|
Browse categories
|
 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO.
Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study.
Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson
This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way.
clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
Great book much cheaper elsewhere, 24 Jul 2008
Found the book really useful as a simple introduction into signing for babies and young children. However don't buy from here go to the makaton website as the book is much much MUCH cheaper.
excellent buy, 12 Mar 2008
This is a wonderful book, withn a few days we were signing. Very easy to understand and learn.
Fabulous Book, 02 Dec 2007
This is the best baby signing book in the UK market. The illustrations are very sweet. Every picture describes the sign beautifully and is completely in context. Your baby will learn to "read" the signs with the pictures. What a lovely early introduction to books. It's also fun to share together.
My daughter adored this book still does after several years now. I recommend this book to everyone I teach signing to. It's the simplist, clearest and best value baby signing book available.
Wow.. this really works!, 01 Dec 2006
My baby twins have just turned one, and after half hearted attempts at signing with them for the past few months, they have just started joining in! It is so amazing to realise that they really understand even though they are so tiny, and already it's stopping tantrums when i know what they're actually asking for. This week they were able to ask their Grandma for milk! They love being understood and are really proud of their achievements. The book itself is brilliant, really good to look at, and easy to understand; the babies enjoy sitting and 'reading' it... having now been totally converted to baby signing, I'm ordering the rest of the set, and am determined to do more with them. Commend the BSL approach, as it makes sense to give them a basis with which to communicate with others later in life, rather than use ASL, effectively a `foreign' language. Highly recommended.
All you need to begin with ..., 10 Sep 2006
For just under £5 this book gives you everything you need to start signing with your baby. It is quite a large board book and has drawn pictures of babies doing the signs in it. Next to the picture are written instructions on the movements necessary. I can only recommend it.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
Great book much cheaper elsewhere, 24 Jul 2008
Found the book really useful as a simple introduction into signing for babies and young children. However don't buy from here go to the makaton website as the book is much much MUCH cheaper.
excellent buy, 12 Mar 2008
This is a wonderful book, withn a few days we were signing. Very easy to understand and learn.
Fabulous Book, 02 Dec 2007
This is the best baby signing book in the UK market. The illustrations are very sweet. Every picture describes the sign beautifully and is completely in context. Your baby will learn to "read" the signs with the pictures. What a lovely early introduction to books. It's also fun to share together.
My daughter adored this book still does after several years now. I recommend this book to everyone I teach signing to. It's the simplist, clearest and best value baby signing book available.
Wow.. this really works!, 01 Dec 2006
My baby twins have just turned one, and after half hearted attempts at signing with them for the past few months, they have just started joining in! It is so amazing to realise that they really understand even though they are so tiny, and already it's stopping tantrums when i know what they're actually asking for. This week they were able to ask their Grandma for milk! They love being understood and are really proud of their achievements. The book itself is brilliant, really good to look at, and easy to understand; the babies enjoy sitting and 'reading' it... having now been totally converted to baby signing, I'm ordering the rest of the set, and am determined to do more with them. Commend the BSL approach, as it makes sense to give them a basis with which to communicate with others later in life, rather than use ASL, effectively a `foreign' language. Highly recommended.
All you need to begin with ..., 10 Sep 2006
For just under £5 this book gives you everything you need to start signing with your baby. It is quite a large board book and has drawn pictures of babies doing the signs in it. Next to the picture are written instructions on the movements necessary. I can only recommend it.
Buy BEFORE you start your dissertation!, 14 Aug 2006
I started my dissertation very late - too late - and bought this book to help me through. It's a very simple, uncomplicated book which helps you set out your dissertation in the right way and guide you through the process of planning it, writing it, and checking it.
Also, as it is written by an ex lecturer the advice is coming from the right sort of person. There is a checklist at the back of the book which helps you mark your own piece of work and check that you've done the basics. It also has some useful tips yo help you avoid the most common errors.
