ADVANCED / INTERMEDIATE English lesson: Astrology

Always remember that during the lesson we are continuing our RP practice to be able to improve our pronunciation and diction.

These English lessons contain the following six sections.

1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. 1. New Vocabulary Section
                                       2. Reading and Pronunciation Section
                                       3. Questions Section
                                       4. Video Listening Section
                                       5. Grammar 1 Section
                                       6. Grammar 2 Section

1). NEW VOCABULARY SECTION:

Here are five advanced / intermediate English words for an advanced / intermediate English student, along with their meanings and example sentences:

• Zodiacal

  • Meaning: Pertaining to the zodiac, which is a circle of twelve 30° divisions of celestial longitude that are centered upon the ecliptic.
  • Example Sentence: The zodiacal sign of Scorpio is often associated with mystery and intensity.
  • Grammar Question: What part of speech is “zodiacal” in the example sentence?

• Horoscope

  • Meaning: Relating to horoscopes or the arrangement of planets at the time of one’s birth used to predict future events.
  • Example Sentence: Her horoscopic chart revealed a strong influence of Mars, indicating potential leadership qualities.
  • Grammar Question: Identify the adjective in the sentence and explain its function.

• Celestial

  • Meaning: Pertaining to the sky or the universe beyond the earth’s atmosphere; heavenly.
  • Example Sentence: Celestial bodies such as stars and planets have captivated humanity for centuries.
  • Grammar Question: How does the word “celestial” modify the noun in the sentence?

• Astrological

  • Meaning: Pertaining to astrology, the study of the movements and relative positions of celestial bodies interpreted as having an influence on human affairs.
  • Example Sentence: Astrological predictions often guide people in making important life decisions.
  • Grammar Question: What is the root word of “astrological,” and what does it mean?

• Ascendant

  • Meaning: In astrology, the ascendant is the zodiacal sign and degree that is ascending on the eastern horizon at the specific time and location of an event.
  • Example Sentence: Having a Leo ascendant often means the person projects confidence and charisma.
  • Grammar Question: What role does the word “ascendant” play in the sentence, and is it a noun or an adjective?

• Transcendental

  • Meaning: Extending or lying beyond the limits of ordinary experience; often associated with spiritual or mystical significance in astrology.
  • Example Sentence: The transcendental nature of Jupiter’s influence was believed to bring about philosophical enlightenment.
  • Grammar Question: Explain the difference between “transcendental” and “transcendent,” if any.

• Natal

  • Meaning: Relating to the time or place of one’s birth, often used in the context of a natal chart in astrology.
  • Example Sentence: Her natal chart suggested a harmonious alignment of Venus, indicating a natural aptitude for art.
  • Grammar Question: What is the function of the word “natal” in the phrase “natal chart”?

• Sidereal

  • Meaning: Of or relating to the stars or constellations; used in astrology to refer to the sidereal zodiac.
  • Example Sentence: Sidereal astrology focuses on the actual positions of the constellations in the sky.
  • Grammar Question: Compare the use of “sidereal” and “zodiacal” in terms of their grammatical function and meaning.

• Ephemeris

  • Meaning: A table or data file giving the calculated positions of celestial bodies at regular intervals throughout a period.
  • Example Sentence: An ephemeris is essential for astrologers to track planetary movements accurately.
  • Grammar Question: Is “ephemeris” a singular or plural noun, and how can you tell?

• Retrograde

  • Meaning: The apparent motion of a planet in a direction opposite to that of other bodies within its system, often interpreted as an astrological influence.
  • Example Sentence: When Mercury is in retrograde, it’s common to experience communication breakdowns.
  • Grammar Question: What is the grammatical function of “retrograde” in the sentence, and what type of word is it?

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2). READING & PRONUNCIATION SECTION: Astrology

Introduction:

Astrology has intrigued and captivated human imagination for millennia, serving as both an ancient science and a mystical art. Rooted in the belief that the positions and movements of celestial bodies can influence human life and terrestrial events, astrology offers a unique lens through which we can explore our personalities, relationships, and life paths. This ancient discipline traces its origins back to early civilizations, where scholars meticulously mapped the stars and planets, seeking to understand their impact on earthly affairs. Today, astrology continues to thrive in modern culture, evolving with contemporary interpretations while maintaining its timeless allure. Whether you’re a staunch skeptic or a fervent believer, delving into the world of astrology promises a journey filled with self-discovery, cosmic wonder, and fresh perspectives on our interconnected universe.

