple past form of 'be' + 'going to' to talk about the future from a point in the
past. ► 'be going to'

31
 Corrected Learner Examples
She was going to return it but she saw something very strange, her number was on the screen.
She didn't know what was going to happen.
We were going to meet two days later in the square next to the centre.

USE: 'WOULD'
Can use 'would' to talk about the future from a point in the past.► 'would'

Corrected Learner Examples

I've just bought a new dress, and a beautiful black T-shirt. When I saw them, I thought they
would be great for tonight's party.
… we thought that the film would be horrible because of the title but when the film started,
the story was beautiful and Mauricio and I liked it a lot.
As I saw the advert, I knew it would be a lovely birthday present.

FUTURE SIMPLE (WITH WILL AND SHALL)

USE: FIXED PLANS WITH 'WILL'
Can use 'will' to talk about fixed plans, often with timetabled times and dates.

Corrected Learner Examples

The work will start at 8 a.m. and finish at 2 p.m. The new schedule starts on 1 June.
I won't be able to get there at the time we agreed.

USE: PREDICTIONS WITH 'WILL'

Can use 'will' and '‘ll' to make predictions.

Corrected Learner Examples

It will be hotter because of global warming.
But, if you go on holiday with your parents, there are some advantages too: you will not have
money problems and your parents will not worry about you too much!
I won't live here in the future, because in March I'm moving to Lima, to study at the university.

USE:IMMEDIATE PLANS WITH 'SHALL'

Can use 'shall' with 'I' and 'we' to talk about plans and intentions.

Corrected Learner Examples

I promise that I shall cover all the work and give it to you tomorrow.
After that, I shall go to the beach.
We shall have a meeting regarding this next week.

FUTURE WITH BE GOING TO

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I am not going to go to school tomorrow.
Also you can do whatever you want because there is not going to be an adult there to stop
you.

32
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
I am not going to go to school tomorrow.
Also you can do whatever you want because there is not going to be an adult there to stop
you.

Comments
Results here and elsewhere with 'be going to' are dominated by Romance language speakers.

FORM: PAST
Can use the past form of 'be' + 'going to'. ► future in the past

Corrected Learner Examples

When we realized it was going to be an extremely hot day, we took water.
We were going to meet at 11.30 am but instead we will meet now at 2.30 pm at the same
place.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

When we realized it was going to be an extremely hot day we took water.
We were going to meet at 11:30 am but instead of it now we will meet at 2:30pm at the same
place.

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use 'be' + 'going to' with a limited range of adverbs, after the auxiliary be form, in the
normal mid position.

Corrected Learner Examples

I know that I 'm never going to forget this moment.
Although we are really happy with your new and, maybe, better job, we are really going to
miss you.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I know that I'm never going to forget this moment.
Although we are really happy with your new and, maybe, better job, we are really going to
miss you.

USE: FUTURE IN THE PAST

Can use the past form of 'be going to' to refer to the future from a point in the past. ► future
in the past

Corrected Learner Examples

She didn't know what was going to happen.
We were going to meet two days later in the square next to the centre.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

She didn't now what was going to happen.
We were going to meet two days later in the square next to the centre.

USE: INTENTIONS
Can use the negative form of 'be going to' to talk about plans and intentions.

33
 Corrected Learner Examples
I 'm not going to be able to meet you next Tuesday, because I have to go to the dentist at
5.30.
I'm sure I'm not going to live in Kutná Hora forever.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I'm not going to be able to meet you next Tuesday, because I have to go to the dentist at 5.30.
I'm sure I'm not going to live in Kutná Hora forever.

USE: PLANS IN THE PAST

Can use the past form of 'be going to' (often followed by 'but') to talk about a plan, sometimes
one that may have changed.

Corrected Learner Examples

We were going to get married two months ago but we broke up and I really didn't know why.
We were going to have a cup of coffee on Tuesday morning, do you remember?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We were going to get married two months ago but we broke up and I really didn't know why.
We were going to have a cup of cofee on Tuesday morning, do you remember?

USE: PREDICTIONS
Can use 'be going to' with an increasing range of verbs to make predictions.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think you're going to like it.
And don't you think you are going to miss your parents?
I think I am going to enjoy that class.
I think that I am not going to sleep tonight because tomorrow is an exciting and interesting
day.
As a matter of fact, apart from teenagers programmes and children's cartoons, there is not
much to watch, and this is not going to teach you many things about life!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I think you're going to like it.
And don't you think you are going to miss your parents?
I think I am going to enjoy that class.
I think that I am not going to sleep tonight because tomorrow is an exciting and interesting
day.
As a matter of fact, except teenagers programms and childreen's cartoons, there is not much
to watch, and this is not going to teach you many things about life!

USE: REPORTING
Can use the past form of 'be going to' as the reported form.► reported speech

Corrected Learner Examples

Fortunately, he was told his boss was going to be a bit late, so he had some time to go back
home.
I was very worried but at the end he called me and told me he and his family were fine and
that he was going to arrive tomorrow.

34
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
Fortunately, he was told his boss was going to be a bit late, so he had some time to go back
home.
I was very worried but at the end he called me and told me he and his family were fine and
that he was going to arrive tomorrow.

PRESENT CONTINUOUS FOR FUTURE USE

FORM: WITH 'AS SOON AS'
Can use the present simple with 'as soon as' to refer to the future.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'm planning to move as soon as I finish college because job opportunities in my area aren't
good.
I will let you know as soon as I get the exact date.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

To say the truth, I'm planning to move as soon as I finish college because job opportunities in
my area aren't good around here, though I know I'm going to miss my friends and my family a
lot.
we are expecting the film to be shown next weekend, I will let you know as soon as I get the
exact date.

USE: FUTURE ARRANGEMENTS

Can use the present continuous with an increasing range of verbs to talk about future
arrangements.

Corrected Learner Examples

I’m attending my grandmother’s funeral tomorrow.
We’re expecting a child very soon.
The movie is starting at 8 o’clock.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We are expecting a child very soon therefore would be great to have at least one room more.
The movie is starting at eight o'clock.

USE: QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FUTURE

Can use the present continuous with an increasing range of verbs to ask about future plans.

Corrected Learner Examples

Are you visiting my country on your next holiday?
Why are you moving to a different area?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Are you visiting my country next holiday?
And why are you moving to a different area?

35
MODALITY

ADJECTIVES
FORM/USE: 'IF'-CLAUSE + 'POSSIBLE', POLITENESS
Can use 'if-' clauses + 'possible', as a politeness strategy.

Corrected Learner Examples

If it is possible I would like to pay by credit card.
If possible, please re-deliver the same goods right now.
I'm not free at 6 so I'd change it to 9 if it's possible.
If it's possible, could you send the cards to my office in London?
I would prefer the 15th of July if it is possible.
The opening hours are quite convenient but, if possible, I would like the pool to open a bit
earlier - at 8.30 am, for example.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

If it is possible I would like to pay by credit card.
If possible, please re-deliver the same goods through another road line right now.
I'm not free at 6 so I'd change it to 9 if it's possible.
If it's possible, could you send the card's to my office in London?
I would prefer the 15th of July if it is possible.
The opening hours are quite convenient but, if possible, I would like the pool to open a bit
earlier - at 8.30 am, for example.

Comments
In spoken language especially, 'if it is possible' is sometimes tagged on after a statement and
often ellipted to ‘if possible’.

FORM/USE: 'IT' + 'BE' + ADJECTIVE + INFINITIVE, HEDGING, EMPHASIS

Can use 'it' + 'be' + adjective + 'to' + infinitive, to make an assertion more or less direct.

Corrected Learner Examples

Our sales department staff are heavily involved in several international projects, so it is
necessary to improve their foreign language skills.
But sometimes it's essential to do what your parents want you to do.
In the centre of town it is possible to do more activities after school.
[talking about a computer problem] It was impossible to install the system.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It seems clear to me that swimming is good for the whole body.
It is obvious that some people prefer reading books.
It is possible that we can be educated by TV.
It seems obvious that it is not necessary.

36
 Comments
This structure avoids the use of a personal subject + modal verb, therefore making the
assertion less direct, e.g. it's essential to do what your parents want ... vs You have to do what
your parents want ...There is a tendency to use It is possible/ necessary to instead of a modal
verb - this could be due to L1 transfer.

FORM: 'IT' + 'BE' + 'IMPORTANT' + CLAUSE

Can use 'it' + 'be' + 'important' + ('that') clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's important that you take breaks and don't work all the time.
It's important that you eat healthy food.
I think it's important that you analyze each point to decide what to do.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It's important that you make breaks and don't work all the time.
It's important that you make breaks and don't work all the time.
It's important that you eat healthy food.
I think it's important that you analyze each point to decide what to do.

Comments
Important is not considered a modal adjective but the structure (important + (that) clause)
creates the modal meaning. At this level the grammatical structure is there, but it is not until
B2 that there is a robust and widespread use of the structure with adjectives expressing both
obligation and degrees of certainty.

FORM: 'IT' + 'BE' + ADJECTIVE + 'FOR' + OBJECT + INFINITIVE

Can use 'it' + 'be' + adjective + 'for' + object + 'to' + infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

If you have to choose between two schools, I think it's important for you to know what they’re
like.
It's impossible for me to meet with you at six o'clock.
It is important for everyone to attend this meeting.
[talking about not missing class] It's essential for me to go because I think I can't study
physics by myself.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Our sales department staff is heavily involved in several international projects, so it is
necessary to improve their foreign language skills.
But sometimes it's essential to do what your parents want you to do.
At the other side in the centre of town it is possible to do more activities after school.
[talking about a computer problem] It was impossible to install the system.

ADVERBS
FORM/USE, 'POSSIBLY', POLITENESS
Can use 'could' + subject + 'possibly' to make requests more polite.

37
 Corrected Learner Examples
Could I possibly see you at 3.30?
Could you possibly recommend what action should be taken?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Could I possibly see you at 3.30?
Could you possibly recommend what action should be taken?

FORM/USE: EMPHASIS
Can use an increasing range of adverbs, for emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

If I were you I'd certainly choose not to go with your parents.
I will certainly ring you on Friday.
Well, with the job you’ve got, you obviously can't keep fit.
For these reasons, I definitely recommend staying in a city.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

If I were you I'd certainly choose not to go with your parents.
I will certainly ring you on Friday.
Well, with the job you got, you obviously can't keep fit.
For these reasons, I definitely recommend staying in a city.

Comments
All of these are adverbs with an epistemic meaning. See C1 FORM/USE: ADVERBS, 'NOT
NECESSARILY' for information on 'necessarily'.

FORM/USE: MODAL VERB + MODAL ADVERB, HEDGING OR EMPHASIS

Can use modal verb + modal adverb to modify an assertion, either through hedging or
emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

Next year you can surely go somewhere with your friends.
You should probably bring sun block, because it's going be hot, and some food of course.
In my opinion if you decided to go to a large school in the centre of town, you would certainly
meet a lot of cool people and you'd probably find it great.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Next year you can surely go somewhere with your friends.
I know that you are a calm and also shy person, so you may probably prefer going to a small
school.
You should probably bring a sun block lotion, because it's going be hot, and some food of
course.
In my opinion if you decide to go tot a large school in the centre of town, you would certainly
meet a lot of cool people and you'd probably find it great.

CAN
FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS
Can use the negative question forms in main clauses and question tags.

38
 Corrected Learner Examples
Can't you go with your parents some time and with your friends later?
Why can't she visit them alone and I can relax at the beach?
You can ask your parents what they think you should do, can't you?

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use 'can' with a limited range of adverbs (including 'also', 'always', 'even', 'just', 'only',
'really', 'still') in the normal mid position after the modal verb. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

You can also write postcards and letters to your friends.
I can only tell you what I think about it, because you have to decide.
I can't even remember the girl's face.
The trouble is that I can't really afford it.

USE: GENERAL TRUTHS AND TENDENCIES

Can use 'can be' to talk about general truths and tendencies.

Corrected Learner Examples

… spending an entire summer without your friends can be very boring.
Sitting all day long in front of a computer can be very stressful.
The centre of town can be more dangerous and noisy.

USE: SURPRISE
Can use 'can you believe' to express surprise.

