Topic 5: Using Appropriate Grammar and Vocabulary in Oral and Written Contexts – English Form One Lesson Notes New Syllabus

Learning grammar and vocabulary in English is very important because it enables one to construct well-structured sentences and convey ideas coherently. In this chapter, you will learn to express ideas or opinions using appropriate grammar and vocabulary.

You will also learn to construct sentences using appropriate grammar and vocabulary related to a specific context. Finally, you will learn to debate on topics using appropriate grammar and vocabulary.

The competencies developed will help you to express your thoughts effectively in essays and other forms of writing as well as convey accurate oral messages in various contexts.d vocabulary in English language is very important because it enables one to construct well – structured sentences and convey ideas coherently.

What is vocabulary?

Vocabulary is the complete collection of words in a language. Vocabulary refers to the set of words that a person knows, understands, and uses in a language. It is the collection of words and phrases used in a particular language, subject, or field.

NOTE: Look at picture below, then write four new vocabulary to you.

What is grammar?

Grammar is the set of rules that describe how words and group of words can be arranged to form sentences in a particular language.

The grammar of English consists of all the rules that govern the formation of English sentences.

Using appropriate grammar and vocabulary in both oral and written contexts is essential for clear and effective communication.

General tips of grammar in English language

1. Grammar in Oral and Written Contexts.

i. Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the subject and verb match in number (e.g., She writes well vs. They write well).

ii. Tense : Maintain the same tense within sentences

iii. Pronoun Usage: Use pronouns correctly to avoid confusion

iv. Sentence Structure: make your clear and correct

2. Vocabulary Choice in Different Contexts

i. Formal vs. Informal: Use formal language in professional or academic settings and informal language in casual conversations.

ii. Clarity: Choose specific words to avoid ambiguity

iii. Context-Appropriate Word Choice: Avoid slang in formal writing and technical jargon when speaking to a general audience.

3. Oral Communication Tips

i. Pronunciation: Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.

ii. Tone and Intonation: Use appropriate emphasis to convey meaning (e.g., rising intonation for questions, neutral for statements).

iii. Active Listening: Respond appropriately to maintain effective dialogue.

4. Written Communication Tips

i. This normally prepared to be ready and presented on the stage. Example speeches.

ii. Punctuation and Capitalization: Use commas, periods, and capital letters correctly.

iii. Proofreading: Always review writing for errors before submitting or sending.

Think about.

1. The difficulties you face when speaking and writing in English
2. The ways to solve those difficulties

NB: Many people face difficulties when speaking and writing English, especially if it is not their first language. Here are some common challenges

Difficulties in Speaking English

1. Pronunciation difficulties – Some English sounds silent, this making them difficult to pronounce. E.g knife /k/ is silent, psychology /p/ is silent.

2. Lack of Vocabulary – Struggling to find the right words can slow down conversations.

3. Grammar Mistakes – Errors in tenses, subject-verb agreement, and sentence structure can affect clarity.

4. Fear of Making Mistakes – Many people hesitate to speak because they fear being judged.

5. Understanding Different Accents – Native English speakers may speak too fast or with accents that are difficult to understand. Example American accent.

Difficulties in Writing English

1. Spelling Problems – English spelling can be inconsistent (e.g., though, through, tough, church, show)

2. Grammar and Punctuation Errors – Misusing commas, apostrophes, or verb tenses can make writing unclear

3. Poor organization of Ideas – Writing structured paragraphs and essays can be challenging.

Strategies to Solve Difficulties in English

To overcome difficulties in speaking and writing English, you can use the following strategies:

1. Improving Spoken English

a) Practice Speaking Regularly

Engage in daily conversations with native or fluent speakers.
Participate in school debate and school morning speeches

b) Listen to English Content

Watch English movies, TV shows, and YouTube videos. Example English with Lucy on You Tube
Listen to English podcasts or audiobooks to familiarize yourself with pronunciation and accents. Also use online
dictionary.

c) Work on Pronunciation and Fluency

Use apps like Duolingo, BBC Learning English, or ELSA Speak.
Record yourself speaking and compare it to native speakers.

d) Expand Your Vocabulary

Learn 5-10 new words daily and use them in sentences.
Read newspapers, books, and online articles to see words in context.

e) Overcome the Fear of Mistakes

Speak with confidence, even if you make errors.
Focus on communication rather than perfection and ignore the presence of audience.

