At this point students are able to identify a number of basic objects. Now is a good time to introduce some basic adjectives to describe those objects. You will need to bring in some illustrations of similar objects that look different.
Prepare the lesson by writing a number of adjectives on the board. I like to use adjectives that are paired in opposites and I would suggest the following:
- beautiful - ugly
- old - new
- hot - cold
- old - young
- big - small
- cheap - expensive
- thick - thin
- empty - full
Notice that you should use adjectives which describe the outward appearance of things because students have only learned basic everyday object vocabulary up to now.
Teacher: (Take two illustrations which show similar objects in different states.) This is an old car. This is a new car.
Teacher: (Take two illustrations which show similar objects in different states.) This is a beautiful city. This is an ugly city.
Continue pointing out the differences between the various objects.
Part II: Getting Students to Describe Illustrations
(Once you feel comfortable that students are familiar with these new adjectives, begin to ask students questions.)
Teacher: What is this?
Student(s): That is an old house.
Teacher: What is this?
Student(s): That is a cheap bag.
Continue choosing between the various objects.
Part III: Students ask questions
Teacher: (Hand out the various images to the students, you can also make a game out of this by turning over the images and having students choose one from the pile.)
Teacher: Paolo, ask Susan a question.
Student(s): Is this a new hat? OR What is this?
Student(s): Yes, that is a new hat. OR No, that isn't a new hat, it is an old hat.
Teacher: (Continue around the room)
Back to the Absolute Beginner 20 Point Program