Corrected Learner Examples

They invented a robot which plays football, can you believe this?
It cost me £50! Can you believe that! It was expensive but worth it!

COULD
USE: ABILITY
Can use the affirmative form of 'could' to talk about ability.

Corrected Learner Examples

? she could hear a man talking, he was giving her orders?

Comments
In both the NS data and the learner data, past ability with affirmative 'could' is relatively low
freq. The negative form 'couldn?t' for (in)ability is much more common.

USE: PERMISSION
Can use 'could I' to seek permission.

Corrected Learner Examples

I am in the basketball team of my school and tomorrow there is an important game. Could I
take the class that I will miss on Saturday?
?my mother went to the shop and bought the game. She said: "David, I have got something for
you" ? I said, ?Could I play with it now, please??

USE: POSSIBILITY
Can use 'could' to talk about possibility.

39
 Corrected Learner Examples
But believe me, it could be really fun to have a talkative person as your friend, he or she will
give you good laugh at anytime!
Could this really happen? Could he really be there, in that dark café ??

USE: SUGGESTIONS
Can use 'could' with an increasing range of verbs to make suggestions.

Corrected Learner Examples

?you could become a member of a gym.
We could meet in the nice cafe next to your house and have a coffee.
I'm afraid that I need to change the time of our meeting. Could it be at 5.30 pm?

EXPRESSIONS WITH BE
FORM: 'BE' EXPRESSIONS
Can use a limited range of expressions with 'be' + infinitive ('be allowed to', 'be supposed to',
'be able to') with present and past forms of 'be' and with modal 'will'.

Corrected Learner Examples

First of all, if you are allowed to go out of the building in your break, you should do it.
Perhaps you will be allowed to go on holiday with your friends next year.
The film is supposed to start at 7.00 pm so we'd better meet at 6.30 pm. See you there!
I was supposed to be meeting my friend Laura but she didn't come.
I am sorry but I am not able to meet you next Tuesday.
We were able to choose the songs ourselves and so I liked them very much.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

First of all if you are allowed to go out of the building in your break you should do it.
Perhaps you will be allowed to go on holiday with your friends next year.
The film is supposed to start at 7.00 pm so we'd better meet at 6:30 p.m. See you, there!
I wasn't supposed to be here I was supposed to be meeting my friend Laura but she didn't
come.

Comments
Note interesting use of future in the past I 'wasn't supposed to be here I was supposed to be
meeting my friend Laura but she didn't come'. (France; B1 THRESHOLD; 2009; French; Pass)

FORM: MODAL WITH 'BE ABLE TO'

Can use a range of modal verbs + 'be able to' + infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

After finishing school, you might be able to hang out with your friends.
If we could meet in Switzerland, we should be able to finish the project on the 20th June.
I'd be able to take walks without even worrying about inhaling polluted air.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

After finishing school, you might be able to hang out with your friends.
If we could meet in Switzerland, we should be able to finish the project on the 20th June.
I'd be able to take walks without even worrying about inhaling polluted air.

40
 Comments
Possibly due to the range of tasks, many of the examples are found in the context of business
exams at B1. The range of examples is greater in general exams at B2.

USE: 'BE ABLE TO', PAST

Can use 'was able to', 'were able to' to talk about facts in the past.

Corrected Learner Examples

[about a bus journey] She was able to get a good seat and she unexpectedly got to school
early.
… sales had increased recently because of the good performance of our staff so we were able
to improve the quality of our products ...

Uncorrected Learner Examples

[about a bus journey] She was able to get a good seat and she unexpectedly got to school
early.
We were able to choose the songs ourselves and so I liked them very much.
… sales had increased recently because of the well performance of our staff so we were able
to improve the quality of our products ...

USE: 'BE ALLOWED TO', PERMISSION

Can use 'be allowed to' to talk about permission.

Corrected Learner Examples

My mother went with me on this trip because I wasn't allowed to go by myself.
You won't be allowed to do what you want and you won't enjoy yourself.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

My mother went with me on this trip because I wasn't allowed to go by myself.
Perhaps you will be allowed to go on holiday with your friends next year.
You won't be allowed to do what you want and you won't enjoy yourself.

USE: 'BE SUPPOSED TO', PAST EXPECTATION

Can use 'was supposed to', 'were supposed to' to refer to past or future arrangements which
may not have happened or may change.

Corrected Learner Examples

I am really sorry, but I will have to make some changes to my trip. I was supposed to arrive on
11th June 2003, but I will arrive the next month.
It was supposed to be on Tuesday at 1.00pm.
We were supposed to meet at noon with some friends, but they called her to ask if we could
meet at the restaurant.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I am really sorry, but I will have to make change for my trip, I was supposed to arrive on 11th
June 2003, but I will arrive the next month.
It was supposed to be on Tuesday at 1:00pm.
We were supposed to meet at noon with some friends, but they called her to ask if we could
meet at the restaurant.

41
HAVE (GOT) TO
FORM/USE: 'I HAVE TO ADMIT'
Can use the fixed expression 'I have to admit' for emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

I have to admit that I watch a lot of TV, specially movies and soap operas, I love them.
I have to admit that it is a very difficult choice.

FORM: INFINITIVE
Can use 'have to' as an infinitive form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I am going to have to buy new curtains.
I'm sorry to have to change the time of our meeting next Tuesday.
I'd hate to have to choose between family and friends.

MAY
FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I knew I may not meet him again.
I realise that may not be the best way of resolving your problem.
They may not even have internet in the countryside!

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use the question form with 'I'.

Corrected Learner Examples

May I give you a short presentation on 17th December?
May I ask you about my accommodation?
May I ask you if our company will receive the usual 10% discount?

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use 'may' with a limited range of adverbs (most commonly 'also') in the normal mid-
position after the modal verb. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

I may also ask you for another favour....
Why don't you try going to the gym before work? It may also help you release stress?

USE: PERMISSION
Can use 'may I' to ask for permission.

Corrected Learner Examples

May I be your guide while you stay here?
May I borrow your bike?

Comments
There are lots of examples of 'may' being used at A2 in a permission context which are
structurally correct but pragmatically wrong, e.g. 'You may come to my house at 6 p.m.'

42
MIGHT
FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I like to wear a shirt and pants. It might not be very fashionable, it might look simple, but
that's the way I like it.
I think that people watch too much TV these days and in a way this mightn't be such a good
thing.

FORM: PAST AFFIRMATIVE

Can use 'might have' + '-ed'.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about an unusual sound] It might have been our neighbours' cat.
They might have been right, but I don't agree with them.
He might have seen us.
In years past, you might have gone straight from school to your family's farm or joined your
parents in the factory they worked in.

USE: FOCUS
Can use 'might' in phrases, such as 'as you might know', 'have already heard', to focus the
reader on shared knowledge.

Corrected Learner Examples

As you might know, nobody came here until Wednesday afternoon.
As you might know, I've been very busy recently taking my exams.
As you might have noticed, I broke your beautiful vase which was in the hall.
As you might have already heard, there is a delay with the setting of the new computer
system.

USE: POSSIBILITY IN THE PAST

Can use 'might have' + '-ed' to talk about possibility with a past reference.

Corrected Learner Examples

Many things might have led to these changes.
I thought that a burglar might have broken into our house.

USE: REPORTED SPEECH

Can use 'might' as the past form of 'may' in indirect reports.

Corrected Learner Examples

… my parents said it might be the last holiday where we are all together.
[talking about a lottery ticket] Lisa thought it might be a lucky one so she showed it to her
Dad.

USE: SUGGESTIONS
Can use 'might' to make polite suggestions and give advice.

43
 Corrected Learner Examples
The park is a great place for picnic. It has lots of trees, a beautiful view and fresh air. You
might need to bring some food and drink.
I really don't know what you should do, but I think that you might talk with your parents.

MUST
FORM: ELLIPSIS
Can use 'must' with the following verb ellipted where the previous main verb is understood. ►
ellipsis

Corrected Learner Examples

You must! It's amazing!
To sum it up, right now, I take care of her because I must!

Can use ellipted 'must' without a subject. ► ellipsis

Corrected Learner Examples
[at the end of a letter] Must go now.
Must be really difficult for you.

Comments
Ellipsis is more typically found in spoken language than written language.

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use 'must' with a limited range of adverbs (most commonly 'also') in the normal mid
position after the modal verb. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

I must also do the FCE practice test because I will have the FCE test soon.
… first you must always watch what you eat …

USE: DEDUCTIONS AND CONCLUSIONS

Can use 'must' to guess and deduce, most commonly with 'it must be', or 'you must be'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Second, it must be boring for you to sit at a computer all day.
[talking about moving to another town] You must be so nervous.

Comments
This is a good example of a meaning which is much more common in the native speaker
corpus than in the learner corpus. This is almost certainly because of teaching sequences: ELT
classes overwhelmingly teach 'must' for obligation.

USE: INVITATIONS
Can use 'must' to make invitations.

Corrected Learner Examples

You must come and stay in our house too.
You must come and see this restaurant!

44
 USE: OBLIGATION AND NECESSITY
Can use 'must' (with a wide range of pronouns and nouns) to talk about obligation and
necessity.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about something the speaker has found] She took it and said we must go and find
him.
Your parents must learn to let you live your own life …

USE: SUGGESTIONS
Can use 'must' to make strong, encouraging suggestions.

Corrected Learner Examples

This club has been opened for just two weeks. I mean we must see it.
[talking about a day out] We must do that again, don't you think?!
Rome is really fantastic and you must go there!

OUGHT
FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think you ought to go on holiday with both of them.
Oh, I'm sorry, my mum's calling and I ought to go.

USE: ADVICE
Can use 'ought to' with 'you' to give advice.

Corrected Learner Examples

Then, if you'd rather go with your friend, you ought to talk to your parents first, and tell them
what you think about it.
I think that you ought to play tennis or football at the weekend.

SHALL
USE: PLANS AND INTENTIONS
Can use 'shall' to talk about plans and intentions, particularly in formal contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

I promise that I shall cover all the work and give it to you tomorrow.
Remember that we shall meet inside the bar.
I apologise for having to miss tomorrow's English class as my cousin's wedding will be taking
place ... I shall be attending class the day after tomorrow.

USE: SEEKING ADVICE

Can use 'shall' to seek advice.

Corrected Learner Examples

What shall I buy for her wedding?
[a student writing to a teacher] I am really sorry but I have to travel to Argentina for health
reasons. What shall I do with next week's work?

45
SHOULD
FORM/USE: QUESTION TAGS
Can use the question tag form 'shouldn't' + pronoun to make suggestions and ask for
opinions.

Corrected Learner Examples

When you come back, we should rent some movies, shouldn't we?
I think I should write about the history of our company, shouldn't I?

FORM: PAST AFFIRMATIVE

Can use 'should' have + '-ed'.

Corrected Learner Examples

You should have been with us.
I knew I should have written before.

Comments
This structure is usually found/taught at B2 level but we have enough evidence to show it
being used successfully at B1.

FORM: PAST NEGATIVE

Can use 'should have' + '-ed'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I have an appointment. I know I shouldn't have taken it during school time but I had no other
choice.

Comments
This structure is usually found/taught at B2 level but we have enough evidence to show it
being used successfully at B1, albeit with low frequency.

USE: IDEAL OR DESIRED SITUATIONS

Can use 'should' to talk about ideal or desired situations.

Corrected Learner Examples

British people should eat more vegetables and fruit and avoid fast food!
I think everyone should learn to cook, you never know when you need to cook.

USE: LIKELIHOOD
Can use 'should' to talk about what is likely to happen.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about an event] It should be a good day!
…the weather is still warm, so we should be able to visit the beaches and go sightseeing in the
evenings.

USE: NARRATIVE DEVICE

Can use 'you should have' + '-ed' to emphasise points in a story.

Corrected Learner Examples

You should have heard the noise.
You should have seen my face, I was so happy.

46
 USE: REGRET
Can use 'should have' + '-ed' to talk about regrets or undesirable situations in the past.

Corrected Learner Examples

You should have been there with me, I had a great time.
I opened the envelope and read the letter. He had written that he was sorry and that he should
not have done it.

USE: THANKING
Can use 'you shouldn’t have' (+ '-ed') in polite acceptance of a gift.

Corrected Learner Examples

Thank you for the present you sent me, you shouldn't have!
Thank you for the money, you shouldn't have sent it.