I managed to get a First for my dissertation, thanks largely to this book. But save yourself rushing about like I did if you can, and buy this simple little book early, before you start!
very helpful and it's in plain english, 18 Apr 2005
I bought this book alongside with other books on writing dissertations. I found this the most useful and helpful of the lot as it was written in a clear logical way that i could understand, there were no fancy words, complicated issues etc. Throughout my dissertation it has provided me with guidance on what to write in certain sections of my work, not only that it has provided me with the structure of what a dissertation should look like. Overall it has kept me sane and I would definately recommend it to people who are undertaking a dissertation, plus it is at a reasonable price too.
Lets wait and see., 01 Jun 2004
I bought this book some time ago, knowing that i would have to choose a dissertation for when i go back to university in Sept 2004. The task is much more difficult as i am currently on placement in Westminster and my university is in Sheffield so its impossible to recieve any help/ advice on what i am supposed to do. I haven't read a book in at least 8 years and then that was a shakespear book for my GCSE's i think? Anyway this was the first book i have read in all that time and found it easy to get into. It had some nice tips and advice on how to choose the right subject. It was very limited in parts and after reading two thirds of the way into the book i got bored and just flicked through the rest - it was unhelpful for my subject of Business information systems as i think it is more aimed at social degree's and masters thesis students. I did take a couple of tips from it and feel that it was a good first book to read in order to progress onto other more MEATY titles, which will go more into depth about dissertation writing. I have Since gave the book to my girlfriend and read three other titles (becoming the proverbial book worm) - i hope she gets more from it than i did. I will see if it was helpful, when i begin my final year in Sept.
Very helpful!, 11 Feb 2004
I have used this book constantly whilst thinking about my dissertation and when doing the write up. Very helpful, and very informative!
If only I had bought it sooner..., 04 Jun 2003
This book is ideal for when you are first thinking about your dissertation. Unfortunely I panic bought it when I was doing the writing up, so it was unable to provide me with information that I didnt already know at that point. I will definitely pass it on to someone going into their final year as it is a good starting point.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
Great book much cheaper elsewhere, 24 Jul 2008
Found the book really useful as a simple introduction into signing for babies and young children. However don't buy from here go to the makaton website as the book is much much MUCH cheaper.
excellent buy, 12 Mar 2008
This is a wonderful book, withn a few days we were signing. Very easy to understand and learn.
Fabulous Book, 02 Dec 2007
This is the best baby signing book in the UK market. The illustrations are very sweet. Every picture describes the sign beautifully and is completely in context. Your baby will learn to "read" the signs with the pictures. What a lovely early introduction to books. It's also fun to share together.
My daughter adored this book still does after several years now. I recommend this book to everyone I teach signing to. It's the simplist, clearest and best value baby signing book available.
Wow.. this really works!, 01 Dec 2006
My baby twins have just turned one, and after half hearted attempts at signing with them for the past few months, they have just started joining in! It is so amazing to realise that they really understand even though they are so tiny, and already it's stopping tantrums when i know what they're actually asking for. This week they were able to ask their Grandma for milk! They love being understood and are really proud of their achievements. The book itself is brilliant, really good to look at, and easy to understand; the babies enjoy sitting and 'reading' it... having now been totally converted to baby signing, I'm ordering the rest of the set, and am determined to do more with them. Commend the BSL approach, as it makes sense to give them a basis with which to communicate with others later in life, rather than use ASL, effectively a `foreign' language. Highly recommended.
All you need to begin with ..., 10 Sep 2006
For just under £5 this book gives you everything you need to start signing with your baby. It is quite a large board book and has drawn pictures of babies doing the signs in it. Next to the picture are written instructions on the movements necessary. I can only recommend it.
Buy BEFORE you start your dissertation!, 14 Aug 2006
I started my dissertation very late - too late - and bought this book to help me through. It's a very simple, uncomplicated book which helps you set out your dissertation in the right way and guide you through the process of planning it, writing it, and checking it.
Also, as it is written by an ex lecturer the advice is coming from the right sort of person. There is a checklist at the back of the book which helps you mark your own piece of work and check that you've done the basics. It also has some useful tips yo help you avoid the most common errors.