• Aries (March 21 – April 19)

  Dynamic and courageous, Aries individuals are known for their pioneering spirit and determination. Always ready to take on new challenges, they often lead with enthusiasm; they inspire others to follow.

  Grammar Example: The use of the semicolon in “they often lead with enthusiasm; they inspire others to follow.”

  Grammar Question: What is the function of the semicolon in the sentence, and how does it differ from a full stop?

  Taurus (April 20 – May 20)

  Taurus individuals, characterized by their practicality and reliability, possess an unwavering determination, which, despite challenges, often leads them to success.

  Grammar Example: The use of the relative pronoun “which” in “an unwavering determination, which, despite challenges, often leads them to success.”

  Grammar Question: Identify the function of the relative clause in this sentence, and explain how it adds additional information.

  Gemini (May 21 – June 20)

  Geminis, who thrive in social settings, are often described as adaptable and communicative; their ability to converse with anyone makes them popular in any circle.

  Grammar Example: The use of the relative pronoun “who” in “Geminis, who thrive in social settings, are often described…”

  Grammar Question: How does the clause introduced by “who” modify the noun “Geminis”?

  Cancer (June 21 – July 22)

  Deeply intuitive and sentimental, Cancer individuals have a natural tendency to nurture those around them, providing support whenever it is needed.

  Grammar Example: The use of the infinitive phrase “to nurture” in “a natural tendency to nurture those around them.”

  Grammar Question: What is the role of the infinitive phrase in the sentence?

  Leo (July 23 – August 22)

  Leos, often the center of attention, exude confidence and charisma, which, in turn, draws others to them like moths to a flame.

  Grammar Example: The simile “draws others to them like moths to a flame.”

  Grammar Question: What is the effect of using a simile in this context?

  Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

  Virgos, meticulous and detail-oriented, possess a keen eye for perfection; they strive to improve everything they touch.

  Grammar Example: The use of the semicolon in “they possess a keen eye for perfection; they strive to improve…”

  Grammar Question: Why is a semicolon appropriate in this context rather than a comma?

  Libra (September 23 – October 22)

  Known for their diplomatic nature, Libras seek balance and harmony in all aspects of life, often acting as mediators when conflicts arise.

  Grammar Example: The use of the gerund “acting” in “often acting as mediators when conflicts arise.”

  Grammar Question: How does the gerund function in the sentence?

  Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

  Scorpios are passionate and assertive individuals, whose intensity is often unmatched, leading them to delve deeply into matters that intrigue them.

  Grammar Example: The use of the possessive pronoun “whose” in “individuals, whose intensity is often unmatched.”

  Grammar Question: Explain how the clause beginning with “whose” modifies the noun “individuals.”

  Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

  Sagittarius individuals, known for their adventurous spirit, constantly seek new experiences, reveling in the freedom to explore the unknown.

  Grammar Example: The participial phrase “reveling in the freedom” in “constantly seek new experiences, reveling in the freedom…”

  Grammar Question: What role does the participial phrase play in the sentence?

  Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

  Capricorns, with their disciplined and responsible nature, consistently work towards their goals, regardless of the obstacles that may arise.

  Grammar Example: The prepositional phrase “with their disciplined and responsible nature” in “Capricorns, with their disciplined and responsible nature…”

  Grammar Question: How does the prepositional phrase function in the sentence?

  Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

  Aquarians, often viewed as intellectual and innovative, embrace change and progress, challenging the status quo with their forward-thinking ideas.

  Grammar Example: The use of the participle “challenging” in “challenging the status quo.”

  Grammar Question: What is the grammatical function of the participle “challenging” in this context?

  Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

  Pisces, known for their compassion and empathy, often find themselves drawn to creative pursuits, which allow them to express their vivid imaginations.

  Grammar Example: The subordinate clause “which allow them to express their vivid imaginations.”

  Grammar Question: What is the function of the subordinate clause in this sentence, and how does it relate to the main clause?