USED TO
FORM: AFFIRMATIVE|
Can use the affirmative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I used to share my room with my brother.
When I was a little girl, we used to be together all the time.

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative forms 'didn't use to' and 'didn't used to'.

Corrected Learner Examples

We didn't use to talk to each other.
But this year I've met lots of new people that I didn't used to talk to, like Monica and Nina.

USE: NO LONGER TRUE

Can use 'used to' to talk about repeated actions or states in the past that are no longer true.

Corrected Learner Examples

When I was I child, I used to go to a small school and I enjoyed it very much.
…and she used to come to my house and play computer games with me.
I didn't use to laugh much but since the day we met, I'm always happy.

WILL
USE: FIXED PLANS
Can use 'will' to talk about fixed plans in the future, often with timetabled times or dates.

Corrected Learner Examples

Mr Miller, the Sales Director, will visit us next Thursday.
I'm sorry, but I won't be able to attend your class tomorrow ….

USE: PREDICTIONS
Can use 'will' to make predictions.► question tags

47
 Corrected Learner Examples
I think that in 20 years' time it will be bigger than it is, because my town is growing very fast.
All your life, you'll be able to look at your parents, but as soon as you finish your school, it'll
be harder to meet your old friends.
But you're right, without much sport practice you'll soon put on weight, won't you?

WOULD
FORM/USE: AFTER 'IF' CLAUSES
Can use 'would' in the main clause of a conditional sentence to talk about an imagined
situation, often in the context of advice or opinion-giving.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's your decision but if I had the chance, I would go with my friends.
If you decided to go to the country school, you'd probably have more attention as a student.
If I were you, I would not watch TV all the time.
If I were able to move, I wouldn't move because I think this street is perfect.

FORM: PAST AFFIRMATIVE

Can use 'would have' + '-ed'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I did not think my friend Janis would have done that.
That answer would have changed my life.

FORM: PAST NEGATIVE

Can use 'would not have' + '-ed' or 'wouldn’t have' + '-ed'

Corrected Learner Examples

Without your help, I wouldn't have got this result.
Had it not been for that day, she would not have met George.

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use question forms.

Corrected Learner Examples

Would you let me know what you think?
Would you please do me a favour? Could you go and collect the clothes for me?
Think of the fun you will have with your friends, the whole day hanging around, playing
sports, eating ice cream. Wouldn't that be wonderful?
I think it would be fantastic, wouldn't it?

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use an limited range of adverbs with 'would', including 'really', 'probably', 'certainly',
'definitely'.► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

I hope you will come soon, and I think that you would really enjoy it because is something
different of what you are used to.
More over in my opinion it would probably be the best idea to choose the biggest school ...
I would definitely choose to live by the sea side!

48
USE: FUTURE IN THE PAST
Can use 'would' to talk about the future in the past.

Corrected Learner Examples

I've just bought a new dress, and a beautiful black T-shirt. When I saw them, I thought they
would be great for tonight's party.
… we thought that the film would be horrible because of the title but when the film started,
the story was beautiful and Mauricio and I liked it a lot.
And she asked me if I would play the game with her against her cousin and her friend on
Saturday.

USE: IMAGINED SITUATIONS IN THE PAST

Can use 'would' to talk about imagined situations in the past. ► conditionals

Corrected Learner Examples

The next week I would have flown to Miami to meet George Clooney.
If I were in your shoes I would have chosen the school which is in the centre of town…
If you hadn't helped me, I wouldn't have known how to do that homework project.
If I had gone with uncomfortable shoes, I wouldn't have danced all the time.

USE: INDIRECTNESS
Can use 'would' with verbs such as 'advise', 'imagine', 'recommend', 'say' to be less direct.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'd advise you to go with your friends because I bet you'll have so much fun!
If you want my opinion, I'd recommend the countryside because I think that the city in my
country is very noisy.
Finally, I'd say that you should talk with your parents and your friends to decide.
If you have decided to move, I would say that it is better for you to choose the large school in
the centre of the town.

USE: POLITE REQUESTS

Can use 'would' to make polite requests, often in the fixed expression 'would you mind'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Would you tell me about your room in your next letter, please?
Would it be possible for you to meet me later that day, around 7?
I had forgotten I have an appointment with my dentist at that time, so, would you mind if we
met at 5 o'clock instead of meeting at 4 o'clock?
We are supposed to have a barbecue for lunch, would you mind bringing a salad?

USE: REPORTED SPEECH

Can use 'would' as the past form of 'will' in reported clauses.

Corrected Learner Examples

She accepted the invitation and she said that she would come on the 21st of June.
I felt better when he said that he would be in Fenerbahce.
He told me I would like it and he was right!

USE: WILLINGNESS IN THE PAST

Can use the negative forms of 'would' to talk about willingness in the past.

49
 Corrected Learner Examples
We had to leave without you because the bus driver wouldn't wait.
[talking about a guitar] It was all that I wanted in life but my parents would not allow me to
buy it.

NEGATION

NEGATION
FORM: 'NOT', NON FINITE AND ELLIPTED CLAUSES
Can use 'not' before a non-finite or ellipted clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

But every time a small envelope arrived, I ripped it open as fast as I could. Not this time.
I would like to apologise for not being able to attend on Friday 13th June for my visit.
The picnic will be held in the park three kilometres away from the city center so it will be quiet
and not crowded.
Well, I think it will be better for you to go to a large school in the centre of the town and not to
the small school.

FORM: ADVERBS
Can use adverbs 'ever', 'never', 'yet', 'still' in negative contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

Nobody will ever know who that man was.
I stayed there for two weeks and it never rained.
I haven't decided yet.
But I still don't believe her.

FORM: AUXILIARY VERBS 'BE', 'HAVE', PAST

Can form negative statements of main verbs in the past continuous and past perfect with
auxiliary verbs 'be' and 'have' + 'not/n't'. ► past continuous ► past perfect

Corrected Learner Examples

It was raining for seventy two hours and it wasn't going to stop.
I hadn't expected to receive a letter from her.

FORM: MENTAL PROCESS VERBS + CLAUSE

Can use the negative forms of mental process verbs ('I don?t think', 'I don?t believe') followed
by a complement clause, where the negative form is in the mental process verb rather than the
complement clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

But I don't think it'll help you.
I don't think I'll live here forever because I intend to move to Curitiba, a southern city of my
country.
I don't believe that the suitcase will be returned to me.

50
 Comments
This is as opposed to 'I think it won?t help' or 'I think I won?t live here forever'? or 'I believe
that the suitcase won?t be returned to me'.

FORM: PRONOUNS
Can use an increasing range of indefinite pronouns in negative contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

I said I had nothing, but he didn't believe me.
I haven't seen anything yet.
I didn't tell anyone about this story at first.

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use negative question forms in main clauses and question tags. ► questions

Corrected Learner Examples

Can't you go with your parents some time and with your friends later?
Don't you think it's fun?
Aren't you excited about it?
You're free on Saturday , aren't you?
I think it would be fantastic, wouldn't it?

USE: SEEKING AGREEMENT

Can use negative questions and question tags to involve the listener/reader by seeking
agreement or checking something.

Corrected Learner Examples

Isn't it marvellous?
Don't you think it's fantastic?
You love books, don't you?

NOUNS

NOUN PHRASES
FORM/USE: 'SUCH (A)' + ADJECTIVE + NOUN
Can form noun phrases with 'such a' + adjective + singular noun and 'such' + adjective +
plural noun, to give emphasis.

Corrected Learner Examples

It was so terrible because I've never been in such a terrible situation.
So it was really funny to hear from her after such a long time.
Thank you for giving me such a fantastic birthday present.
Also, we both liked to read and that was why we were such good friends.
I had never worn such high heels before.

51
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
It was so terrible because I've never been in such a terrible situation.
So it was really funny to hear from her after such a long time.
Thank you for giving me such a fantastic brithday present.
Also, we both liked to read and that was why we were such good friends.
I had never worn such high heels before.

FORM/USE: 'THE THING …'

Can use the noun phrase 'The thing' in front position, with a clause complement, to give focus
to something.

Corrected Learner Examples

The thing I enjoyed most about it was a new computer game.
The thing I prefer there is the swimming-pool, because I have met someone there.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

The thing I enjoyed most about the it, was a new computer game.
The thing I prefer there is the swimming-pool, because I have met someone there.

FORM/USE: NOUN PHRASES WITH SUPERLATIVES

Can use a clause with a present perfect or past perfect as a superlative noun phrase
complement, to talk about uniqueness.

Corrected Learner Examples

It has the best promenade I have seen.
The best book I've read is "The Da Vinci code".
It was the best decision you had ever made.
We enjoy going shopping, walking and talking hour after hour - She's the funniest person I've
ever known!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It has the best promenade I have seen.
The best book I've read is "The Da Vinci's code".
It was the best decision you had ever made.
We enjoy going shopping, walking and talking hour after hour - She's the funniest person I've
ever known!
In the practise match I played against the greatest goalkeeper which I've ever seen.

FORM/USE: POSSESSIVE '‘S' WITHOUT NOUN

Can omit the noun after possessive '’s' to talk about a place which is familiar to the speaker
and listener.

Corrected Learner Examples

Last week I left my clothes at the dry cleaner's and I can't collect them.
I have to go to the dentist’s.
I'll be picking you up at eight o'clock near the McDonald's, OK?
I'm going to be absent from the English class next week, because I am going to the doctor's.
It's next to your grandma's.

52
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
In last week I left my clothes at the dry cleaner's and I can't collect them.
I have to go to the dentist’s.
I'll be picking you at eight o'clock near the McDonald's, OK?
I'm going to be absent from the English class next week, because I am going to the doctor's.
It's next to your grandma's.

Comments
This is a feature more associated with spoken language to talk about places which are familiar
to the speaker and the listener. Therefore, their frequency is not very high in written data and
it is something to check further in spoken learner data.

FORM: COMPLEX NOUN PHRASE WITH POSSESSIVE '‘S' + NOUN

Can form complex noun phrases with noun phrase + 'of' + noun phrase + possessive
determiner ''s' + noun phrase.

Corrected Learner Examples

I ran to the street and I saw the window of my neighbour's car was broken.
The subject of my boss's talk will be IT skills.
My friend Ronald had been chosen to play the role of James Bond's son!
My best friend is called Sindi and we met at my brother's birthday. She is the sister of my
brother's girlfriend so he invited her as well.
The delivery date should be the day of my friend's birthday.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I ran to the street and I saw the window of my neighbour's car was broken.
The subject of my boss's talk will be about IT skills.
My friend Ronald had been chosen to play the role of James Bond's son!
My best friend is called Sindi and we met at my brother's birthday. She is the sister of my
brother's girlfriend so he invited her as well.
The delivery date should be the day of my friend's birthday.

FORM: COMPLEX NOUN PHRASES WITH ADJECTIVES

Can form an increasing range of complex noun phrases with more than one adjective.

Corrected Learner Examples

The Northeast is so beautiful and it's famous because of its white sandy beaches and the
coconut trees.
Last weekend I went to São Paulo to buy some winter clothes. I bought a white hooded jacket,
a blue jumper, black gloves and a beautiful blue scarf.
Inside there were three samples of a nasty purple liquid.
I know your company are offering an exciting new service in our area.
He had beautiful green eyes, short, curly, red hair and he was wearing an elegant black suit
with a red tie.
You can walk along the streets and eat typical Spanish food in good restaurants.

53
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
The Northeast is so beautiful and it's famous because of its white sandy beaches and the
coconut trees.
Last weekend I went to São Paulo to buy some winter clothes, I bought a white hooded jacket ,
a blue jumper, black gloves and a beautiful blue scarf.
Inside there were three samples of a nasty purple liquid.
I know your company are offering an exciting new service in our area.
He had beautiful green eyes, short, curly, red hair and he was wearing an elegant black suit
with a red tie.
You can walk along the streets, and eat typical spanish food in good restaurants.

FORM: COMPLEX NOUN PHRASES WITH ADVERBS + ADJECTIVES

Can form complex noun phrases with adverb + adjective + noun.

Corrected Learner Examples

It took us a very long time but it was a great fun!
They made really good friends.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It took us a very long time but it was a great fun!
They made really good friends.

