Multi-word Prepositions
B1 level
Description
Materials
Main Aims
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To enable students to recognise, understand, and use multi-word prepositions accurately in context.
Subsidiary Aims
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To develop students' speaking skills through pair and group discussions while practising the target language.
Procedure (37-45 minutes)
The teacher asks students to join the CrowdParty activity using their mobile phones. Students participate in a short competition by answering several quick questions individually. The activity is not directly related to the grammar topic but serves as an engaging attention getter and encourages students to focus before the lesson begins.
The teacher presents a breaking news story one slide at a time. The story describes a situation in which the final exam papers have disappeared from a university. Rather than explaining the target language directly, the teacher allows students to discover the meanings through the context of the story. Each sentence contains one highlighted multi-word preposition. Similar expressions are presented close together and are highlighted using the same colour to help students notice synonymous expressions more easily., As the story develops, the teacher asks simple guiding questions about the events in the story to maintain students' attention and encourage them to focus on meaning rather than grammar rules. After the story has been completed, the teacher distributes a small reference table showing the target multi-word prepositions grouped according to their functions (e.g. giving a reason, making an exception, adding information). The table is provided as a support tool rather than for explicit grammar instruction. Students are encouraged to refer to it during the following practice activities whenever they need support.
The teacher directs students to the first activity in the coursebook. Students work individually to match the numbered sentences with the correct letters. After completing the matching task, students identify a synonym for each target expression where applicable by using the reference box. The teacher monitors while students work independently and provides support when necessary without giving direct answers. Students compare their answers with a partner before whole-class feedback. The teacher checks the answers with the class and clarifies any remaining misunderstandings.
The teacher asks students to complete the second coursebook activity individually by reading each sentence carefully and circling the most appropriate multi-word preposition. Students are encouraged to use the reference table if they need support while making their choices. After completing the activity individually, students compare their answers with their partners before participating in whole-class feedback. The teacher confirms the correct answers and briefly addresses any common errors.
There are instructions and reporter cards on the slide. Teacher asks students to work in pairs or small groups. Each card contains three reporters' statements describing the same event using different multi-word prepositions. A short explanation in parentheses indicates the intended meaning. Students discuss which reporter has used the correct expression to convey that meaning and explain the reasons for their choice. The teacher monitors discussions without interrupting communication, noting both successful language use and any common difficulties. When students have completed the task, different pairs share and justify their answers with the class. The teacher confirms the correct responses and provides feedback where necessary.