2. Improving Written English

a) Read Regularly

Read newspapers, books, and online articles to see correct grammar and sentence structures.
Keep a vocabulary journal for new words.

b) Practice Writing Daily

Write short paragraphs or daily note.
Engage in online discussions, such as forums or blog comments, abroad social media platforms of different people

c) Learn Grammar and Punctuation Rules

Use grammar-checking tools like Grammarly .
Take online grammar courses or watch tutorials. Also watch movies and recorded English video on social media.

d) Organize Your Ideas Before Writing J

Use outlines to structure essays, reports, or emails.
Follow a clear introduction-body-conclusion format.

e) Proofread and Edit

Always review your writing before submitting.
Ask someone to check your work for errors.

EXPRESSING IDEAS OR OPINIONS WITH PROPER GRAMMAR AND VOCABULARY

Expressing ideas and opinions clearly in English requires proper grammar, vocabulary, and structure.

1. Structuring Your Ideas Clearly

Use a clear format when expressing your thoughts:

Introduction – Briefly introduce your main idea or opinion.
Supporting Points – Provide reasons, examples, or evidence to support your opinion.
Conclusion – Summarize your main point and restate your opinion.

Example:

Opinion Statement

I believe that online learning is more effective than traditional learning.

Supporting Points:

It allows flexibility in learning time tables
Students can access a variety of resources.
It helps people learn at their own pace.

Conclusion

Therefore, online learning provides a more personalized and accessible education experience.

2. Using Proper Grammar

Use complete sentences: Instead of Online learning better than traditional learning, say Online learning is better than traditional learning.
Use appropriate tenses: If discussing a general truth, use the present simple (e.g., Online learning offers many benefits).
Ensure subject-verb agreement: Technology helps students learn (V) vs. Technology help students learn (X).

3. Using Effective Vocabulary

Use precise words – Instead of Online learning is good, say Online learning is beneficial.
Use linking words to connect ideas:

For example, for instance (giving examples)

However, on the other hand (contrasting ideas)
Therefore, as a result (showing cause and effect

Activity

Study the following puzzle and complete the task that follows

A sample of the text expressing ideas or opinions

The Benefits of Exercising Regularly

In today’s fast-paced world, regular exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In my opinion, engaging in physical activity not only improves physical health but also enhances mental well-being and overall productivity.

First, regular exercise strengthens the body and prevents various health issues. Activities like jogging, cycling, and weight training help improve cardiovascular health, build muscle strength, and
boost immunity. For example, studies show that people who exercise regularly are less likely to suffer from heart disease, obesity, and diabetes.

Second, exercise has a significant impact on mental health. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are chemicals that help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Many people find that exercising, even for just 30 minutes a day, improves their mood and increases their energy levels.

Finally, staying active enhances productivity and focus. Exercise improves blood circulation, which helps the brain function more effectively. As a result, individuals who work out regularly often
experience better concentration, increased motivation, and higher efficiency in their daily tasks.

In conclusion, regular exercise is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being. By incorporating physical activity into our daily routine, we can lead healthier, happier, and more productive lives.

EXERCISE

Pair up to pick a topic below, Then, discuss, write and share your opinion with the class.

1. Education is the key to life.

2. A family is the most important unit in life.

3. Nothing can be obtained for free in life.

4. Money is the main source of evil in society.

A sample interview based on Hobbies and Interests: (Pg. 67)

Radio Presenter: Welcome to our show! Today, we have a special guest who will share their hobbies and interests with us. Can you introduce yourself?

Interviewee: Thank you for having me! My name is [Your Name], and I am excited to be here.

Radio Presenter: That’s great! So, what are your favorite hobbies?

Interviewee: I enjoy reading books, playing football, and painting. These activities help me relax and have fun.

Radio Presenter: Interesting! What kind of books do you like to read?