FORM: FRIEND + 'OF' + POSSESSIVE DETERMINER + NOUN

Can form noun phrases with 'a friend of' or 'friends of' + possessive determiner + noun.

Corrected Learner Examples

He is a friend of my husband.
I just thought they were friends of my neighbour who were going to visit him.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

He is a friend of my husband.
I just thought they were friends of my neighbour who were going to visit him.

FORM: INDEFINITE PRONOUNS

Can form noun phrases with an indefinite pronoun + adjective or clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

We see each other every day and do something different every day.
You could bring something to drink.
But then there is nothing special to eat.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

You could bring something to drink.
But then there is nothing special to eat.
We see eachother everyday and do something different everyday.

FORM: NOUN + 'OF' + POSSESSIVE PRONOUN

Can form noun phrases with noun + 'of' + possessive pronouns.

54
 Corrected Learner Examples
… we always did everything together and couldn't stop laughing as she told me many funny
stories and I told her lots of silly mistakes of mine.
A colleague of mine has told me about a Swiss hotel in London.
I was looking for something special to do for my last week off and some schoolmates of mine
invited me to join the cycling holiday.
I'm a fan of his, he is my favorite singer.
I want this dream of mine to come true.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

… we always did everything together and couldn't stop laughing as she told me many funny
stories and I told her lots of silly mistakes of mine.
A colleague of mine has told me about a Swiss hotel in London.
I was looking for something special to do for my last week off and some schoolmates of mine
invited me to join the cycling holiday.
I'm very happy to receive another letter of yours.
I want this dream of mine to come true.

Comments
There are many instances at A2 but almost all are limited to 'friends of mine'.

FORM: NOUN + PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES

Can form complex noun phrases by using a prepositional phrase after the main noun in a
noun phrase.

Corrected Learner Examples

It was a beautiful red dress with blue flowers on the back.
Yesterday a TV company came to our school to make a film about Bavarian pupils.
I don't spend too much time in front of the television, I just watch it twice a week and on
Sundays morning.
I received your letter and you asked me about the future of my town.
I have to travel to Montevideo to see my doctor because I'm having some problems with my
health.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

It was a beautiful red dress with blue flowers on the back.
Yesterday a TV company came to our school to make a film about Bavarian pupils.
I don't spend too much time in front of the television, I just watch it twice a week and on
Sundays morning.
I received your letter and you asked me about the future of my town.
I have to travel to Montevideo to see my doctor because I'm having some problems with my
health.

Comments
At this level there are examples both of complements and post-modifiers.

FORM: NOUN PHRASE, NOUN PHRASE

Can put two noun phrases together (in apposition) to refer to the same person or thing,
usually separated by commas.

55
 Corrected Learner Examples
Mr Miller, the Sales Director, will visit us next Thursday.
Yesterday my boyfriend and I decided to go on a cycling holiday to visit some places in the
country near Eboli, the town where we live.
She has come with me and two more friends, Peter and Gorha.
I spoke with her and she looks really happy, although a little sad because her best friend,
Alison, did not pass the exam.
A new employee, Mary Watts, has just joined our company.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Mr Miller, the Sales Director, will visit us next Thursday.
Yesterday my boy-friend and I decided to go on a cycling holiday to visit some places of the
country near Eboli, the town where we live.
She has come with me and two more friends, Peter and Gorha.
I spoke with her and she looks really happy, althought a little sad because her best friend,
Alison, did not pass the exam.
A new employee, Mary Watts has just joined our company.

PLURAL
FORM: COLLECTIVE NOUNS
Can use collective nouns, usually with a singular verb, but also with a plural verb depending on
whether the noun is perceived as a single group or collection of individuals.

Corrected Learner Examples

The staff is friendly and polite with guests and there are many sports activities.
After the spring break the whole staff have to start work at 7.15 am.
A TV company has decided to make a film in my high school because it's a normal secondary
school.
The crew were very interested in what the new school looked like and they were amazed at the
colours we used to paint it.
Our company is interested in your company's services.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

The staff is friendly and polite with guests and there are many sport-activities.
After the spring break the whole staff have to start the work at 7.15 am.
A TV company has decided to make a film in my highschool because it's a normal secondary
school.
The crew were very interesting in how the new school looked like and they were amazed about
the colours we used to paint it.
Our company is interested in your company's services.

Comments
There is evidence of collective nouns at A2 especially 'team' and to a lesser degree 'company'.
The majority of the 600+ uses of 'team' were in response to one KET exam question (Q9) in
2007.

56
TYPES
FORM: COMMON NOUNS
Can use an increasing range of common nouns.

Corrected Learner Examples

When you're swimming you exercise all of your body.
You just have to send me your design and I'll do the rest.
My heart was hurt and nobody will repair the damage.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

When you're swimming you exercise all your body.
You just have to send me your design and I'll do the rest.
My heart was hurt and nobody will repair the damage.

Comments
Noun development is related to vocabulary development cf. The English Vocabulary Profile.

UNCOUNTABLE
FORM: UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS
Can use an increasing range of uncountable nouns.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think the countryside is better than the town centre, people get on more easily with each
other.
Well, I love shopping for clothes because I love fashion.
I hope you can help me to find new accommodation as soon as is possible.
Firstly, you can admire lovely architecture and visit a museum about our history.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I think the countryside is better than the town centre, people get on easier with each other.
Well, I love shopping for clothes because I love fashion.
I hope you can help me to find new accommodation as soon as is possible.
Firstly, you can admire lovely architecture and visit museum about our history.

Comments
Errors persist with the most common items, e.g. 'informations', 'equipments', 'homeworks',
'advices', 'furnitures', 'countrysides', 'works', 'softwares', 'trainings'. Learner examples: (1) 'I?m
looking forward to hearing from you if you require further informations.' (2) '250 of them are
very young and they need a lot of trainings.'

FORM: WITH DETERMINERS, QUANTITY

Can use uncountable nouns with an increasing range of quantity words and phrases including
'much', 'a bit of', 'a little bit of', 'enough', 'further', 'plenty of', 'loads of'. ► Determiners:
quantity

57
 Corrected Learner Examples
I'm sure that your parents are looking forward to going with you to the beach, because they
work a lot of hours during the year so they can't spend much time with you.
I know you have sent me somebody to fix it but every time that it rains, at least a bit of water
comes inside the house.
I hope this little bit of advice can help you!
I prefer to buy only what I need because I don't have enough money.
So I would like you to attend a meeting next week for further information.
My Finance department is very busy, I have loads of work to finish.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I'm sure that your parents are looking forward to going with you to the beach, because they
work a lot of hours during the year so they can't spend much time with you.
I know you have sent me somebody to fix it but every time that it rains at least a bit of water
comes inside the house.
I ... hope this little bit of advice can help you!
I prefer to buy only what I need because I don't have enough money.
So I would like you to attend a meeting next week for further information.
My Finance department is very busy I have loads of work to finish.

PASSIVES

GET AND HAVE

FORM: 'GET' + '-ED'
Can form the 'get'-passive with a range of forms of 'get' + past participles.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about a mirror] I bought it because mine got broken, so I need it to see myself in it.
You should be careful while you are crossing or you will get hurt.
Last week my husband's car got stolen from our garage.
As we have newly recruited staff, we want our staff to get trained effectively so that they can
give their best to the Company.
We got paid well and I managed to save the most money for my studies.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

[talking about a mirror] I bought it because mine got broken , so I need it to see myself on it.
you should be careful while you are crossing or you will get hurt.
Last week my husband's car got stolen from our garage.
As we have newly recruited staff, we want our staff to get trained effectively so that they can
give their best to the Company.
Not to forget, we got paid well and I managed to save the most money for my study.

58
 Comments
There are examples of get + past participle + adjective at A2, e.g. 'get married', 'get lost', 'get
stressed'. They are not included here as they are not passives. ||This use is commonly
associated with negative contexts, e.g. 'get broken/hurt/stuck'. It is an informal form and may
be more frequent in spoken learner data.

PASSIVES: FORM
FORM/USE: WITH 'BY' IN A RELATIVE CLAUSE|
Can use the passive with 'by' in a relative clause, often to add more information.

Corrected Learner Examples

I also like wearing clothes which are manufactured by famous brands.
It's the highest mountain in U.A.E. Special roads were built for people to reach the top of the
mountain, which was surrounded by houses.

FORM: INFINITIVE
Can use the passive infinitive after a limited number of forms including 'going to', 'have to',
'need to', 'want to'.

Corrected Learner Examples

It is going to be shown this Friday.
After that, they printed an authorisation, form which had to be signed by my parents because
I'm not over eighteen.
He wants to be informed about sales development by the end of November 2001.

FORM: PAST SIMPLE, AFFIRMATIVE

Can use the past simple passive affirmative with a range of pronoun and noun subjects both
singular and plural.

Corrected Learner Examples

It was written in a strange language that I tried to translate.
Next day, I heard that my neighbour's car was stolen.
They filmed the flowers and trees, and some pupils were interviewed about their work in the
garden, too.

FORM: PRESENT CONTINUOUS, AFFIRMATIVE

Can use the present continuous passive affirmative with a limited range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

Did you know that the next Harry Potter movie is being filmed in my school?
Why don't we stay at my house and visit Tokyo, where an interesting Japanese history
exhibition is being held.
As a result of that, Russia's economy is being followed by many experts.
They filmed a class where the clothes are being tested at the moment and they interviewed
some people.

FORM: PRESENT SIMPLE, AFFIRMATIVE

Can use the present simple passive affirmative with a range of pronoun and noun subjects.

59
 Corrected Learner Examples
Our office is situated near the airport.
The walls are painted in a dark blue, and the floor is wood.

FORM: PRESENT SIMPLE, NEGATIVE

Can use the present simple passive negative with a range of pronoun and noun subjects.

Corrected Learner Examples

The story is about a girl, who is not accepted in her class.
I think we should replace the printer, because it prints very slowly and the sheets aren't
printed properly.

FORM: WITH VERBS TAKING TWO OBJECTS.

Can use the past simple passive with a limited range of verbs needing two objects, putting the
indirect object in subject position.

Corrected Learner Examples

So I was given a ticket for a train, running from Berlin to Munich.
We were lucky, because we were given another chance.

USE: GIVING FOCUS WITH 'BY'

Can use the passive with 'by' to give focus.

Corrected Learner Examples

My school was chosen by the TV company because it is one of the newest in town.

USE: PRESENT CONTINUOUS, FUTURE REFERENCE

Can use the present continuous passive to refer to the future.

Corrected Learner Examples

The seminar is being held at Chennai in the next week.
We are being visited by our Sales Director on Thursday morning.

PAST

PAST CONTINUOUS
FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

He was not planning to become a professional player.
She was not feeling very well.
I tried to phone her house, but her phone wasn't working.
I'm writing you this letter to tell you that we felt so bad when we heard you weren't working at
the school any more.

60
 Comments
This is a low frequency item, and the majority of use of this structure is from Romance
language L1 learners. This is probably because of task effect ? so this in fact may be an A2
feature

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use the question form.

Corrected Learner Examples

Was my mother going to die?
I couldnt see anybody, then there he was, my hero, my favorite singer Bob Dylan saying my
name, but was he calling me?
What were you doing?
[talking about a dream] Everything was strange. Why was I following a green fox?

Comments
Note that the question form is low frequency which may be due to lack of spoken data

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use the past continuous with an increasing range of adverbs in the normal mid position.

Corrected Learner Examples

He was still waiting at the traffic light.
He was actually acting like a ghost.

USE: REASON
Can use the past continuous to give a reason for something, often with 'because'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Because she was sitting in the corner, she could see the whole view of the café in front of her.
Yesterday a TV company came to my school because they were doing a science quiz.

USE: REPEATED EVENTS

Can use the past continuous to talk about ongoing repeated events in the past, often with
'always'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Worst of all, in September it was always raining.
He was always talking about this prize but I never thought he would win it.

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I had been working on the project for over a year.
We had been waiting for hours.
I didn't need so much, because I'd been saving money for a few months.

61
 USE: BACKGROUND EVENTS
Can use the past perfect continuous talk about a background action or event which began
before a point in the past and was still continuing up to a point in the past when the main
event happened.

