The complications of learning English as a Second Language can make students sigh, throw their arms in the air in despair and scream! There are sometimes, however, small clues that can make the language much easier. If they follow the simple suggestion explained in this article, then perhaps they will feel more confident about their speech.
What are count and non-count nouns?
A count noun is one that can be counted. It can be made plural.
Examples:
girl – girls boy – boys
woman – women man – men
Sunshine
A non-count noun can’t be counted. It has no plural form.
Examples:
sunshine coffee information music
Using “much”
“Much” is often used in negative sentences and in questions. (No problem!)
Examples:
Do you have much homework? No, I don’t have much homework.
Do you have much time? No, I don’t have much time.
Unfortunately “much” is not used in a positive sentence. BUT, here’s a good trick!
Learn to use “a lot” or “a lot of” instead of “much”.
You can use “a lot” or “a lot of” in positive sentences, negative sentences or questions.
SO, you don’t need to use “much” at all.
Examples:
Do you have a lot of homework? No, I don’t have a lot of homework.
Yes, I have a lot of homework.
Do you have a lot of time? No, I don’t have a lot of time.
Yes, I have lots of (a lot of) time.
Do you watch TV a lot? No, I don’t watch TV a lot.
Yes, I watch a lot of TV.
We suggest that you introduce “much” to the students so they will be familiar with its meaning when they hear it used, and understand the basic rules for using it. The good part is that they don’t need to use it themselves. They will always be correct if they use “a lot” or “a lot of”.
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