Interviewee: I love reading novels and animal short stories, They keep me engaged and improve my language

Radio Presenter: That sounds exciting! How often do you play football?

Interviewee: I play football every weekend with my friends. It helps me stay active and improves my teamwork skills.

Radio Presenter: Painting is a creative hobby! What do you like to paint?

Interviewee: I enjoy painting landscapes and portraits. It allows me to express my creativity and emotions.

Radio Presenter: That’s wonderful! How do your hobbies help you in daily life?

Interviewee: My hobbies help me stay relaxed, improve my concentration, and develop new skills. They also make me more creative and social.

Radio Presenter: Thank you for sharing! Any advice for people who want to develop new hobbies?

Interviewee: Yes! I believe everyone should explore different activities to find what they love. Hobbies make life more enjoyable and meaningful.

Radio Presenter: Great advice! Thank you for joining us today.

Interviewee: Thank you! It was a pleasure talking with you

EXERCISE

Organize a class conversation on two of the topics given below:

1. Education is the key to life.

2. A family is the most important unit in life.

3. Nothing can be obtained for free in life.

4. Money is the main source of evil in society.

Observe the following guidelines.

1. Organize yourself into small groups.

2. A few groups pick a topic and hold a conversation on it while others remain as listeners. Then, other groups do the same after
the first group has finished

3. Feel free to give your opinion, ask questions and write down new words.

Constructing sentences using appropriate grammar and vocabulary relating to a specific context.

Constructing sentences with appropriate grammar and vocabulary depends on the context. Examples for different contexts:

1. Formal Context

During the meeting, we discussed strategies to improve customer satisfaction.
Please ensure that all reports are submitted by the deadline to avoid delays.

2 Casual Conversations

Hey, how was your weekend?
I can’t wait to watch that new movie! It looks amazing.
Let’s grab some coffee later and catch up.

3. Classroom/School Life)

I enjoy studying mathematics because it helps improve my problem-solving skills.
Our teacher gave us an interesting assignment about environmental conservation.

4. Travel Context

Excuse me, could you tell me the way to the nearest train station?
This hotel has excellent service and a beautiful view of the ocean.

5. Medical Context

The doctor advised me to take the medication twice a day after meals.
I have an appointment with the dentist at 3 PM tomorrow

DEMONSTRATE MASTERY OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS

Do You Know

1. Articles

Pronouns
· Prepositions
· Adjective
· Adverbs
· Tense
Simple present
Present progressive
Simple past

ARTICLES

Articles are words used before nouns to provide information about such nouns. They help to specify whether the noun is referring to something specific or general.

There are two types of article

1. Definite article (“The”)

This is a word which used directly to a specific noun or group of nouns.

Uses of article “The”

1. Talking about unique things in nature

For example.

The sky is blue
The sun
The moon

2. Talking about particular person or things.

The boy who came here is my son

3. Talking about things or noun has been mentioned earlier in the same text. Or mentioned for the second time.

I saw a dog in the park. The dog was chasing a ball
That is a chair, The chair is mine

4. Used before singular or plural noun to indicate that the identity of the noun is known.

The car is the garage is mine. (the used here to indicate a specific)

5. Used before superlative adjective

The shortest boy
The highest mountain

6. Used for a adjective which used as noun

The rich must help the poor

7. Used in showing Directions

The north, v The East, v The south, v The west

8. Talking about singular noun represent the whole class.

The elephant is a wild animal

9. Used in double comperatives

The harder you study, the higher you perform in academics

2. Indefinite article (an, a)

These are words used to refer a noun but it is not specific noun ( place, person or things). These articles are usually used to denote singular noun. They are used before singular nouns to refer to any member of a group.

Uses of “A”, “a”

1. Representing a whole class

A mother should care a child

2. Used before a singular word that begins with a vowel

An apple, an orrange, an egg, an order.

