Common Gemstones: Advanced Vocabulary English Lesson

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INSTRUCTIONS to teachers and students:

ENGLISH: These English lessons are designed to be used either by students to help themselves improve their English or by teachers to use when delivering lessons to their students. Every lesson has six sections. Common idioms and expressions, a gap fill exercise, a reading text with new vocabulary, a grammar section, a speaking section and a writing section. These six sections help students and teachers cover the main elements of the English language.

 

Grammar included: ‘Received Pronunciation’ and ‘The Correct Pronunciation of “ED” in a regular verb.

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

READING (Concentrate on your pronunciation of the ‘ed’ sounds. You will find the ‘ed’ lesson at the end of this English lesson.

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At the end of this English lesson you will find the rules to using the perfect tenses with examples

SECTION ONE (READING)

A Dazzling World of Gemstones: An Introduction

Gemstones have always fascinated humanity with their stunning beauty and mysterious allure. From ancient civilizations to modern times, these precious stones have been treasured for their unique properties and enchanting colours. In this English lesson, we will explore six of the most common gemstones: Opal, Amethyst, Tiger’s Eye, Labradorite, Rose Quartz, and Moonstone. Each of these gemstones has captivated gem enthusiasts and collectors with their distinct characteristics and cultural significance. Let us look into the world of these mesmerizing stones and discover what makes each one truly special.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION ONE:

Question:  List all of the perfect tenses in this paragraph.

1).

Opal: The Play-of-Colour Gemstone

Opal has enchanted people for centuries with its mesmerizing play-of-colour. This gemstone, which can display a rainbow of colours, has been prized by various cultures throughout history. Ancient Romans have regarded opal as a symbol of hope and purity, while Australian Aboriginals have believed that opals were created from the footprints of their ancestors. Opals have often been used in jewellery to create stunning pieces that capture the light in unique ways. Collectors and jewellers alike have sought out opals for their rarity and beauty, making them a cherished addition to any collection.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION TWO:

  • Identify all of the perfect tenses in this paragraph.

2).

Amethyst: The Royal Purple Stone

Amethyst, with its rich purple hue, has been a favourite among royalty and commoners alike. This gemstone has been associated with calmness and clarity of mind. Throughout history, people have worn amethyst jewellery to protect themselves from intoxication and to bring peace and tranquillity. Ancient Greeks have placed amethyst under their pillows to ward off bad dreams, believing that the stone possessed mystical powers. Amethyst necklaces and rings have adorned the necks and fingers of many, symbolizing both beauty and strength. Over time, this gemstone has remained a beloved choice for those seeking elegance and spiritual grounding.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION THREE:

  • Find all of the perfect tenses in the past paragraph.

VIDEO:

VIDEO QUESTIONS:

QUESTIONS:

          1. How are minerals made?
          2. What is quartz made oh?
          3. What is the difference between rocks and crystals?
          4.  What is the common name for pyrite?
          5. Now explain the difference between minerals, rocks, crystals and gems.

Bonus Question:

What is the study of minerals, rocks etc called?  And what is the name of the hobby people sometimes have when making their own jewellery from minerals, rocks and crystals?

3).

Tiger’s Eye: The Stone of Courage

Tiger’s Eye, known for its striking chatoyancy, has been revered for its protective properties. This golden-brown gemstone has been used by warriors and soldiers to gain courage and confidence in battle. Ancient civilizations have believed that Tiger’s Eye could ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. People have carried Tiger’s Eye stones as talismans to enhance their willpower and focus. The mesmerizing bands of colour in Tiger’s Eye have made it a popular choice for jewellery and decorative items. Those who have embraced this stone have often found themselves feeling more grounded and resilient.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary. https://translate.google.co.uk/  

GRAMMAR QUESTION FOUR:

  • Find all of the perfect tenses in the past paragraph.

4).

Labradorite: The Mystical Gemstone

Labradorite, with its captivating iridescence, has been a source of wonder and fascination. This gemstone has displayed a stunning array of colours, often referred to as labradorescence. Inuit legends have told that Labradorite fell from the frozen fire of the Aurora Borealis, embodying the northern lights’ mystical energy. People who have worn Labradorite have reported enhanced intuition and psychic abilities. This stone has been a favourite among healers and spiritual practitioners for its believed ability to connect with higher realms. Labradorite jewellery has often been crafted to showcase its unique play of colour, making it a prized possession for those who appreciate its ethereal beauty.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION FIVE:

  • Find all of the perfect tenses in the past paragraph.

5).

Rose Quartz: The Stone of Love

Rose Quartz, with its gentle pink hue, has been known as the stone of unconditional love. This gemstone has been associated with compassion, peace, and emotional healing. Throughout history, people have used Rose Quartz to attract love and strengthen relationships. Ancient Egyptians have believed that Rose Quartz could prevent aging and promote beauty. Many have placed Rose Quartz crystals in their homes to create a loving and harmonious environment. The soothing energy of Rose Quartz has been cherished by those seeking to open their hearts and nurture their emotional well-being.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION SIX:

  • Find all of the perfect tenses in the previous paragraph.

6).

Moonstone: The Stone of New Beginnings

Moonstone, with its enchanting shimmer, has been celebrated for its connection to the moon and feminine energy. This gemstone has been associated with new beginnings and inner growth. Ancient civilizations have believed that Moonstone held the power to bring good fortune and protect travellers. Women have worn Moonstone jewellery to enhance their intuition and connect with their inner goddess. The serene and mystical appearance of Moonstone has made it a popular choice for those seeking to embrace change and find balance in their lives. Over the centuries, Moonstone has remained a symbol of hope and inspiration for many.

VOCABULARY: Now discuss any new vocabulary.  https://translate.google.co.uk/

GRAMMAR QUESTION SEVEN:

  • Find all of the perfect tenses in the last paragraph.

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SECTION TWO    (REVISION)

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/

ANSWERS:

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

Present Perfect 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 traveled 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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