There Is & There Are - Pre-Intermediate English with Nicole #26

Introduction to Thanksgiving and Lesson Overview

Thanksgiving Holiday

• The speaker greets the audience and mentions that they are teaching at a different time due to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday in the United States.

• Thanksgiving is described as a fun holiday where families gather for a big dinner, similar to Christmas, with schools and businesses closed.

Lesson Focus: "There" Usage

• The lesson will focus on using "there is," "there are," "there was," and "there were" to express existence.

• The speaker explains that these phrases indicate whether something exists or does not exist in reality.

Understanding "Where" vs. "There"

Distinguishing Between Terms

• A common question among students is the difference between "where" and "there."

• Examples illustrate that “where” asks for location (e.g., “Where is the hospital?”), while “is there” questions existence (e.g., “Is there a hospital?”).

Forming Sentences with "There Is/Are"

Sentence Structure

• For singular nouns, use “there is” or “there’s,” while for plural nouns, use “there are.” Past tense forms include “there was” and “there were.”

• Negative forms include variations like “there isn’t” or “there aren’t,” depending on singular or plural usage.

Yes/No Questions with Existence

Question Formation

• To form yes/no questions, switch from statements; e.g., change “There is” to “Is there?”

• Short answers can affirm existence based on singular/plural context (e.g., Yes, there is; Yes, there are).

Practice Examples of Existence

Collaborative Learning

• The speaker encourages participants to create example sentences using both present and past forms of existence.

• Several examples are shared by participants, reinforcing understanding through practical application.

Non-count Nouns Explained

Clarification on Noun Types

• Discussion about non-count nouns clarifies why we say "there was money" instead of "there were money."

• Non-count nouns always take singular verbs; examples include liquids and gerunds.

Using How Much vs. How Many

Count vs. Non-count Nouns

• Explanation of how to ask questions about quantities using count nouns (“how many”) versus non-count nouns (“how much”).

• Examples provided demonstrate correct usage in context.

Vocabulary Introduction

New Vocabulary Words

• Five new vocabulary words introduced: alone, back, bakery, block, bottom.

• Definitions provided along with example sentences for clarity.

Additional Vocabulary Expansion

Continuing Vocabulary Development

• More vocabulary words discussed: building, ceiling, clock, corner, costume.

• Each word includes definitions and contextual examples to enhance understanding.

Introduction to Vocabulary and Grammar

Discussion on Bakery and Related Terms

• The speaker expresses a desire to visit Russia and Eastern Europe, highlighting the beauty of ancient buildings.

• Clarification that "bakery" refers to places selling bread, cookies, pastries (like croissants), and cakes; it does not include pizza.

• Explanation of the difference between "high" for ceilings and "tall" for walls; ceilings are described as high due to their horizontal nature.

Meat Terminology

• Introduction of the term "butcher," which refers to both the person who sells meat and the shop where meat is sold; distinguishes it from bakery items.

Timekeeping Devices

• Differentiation between clocks (fixed timepieces on walls or tables) and watches (worn on wrists); clocks measure time while watches can be portable.

Cultural Insights: Customs vs. Costumes

Understanding Customs

• The speaker explains that customs refer to habits, such as greeting people in public spaces; contrasts with "costume," which relates to clothing for disguise or performance.

Costumes in Context

• Discussion about costumes being casual dress versus uniforms, which are mandatory in schools or workplaces; highlights cultural significance during events like Halloween.

Examples of Usage

Practical Applications of Vocabulary

• Examples provided include a clock hanging in an apartment building's hallway featuring a Spiderman costume, showcasing vocabulary application.

• Acknowledgment that many people dislike costumes due to their potential to be scary or concealing one's identity; they are often used during celebrations.

Class Schedule and Closing Remarks

Class Information

• Announcement regarding class schedule: typically held at 7:30 AM Pacific Standard Time on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Final Notes

• Encouragement for premium subscription options offering additional resources like homework and tests available at Smart English's website.

• Concluding remarks wishing everyone a great weekend, inviting them back for future classes.