3). VIDEO LISTENING SECTION:

Questions:

1. 1. 1. a
      2. b
      3. c
      4. d
      5. e

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4). GRAMMAR SECTION ONE:

How to pronounce the ‘ed’ sounds in regular verbs.

‘ED’ practice text

In this text remember that we are practicing our RP but at the same time we are going to practice how to pronounce the ‘ed’ in regular verbs. Here is an explanation.

In English, the pronunciation of the past tense suffix “-ed” varies and is determined by the final sound of the root verb:

1. /t/ Sound: We use this sound when the root verb ends in voiceless consonants (except for /t/), such as /p/, /k/, /s/, /ʃ/ (sh), /ʧ / (ch), and /f/. For example:
– “walk” becomes “walked” and is pronounced as /wa: kt/
– “laugh” becomes “laughed” and is pronounced as /laugh: ft/

2. /d/ Sound: We use this sound with root verbs ending in voiced sounds, which include all vowel sounds and voiced consonants (except for /d/), such as /b/, /g/, /v/, / z/, etc. For example:
– “call” becomes “called” and is pronounced as /ca lld/
– “rob” becomes “robbed” and is pronounced as /rob bd/

3. /ɪd/ or just /d/ Sound: We use this sound distinctly when the root verb ends in either a /t/ or a /d/. This additional syllable makes it easier to pronounce. For example:
– “want” becomes “wanted” and is pronounced as /ˈwant: id/
– “need” becomes “needed” and is pronounced as /ˈneed: id/

5). GRAMMAR SECTION TWO:

Here is a comprehensive guide to the grammar rules for all of the perfect tenses in English, along with examples:

Present Perfect Progressive Tense

Rule: The present perfect tense is used to describe an action that occurred at an unspecified time in the past or an action that began in the past and continues in the present. It is formed by using the present tense of the auxiliary verb “have” (have/has) followed by the past participle of the main verb.

Structure:

• Subject + have/has + past participle

Examples:

• I have eaten breakfast. (Action at an unspecified time in the past)
• She has lived here for five years. (Action that began in the past and continues in the present)

Past Perfect Tense

Rule: The past perfect tense is used to describe an action that was completed before another action or time in the past. It is formed by using the past tense of the auxiliary verb “have” (had) followed by the past participle of the main verb.

Structure:

• Subject + had + past participle

Examples:

• I had finished my homework before the movie started. (Action completed before another action)
• They had left by the time I arrived. (Action completed before another action)

Future Perfect Tense

Rule: The future perfect tense is used to describe an action that will be completed before a specific time in the future. It is formed by using “will have” followed by the past participle of the main verb.

Structure:

• Subject + will have + past participle

Examples:

• I will have finished my project by tomorrow. (Action that will be completed before a specific future time)
• She will have travelled to five countries by the end of the year. (Action that will be completed before a specific future time)

Present Perfect Continuous Tense

Rule: The present perfect continuous tense is used to describe an action that started in the past and has continued up until now, often with an emphasis on the duration. It is formed by using “have/has been” followed by the present participle (verb + ing).

Structure:

• Subject + have/has been + present participle

Examples:

• I have been studying for three hours. (Action started in the past and continues up to now with emphasis on duration)
• She has been working here since June. (Action started in the past and continues up to now with emphasis on duration)

Past Perfect Continuous Tense

Rule: The past perfect continuous tense is used to describe an action that was ongoing in the past and was completed before another past action. It is formed by using “had been” followed by the present participle (verb + ing).

Structure:

• Subject + had been + present participle

Examples:

• I had been reading for two hours when the power went out. (Ongoing action in the past completed before another past action)
• They had been living in Paris for a year before they moved to London. (Ongoing action in the past completed before another past action)

Future Perfect Continuous Tense

Rule: The future perfect continuous tense is used to describe an ongoing action that will be completed before a specific future time, often with an emphasis on the duration. It is formed by using “will have been” followed by the present participle (verb + ing).

Structure:

• Subject + will have been + present participle

Examples:

• By next month, I will have been working here for five years. (Ongoing action that will be completed before a specific future time with emphasis on duration)
• They will have been traveling for 24 hours by the time they arrive. (Ongoing action that will be completed before a specific future time with emphasis on duration)
• These rules and examples should help you understand and use the perfect tenses in English accurately.

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