Corrected Learner Examples

I had been waiting for this letter for months, so I opened it immediately.
Once I had been watching TV for 6 hours when my Mum suddenly switched it off.

USE: CONTINUING EVENTS IN THE PAST

Can use the past perfect continuous to talk about an action or event which began before a
point in the past and was still continuing up to that point, often with 'for' or 'since', to give
background information.

Corrected Learner Examples

I know it very well because we had been exchanging letters for a long time.
She had been going there since she was ten years old.
He began to think about his own thoughts while he was smoking a cigarette (he had been
smoking since he was a child, since he was 12), when suddenly the curtain moved.

PAST PERFECT SIMPLE

FORM/USE: AFTER 'IF' CLAUSES
Can use the past perfect simple in 'if'-clauses to talk about imagined situations in the past,
often with regret. ► 'if'-clauses

Corrected Learner Examples

If the weather had been better, we would have enjoyed it more.
If you had gone there with me, you would have been happy.
So I decided to go back and look for them in the park: believe it or not I would have spent all
night in the park, if it hadn't been closed since six o'clock!

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I felt really sorry for you after I had read your last letter.
[?] I'd forgotten that I have an appointment with the doctor [?]

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use negative forms.

Corrected Learner Examples

The ABC Company called this morning to say that our company had not delivered the goods
on time.
I hadn't heard from her for two months.

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use the past perfect simple with a limited range of adverbs (including 'never', 'ever', 'just',
'always', 'already') in the normal mid-position. ► adverbs

62
 Corrected Learner Examples
It was the most beautiful one I had ever seen.
So, she came to America to see a relation she had never seen before, and she spent the money
with me.
I had just arrived from school when I saw the letter.
I had always wanted to visit European cities and Paris was one of the easiest cities to get to
from England.

USE: TIME UP TO THEN

Can use the past perfect simple to talk about a time before another time in the past.

Corrected Learner Examples

He then thought how stupid he had been.
Actually I'd arranged an appointment with my doctor before calling you.

PAST SIMPLE
FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form with a wide range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

I convinced some of my friends to come with me even if they don't like rap music.
Previously I faced many failures but I never gave up.
The cameraman filmed us during a lesson and later, walking to the playground.

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative form with an increasing range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

I didn't realise I had lost the ring till I was at home.
I didn't trust him.
[talking about a spare television] ? we had one in the garage that we did not use.

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use 'yes/no', 'wh-', tag and negative question forms with a limited range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

Did you receive my present?
How did you spend your weekend?
Why didn't he call me?
We arranged to meet each other next Tuesday at 11 o'clock, didn't we?
Didn't you spend your last holiday with them as well?

USE: HABITUAL STATES OR ACTIONS

Can use the past simple to talk about habitual states or actions.

Corrected Learner Examples

? he always seemed so confident to me!
? we always talked during the class.

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 USE: IMAGINED SITUATIONS AFTER 'IF'
Can use the past simple after 'if' to talk about the possible result of an imagined situation in
the present or future.

Corrected Learner Examples

It would be better if you spent some time in the fresh air with your friends or walking in a
park.
If you wanted to do some outdoor activities, we could go fishing or even walking through the
green fields.

USE: ORDERING OF PAST EVENTS

Can use the past simple to order sequences of events in the past, in the context of narratives.

Corrected Learner Examples

I remember her as a shy girl, but I read she became a manager, she went on lots of trips, she
met a lot of new friends, she got married and then she got divorced.
We met at 9 in the morning and decided to go to the seven lakes, a very wonderful place not
far from the centre of the town: lots of trees, lots of flowers and very fresh air.
We waited for the suitcase for two days and then we bought new dresses.

USE: REGRET
Can use the past simple with 'wish (that)' to express regret that things are not different.

Corrected Learner Examples

I wish that you were here, cycling with us.
I wish you were here with me. I wish we were together.
I wish weekends lasted five days.

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I have been thinking about your letter.
We've been studying together since grade one.
The letter was from my brother, who has been living in New York since he graduated from
university.

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use the question form with a limited range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

Have you been thinking about it a lot?!
What have you been doing?
[talking about musical instruments] ? how long have you been playing them?

Comments
Note that questions are generally low frequency in the CLC probably due to lack of spoken
data.

64
 USE: REPEATED CONTINUING EVENTS
Can use the present perfect continuous to talk about repeated activities which began in the
past and are still continuing.

Corrected Learner Examples

I've been watching TV a lot, specially the sports programmes.
I have been playing my new game.
Last week I went out with my cousin Jim and his wife; he told me he had joined a sport club
and he has been going there for two weeks;

USE: SINGLE CONTINUING EVENT

Can use the present perfect continuous to talk about a single activity or state that began in the
past and is still continuing, often with 'for' or 'since'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I've been studying International business there for four years.
I've been living here since last April and it seemed no problem during spring and summer.
Susan has been working in our company for 6 years as a Sales Representative.

PRESENT PERFECT SIMPLE

FORM/USE: DURATION WITH 'SINCE'
Can use the present perfect simple with 'since' to talk about duration.

Corrected Learner Examples

I have been here since August 2006.
It's been a long time since we went out together so I think we will have a great time at the park
playing sports and chatting!
Many things have changed since your last visit.
Such a long time has passed since the last time we met.

FORM/USE: WITH 'ALREADY'

Can use the present perfect simple with 'already' to emphasise that something is done, often
before the expected time. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

I've already planned the party, bought his present, and most important of all, I 've already told
everyone.
I have already bought a new arm-chair, yellow and comfortable.
In Spain lots of universities have already accepted this plan..
So we decided to go to Farhang cinema tonight and we have already bought the tickets.
She has already won three gold medals at international tournaments.

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE
Can use the affirmative forms with a range of pronouns and nouns and an increasing range of
verbs.

65
 Corrected Learner Examples
I've left some clothes at the dry cleaner's 100 yards from my home, in Park Street.
It's been an amazing week for me.
She is from California, but she has just moved to Italy.
Our company has signed deals with a few German companies.

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use the negative forms with a range of pronouns and an increasing range of verbs.

Corrected Learner Examples

He hasn't spoken to anyone from that time till now.
She is a quiet person so she has not made a lot of friends.
We haven't decided where to go yet, but probably it will be to somewhere like Australia or New
Zealand.

FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS

Can use the negative question form.

Corrected Learner Examples

Haven't you seen it yet?
Haven't your parents given you their advice?

Comments
This is a low frequency item, probably because this is a spoken language feature. There are no
examples in the corpus of 'hasn?t' in questions except as tag questions.

FORM: WITH ADVERBS

Can use the present perfect simple with an increasing range of adverbs in the normal mid
position.

Corrected Learner Examples

This is a famous seafood restaurant, you know, I've always loved seafood.
Have you ever been to Gorgeousbi?

USE: RECENT PAST

Can use the present perfect simple to refer to a finished event or state in the recent past, that
has a present relevance, often with 'just'. ► adverbs

Corrected Learner Examples

My mother has broken her right leg.
I've just received your mail.
I've found a job for you.

USE: UNFINISHED
Can use the present perfect simple to refer to a state or period of time which is unlimited or
indefinite.

Corrected Learner Examples

In spite of bad weather forecasts on TV, it has been a sunny, warm weekend.
I've had a really nice week.
It is a great movie. It has won a lot of prizes so I think it will be good to see it at the cinema.

66
 USE: WITH SUPERLATIVE
Can use the present perfect simple with a superlative adjective to talk about a unique
experience. ► adjectives: superlatives

Corrected Learner Examples

This restaurant has the most delicious shrimps I have ever tasted.
That is the best game I've ever played.
I've never been there before but my friend Pepo said that it is the biggest park she has ever
seen.
At the top of that, you will see the most amazing view you have ever seen.

PREPOSITIONS

PREPOSITIONS
FORM: 'ADVERB' + PREPOSITION
Can use adverbs of degree to modify prepositions and prepositional phrases.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's quite near my house so I can go there easily.
When I was trying to reach the only frame of light I could see in the woods, something moved
right behind me.
I'm going to put it right in front of the window, so I have enough light.
I felt I was flying and it was really like a dream.
But anyway it's enjoyable to shop for clothes especially with a group of friends.

FORM: COMPLEX
Can use an increasing range of complex prepositions.

Corrected Learner Examples

My parents weren't happy when they heard that I wanted to go to Croatia with my friends
instead of flying to the USA.
The company chose my school thanks to the excellent results of the students.
It was saying that some company can find me a job in the UK and I can earn up to £ 1000 per
month.
[talking about a watch] I was going out of the shop when I noticed that I had lost it.
I would like to apologise because, due to a dental appointment, I will not be able to participate
in the English class tomorrow.
The best place to stay is a hotel a bit outside of the city.

FORM: SIMPLE
Can use a wide range of simple (single word) prepositions.

67
 Corrected Learner Examples
If it is raining, the rain enters through the holes in the roof and makes the house wet.
To my surprise, there was a charming beach along the cycle route.
Don't forget to meet me at the theme park beside the main entrance.
In the middle of the room there is a big bed between two windows and above the bed there is
a beautiful painting.
I think Bremen won't change that much within the next 20 years.
I hate shopping via the internet.

Comments
Other prepositions used successfully at B1: 'besides', 'towards', 'among', 'across', 'down'

FORM: STRANDING
Can end a reported question clause and a relative clause with a preposition, where the
preposition is stranded from its complement. ► Clauses: relative

Corrected Learner Examples

So this is the best festival I been to.
Please give him all the information he asks for.
Everybody should see which company I work for.

PRESENT

PRESENT CONTINUOUS
USE: EVENTS IN PROGRESS
Can use the present continuous with a wide range of verbs to talk about situations and events
in progress.

Corrected Learner Examples

I?m planning a picnic on Saturday in the park.
I?m expecting my cousin to visit me.
I think I am falling in love.

USE: TEMPORARY REPEATED ACTIONS

Can use the present continuous to describe temporary actions which are repeated or regular.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'm doing a lot of great leisure activities.
[talking about an interactive internet game which is played over a period of time] I'm playing
this exciting game called Diner Dash; it's about making a restaurant.
I have to go to the doctor because I'm having some problems.

USE: TEMPORARY SITUATIONS

Can use the present continuous with a wide range of verbs to talk about temporary situations.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'm enjoying a sunny day, much better than England.
Now, I'm in a hotel, here in the centre of Madrid, and it's raining a little bit.

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PRESENT SIMPLE
FORM/USE: NEGATIVE TAG QUESTIONS
Can use 'don't you think' or 'don't you agree' to look for agreement or an opinion.

Corrected Learner Examples

It's a bit strange, don't you think?
I think it?s the best way, don?t you agree?
The surprise will be even bigger if I wait. Don't you think so?

FORM: QUESTIONS
Can use 'yes/no' and 'wh-' question forms with a wide range of subjects.

Corrected Learner Examples

Does your brother go with your parents?
Which programmes do we like to watch?
Where do they want to spend their holidays?
How does he know my name?

USE: MENTAL PROCESS VERBS

Can use the present simple with an increasing a range of mental process verbs, including
'remember', 'understand', 'believe'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I'm reading an adventure book, I don't remember the title but it's very boring!
Well, I totally understand that you want to go somewhere with your friends.

USE: REPORTING VERBS

Can use the present simple with a limited range of reporting verbs, including 'say', 'show'.

Corrected Learner Examples

For example, I know a person that moved to my city two years ago, and now he says that it
improved his social life.
The movie shows how a pretty woman with all the problems you can imagine can do different
things to make people feel better.

USE: SPEECH ACT VERBS

Can use the present simple with a limited range of speech act verbs, including 'suggest',
'apologise', 'recommend'.

Corrected Learner Examples

I suggest that if you travel, you should pay for your trip.
I apologise for missing your class.
For these reasons, I definitely recommend staying in a city.

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PRONOUNS

DEMONSTRATIVES
FORM/USE: 'THIS ONE', 'THAT ONE' SUBSTITUTION
Can use 'this one', 'that one' as a substitute for countable singular nouns that have previously
been mentioned.

Corrected Learner Examples

I don't usually wear dresses but I had to buy this one because I am going to be in a singing
competition.
[talking about a film] I have chosen that one because of my father and brother, they also like
it.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I don't usually wear dress but I had to buy this one because I will have a singing competition.
[talking about a film] I have choosen that one because of my father and brother, they also like
it.