I managed to get a First for my dissertation, thanks largely to this book. But save yourself rushing about like I did if you can, and buy this simple little book early, before you start!
very helpful and it's in plain english, 18 Apr 2005
I bought this book alongside with other books on writing dissertations. I found this the most useful and helpful of the lot as it was written in a clear logical way that i could understand, there were no fancy words, complicated issues etc. Throughout my dissertation it has provided me with guidance on what to write in certain sections of my work, not only that it has provided me with the structure of what a dissertation should look like. Overall it has kept me sane and I would definately recommend it to people who are undertaking a dissertation, plus it is at a reasonable price too.
Lets wait and see., 01 Jun 2004
I bought this book some time ago, knowing that i would have to choose a dissertation for when i go back to university in Sept 2004. The task is much more difficult as i am currently on placement in Westminster and my university is in Sheffield so its impossible to recieve any help/ advice on what i am supposed to do. I haven't read a book in at least 8 years and then that was a shakespear book for my GCSE's i think? Anyway this was the first book i have read in all that time and found it easy to get into. It had some nice tips and advice on how to choose the right subject. It was very limited in parts and after reading two thirds of the way into the book i got bored and just flicked through the rest - it was unhelpful for my subject of Business information systems as i think it is more aimed at social degree's and masters thesis students. I did take a couple of tips from it and feel that it was a good first book to read in order to progress onto other more MEATY titles, which will go more into depth about dissertation writing. I have Since gave the book to my girlfriend and read three other titles (becoming the proverbial book worm) - i hope she gets more from it than i did. I will see if it was helpful, when i begin my final year in Sept.
Very helpful!, 11 Feb 2004
I have used this book constantly whilst thinking about my dissertation and when doing the write up. Very helpful, and very informative!
If only I had bought it sooner..., 04 Jun 2003
This book is ideal for when you are first thinking about your dissertation. Unfortunely I panic bought it when I was doing the writing up, so it was unable to provide me with information that I didnt already know at that point. I will definitely pass it on to someone going into their final year as it is a good starting point.
Bought for OU Language Course 2008, 30 Sep 2008
I bought this alongside the Spanish Grammar book as they are both set books for the OU course. High St book shops are a lot more expensive,I saved £5.00!! Both books are set out in a really easy & logical format.
Highly recommended
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
Great book much cheaper elsewhere, 24 Jul 2008
Found the book really useful as a simple introduction into signing for babies and young children. However don't buy from here go to the makaton website as the book is much much MUCH cheaper.
excellent buy, 12 Mar 2008
This is a wonderful book, withn a few days we were signing. Very easy to understand and learn.
Fabulous Book, 02 Dec 2007
This is the best baby signing book in the UK market. The illustrations are very sweet. Every picture describes the sign beautifully and is completely in context. Your baby will learn to "read" the signs with the pictures. What a lovely early introduction to books. It's also fun to share together.
My daughter adored this book still does after several years now. I recommend this book to everyone I teach signing to. It's the simplist, clearest and best value baby signing book available.
Wow.. this really works!, 01 Dec 2006
My baby twins have just turned one, and after half hearted attempts at signing with them for the past few months, they have just started joining in! It is so amazing to realise that they really understand even though they are so tiny, and already it's stopping tantrums when i know what they're actually asking for. This week they were able to ask their Grandma for milk! They love being understood and are really proud of their achievements. The book itself is brilliant, really good to look at, and easy to understand; the babies enjoy sitting and 'reading' it... having now been totally converted to baby signing, I'm ordering the rest of the set, and am determined to do more with them. Commend the BSL approach, as it makes sense to give them a basis with which to communicate with others later in life, rather than use ASL, effectively a `foreign' language. Highly recommended.
All you need to begin with ..., 10 Sep 2006
For just under £5 this book gives you everything you need to start signing with your baby. It is quite a large board book and has drawn pictures of babies doing the signs in it. Next to the picture are written instructions on the movements necessary. I can only recommend it.
Buy BEFORE you start your dissertation!, 14 Aug 2006
I started my dissertation very late - too late - and bought this book to help me through. It's a very simple, uncomplicated book which helps you set out your dissertation in the right way and guide you through the process of planning it, writing it, and checking it.
