Summary of Verbs: Introduction to the Imperative

Goals

1. Identify how the imperative is used in English to give orders, instructions, make requests, and provide advice.

2. Demonstrate the application of the imperative in real-life situations.

Contextualization

Imperative verbs are crucial for clear and effective communication in English. They serve to give orders, detailed instructions, make requests, or offer advice. Think about it: when you’re in the kitchen following a recipe, you need to stick to the chef's directions. Or in a rugby practice, the coach needs to issue quick, clear commands. The use of the imperative makes these interactions clear and productive.

Subject Relevance

To Remember!

Orders

Using the imperative for orders is straightforward and unambiguous. It’s used to instruct someone to perform a specific task immediately. For instance, 'Close the door!' These commands are often crucial in situations where quick and decisive actions are required.

• Direct and to the point.

• Frequently used in urgent scenarios.

• Examples: 'Stand up!', 'Listen!'

Requests

Making requests using the imperative can be a bit softer and more polite, depending on the context. Requests may include terms like 'please' to make them gentler, such as in 'Please pass the salt.'

• Can incorporate polite expressions like 'please.'

• Used for courteous requests.

• Examples: 'Please, sit down.', 'Could you pass me the book, please?'

Instructions

The imperative mood is often utilised to give straightforward instructions on how to complete a task. This is common in guides, cooking recipes, and user manuals. For example, 'Mix the ingredients thoroughly.'

• Offers clear steps for task completion.

• Commonly found in manuals and recipes.

• Examples: 'Turn left at the next intersection.', 'Add two cups of water.'

Advice

The imperative can also be employed to offer advice or recommendations. While it remains a command, the tone can be lighter and focused on the individual's well-being. For example, 'Take care of yourself!'

• Often conveyed in a friendly tone.

• Prioritises the well-being of the listener.

• Examples: 'Stay hydrated.', 'Make sure to rest.'

Practical Applications

• In the workplace, team leaders frequently employ imperative commands to quickly allocate tasks and ensure productivity.

• Teachers often use the imperative mood to give clear instructions to students during hands-on activities.

• IT experts use the imperative to guide teams through troubleshooting, saying something like 'Restart the server.'

Key Terms

• Imperative: A verb form used to convey commands, orders, requests, or advice.

• Commands: Direct instructions requiring immediate action.

• Instructions: Specific steps needed to complete a task.

Questions for Reflections

• How can clear and direct commands enhance efficiency in a work environment?

• In which ways can the imperative be modified to appear more polite and respectful?

• How does employing the imperative mood improve communication in group projects and collaborative activities?

Imperative Challenge: Commands in Action

In this challenge, you’ll put into action what you’ve learned about the imperative mood by creating and following commands in English.

Instructions

• Form groups of 3 to 4 students.

• Each group will compile a list of 5 to 7 imperative commands for a practical task, like preparing a simple recipe or building something with LEGO.

• Swap command lists with another group.

• Each group will follow the commands from the other group to complete the activity.

• After finishing, each group will present their results and discuss how the imperative commands facilitated job completion.