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Dave Skypelessons

The English language can be difficult to understand, and the phrasal verb is perhaps the most challenging area of English vocabulary. As a qualified and experienced teacher of English, I see that the difference between intermediate and advanced learners lies in a working knowledge of how, when, and where, phrasal verbs are used. This course develops your knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. If you want to pass yourself off as an English native, this course is an essential stepping stone.

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The English language can be difficult to understand, and the phrasal verb is perhaps the most challenging area of English vocabulary. As a qualified and experienced teacher of English, I see that the difference between intermediate and advanced learners lies in a working knowledge of how, when, and where, phrasal verbs are used. This course develops your knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. If you want to pass yourself off as an English native, this course is an essential stepping stone.

The course begins with lectures (ALL lectures available for download via the Udemy App) on the most common phrasal verbs; these are verbs that natives use in their everyday speech, so it is essential that anyone hoping to master English learn these words by heart. Having dealt with the easier vocabulary, we then look at phrasal verbs that are composed of the following 'root' verbs:

Once you have completed all of these lectures, we move onto the most common prepositions found in phrasal verbs:

By the end of the course, you will find yourself using these phrasal verbs in conversation, and you will even start noticing the more difficult ones in the books that you read, or in the TV shows that you watch. Having memorized the new vocabulary, you will speak with more confidence, elegance, and eloquence.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • How to employ the most common phrasal verbs fluently
  • How to differentiate between phrasal verbs that have similar meanings
  • How to memorize phrasal verbs in context
  • How to use the lesser-known phrasal verbs

Syllabus

Understand the grammatical differences between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs. Master the meanings and collocations of the most common phrasal verbs
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Welcome to the phrasal verb course. Please download the Visual Phrasal Verbs PDF in 'resources', and you can use this ebook as supplementary material for the course. Both the ebook and the lectures cover the same topics, so these extra resources will help you learn new vocabulary by heart.

Please use the correct verb in the following sentences:

Please put the correct verb into the following sentences:

Memorize all the phrasal verbs with DO

Fill in the gaps with the correct preposition:

Memorize all the phrasal verbs with MAKE

Memorize some of the phrasal verbs with GET

Fill in the gaps with the correct preposition.

Memorize some of the phrasal verbs with TAKE

Memorize some of the phrasal verbs with GIVE

Please fill in the gaps with the correct preposition:

Memorize some of the phrasal verbs with COME

Memorize the phrasal verbs with PUT

Fill in the gaps with the correct preposition

Memorize all the phrasal verbs with SEE

Fill in the gaps with the correct preposition:

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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Aims to help intermediate learners reach an advanced level of English, focusing on a nuanced understanding of phrasal verbs
Teaches common phrasal verbs used in everyday speech, which is essential for learners aiming for fluency and natural conversation skills
Includes downloadable lectures, which allows learners to study offline and review materials at their own pace, enhancing comprehension
Offers supplementary material in the form of a Visual Phrasal Verbs PDF, reinforcing vocabulary through visual aids and textual explanations
Requires learners to memorize vocabulary, which may be challenging for some learners who prefer a more contextual or communicative approach
Focuses on memorizing phrasal verbs with specific root verbs and prepositions, which may not align with all pedagogical approaches to language acquisition

