Contextualization

Our language is composed of several parts, all of them essential for the formation of our sentences and texts. Among these parts, we have connectors, which are words used to connect, link, unite ideas within a text. They are divided into two main categories: conjunctions and prepositions.

Conjunctions are invariable words that serve to connect clauses or similar terms within the same clause, establishing a relationship of dependence or simple coordination between them. Examples of conjunctions are: 'and', 'or', 'but', 'therefore', 'because', among others.

Prepositions, on the other hand, are invariable words that link two elements of the clause, subordinating the second element to the first. Unlike conjunctions, prepositions establish a relationship of subordination between words or between the terms of the clause. Examples of prepositions are: 'in', 'of', 'to', 'by', 'for', among others.

Knowing how to correctly use conjunctions and prepositions is essential for the construction of coherent and cohesive texts. They help establish logical relationships between ideas, facilitating the reader's understanding of the text. Furthermore, the proper use of connectors can make your text more sophisticated, demonstrating a good command of the language.

Mastering the use of connectors is crucial not only in school but also in everyday life. Whether in writing an essay for the ENEM, in preparing a report at work, or even in writing a simple email, the appropriate use of connectors can make the difference between a well-written text and a confusing and difficult to understand text.

The recommended resources to deepen your studies are:

1. Grammar Book of the Portuguese Language: Cegalla, Domingos Paschoal. 'Novíssima gramática da língua portuguesa'. Editora Companhia Editora Nacional, 2008.
2. Website 'Educa Mais Brasil': Sets of articles and exercises on conjunctions and prepositions. Link here
3. Video 'Preposição e Conjunção': A detailed explanation on the topic by the YouTube channel 'Português em Foco'. Link here

Practical Activity

Activity Title: Connection - the interactive game of connectors

Project Objective:

The objective of this project is for students to work in groups to create an interactive board game, where the main focus is on the correct use of the connectors conjunction and preposition.

Detailed Project Description:

The idea is for students to create a board game where players will have to use connectors correctly to advance in the game. Each square on the board will have a question or challenge related to the use of conjunctions or prepositions, and players will have to answer correctly to progress.

Students should develop all aspects of the game, from creating the questions/challenges, through designing the board, to creating the game rules. The idea is for the game to be fun and challenging, encouraging the correct use of connectors and contributing to the students' learning.

Required Materials:

• Cardboard for making the board
• Colored paper or cardstock for the question/challenge cards
• Colored markers or colored pencils
• Dice
• Player pieces (can be from old games, made of clay, etc)

Detailed Step-by-Step Guide for the Activity:

1. Form groups of 3 to 5 students.

2. Start the activity by researching conjunction and preposition. Use the recommended resources and others you find relevant. Take notes and prepare a summary on the topic.

3. Based on your research, begin to create the questions and challenges for the game. The questions/challenges may include completing sentences with the appropriate conjunction/preposition, identifying the conjunction/preposition in a sentence, explaining the use of the conjunction/preposition in a sentence, etc.

4. Draw and decorate the game board. Make sure each square on the board has a space to place the corresponding question/challenge card.

5. Write the questions and challenges on the cards, decorate them if desired, and place them on the corresponding squares of the board.

6. Create the game rules. Remember that the goal of the game is to encourage the correct use of connectors and make the learning process fun.

7. Once completed, each group should present the game to the class, explaining the rules and demonstrating how to play.

8. Throughout the project, each group should document their activities, including discussions on the research, the development of questions/challenges, the process of creating the board and rules, and the presentation of the game to the class.

Project Delivery:

At the end of the project, each group should deliver:

1. The complete board game, with all its components.

2. A report containing:

• Introduction: Contextualization of the theme and explanation of the project's objective.
• Development: Detailed theory on conjunctions and prepositions, detailed description of the activity (including the development of questions/challenges, creation of the board design and game rules), methodology used, and presentation/discussion of the results obtained.
• Conclusions: Recap of the main points, explanation of the learnings obtained, and conclusions drawn about the project.
• Bibliography: Indication of research sources.

Remember that the quality of the report is as important as the quality of the game. Therefore, dedicate yourselves to presenting your ideas clearly and coherently, demonstrating mastery of the topic and concepts addressed.