Module 1 – Grammar

Memorable 
Describes something which is easy to remember. 
 
Memorise 
To learn something so that you can remember it later.  
Mother tongue 
The very first language that you learn as a baby, which is usually the language spoken to you by your parents. Also 
called L1 or first language. 
 
Motivation 
noun
, motivate 
verb 
Motivation is the thoughts and feelings which make us want to do something and help us continue doing it.
 
Demotivate 
verb 
demotivated 
adj
To make someone lose motivation. 
 
Unmotivated
adj 
Without motivation; having no motivation.
 
 
Natural order 
The order in which learners naturally learn some items in their first or other languages. Some language items are 
learnt before others and it can be difficult for teachers to influence this order. 
 
Needs 
The language, language skills or learning strategies a student still has to learn, or the conditions they need to help 
them learn. 
Participation 
noun
, participate 
verb 
To take part in something, e.g. a lesson or classroom activity.
 
Personalisation
 noun
, personalise 
verb 
When a teacher helps a student to connect new words, topics, texts or grammar to their own life.
Pick up: see acquisition. 
Processing language 
The way in which the brain works on language, consciously or unconsciously, in order to learn or understand it. 
 
Proficient 
To be very good at something because of training and practice, e.g. speaking English. 

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© 
UCLES 
Cambridge 
ESOL 
2005