What are concessive clauses?

In my IELTS preparation class today, I was asked about concessive clauses.

A concessive clause is a subordinate clause used to concede a given point in an argument.

The principle concessive conjunctions introducing a concessive clause are: though, although, even though, while, and even if.

Like all conjunctions, concessive conjunctions, which introduce concessive clauses, create a relationship between two or more pieces of information or evidence.

Concessive conjunctions are widely used in academic writing so that the reader can clearly see which of the pieces of information or evidence the writer sees as:

    * carrying more weight.
    * being more relevant to arguments or topic.
    * being worth further development.

As ESL guru Kenneth Beare writes: "they can be placed at the beginning, internally or at the of the sentence. When placed at the beginning or internally, they serve to concede a certain part of an argument before proceeding to question the validity of the point in a given discussion."

Ex: He bought me a lovely gift, [although he can't really afford it] > concessive clause
Ex: [Even though he worked hard], he failed the final exam.

*** If you are in São Paulo and need English lessons, or Elite English Services including translations (Spanish/French/Portuguese to English), please send an email to mrenglish101@gmail.com for a prompt reply.
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CELTA Class Update

Wow, it is hard to believe there is just one more month left for the completion of my CELTA certification!

The course has certainly shaped how I currently teach my English classes.

The practice of filling out the Teaching Practice booklet every week I teach seemed tedious at first, but actually serves a broader purpose. It yields a disciplined and methodical approach to designing the best class for my students!

The course helps me develop as a seasoned professional and ensures my students receive the best instruction possible.

The first part of the course involved teaching intermediate classes. Now, my group has basic classes. The contrast between the two levels could not be more stark. The challenges unique to each level and how to overcome them is an education in itself.

I have made great friends among my teaching peers and we learn a lot from each other.

Have you embarked on your own CELTA certification? What happened? How are you doing now? I would like to know your experiences during and post-CELTA.

Stay tuned for more developments!

*** If you are in São Paulo and need English lessons, or Elite English Services including translations (Spanish/French/Portuguese to English), please call Professor Winn at 6214-1511 or send an email to mrenglish101@gmail.com for a prompt evaluation. Buy your English-language texts today!

Bangkok Burning - No longer an ESL Paradise?

Bangkok Post: "Bangkok is burning."

Thailand used to be a nearly-untouched paradise in many ways. For globetrotting English teachers, the lure of the Orient combined with good salary and a compelling culture to lead many to Bangkok.

However, anyone thinking Thailand has not changed must at least pause at the current level of violence between political opponents in the capital.

The US State Department issued a travel waring along with a statement from the British Foreign Ministry advising against any non-essential travel to Bangkok, a stronger warning than from earlier in the week.

It is a shame that a once stable democracy is under severe stress and peaceful walks in the avenues of Bangkok have become a battle zone.

*** If you are in São Paulo and need English lessons, or Elite English Services including translations (Spanish/French/Portuguese to English), please call Professor Winn at 6214-1511 or send an email to mrenglish101@gmail.com for a prompt evaluation.

Buy your English-language texts today!