Comments
This is normally a function of spoken language and context where a speaker points to a
physically present object. It may be a can-do at a lower level in spoken data.

FORM: 'THESE'
Can use 'these' as a pronoun with plural reference. ► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

These are the most important years for us as teenagers, and they have to be the best years!
These are the main things that I can tell you.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

These are the most important years for us as teenagers, and they have to be the best and the
funniest years!
These are the main things that I can tell you.

FORM: 'THOSE'
Can use 'those' as a pronoun with plural reference. ► noun phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

Most of my clothes are lemon, green or orange, those are my favourite colours!
Well, those are my ideas but you are the ones that are coming, and maybe you don't like the
countryside.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Most of my clothes are lemon green or orange, those are my favourite colours!
Well, those are my ideas but you are the ones that are coming so maybe you don't like the
countryside.

FORM: MODIFYING
Can use quantifying determiners + 'of' with demonstrative pronouns ► determiners:
demonstrative

70
 Corrected Learner Examples
If you can't, you must choose one of these.
And we have to go to Sydney to see all of that.
There are a lot of programmes in my country, but only some of these are interesting.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

If you can't, you must chose one of these.
And we have to go Sydney to see all of that.
There are lot of programmes in my contry, but only some of these are interesting.

USE: 'THESE', ALREADY MENTIONED

Can use 'these' as a pronoun to refer to something with immediate relevance which has
already been mentioned. ► noun phrases ► pronouns: demonstrative

Corrected Learner Examples

He is very clever and generous, and these are the things that I like most about him.
There are a few interesting and funny programmes like The Simpsons, Password or José Mota's
hour. These are the only programmes I like watching.
I think that we have similar taste about things like these.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

He is very clever and generous, and these are the things that I like most on him.
There are a few interesting and funny programmes like The Simpsons, Password or José Mota's
hour (that have finished since May). These are the only programmes I like watching.
I think that we have similar taste about things like these.

Comments
We have no examples of deictic use of this, common in spoken language where a speaker
points to a physically present object. It may be a can-do at a lower level in spoken data. ||
These examples focus on distance which is not physical. By using these the writer is choosing
to make something CLOSER or immediately relevant rather than distancing it in terms of
affiliation.

USE: 'THIS', ALREADY MENTIONED

Can use 'this' as a pronoun to refer back to whole clauses or sentences, especially to highlight
or continue an important topic.

Corrected Learner Examples

To stay fit I'm eating lots of fruit and vegetables, but meat and fish, too. I think you should do
this, too, if you haven't done it in the past.
People usually don't care about the cost. Because of this, weddings are more amazing.
My room seems to be very cold and very unfriendly. I think flowers and pictures change this.
Our department currently has a lot of work to do, because there are so many conferences to
arrange, and it needs a person to be in charge of this.

71
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
To stay fit I'm eating lots of fruits and vegetables, but mean and fish, too. I think you should
do this , too, if you haven't done it in the past.
People usually don't care about the costs. Because of this, weddings are more amazing.
Now, I'm going to buy pictures to hang them against the wall, because my room seems to be
very cold and very unfriendly. I think flowers and pictures change this.
Our department currently has a lot of work to do, because there are many conferences to
arrange, and it needs a person to be incharge of this.

Comments
There is evidence of this A2 but none of it is correct. 'This' is used instead of 'it'.

USE: 'THOSE', ALREADY MENTIONED

Can use 'those' as a pronoun to refer to things which have already been mentioned. ► noun
phrases

Corrected Learner Examples

Those are the things I like the most about her.
I don't really think I'd move, but if I had to, I would love to live in a city like Paris or Rome. I'm
very keen on cities like those.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Those are the things I like the most about her.
I don't really think I'd move, but if I had to, I would love to live in cities like Paris or Roma. I'm
very keen on cities like those.

GENERIC USE
USE: 'ONE', GENERAL, FORMAL
Can use 'one' to refer to people in general, in formal contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

The television, I think, is like a box where one can find anything: rubbish and good things.
One more reason I like Singapore is that one sees cats everywhere.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

The television, I think, is like a box where one can find anything, rubish and good thing.
One more reason I like Singapore is that one sees cats everywhere.

INDEFINITE - THING, -ONE, -BODY ETC

FORM/USE: PREMODIFIERS, INTENSIFYING
Can use premodifiers with indefinite pronouns, often to intensify.

Corrected Learner Examples

You can find absolutely anything, whatever you need.
I like to wear a T-shirt with jeans almost everywhere I go.
Nearly everyone I know sits at a computer all day.

72
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
You can find absolutely anything whatever you need.
We spend a lot of time toghether, doing things that both enjoy, and sometimes, doing just
nothing.
I like to wear T-shirt with jeans almost everywhere I go.

FORM: OBJECT OR COMPLEMENT

Can use a wide range of indefinite pronouns as objects or complements.

Corrected Learner Examples

I often watch TV, because my computer is broken and I have nothing to do.
? there was nothing on the wall.
It's a tennis club and the people there were all strangers for me, I didn't know anyone.
When I arrived at his house there wasn't anyone there.
He went everywhere in the world!

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I often watch TV, because my computer is broken and I have nothing to do.
? there was nothing on the wall.
It's a tennis club and the people there were all strangers for me, I didn't know anyone.
When I arrived to his house there wasn't anyone there.

Comments
There are 59 hits for anyone at A2. They are predominantly used in error meaning 'any one', a
single item. It may be lack of spoken data or lack of opportunity to use.

FORM: SUBJECT
Can use an increasing range of indefinite pronouns ('something', 'nobody') as subjects, with a
singular verb.

Corrected Learner Examples

I was so confused that I thought something was happening.
Unfortunately something has happened with the airplane's schedule, so I won't be able to
arrive at 1.15 pm, as we agreed.
So I tried to call for help, but nobody answered.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I was so confused that I thought something was happening.
Unfortunately something has happened with the airplane's schedule, so I won't be able to
arrive at 1:15 p.m, as we agreed.
Everyone liked my suggestions.
So I tried to call for help, but nobody answered.

POSSESSIVE
FORM: 'YOURS' AS SUBJECT
Can use the possessive pronoun 'yours', with singular reference, in subject position.

Corrected Learner Examples

We bought it because yours is very old and sometimes stops working.
I really needed some extra information, and yours was very useful.

73
 Comments
There is no evidence of 'yours' with plural reference.

FORM: + 'OF YOURS'

Can use the possessive pronoun 'yours' after noun + 'of'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Maybe you can take a friend of yours with you there.
I think that it's a very good idea of yours to come to the UK.
You can ask some friends of yours to join you.

FORM: COMPARATIVE CLAUSES WITH 'MINE', 'YOURS'

Can use the possessive pronouns 'mine' and 'yours', with singular reference, in comparative
clauses after '(not) as ? as'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Hope you have a friend as good as mine!
My bedroom is not as big as yours but it is lovely.
My town isn't very big, so I think it won't grow as fast as yours.
I hope [?] my English becomes as good as yours.

GENERAL COMMENT
Corrected Learner Examples

Comments
Results with possessive pronouns conflict with EVP. This reflects input vs. output difference in
assigning levels. For example 'ours': even though there are plenty of examples for it at A2/B1,
even at B1 only a third are correct (146 hits, 45 correct) which means it's not going in at B1. At
B2 there are 102 hits and only 44 correct ? at C1 150 hits, 111 correct, C2 103, with 86
correct. On those stats it would go in at C1. NB Important to note that errors with possessive
pronouns persist through B levels.

QUANTITY
FORM: SUBJECT AND OBJECT PRONOUNS, 'BOTH', 'A FEW', 'ANOTHER'
Can use 'both', 'a few', 'another' as subject and object pronouns.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about two types of exercise] Both are going to keep you fit.
Both are very good films.
About going to the city or to the countryside, I think you'll enjoy both.
I am happy to select a few.
Well, in my country there are lots of programmes but only a few are interesting.
Moving from an area to another is not very simple, but there isn't a problem without a
solution.

74
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
[talking about two types of exercise] Both are going to keep you fit.
Both are very good films.
About going to the city or to the countryside, I think you'll enjoy both.
I am happy to select a few.
Well, in my country there are lots of programmes but only a few are interesting.
Even if moving from an area to another is not very simple, but there isn't a problem without
solution.

FORM: WITH 'OF' + OBJECT PRONOUN

Can use an increasing range of pronouns ('some', 'a few', 'any', 'each') with 'of' followed by an
object pronoun.

Corrected Learner Examples

Of course some of them are closer than others but I love them all.
I have shot many photos with my new digital camera and I will send some of them by e-mail
for you.
Children my age are playing too long with their computers.... But only a few of them.
So travelling is not at all a problem for any of us.
Please ensure each of them has a computer, and they can practise for at least half an hour
after class.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Of course some of them are closer than others but I love them all.
I have shot many photos with my new digital camera and I will send some of them by e-mail
for you.
But the children from my age are playing too long with their computers .... But only a few of
them.
So travelling is not at all a problem for any of us.
We all agreed to see Resident Evil 2 because none of us has seen it and we all like action
movies.
Please ensure each of them has a computer, and they can practise at least half hour after
class.

Comments
Quite a few of these appear in this construction (pronoun + 'of' + object) before they appear
as standalone pronouns, particularly in the construction 'with' + 'of them'

RECIPROCAL
FORM: 'EACH OTHER'
Can use 'each other' as the object of a verb or complement of a preposition to talk about the
mutual behaviour of two or more people.

75
 Corrected Learner Examples
We go to the same school so we see each other every day.
First, we had to introduce each other by saying where we come from, which kind of job we are
doing here, why we want to learn English.
He said the coach is really nice and that the first players get on well with each other.
We didn't use to talk to each other, but one day we started to talk and I discovered she was
extremely friendly and nice.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We go to the same school so we see each other everyday.
At first, we had to introduce each other by telling where we come from, which kind of job we
are doing here, why we want to learn English.
He said the coach is really nice and that the first players get on well with each other.
We didn't use to talk to each other, but ? one day we started to talk and I discovered she was
extremely friendly and nice.

REFLEXIVE
FORM/USE: 'BY' + SINGULAR
Can use the singular reflexive pronouns 'myself', 'yourself', 'himself' and 'herself' with 'by' to
mean alone, without any help.

Corrected Learner Examples

I will ask my friends from the class and I will study by myself.
You can do some exercise by yourself.
He tried to open it by himself.
She decided to find him by herself.

FORM: SAME SUBJECT AND OBJECT, SINGULAR

Can use an increasing range of singular reflexive pronouns with an increasing range of verbs
to refer to actions where the subject and object of the verb are the same.

Corrected Learner Examples

I decided to talk to him and introduce myself.
First you should ask yourself if you have enough money for the journey.
Lisa told herself to be strong and hoped everything would be alright.
I was really surprised when I read the e-mail. It was from someone who calls himself the black
shadow.

FORM: SINGULAR, AFTER PREPOSITIONS

Can use the singular reflexive pronouns 'myself', 'yourself', 'himself' and 'herself' after
prepositions where the object of the preposition is the same as the subject of the verb.

Corrected Learner Examples

He told me about himself and how he started playing the guitar.
Now she was very proud of herself.

USE: SINGULAR, FOR EMPHASIS

Can use the singular reflexive pronouns 'myself', 'yourself', 'himself' and 'herself' for emphasis.

76
 Corrected Learner Examples
The best solution will be if you decide yourself what to do.
I think it was the director himself who guided the actress through our wonderful school
gardens to film the opening scene there.
The food was delicious, especially the cake, which Sandra had cooked herself.

SUBJECT/ OBJECT
FORM: (SUBJECT) USING 'IT' TO INTRODUCE
Can use dummy 'it' as a subject to introduce something the speaker or writer is going to refer
to.

Corrected Learner Examples

It is best to spend your time in the countryside.
It's boring to be at home when you have a lot of free time.
It's normal that your parents want you to go with them.

SUBSTITUTION, ONE, ONES, NONE

FORM/USE: POSTMODIFYING, SPECIFYING
Can use 'the ones' with a complement, to refer to something specific.