3. Used before words beginning with silent (h)

e. g v An hour, an heir

4. A is used before words that begin with a consonant sound.

5. Used in showing singular

There is a girl outside
That is an apple

5. In the sense of every

We go to school for five days a week
We go break for 30 minutes a day

NOTE : zero article means no article to be applied. The article a is also used with words that begin with a vowel which is pronounced like consonant (y) example an university, a European a unit)

EXERCISE

Fill in the blanks with the correct articles

PRONOUNS

Pronouns are words used to replace nouns that have already been mentioned or nouns that do not need to be specifically named. They help to communicate effectively and avoid repetition in speech and writing.

Therefore, The words that have been replaced in the sentences and passages are called nouns and the new words are called pronouns.

Types of pronouns

1. Personal pronouns

They are used to refer to the specific individuals or things.

Example.

(A) PERSONAL PRONOUNS

1″ person singular 2ªd person singular 3″d person singular	Subject You He/she/it	Object Me You Him/herft
1* person plural 2″ person plural 3″1 person plural	We You They	You Them

B. Demonstrative pronouns

They are used to specific things or people in a sentence. Example. This, that, these, those.

3. Possessive pronouns

They are used to indicate ownership Example mine, yours, His, theirs, its, ours, their.

Persons	Possessive adjectives Pessessive pronouns
1 person singu lar 2 person singular 3″ person singular	My Your His/her’its Mine Yours His/hers/its
1s person plural 2 person plural 3″ person plural	Our Your Their waz Ours Yours Theirs

N.B We do not use the apostrophe for the possessive pronouns.

It’s means it is’.

Its means ‘belonging to it’ or “of it’

4. Reflexive pronouns

They are used when the subject and object of a sentence are the same person or thing.

They show that the action in a sentence goes back to the same person or thing.

Examples. Myself, yourself, himself, herself, itself, ourselves, themselves.

Reflexive pronouns are used when the action of the verb returns to the subject.
e.g. I hurt myself

‘Myself” is the “object’ of the sentence and it is actually the subject.

Below is a list of ‘reflexive pronouns’

Person	Singular	Plural
First person	Myself	Ourselves
Second person	Yourself	Yourselves
Third person	Himself/herself/itsclf	Themselves

The reflexive pronoun ‘oneself” is indefinite.

5. Relative pronouns

They introduce relative clauses, which provide more information about a noun in the sentence. Example. Who is, whom, whose, which and that.

6. Interrogative pronouns.

They are used to ask questions. Example. Who, whom, whose, which and what e.g. Who came here? Which/what is available? Et

7. Indefinite pronouns

They are used to refer unspecified or unknown people or things. Example. Everyone, someone, nobody, anything, each, few, several, all, some, none etc.

EXERCISE.

1. Neefa and pepe went to the market …. bought some fruits.

2. The dog whoofed because …….. Was hungry

4. Is this pen yours? No, …….. is not. It belongs to Hekeem.

5. Tuli and ……. are going to the hospital to visit …… Mother.

6. The baby was hurt when ……. tried to stand up.

7. To …….. does this book belong?

8. I watched a movie last week ….. was fantastic.

9. Their computers are in the hall. They are.book is on the shelf.

10. Will be going to Mbeya to visit her mother.

ACTIVITY.

Read a panegyric below and answer the questions that follow.

“Hello! Some call me a connector because I link words, phrases, or clauses. They say I am a peacemaker because /
connect sentences and paragraphs. I’m known for bringing logic and making sense of ideas. Call me CONJUNCTION, as that is my real name. When you see words like and, although, moreover, even though, even if, however, despite, and therefore, you have seen me.

Questions

1. What is the name of the speaker in the panegyric?

2. What does the conjunction do?

CONJUNCTIONS

A conjunction is a word used to connect clauses or sentences or to coordinate words in the same clause (e.g.,
and, if).

A word such as “and, but, because, although” that connects

words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence.

I TYPES OF CONJUNCTIONS:

I. COORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS

These are conjunctions that join two independent clauses, or two nouns, or two verbs, etc. For example: For, and, nor, but, or, yet, so.

COORDINATING CONJUNCTION

As there are only seven of these words, there are just a few rules for using coordinating conjunctions correctly:

1. It s a good idea to use the mnemonic “FANBOYS” to memorize coordinating conjunctions so you “Il never forget
them. They are:
F = for
A = and
N = nor
B = but
0 = or
Y = yet
S= so
Example.

