This lesson introduces vocabulary for common actions and focuses on using the modal verbs 'could' and 'couldn't' to talk about abilities in the past, particularly during childhood.
1. Key Vocabulary (Actions)
The lesson presents eight basic action phrases:
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post a letter
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send an email
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make a face
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tell a story
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hold a pen
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win a race
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make a sandwich
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tie a shoelace
2. Grammar Focus: Could / Couldn't
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'Could' is the past form of 'can' and is used to express an ability in the past.
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Example: "When I was six, I could tell a story."
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'Couldn't' (could not) is used to express a lack of ability in the past.
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Example: "When I was two, I couldn't write the number ten."
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Questions: Questions about past abilities are formed using 'Could'.
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Example: "Could you talk when you were two?"
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Short Answers: Short answers use 'could' or 'couldn't'.
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Example: "Yes, I could." / "No, I couldn't."
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The lesson uses a short song and dialogue to illustrate how different abilities change as a child grows (from age one to eight).