English Grammar Guide for Teens
1. Prepositions
Rule:
Prepositions show the relationship between a noun or pronoun and another word in the sentence.
They often show time, place, direction, or cause.
Common types with examples:
Place:
- in: The book is in the bag.
- on: The phone is on the table.
- under: The cat is under the chair.
Time:
- at (exact time): The class starts at 8:00.
- on (days and dates): My birthday is on Monday.
- in (months, years, parts of the day): We go on vacation in July.
Direction:
- to: He goes to school every day.
- into: She walked into the room.
2. Connectors (Linking Words)
Rule:
Connectors link ideas within a sentence or between sentences. They help add, contrast, explain, or
show cause and effect.
A. Addition
- and: She likes music, and she plays the guitar.
- also: He studies hard. He also plays sports.
- besides: Besides being smart, she's very kind.
B. Contrast
- but: I studied, but I didn't pass the test.
- however: He is friendly. However, he can be very shy.
- although: Although it was raining, we went outside.
C. Cause and Effect
- because: She didn't go out because she was tired.
- so: It was cold, so I wore a jacket.
- therefore: The road was closed; therefore, we took a different route.
D. Example or Clarification
- for example: I like fruits, for example, apples and bananas.
- such as: He eats healthy food, such as salad and fish.
- in other words: He's nocturnal. In other words, he sleeps during the day.
3. Modal Verbs: 'Would' vs. 'Will'
Would - Conditional / hypothetical / polite
Used to express imaginary situations, polite offers, or future in the past.
Examples:
- If I had a million dollars, I would travel the world. (hypothetical)
- I would like a coffee, please. (polite request)
Will - Simple future
Used to express future actions that are certain, promised, or spontaneous.
Examples:
- I will call you tomorrow. (planned future)
- It's hot! I will open the window. (spontaneous decision)
4. Difference Between 'Would' and 'Will'
| Situation | Example with 'will' | Example with 'would' |
|----------------------|----------------------------------|----------------------------------|
| Real, certain future | I will go to the party. |- |
| Hypothetical |- | I would go if I had time. |
| Politeness |- | Would you like some tea? |
| Future in the past | He said he would help me. |- |