1. You can eat your cake with a spoon or fork.

2. My dog enjoys being bathed but hates getting his nails trimmed.

3. Bill refuses to eat peas, nor will he touch carrots.

4. I hate to waste a drop of gas, for it is very expensive

II. CORRELATIVE CONJUNCTIONS

These are pairs of conjunctions that work together. For example: Both/and, either/or, neither/nor, not only/but also whether/or etc.

For example:

1. She is both intelligent and beautiful.

2. I will either go for a hike or stay home and watch TV.

3. Jerry is neither rich nor famous.

4. He is not only intelligent, but also very funny.

5. Would you rather go shopping or spend the day at the beach?

III. SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS:

These are conjunctions that show a relationship between independent and a dependent clause; & After, although, as, as if, because, before, even if, even though, if, in case, once, only, only if, since, though, unless, until, when, whenever, However, while etc. For examples

EXERCISE

(a) Insert an appropriate conjunction in each of the sentences below

(b) Recite the following poem and complete the task that follows.

I am although
I’m like even though and even if
We all have the same meaning
Despite the fact that
Even though is stronger.

As strong as however
As impressive as nevertheless
And however, mind you
But is not as inclusive
As much as moreover and furthermore
Or even in addition to and besides
They add to what has been said.

Task

1. List all the conjunctions found in the poem.

2. Select five conjunctions from the list in (1) and construct a sentence for each.

ACTIVITY

Study the following pictures and answer the questions that follow

Questions

1. Write a sentence for each picture describing the location of tlhe following people, objects animals are.

(a) driver (b) books (c) ball (d) girl

(e) dog (f) water.

2. Which words in your sentences indicate position, location and direction?

NOTE. The words you have identified above are called prepositions.

A Preposition is used before a noun, pronoun or noun phrase to indicate movement, location place, time or relationship.

Study the following prepositions and their uses.

It is used with days and dates or something placed above something.

For Examples

1. I go to church on Sunday

2. I was born on 3rd May 1999.

3. The book is on the table.

It used with exact time. Also used to tell a place or directing to. For examples

1. He came at night

2. At the weekend, I will visit you

3. He lives at Kimara

4. He is laughing at you

It used with part of the day, months and years or time of the day or inside. For examples

1. He is in the room or in the car.

2. He came in the moming.

3. The School will be closed in December.

4. He was born in 2009.

5. They live in Dodoma /in Africa.

For

It used to tell a complete time /period of time or showing the receiver.

1. I will teach you for two days.

2. I have been teaching for two years.

3. I bought this gift for you

Since

It used to point certain time ( past till now) or it used to tell time in genaral. For examples.

1. I have been teaching here since 2017.

2. He is ill since last month.

With

It used to show the use of instruments or together. For example

1. He is sitting with his friends.

2. I cut this tree with knife

3. I ate rice with spoon.

Over

It used to show something covered by something else.

It is also used show more than, or getting to other side.

For examples.

1. He walk over the bridge.

2. Put a jacket over your shirt.

3. Get over there

4. Climb over the wall.

Under

It used to show the lowest of something.

For examples

1. A cat is under the bed.

2. The cup is under the table.

3. He sat under the three.

It used to show the doer ( who made it) or traveling by using

something rather than walking

1. A book by John.

2. I ate rice by hand.

3. I went at the market by car or by bus.

It used to show who or what does it belong to or what does it show. For example

1. The picture of a state house.

2. The book of English.

It used to show the relationship between something /movement to person or building. For example

1. I ate rice to meat.

2. He has gone to bed

3. He goes to school every day

Above

It used to show hinger than something else. Example

1. He is above 15 years

2. A way above the lake.

Across

It used to show getting to other side

Example.

1. He walks acrossed the bridge.

Into

It shows something or person enter somewhere

Example

1. Go into the room.

2. A stone into the water.

Towards

Movement in direction of something. Example

1. Go steps towards the gate.

Other prepositions

From, about, within, without, Through, out of, off.

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