Corrected Learner Examples

Weddings in our country? Well, they're pretty different from the ones in England.
Evil people, like the ones who did this, should die, or at least go to prison.
The products we received were not exactly the ones we ordered.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Weddings in our country? Well, they're pretty diffrent from the ones in England.
Evil people, like the ones who did this should die, or at least go to prison.
Products we received were not exactly the ones we ordered.

FORM/USE: PREMODIFIER + 'ONES', GENERAL REFERENCE

Can use premodifiers with 'ones', to refer to something in general.

Corrected Learner Examples

Our computers are out-dated and slow. I think we should replace them with new ones.
Large schools are usually better than small ones, because they offer more interesting
activities.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Our computers are out-dated and slow. I think we should replace them with new ones.
Large schools are usually better than small ones, because they offer more interesting
activities.

FORM: 'ONES'
Can use 'ones' as a pronoun to substitute for plural nouns which have already been mentioned
or are obvious from the context.

77
 Corrected Learner Examples
My pillows are getting old and I need new ones.
To tell the truth, I prefer large schools to small ones.
We also need new armchairs, because a lot of the old ones are broken.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

My pillows are getting old and I need new ones.
To tell the truth, I prefer large schools to small ones.
We also need new arm chairs, because a lot of the old ones are broken.

FORM: 'THIS ONE', 'THAT ONE'

Can use 'this one', 'that one' to refer to a singular countable noun. ► pronouns:
demonstratives

Corrected Learner Examples

I met many old friends there, because I was in another judo club before this one and my
friends and I left the old one to join the 1.JCF, because we heard that this one is the best in
the whole of Frankfurt.
I'm thinking about buying a new desk because this one is very old.
I choose that one, because it is a very good and quiet place.
This is the only part of "Harry Potter" movies which I don't have, and it's my favourite, so I'm
going to buy that one.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I met many old friends there, because I was in another judo club before this one and my
friends and I left the old one to join the 1.JCF, because we heard that this one is the best in
whole Frankfurt.
I'm thinking about to buy a new desk because this one is very old ?

Comments
This use of 'this one' and 'these ones' is very low frequency in written data. Need to check
spoken data for other pointing uses and short answers.

FORM: 'WHICH ONE'

Can use 'one' after 'which' in indirect questions to refer to one of two or more options.

Corrected Learner Examples

If you ask me which one I would choose, I would first go camping and then to Disneyland in
Paris.
First of all, you should think of all the advantages and disadvantages of each option and if you
want, you can write them on a piece of paper. This way you see which one is the best.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

If you ask me which one I would chose, I would first go on camping and then to Disneyland in
Paris.
First of all, you should think of all the advantages and disadvantages of each option and if you
want you can write them on a piece of paper. This way you see which one is the best.

FORM: PRE-MODIFYING
Can use determiners + premodifers + 'ones'.

78
 Corrected Learner Examples
We should buy some new copiers and some new faxes because the old ones are very slow, and
one copier is already broken.
I have seen many programs recently, but the ones that I liked best are the funny ones, and the
science-fiction ones, because I like things that are unreal.
I also like watching films on Friday nights, there are some good ones on the first channel.
I've bought five new t-shirts, because I don't like my old ones anymore.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

We should buy some new copiers and some new faxes because the old ones are very slowly
and one copier is already broken down.
I had seen many programs recently, but the ones that I liked best, are the funny ones, and the
science-fiction ones, because I like the things that are unreal.
I also like watching films on Friday nights, thee are some good ones on the first channel.
I've bought five new t-shirts, because I don't like my old ones anymore.

QUESTIONS

ALTERNATIVES
FORM/USE: 'OR NOT'
Can form alternative questions using 'or not' to substitute for a clause, sometimes to express
annoyance or impatience.

Corrected Learner Examples

For a few seconds he was quiet. I couldn't wait, I asked nervously about his exam, did he pass
or not?
Do you want to do that or not?
Do you agree with me or not?
Will you be there till that time or not?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

First a few seconds he was quiet, I couldn't wait, I asked nervously what about his exam, did
he pass or not?
Do you want to do that or not?
Do you agree with me or not?
Will you be there till that time or not?

Comments
In spoken language the 'or not' may have stronger pragmatic force.

FORM/USE: 'OR SOMETHING ELSE', VAGUE

Can form alternative question with 'or something else' as the second alternative to a noun
phrase, to refer to something non-specific.

Corrected Learner Examples

Shall we buy him a book, a CD or something else?
Poetry, history or something else?

79
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
Shall we buy him a book, a CD or something else?
Poetry, history or something else?

Comments
3 examples of 'or anything else' at B2. Spoken data needed.

FORM: CLAUSE + CLAUSE

Can form alternative questions with two clauses combined with 'or'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Are you still with him or did you two break up?
Should I go there and talk to her or should I stay here?
What do you think about going for walks or jogging in your breaks?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Are you still with him or did you two break up?
Should I go there and talk to her or should I stay there?
What do you think about going for walks or jogging in your breaks?

Comments
Note that the main verb is understood in the fourth example.

FORM: PHRASE + PHRASE

Can form alternative questions with two phrases combined with 'or'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Is this area in the city or in the countryside?
Do you feel more sympathy for your friends or your parents?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Is this area in the city or in the countryside?
Do you feel more sympathy for your friends or your parents?

Comments
There are not many examples of these forms. Spoken data needed for a fuller picture.

TAGS
FORM/USE: 'RIGHT' AS AN INFORMAL TAG
Can use 'right' as a tag in informal contexts.

Corrected Learner Examples

You are 14 years old, right?
I think you asked if I liked shopping for clothes, right?
You asked me for some help, right?
They're black, right?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

You are 14 years old, right?
I think you asked if I liked shopping for clothes, right?
You asked me for some help, right?
They're black, right?

80
 Comments
Only two instances of 'yeah?' as an informal tag at B1 and one at B2. This is more a function of
the data being from a written exam.

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE MAIN CLAUSES + AFFIRMATIVE QUESTION TAGS

Can use an increasing range of affirmative tags with affirmative clauses.

Corrected Learner Examples

Your boyfriend is also 16, is he?
You bought new black clothes, did you?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Your boyfriend is also 16, is he?
You bought new black clothes, did you?

Comments
Not surprisingly, these are not as common, given that it is written data.

FORM: AFFIRMATIVE MAIN CLAUSES + NEGATIVE QUESTION TAGS

Can use an increasing range of 'be', 'do', 'have' and modal verb tags with negative main
clauses.

Corrected Learner Examples

And so you're moving to a different area, aren't you?
You love books, don't you?
It sounds peaceful, doesn't it?
We've arranged to meet at 12, haven't we?
I think it would be fantastic, wouldn't it?
When you come back, we should rent some movies, shouldn't we?
You'll see the programme on the 23rd of August, won't you?
We could go on holiday together, couldn't we?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

And so you're moving to a different area, aren't you?
You love books, don't you?
It sounds peaceful, doesn't it?
We've arranged to meet at 12, haven't we?
I think it would be fantastic, wouldn't it?
When you come back, we should rent some movies, shouldn't we?
You'll see the programme on the 23rd of August, won't you?
We could go on holiday together, couldn't we?

FORM: NEGATIVE MAIN CLAUSES + AFFIRMATIVE QUESTION TAGS

Can use an increasing range of affirmative 'be', 'do' and 'have' tags with negative main clauses.

81
 Corrected Learner Examples
I mean, your parents don't like discos, do they?
Doesn't sound interesting, does it?
He is not important, is he?
That isn't normal, is it?
You haven't been to my house before, have you?
We haven't met each other for about 1 year, have we?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I mean, your parents don't like discos, do they?
Doesn't sound interesting, does it?
he is not important, is he?
That isn't normal, is it?
You haven't been to my house before, have you?
We haven't met each other [FOR] about 1 year, have we?

Comments
Only one correct example at B1 of a modal verb affirmative tag: 'That couldn't be true, could
it?' (Germany; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; German; Pass)

WH-
FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS WITH MODALS
Can use 'wh-'words + the negative form of modal verbs + subject + main verb to form
'wh-'questions.

Corrected Learner Examples

Why can't you do both things?
Why couldn't I control myself?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Why can't you do both things?
Why couldn't I control myself?

Comments
These are very low frequency and only 'why' examples. There are some pragmatic errors in
examples with other forms, for example: 'This weekend I'm totally free, so why won't we see
on Saturday?' (Italy; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; Italian; Pass)

YES/NO
FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS MODAL VERBS
Can use modal verbs + 'not' + subject + main verb to form 'yes/no' questions.

Corrected Learner Examples

Wouldn't you like to come?
I'm going to a picnic next Saturday with my parents, won't you come with us?
Can't you make both?

82
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
Wouldn't you like to come?
I'm going to a picnic next Saturday with my parents, won't you come with us?
Can't you make both?

Comments
Note these are low frequency both in the learner data and in the BNC. Some of those found at
B1 are syntactically correct but not always the most pragmatically appropriate (e.g. 'Now I go
to gymnastics two hours a week. Wouldn't you like that?')

FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS WITH 'BE'

Can use main verb 'be' + 'n?t' to form negative 'yes/no' questions.

Corrected Learner Examples

Aren't you excited about it?
Isn't he sweet?
[talking about a cottage] Isn't it in the mountains?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Aren't you excited about it?
Isn't he sweet?
[talking about a cottage] Isn't it in the mountains?

FORM: NEGATIVE QUESTIONS, AUXILIARY VERBS

Can use auxiliary 'do' and 'have' + 'n?t' + subject + main verb to form negative 'yes/no'
questions.

Corrected Learner Examples

Don't you think so?
Don't you like any programmes?
Don't you think she would be happy?
Don't you know me?
Haven't you seen it yet?
Haven't they got their own style?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Don't you think so?
Don't you like any programmes?
Don't you think she would be happy?
Don't you know me?
Haven't you seen it yet?
Haven't they got their own style?

Comments
Note there are few instances of 'have' negative questions in the learner corpus but this is also
reflected in the native speaker data (cf. BNC).||There are no instances of auxiliary be with
negative questions, e.g. 'Aren?t you coming with us?'

USE: SEEKING AGREEMENT

Can use negative 'yes/no' questions to involve the listener or reader by seeking agreement.

83
 Corrected Learner Examples
Finally two days ago I found it in my pocket! It's funny! Don't you think?
They're filming a part of Harry Potter at our school, because our main building is very old. Isn't
that great?
You can even just relax and sunbathe while you drink a nice, cold lemonade. Wouldn't that be
amazing?
While we were there, there was also a concert and I got to see Rihanna and Chris Brown! Isn't
that awesome?

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Finally two days ago I found it in my poket! It's funny! Don't you think?
They're filming a part of Harry Potter at our school, because our main-building is very old.
Isn't that great?
You can even just relax and sunbathe while you drink a nice, cold lemonade. Wouldn't that be
amazing?
While we were there, there was also a concert and I got to see Rihanna and Chris Brown! Isn't
that awesome?

Comments
Note to check for this in spoken language data when available as it should be more prevalent
and may emerge at a lower level.

REPORTED SPEECH

REPORTED SPEECH
FORM/USE: 'WONDER', REPORTED THOUGHT
Can report thought using 'wonder' + 'wh-'word + clause, with a tense shift where relevant.

Corrected Learner Examples

I always had good times with her and was very impatient to read this letter: I wondered what
she had written.
I really wondered who he was, but I was embrassed to look at him.

FORM/USE: TEMPORAL SHIFTS, FUTURE

Can report speech about events in the future with and without backshifts for words relating to
time.

Corrected Learner Examples

At the airport they told him to come the next morning.
The trainer was impressed and said that if I play next time as well as this time, I'll be the
'pointing guard' in the team.
The letter said that he is coming home next month.
Her husband told me that the following day they would return to Germany so that was the last
time I saw Sara.

FORM: DIRECT SPEECH, REPORTING CLAUSE, END POSITION

Can report speech and thought directly using the reporting verb after the reporting clause.

84
 Corrected Learner Examples
?Excuse me Sir, but you forgot your mobile phone," she said.
"I must take it to the police station," she thought.
"Yes of course," she answered.
?What have I done?" I thought.
?What should I do?? she asked herself.
"But where is everybody? Am I alone?" I asked.
"What's your name?" he asked.

