Contextualization

In our study of the English language, we come across various uses and peculiarities that differentiate this language from Portuguese, our native language. One of these peculiarities is the so-called 'False Friends' or 'False Cognates'. These are pairs of words in two languages that appear to have the same meaning due to similarities in their spellings or sounds, but in reality, they have different meanings.

Understanding the concept of 'False Friends' is essential to avoid misunderstandings that can lead to misuse of English vocabulary. Misunderstandings of this kind can cause words to lose their true essence or completely alter the meaning of our sentences, which can lead to misunderstandings in more formal communication situations.

In the globalized world we live in, where English is widely spoken and used as a means of communication, understanding and correctly using vocabulary is essential. Whether in academic, business, or even international travel contexts, effective communication is the key to avoiding complications and ensuring successful information exchange.

To start our investigation into this fascinating aspect of the English language, I suggest using the following resources:

• The False Friends - British Council
• List of False Cognates (English Experts)
• Book: True and False Cognates: similarities and differences in English and Portuguese, Author: Francisco Gomes de Matos, Ed. Parábola, 2007.

Let's explore together this interesting aspect of the English language!

Practical Activity

Activity Title: 'The Game of 'False Friends''

Project Objective:

Develop comprehension and correct use skills of 'False Friends' in the English language, reinforcing the importance of this skill in global communication and in students' studies evolution.

Detailed Project Description:

The 'False Friends' game is a group playful activity that aims to stimulate collaboration among students and at the same time teach about the importance of 'False Friends'. Each group of 3 to 5 students will have to research, create, and present a board game that can be played by everyone in the classroom. The game must be entirely in English and based on the concept of 'False Friends'.

Groups should plan the game by developing rules, creating materials, writing question and answer cards, etc. Everything must be done in English and focused on 'False Friends'. During this phase, students should research and select at least 30 examples of 'False Friends' to be included in the game.

Required Materials:

• Cardboard or similar material for the game board.
• Cardboard, paper, or cards for questions and answers.
• Markers, colored pencils, pens, etc. for decorating the board.
• Dice and game pieces.

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:

1. Divide into groups of 3 to 5 students.
2. Research, discuss, and select at least 30 examples of 'False Friends' to be used in the game.
3. Plan and draw the game board. Decide how many spaces the board will have and what the design will be like.
4. Develop the game rules. This should include how players advance on the board, how questions about 'False Friends' will be presented, and how they will affect the players' progress in the game.
5. Write questions and answers about 'False Friends' and prepare the cards for the game. Each card should present a question that makes the player think about the correct meaning of a 'False Friend'.
6. Assemble and decorate the board game. Use the provided materials to color and personalize the board, making it visually interesting.
7. Test the game in your group to ensure the rules work and the game is fun.
8. Present the finished game to the class. Each group should explain the game rules and then demonstrate how to play.

Once all the practical project steps are completed, each group should create a detailed report on the game and the creation process. The report should include:

• Introduction: Provide context for the 'False Friends' theme, highlight its relevance and real-world application, then present the project's objective.
• Development: Describe the research conducted on 'False Friends', explain in detail the game creation process in all its stages, indicate the methodology used, and finally, discuss the results obtained.
• Conclusion: Summarize the main points addressed in your work, present the learnings acquired, and the conclusions drawn from the project.
• Bibliography: List all sources used for the project, from internet sites to reference books.