English Grammar

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Grammar Focus

Imperatives are used to give commands, instructions, or advice. They usually use the base form of the verb without a subject. For example:

• “Close the door.” (command)
• “Be quiet.” (instruction)
• “Sit down.” (command)
• “Listen to me.” (instruction)

Imperatives can be polite when you add words like “please” or “kindly”:

• “Please wash your hands.”
• “Put your books on the table.”
• “Kindly fill out this form.”
• “Please help me with this.”

Why This Grammar Matters for Listening and Speaking

Knowing imperatives helps you understand and use everyday commands and instructions clearly. You will hear and say these often in:

• Classrooms:
  “Open your books.” or “Listen carefully.”
  “Write your name here.”
  “Raise your hand if you have a question.”
• Restaurants or stores:
  “Take a seat.” or “Try this sample.”
  “Order at the counter.”
  “Pay at the cashier.”
• Giving directions or advice:
  “Turn left at the corner.” or “Drink more water.”
  “Stop at the traffic light.”
  “Call me if you need help.”

Using imperatives helps you give clear instructions, like “Turn left here” or “Please wait,” which are common when asking for help, giving directions, or working with others. This makes it easier to speak with classmates, coworkers, or people in stores, even if they don’t speak English perfectly.

Now, let’s practice your grammar skills with a game.

Let’s practice using commands in real situations! These questions will help you understand how to give simple instructions, follow rules, and talk about everyday actions. You can practice alone, with a partner, or in a group. Try to use clear, polite language like “Please sit down” or “Be careful.”

Give Instructions:
Think about something you do every day. What can you say to tell someone how to do it using a command?
➤ For example: “Wash your hands before eating.” or “Turn off the light when you leave.”

Talk About Rules:
Choose a place you go (school, park, home). What rules do people follow there? Use commands to describe the rules.
➤ For example: “Don’t run in the hallway.” or “Be quiet in the library.”

Help Someone:
Imagine a friend is new and doesn’t know what to do. What can you say to help them? Use polite commands.
➤ For example: “Please sit here.” or “Look at this page.”