Contextualization

Learning a new language is more than just memorizing vocabulary and grammar rules; it also involves understanding the culture and context in which that language is spoken. In this sense, mastering verb tenses is essential for a complete understanding of the language, as it allows us to place actions in time and in the temporal sequence of events.

The 'Past Continuous' is a verb tense in English that allows us to express actions that were happening at a certain moment in the past and is the focus of our project. Understanding and using the Past Continuous correctly enables students to communicate more efficiently, clearly, and naturally.

Introduction

The 'Past Continuous' is formed by the simple past of the verb 'to be' (was/were) and the gerund of the main verb (verb+ing). This verb tense is often used to describe two or more actions that were happening simultaneously in the past. Additionally, it is also used to indicate an ongoing action interrupted by another action.

For example: 'I was studying when the phone rang.' In this sentence, we have two actions taking place: studying (continuous action) and the phone ringing (action that interrupts the first one).

The Past Continuous is also widely used in stories and narratives, as it allows for describing the background and circumstances in which events took place. Mastering this verb tense is essential for building a rich and interesting narrative.

To delve deeper into the topic, we suggest the following resources:

1. Cambridge Dictionary — A clear and concise explanation of the Past Continuous.

2. English Club — Provides examples of usage as well as exercises for practice.

3. BBC Learning English — Here you can find audiovisual activities that enhance understanding of the topic.

4. Murphy, R. (2012). English grammar in use: a self-study reference and practice book for intermediate learners of English. Cambridge University Press.

Practical Activity: 'Retelling Stories in the Past Continuous'

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to provide students with the opportunity to apply the Past Continuous in a practical and engaging manner. The project will challenge students to retell a popular event or story using the Past Continuous to create a sequential and vivid narrative.

Detailed Project Description

Students, divided into groups of 3 to 5 people, should choose a well-known story, legend, or fable and rewrite it using the past continuous. The story can be a popular tale, a regional legend, a scene from a favorite movie or book, or even a historical event. The important thing is that it is a story known to everyone in the team and that allows for the proper exercise of using the past continuous.

Required Materials

1. Notebook or paper for drafting.
2. Grammar book for reference.
3. Pen or pencil.
4. Computer with internet access for research.

Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution

1. Group Formation: Students should organize themselves into groups of 3 to 5 members. The teacher can choose to form the groups or allow students to choose who they want to work with.

2. Story Selection: The group should collectively choose a story, fable, legend, or event to be retold. The choice should take into account the possibility of applying the past continuous to describe the events.

3. Task Division: The group should divide the necessary tasks among themselves to complete the project. This includes researching the story, reviewing the use of the past continuous, writing the text, and final revision.

4. Writing: Students should write the selected story using the past continuous. They should make an effort to use this verb tense to describe the actions and events of the narrative.

5. Final Revision: After writing, the text should be reviewed by the entire group. At this stage, students should check the correctness of using the past continuous, the cohesion and coherence of the text, and the spelling.

6. Project Submission: The group should submit the finalized project to the teacher within the given deadline (one week). The submission should be done together, reinforcing the shared responsibility for the work.

Project Deliverables

At the end of the project, groups should deliver two products:

1. Retold Story: The text retelling the chosen story using the past continuous. This should be a well-written, coherent, cohesive text that correctly applies grammar.

2. Project Report: A written document following the structure of a report (Introduction, Development, Conclusions, Bibliography) detailing the entire project execution process.

   • Introduction: Should present the chosen story and justify the choice. Students should explain the relevance of the Past Continuous and the purpose of the project.

   • Development: Should describe the project execution process: how the group was formed, how tasks were divided, what methodology was used for writing and revising the text, and what the final result was. They should also explain how the Past Continuous was employed in writing the story.

   • Conclusions: Should summarize the main points of the project, the learnings obtained, and evaluate the results achieved. Students should reflect on teamwork, time management, and the use of the Past Continuous.

   • Bibliography: Should indicate the research sources used for writing the story and reviewing the Past Continuous.

This project will allow students to practice using the Past Continuous in a relevant and challenging context, as well as exercise important skills such as teamwork, time management, writing, and revision.