FORM: DIRECT SPEECH, REPORTING CLAUSE, INITIAL POSITION

Can report speech and thought directly, using the reporting verb before the reporting clause.

Corrected Learner Examples

He felt like a worm too and he said to me: "I'm sorry I'm not a good friend".
Maria answered "Yes!?
He answered: "Come with me".
Then I thought: "I can't stay in prison".
He asked "Are you Clarice?" I answered yes and then he told me that he was my father.
She asked me "How about we join the club?"
She thought: "Should I go to the police or should I go back??
I thought: "Either I talk to her now or I won't be able to talk to her anytime!?

Comments
While there are 1,499 occurrences of 'said' + ?...? at B1 many are not punctuated correctly.
Note that punctuation conventions vary in British English and American English.

FORM: REPORTED 'WH-' QUESTIONS

Can report 'wh-'questions using a reporting verb + 'wh-'word + clause, with a change of
pronoun and tense shift where relevant.

Corrected Learner Examples

I asked why she was here.
I phoned and asked what sports we could play in this club.
When we asked why they were filming our school, they said they were looking for a location
where they could film some boys and girls leaving the school and so they filmed us!
He saw a guy sat there so he sat next to him and asked where the football players were.
They filmed it and interviewed a few pupils about what they think about the new swimming
pool in the gym and I asked when it would be on TV.

FORM: REPORTED 'YES-NO' QUESTIONS

Can report questions using 'ask' + 'if' or 'whether' + clause, with a pronoun and tense shift
where relevant.

85
 Corrected Learner Examples
You asked me if I like shopping.
I am asking you if we can change the time of the meeting to 5.00 pm.
A very rich movie producer asked her if she wanted to be in a movie, he said she would get
paid 500,000 dollars, she agreed.
I asked her if she wanted to go and have dinner together.
Renata, a really good friend of mine, told me she was in this club, but she left it some time
ago; she asked me if I was interested in joining this amazing club.
I'm writing to ask whether you're free next Saturday or not.

Comments
Note that 'whether' in reported questions is very low frequency and in fact is even lower in
native speaker corpus data.

FORM: REPORTED REQUESTS AND COMMANDS

Can report requests and commands with 'ask' or 'tell' + direct object and 'to-'infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

She asked me to come back as soon as possible because my father is seriously ill.
As the concert finished, I heard someone call my name, I turned and there were two men from
security who asked me to go up on the stage.
Dad asked me to help him at work.
He told me to go outside the concert hall and wait for him to come.
I have caught a cold and my doctors told me to rest in bed for a few days.
They told me to stay in the car and watch them and try to remember their faces.

FORM: REPORTED STATEMENTS, PRONOUN AND TENSE SHIFT

Can report statements using a reporting clause with 'say' or 'tell' + 'that-'clause, with a
pronoun and tense shift where relevant.

Corrected Learner Examples

I immediately called her to see if everything was o.k. and she said that she had won the lottery
and she wanted to give some of the money to me.
He said that she was in big trouble because the phone was a bomb.
They said that our school was the most suitable school for that movie.
He said that it was his phone and he had left it in a cafe.
He said that he was a nuclear scientist and we had met before.
Mary told me that she was dating John.
In the letter, he told me that he was coming to Madrid on the first of June and he asked me if I
was free.

VERBS

PATTERNS_THAT CLAUSES
FORM: REPORTING VERBS + DIRECT OBJECT 'THAT'-CLAUSE
Can use an increasing range of verbs, typically reporting or mental process verbs, with a 'that'-
clause as the direct object.

86
 Corrected Learner Examples
Now you're sixteen, I totally understand that you don't want to go on holiday with your
parents.
When I got there, I realised that I wasn't the only winner.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Now you're sixteen, I totally understand that you don't want to go on holiday with your
parents.
When I got there I realised that I wasn't the only winner.

FORM: VERBS + PREPOSITIONAL PHRASE + 'THAT'-CLAUSE

Can use some reporting verbs with a prepositional phrase followed by a 'that'-clause as the
direct object.

Corrected Learner Examples

I think also that you should say to your parents that you want to try a new experience with
your friends.
[about meeting a famous person] When I said to my friends that I had met with him, they
didn't believe me.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I think also that you should say to your parents that you want to try a new experience with
your friends.
[about meeting a famous person] When I said to my friend that I had met with him, they didn't
believe.

PATTERNS_WITH TO AND -ING

FORM/USE: 'WOULD PREFER' + 'TO', POLITENESS
Can use 'would prefer' + 'to' infinitive, often for politeness.

Corrected Learner Examples

I would prefer to pay by cash.
I would prefer to meet you at six o'clock instead of four, at the café in my hometown.
I'd prefer to go on holiday with my friends.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I would prefer to pay by cash.
I would prefer to meet you at six o'clock instead of four at the café in my hometown.
I'd prefer to go on holiday with my friends.

Comments
Would prefer to is often but not exclusively used to be more polite.

FORM: 'HELP' + OBJECT

Can use 'help' + object + infinitive with or without 'to', with no change in meaning.

Corrected Learner Examples

I wanted to help him to make some friends. He's just like me.
I hope that it will help you to keep fit.
I hope my advice can help you choose where to go.
This house is terrible and I hope you can help me find something better.

87
 Uncorrected Learner Examples
I wanted to help him to make some friends He's just like me.
I hope that it will help you to keep fit.
I hope my advice can help you choose where to go.
This house is terrible and I hope you can help me find something better.

Comments
The evidence of this at A2 is heavily task influenced and restricted to two verbs, 'paint' and
'find', and these are taken from the rubric of the task

FORM: 'MAKE', 'LET' + INFINITIVE WITHOUT 'TO'

Can use 'make' and 'let' + infinitive without 'to'.

Corrected Learner Examples

Let me know if it is suitable for you.
She makes me smile when I'm sad.
She always makes me laugh!
You are eighteen now, you can do what you want and they should let you do it.
I think you should talk with your parents and try to make them understand how you feel and
what you prefer.
Maybe your parents are afraid of letting you go away by yourself, they still consider you their
baby.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Let me know if it is suitable for you.
She makes me smile when I'm sad.
She always makes me laugh !
You are eighteen now, you can do what you want and they should let you do it.
I think you should talk with your parents and try to make them understand how you feel and
what you prefer.
Maybe your parents are afraid of letting you go away by yourself, they still consider you their
baby.

Comments
As the examples show, 'let' and 'make' have a range of uses, but the form remains the same.

FORM: VERB + '-ING' FORM

Can use a limited range of verbs followed by an '-ing' form.

Corrected Learner Examples

I would like to stay there a few years to finish studying and to have my own money to start
thinking of travelling.
So, would you mind telling Mr and Mrs Thomas.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I would like to stay there a few years to finish studying and to have my own money to start
thinking on travelling.
So, would you mind telling Mr and Mrs Thomas.

FORM: VERB + 'TO-' INFINITIVE

Can use a wide range of verbs followed by a 'to-' infinitive.

88
 Corrected Learner Examples
? it's one of the reasons I decided to change class.
I'm going to buy pictures to hang on the wall, because my room seems to be very cold and
very unfriendly.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I prefer to stay in the countryside, what I think is better.
? it's one of the reasons I decided to change class.
I'm going to buy pictures to hang them against the wall, because my room seems to be very
cold and very unfriendly.

FORM: VERBS + DIRECT OBJECT + 'TO' INFINITIVE

Can use some verbs of requesting and commanding followed by a direct object and a
'to-'infinitive.

Corrected Learner Examples

I would like you to come to a picnic on Saturday.
I would like you to come to my office on 16th of May to discuss the terms of the contract.
Your parents want you to go on holiday with them this summer.
You asked me to tell you about one of my friends.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I would like you to come to a picnic on Saturday.
I would like you to come to my office on 16th of May to discuss the term of contract.
Your parents want you to go on holiday with them this summer.
You asked me to tell you about one of my friends.

Comments
This form is used for requests, commands and reported requests and commands.

PHRASAL
FORM: NO OBJECT
Can use an increasing range of phrasal verbs without an object.

Corrected Learner Examples

I needed to hang out because my life was too jam-packed and hectic.
[talking about a phone] Its battery had run out.
She cried a lot. Her feelings, emotions were all scattered. But Lisa didn't give up.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I needed to hang out because my life was too jam-packed hectic.
[talking about a phone] Its battery had run out.
She cried a lot. Her feelings, emotions were all scattered. But Lisa didn't give up.

FORM: VERB + PARTICLE + OBJECT

Can use a limited range of phrasal verbs + particle + object.

89
 Corrected Learner Examples
Were it not for my university, I would give up this class immediately.
I must travel to Mexico City because I won a novel contest and I need to pick up my award.
So I opened the envelope and took out the letter.
She turned off the phone and walked to the bathroom.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

Were it not for my university, I would give up this class immediately.
I must travel to Mexico City because I won a novel contest and I need to pick up my award.
They continued to talk till she got off the bus.
So I opened the envelope and took out the letter.
She turned off the phone and walked to the bathroom.

FORM: VERB + PRONOUN + PARTICLE

Can use an increasing range of phrasal verbs + object pronoun + particle.

Corrected Learner Examples

I heard about this club when I was watching T.V. and I wanted to check it out.
I really like shopping for clothes, but I hate trying them on because always when I finish, the
shop assistant shows me more clothes.
So, think it over and tell me what you decide to do.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I heard about this club when I was watching T.V. and I wanted to check it out.
I really like shopping for clothes, but I hate trying them on because always when I finish, the
shop assistant shows me more clothes.
So, think it over and tell me what you decide to do.

PHRASAL-PREPOSITIONAL
FORM: VERB + PARTICLE + PREPOSITION + OBJECT
Can use a limited range of verbs + particle + preposition + noun or pronoun.

Corrected Learner Examples

I could catch up with the work I miss after school from 3 to 4.
They interviewed and filmed pupils and teachers to find out how they get on with each other.
I'd better stop now and get on with my studying.
I think that if you want to have a peaceful holiday, you should get away from the city and enjoy
the countryside, enjoy nature.
So you had better go walking or join a club, but don't forget to keep away from junk food.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

I could catch up with the work I miss after school from 3 to 4.
They interviewed and filmed pupils and teachers to find out how they get on with each other.
I'd better stop now and get on with my studying.
I think that if you want have a peacefull holiday, you should get away from the city and enjoy
the countryside, enjoy nature.
So you had better go walking or join a Club, but don't forget to keep away from junk food.

90
PREPOSITIONAL
FORM: VERB + PREPOSITION + OBJECT
Can use an increasing range of prepositional verbs followed by noun or pronoun objects.

Corrected Learner Examples

If you need more information, please look at the information sheet at the entrance.
In fact, our company needs to train some staff on how to deal with the complaints of
customers.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

If you need more information, please look at the information sheet at the entrance.
In fact, our company need to train some staffs how to deal with the complaints of customers.

THERE IS/ARE
FORM: 'THERE' + MODAL VERBS
Can use 'there' with a range of modal verbs + 'be' + complement.

Corrected Learner Examples

[talking about 20 years in the future] There will be flying cars and buses, and big houses.
In the countryside there wouldn?t be so many people and there is nothing to do.
In the large school there might be a lot of people that you can meet.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

[talking about 20 years in the future] There will be flying cars and buses, and big houses.
In the countryside there wouldn?t be so many people and there is nothing you can do.
In the large school there might be a lot of people that you can meet.

FORM: NEGATIVE
Can use 'There' + 'be' + 'n?t' with countable and uncountable nouns.

Corrected Learner Examples

There isn't any noise.
The spring is the best time because there aren't too many tourists.
There wasn't any message on it, just a big word "DIE".
There weren't any people on the bus she took.

Uncorrected Learner Examples

There isn't any noise.
The spring is the best time because there aren't too many tourists.
There wasn't any menssage on it, just a big word "DIE".
There weren't any people on the bus she took.

TYPES
FORM: SEMI-MODAL AUXILIARY VERBS, 'USED TO', 'OUGHT TO'
Can use semi-modal auxiliary verbs, 'used to' and 'ought to'.

Corrected Learner Examples

But we used to play together every single day!
I think you ought to join a gym and you should go for a walk at least three times a week.

91
Uncorrected Learner Examples
But we used to play together every single day!
I think you ought to join a gym and you should go for a walk at least three times a week.

92