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive phrasal verb resource

According to learners, this course provides a clear and comprehensive foundation for understanding and using English phrasal verbs. Many students found the instructor's explanations engaging and easy to follow, supported by practical examples. While the course covers a wide range of verbs and offers a valuable downloadable PDF resource, some reviewers noted that the exercises were primarily fill-in-the-gap, suggesting it relies heavily on memorization rather than diverse practical application. Overall, it is considered a highly valuable resource for intermediate learners looking to improve their vocabulary and fluency.
Downloadable PDF is a great help.
"The PDF resource was a great bonus."
"The downloadable PDF is useful for review."
"Please download the Visual Phrasal Verbs PDF in 'resources', and you can use this ebook as supplementary material..."
Covers many common phrasal verbs.
"Good course covering many common phrasal verbs."
"I appreciate how he covered both common and less common phrasal verbs."
"Covers a lot of ground..."
Course uses helpful, real-world examples.
"The way the instructor explained the phrasal verbs with examples was so clear and easy to understand."
"Loved this course! The examples were practical and easy to remember."
"I appreciate how he covered both common and less common phrasal verbs."
Instruction is easy to understand.
"The way the instructor explained the phrasal verbs with examples was so clear and easy to understand."
"Fantastic teacher! He makes learning complex phrasal verbs enjoyable and memorable."
"Excellent value! The instructor is very clear and knowledgeable."
Focus on memorizing lists vs. usage.
"It felt like memorization practice rather than truly learning how to use them naturally."
"...I felt like it was just listing verbs and meanings without enough focus on nuances or how they are used..."
"Relies heavily on memorization."
Practice exercises could be more varied.
"The exercises were okay, but I wish there were more opportunities to practice using the verbs in different contexts..."
"...I found some explanations a bit brief, and the exercises were mostly fill-in-the-gap."
"The exercises were repetitive. I didn't feel like I was learning how to use them fluently..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Master English Phrasal Verbs with these activities:
Review Basic English Grammar
Strengthen your understanding of fundamental grammar rules to better grasp the nuances of phrasal verbs.
Browse courses on English Grammar
Show steps
  • Review parts of speech and sentence structure.
  • Practice identifying subjects, verbs, and objects in sentences.
  • Complete online grammar quizzes.
Watch English TV Shows/Movies with Subtitles
Improve your listening comprehension and learn phrasal verbs in context by watching authentic English content.
Show steps
  • Choose an English TV show or movie with subtitles.
  • Pay attention to the phrasal verbs used in the dialogue.
  • Pause and look up any unfamiliar phrasal verbs.
  • Repeat the phrases aloud to improve pronunciation.
Read 'English Phrasal Verbs in Use'
Supplement your learning with a dedicated phrasal verb resource to gain a broader understanding and more examples.
Show steps
  • Read a chapter focusing on a specific category of phrasal verbs.
  • Complete the exercises at the end of the chapter.
  • Make flashcards for new phrasal verbs.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Phrasal Verb Flashcard Practice
Reinforce your memory of phrasal verb definitions and usage through repetitive practice.
Show steps
  • Create flashcards with phrasal verbs on one side and definitions/examples on the other.
  • Review the flashcards regularly, focusing on the most difficult ones.
  • Use the flashcards in a spaced repetition system for optimal retention.
Write a Short Story Using Phrasal Verbs
Practice using phrasal verbs in a creative context to solidify your understanding and improve recall.
Show steps
  • Choose a theme or topic for your story.
  • Brainstorm a list of phrasal verbs relevant to your theme.
  • Write a short story incorporating those phrasal verbs naturally.
  • Review and revise your story for clarity and accuracy.
Create a Phrasal Verb Quiz for Peers
Deepen your understanding by creating a quiz that tests others on their knowledge of phrasal verbs.
Show steps
  • Select a range of phrasal verbs from the course material.
  • Write multiple-choice questions that test the meaning and usage of each phrasal verb.
  • Provide clear and concise answer explanations.
  • Share the quiz with classmates and gather feedback.
Explore 'McGraw-Hill's Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs'
Expand your knowledge of American English phrasal verbs and idioms to enhance your comprehension of spoken and written language.
Show steps
  • Browse the dictionary for phrasal verbs related to a specific topic.
  • Read the definitions and examples carefully.
  • Note down any new or interesting phrasal verbs.

