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[C] It's a shame... (Making general statements)

LET'S UNDERSTAND! 📚

Pattern I

it is easy + [infinitive clause]

- is used to indicate that something is simple or not difficult to do

Examples:

It is easy to make a good impression if you dress well and are polite.

It is easy to forget things when you’re juggling multiple tasks at once.

Pattern II

it is a shame + ["that" clause]

- is used to express regret or disappointment about something, often when something negative happens or when something is not as expected

Examples:

It is a shame that she couldn’t attend the party due to her work commitments.

It is a shame that we didn’t get to visit the museum, as it was closed for renovations.

Pattern III

it is important + [infinitive clause]

- is used to emphasize that something is significant or necessary for success, well-being, or understanding

Examples:

It is important to communicate openly in any relationship.

It is important to plan ahead when organizing a big event.

Pattern IV

it is essential + [infinitive clause]

- is used to highlight something that is absolutely necessary or crucial

Examples:

It is essential to stay hydrated, especially during physical activity.

It is essential to follow the instructions carefully to avoid mistakes.

Pattern V

it's true + ["that" clause]

- is used to acknowledge or confirm a fact, often before offering an opinion or additional information

Examples:

It's true that technology has made life more convenient, but it also comes with challenges.

It's true that some people find public speaking stressful, yet practice can help.

Pattern VI

it's unlikely + ["that" clause]

- is used to express doubt or to indicate that something is not expected to happen

Examples:

It's unlikely that they will finish the project on time, given how much work is left.

It's unlikely that she’ll agree to go on the trip after all the complications we had.

Pattern VII

it is difficult + [infinitive clause]

- is used to express that something is challenging or hard to accomplish

Examples:

It is difficult to learn a new language, especially when there are no speakers around.

It is difficult to concentrate when there is a lot of noise around.

LET'S READ! 📖

Direction: Read the conversation below. Then, exchange roles with your mentor.


Trisha | Anna

Situation:

Two friends talk about how a busy schedule makes starting a new hobby difficult, but one encourages finding time for small activities.

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Trisha

I’ve been thinking about picking up a new hobby, but I’m not sure where to start.

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Anna

It is easy to get overwhelmed when there are so many options out there. Have you considered something creative like painting or photography?

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Trisha

I thought about it, but I’m not sure I have the time. It is a shame that we often let our busy schedules get in the way of trying new things.

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Anna

I completely agree. But I think it is important to make time for hobbies, especially ones that help you relax. They can actually make you more productive in the long run.

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Trisha

You’re right. I guess it is essential to find a balance between work and personal time. Otherwise, we risk burning out.

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Anna

Exactly. It's true that making time for ourselves is crucial. Otherwise, we get stuck in a cycle of stress and exhaustion.

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Trisha

That’s true. It's unlikely that I’ll be able to do anything serious right now, though. My schedule is packed with meetings and deadlines.

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Anna

I get that. It is difficult to find time for anything new when you're constantly busy. But even starting small, like a short walk or a quick drawing session, could help.

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Trisha

I’ll try to fit something small into my routine. Thanks for the encouragement!

QUESTIONS

1. What hobby did Anna suggest to Trisha??

2. What does Trisha think is a shame?

3. Why does Anna think it is important to make time for hobbies?

4. What does Trisha say about their current schedule?

LET'S PRACTICE! 📝

A. Complete the following sentences by adding a relevant ending based on your personal experience or opinions.

  1. It is easy to...
  2. It is a shame that...
  3. It is important to...
  4. It is essential to...
  5. It's true that...
  6. It's unlikely that...
  7. It is difficult to...

B. Direction: Finish the sentences with an appropriate consequence, using the communication starters.

1. Situation: You didn’t get enough sleep last night.

Response: It is likely .


2. Situation: The weather forecast predicts rain tomorrow.

Response: It is essential .


3. Situation: You're late for an important meeting.

Response: It is a shame .


4. Situation: You’ve been asked to lead a new project at work.

Response: It is important .


5. Situation: You can learn a new language fluently in a month.

Response: It’s unlikely .

LET'S TALK! 🗣️ Direction: Answer these questions about yourself.

  1. Why is it easy to get distracted when doing homework or studying?
  2. What is something that is important to teach children from a young age?
  3. Why do people say it is essential to have good communication skills? Do you agree?
  4. People say it's true that you should learn from your mistakes. Can you share a mistake you learned from and what you learned?
  5. What is something that is difficult to do but still worth the effort?