Category: language

In writing, sentences are considered to be of “active” or “passive” construction (“voice”) depending on where the emphasis is placed. If the emphasis is placed on the subject, the sentence is considered active, but if emphasis is placed on the object of the action, the sentence is passive. Wikipedia’s passive voice definition states, “The passive…

Indefinite and definite articles, such as “a”, “an” and “the”, describe and modify nouns. Articles and niggling little words known as determiners and quantifiers convey general and specific information. Articles tell the reader what you’re talking about and how much there is. Adults and advanced ESL students can run into many challenging situations where abstract…

‘Look it up in the dictionary!’ – That’s what my mother always told me when I ran across a word I didn’t understand. Good advice, yes? But this was before the internet, and lugging that hefty volume off the shelf wasn’t nearly as appealing as doing the next best thing—guessing at the meaning according to…

Whether it’s an email, a handwritten card or a cover letter, using correct grammar and the right vocabulary will ensure the message is delivered clearly, concisely and effectively. Writing and reading periodicals, books or newspapers are fun and creative ways to improve grammar and vocabulary whilst gaining insight on compelling issues. Learning how to improve…