Career center

Learners who complete Master English Phrasal Verbs will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
ESL Teacher
An ESL Teacher helps non-native English speakers learn the English language. This course on phrasal verbs may be helpful to someone who is looking to hone their knowledge of the English language and pass it on to their students. As a qualified and experienced teacher of English, the instructor of this course understands the difference between intermediate and advanced learners as it relates to phrasal verbs. Passing this understanding on to students can help them reach the next level. The ESL Teacher can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
English Teacher
An English Teacher instructs students of all ages on the English language and literature. This course on phrasal verbs may be helpful to someone who is looking to hone their knowledge of the English language and pass it on to their students. As a qualified and experienced teacher of English, the instructor of this course understands the difference between intermediate and advanced learners as it relates to phrasal verbs. Passing this understanding on to students can help them reach the next level. The English Teacher can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Linguist
A Linguist studies language, its structure, history, and how humans use it. This course is designed to help learners master English phrasal verbs, an important area of English vocabulary. The course focuses on common phrasal verbs used in everyday speech and explores phrasal verbs based on root verbs and common prepositions. For a Linguist, this targeted approach to mastering a specific aspect of English may be useful in their broader study of language. The course helps a Linguist understand nuances of English.
Content Writer
A Content Writer creates written material for websites, articles, blogs, and other media. To be successful, a Content Writer needs to have command over the English language, including idioms and figures of speech such as phrasal verbs. This course helps build a Content Writer's knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. A Content Writer will also notice the more difficult phrasal verbs in the books that they read, or in the television shows that they watch.
Copywriter
A Copywriter is responsible for producing engaging text for advertising and marketing purposes. An understanding of phrasal verbs may be useful for a Copywriter looking for ways to add color to their work. This course is designed to help learners master English phrasal verbs, an important area of English vocabulary. The course focuses on common phrasal verbs used in everyday speech and explores phrasal verbs based on root verbs and common prepositions. This may help the Copywriter use the English language in creative ways.
Editor
An Editor reviews and revises written material to ensure accuracy, clarity, and consistency. A solid understanding of the nuances of English grammar, including phrasal verbs, is helpful for an Editor. This course helps those unfamiliar with phrasal verbs improve their knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. The additional knowledge will help the Editor be able to properly evaluate work and make it suitable for publication. Having memorized the new vocabulary, they will edit with more confidence, elegance, and eloquence.
Proofreader
A Proofreader reviews documents to identify and correct errors in grammar, spelling, punctuation, and style. A strong grasp of English, specifically idioms and phrases, helps a Proofreader to be effective. This course helps build a Proofreader's knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. A Proofreader will also notice the more difficult phrasal verbs in the books that they read, or in the television shows that they watch. The Proofreader can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Technical Writer
A Technical Writer prepares instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. While technical writing often favors clarity over stylistic flair, familiarity with English phrasal verbs can help explain concepts in a more accessible way. This course helps Technical Writers to be able to use the less-common phrasal verbs. They will also be able to understand the grammatical differences between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs.
Journalist
A Journalist investigates and reports on current events and topics of interest. A Journalist needs a strong command of the English language to communicate effectively and engage their audience. This course helps build a Journalist's knowledge of phrasal verbs, pushing intermediate learners of English into the 'advanced' category. A Journalist will also notice the more difficult phrasal verbs in the books that they read, or in the television shows that they watch. The Journalist can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Public Relations Specialist
A Public Relations Specialist manages a company's or individual's public image and communications. A strong understanding of English, including nuances like phrasal verbs, may be useful for communicating effectively with different audiences. This course helps improve the knowledge of using the most common phrasal verbs fluently. Understanding the grammatical differences between separable and inseparable phrasal verbs may be useful for clear communication. The Public Relations Specialist can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Interpreter
An Interpreter converts spoken or sign language from one language into another. While this role typically focuses on translating between different languages, a deep understanding of English, including the nuances of phrasal verbs, can enhance interpretation skills. This course allows an Interpreter to differentiate between phrasal verbs that have similar meanings. They will also memorize phrasal verbs in context. The Interpreter can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Translator
A Translator converts written text from one language into another. While the focus is typically on different languages, a strong command of English, specifically phrasal verbs, can aid in nuanced and accurate translations. This course helps the Translator to differentiate between phrasal verbs that have similar meanings. They will also memorize phrasal verbs in context. The Translator can supplement their knowledge of phrasal verbs using the downloadable lectures and supplementary visual PDF.
Speech Writer
A Speech Writer crafts speeches for individuals in positions of authority or public prominence. A strong understanding of the English language, including idioms and phrasal verbs, is invaluable for creating impactful and engaging speeches. This course is extremely helpful for Speech Writers looking to master English phrasal verbs, an important area of English vocabulary. By the end of the course, the Speech Writer will find themself using these phrasal verbs in conversation, and they will even start noticing the more difficult ones in the books that they read, or in the television shows that they watch.
Librarian
A Librarian manages library resources and assists patrons in finding information. While not a direct requirement, a Librarian with a strong command of English, including an understanding of phrasal verbs, can better assist patrons with language-related inquiries. This course may be beneficial for Librarians looking to master English phrasal verbs, an important area of English vocabulary. By the end of the course, the Librarian will find themself using these phrasal verbs in conversation, and they will even start noticing the more difficult ones in the books that they read, or in the television shows that they watch.
Social Media Manager
A Social Media Manager is responsible for planning, implementing, and monitoring a company's social media strategy. While direct application may be limited, a strong command of English, including understanding phrasal verbs, can help a Social Media Manager communicate effectively and engage with their audience. This course may be beneficial for a Social Media Manager looking to master English phrasal verbs, an important area of English vocabulary. Understanding of phrasal verbs will help the social media manager understand the current vernacular.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Master English Phrasal Verbs.
Provides a comprehensive guide to phrasal verbs, offering clear explanations and numerous examples. It is particularly useful for intermediate to advanced learners looking to expand their vocabulary and improve their fluency. The book is structured around common themes and topics, making it easy to find and learn phrasal verbs relevant to specific situations. It is often used as a supplementary textbook in English language courses.
This dictionary valuable resource for understanding the nuances of American English, particularly idioms and phrasal verbs. It provides clear definitions, examples, and usage notes. While not specifically designed as a textbook, it serves as an excellent reference tool for learners who want to delve deeper into the complexities of the language. It is especially helpful for understanding the subtle differences in meaning between similar phrasal verbs.

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