English is best taught in strict context with the world around
us.
The students are generally interested in Internet and all that
it offers.
Many times they open to E-Bay if they are looking to buy
something. These ads are short, to the point and try to
stimulate a sale.
Let’s look at some.
“Beautiful hand painted scarf.
Pure silk Assorted colours.
Price 15 Euro each. No
charge for delivery.”
“Second hand sewing
machine. Model 230 SINGER Complete with carrying case and
accessories. Price 150 Euro.”
“White wooden Bookshelf (photo included)
100x35x45cm Ideal for children’s room Price 100 Euro.”
There are also “Help Wanted” ads.
“Looking for talented web designer for international company.
Excellent Knowledge of English. Experience preferred. Send
Curriculum to the following email address.”
“A position for qualified English language
teacher. Experience required. Preference given to mother tongue
applicants. Work in classroom situation. Afternoon and evening
courses.” See our website. Englishforeveryone.com
Here are some Real Estate Ads.
“A one family house in White Plains, New York. 3
bedrooms, living room with fireplace, spacious kitchen,
swimming pool. Close to public transportation, schools and
shopping areas. Asking price, $450,000 .”
“Spacious attic apartment, recently restructured.
Large living area, bedroom, spacious bath and kitchen. Centre of
NYC, close to transportation. Call for more information. Rent $
650 a month.”
These are just some examples. The students can
now try writing ads on their own.
The teacher can give them some “starters”.
An ad for selling........ your motorcycle
your stamp collection
your father’s lawn mower
a 2-month-old brown Cocker Spaniel puppy
a house in the country
an apartment in Turin
a second hand stereo a
portable typewriter, vintage
your 2004 car your
mother’s mink coat
a series of comic books
a villa in Capri a
collection of paperback novels
An ad for........ a position as secretary in
an international company
A job as night watchman in a factory
A position as librarian in a small town
A teaching position in a high school
A salesgirl in a bookshop
They will discover new words to use and also how
to be concise as most ads are paid by the number of words you
use.
A Nice “humorous “ thought
"If a man smiles all the time, he’s probably
selling something that doesn’t work."