Also, as it is written by an ex lecturer the advice is coming from the right sort of person. There is a checklist at the back of the book which helps you mark your own piece of work and check that you've done the basics. It also has some useful tips yo help you avoid the most common errors.
I managed to get a First for my dissertation, thanks largely to this book. But save yourself rushing about like I did if you can, and buy this simple little book early, before you start!
very helpful and it's in plain english, 18 Apr 2005
I bought this book alongside with other books on writing dissertations. I found this the most useful and helpful of the lot as it was written in a clear logical way that i could understand, there were no fancy words, complicated issues etc. Throughout my dissertation it has provided me with guidance on what to write in certain sections of my work, not only that it has provided me with the structure of what a dissertation should look like. Overall it has kept me sane and I would definately recommend it to people who are undertaking a dissertation, plus it is at a reasonable price too.
Lets wait and see., 01 Jun 2004
I bought this book some time ago, knowing that i would have to choose a dissertation for when i go back to university in Sept 2004. The task is much more difficult as i am currently on placement in Westminster and my university is in Sheffield so its impossible to recieve any help/ advice on what i am supposed to do. I haven't read a book in at least 8 years and then that was a shakespear book for my GCSE's i think? Anyway this was the first book i have read in all that time and found it easy to get into. It had some nice tips and advice on how to choose the right subject. It was very limited in parts and after reading two thirds of the way into the book i got bored and just flicked through the rest - it was unhelpful for my subject of Business information systems as i think it is more aimed at social degree's and masters thesis students. I did take a couple of tips from it and feel that it was a good first book to read in order to progress onto other more MEATY titles, which will go more into depth about dissertation writing. I have Since gave the book to my girlfriend and read three other titles (becoming the proverbial book worm) - i hope she gets more from it than i did. I will see if it was helpful, when i begin my final year in Sept.
Very helpful!, 11 Feb 2004
I have used this book constantly whilst thinking about my dissertation and when doing the write up. Very helpful, and very informative!
If only I had bought it sooner..., 04 Jun 2003
This book is ideal for when you are first thinking about your dissertation. Unfortunely I panic bought it when I was doing the writing up, so it was unable to provide me with information that I didnt already know at that point. I will definitely pass it on to someone going into their final year as it is a good starting point.
Bought for OU Language Course 2008, 30 Sep 2008
I bought this alongside the Spanish Grammar book as they are both set books for the OU course. High St book shops are a lot more expensive,I saved £5.00!! Both books are set out in a really easy & logical format.
Highly recommended
Not very castellano, 16 Jul 2007
Book is a good on getting refresh on verbs but I found there quite a many "errors" (not really errors but weird way of putting sentence together, looked like it was translated directly from English. I am not native English speaker so I spotted those). There was sentences is Spanish that you wouldn't say in castellano perhaps something that is common in Latin America.
IMHO If you want to learn castellano find some book written by Spanish but if you just want to play around verbs and get some refresh on Spanish I think this is ok.
One part of an excellent 3-book set., 14 Mar 2007
I also have the other two books in this series, 'Spanish Verb Tenses' and 'Spanish Prepositions & Pronouns'. The three together form a really first class set. This book, covering grammar, unavoidably duplicates considerable amounts of the other two but I wouldn't dissuade you from getting this one if you already have either or both of the others. Buy all three.
The tuition and exercises are presented clearly and in well structured form. There are answers to the questions in the back of the books. TIP! Don't do the exercises on the pages provided for your answers! I did - in pencil, fortunately - and spent ages rubbing out my answers when I realised I wanted to revise/recap. I would have needed an ocean of Tippex if I'd done them in ink.
No: do the tests on loose sheets or your pc. The answer pages in the back are perforated. This is very handy [other publishers note - do the same] because it means you can tear them all out, put them in a folder and avoid endless flipping back and forth between questions and answers. If you do your exercises on loose sheets, you can file them with the answer pages and monitor how well you're progressing.
I like the large format, too. It has enabled the publisher to lay the text out in a clear and logical way. The Oxford U.P. books are good, but the small format leads to a very dense and cramped presentation. These books are far superior in that respect.
I thoroughly recommend them.
EXCELLENT , 02 Dec 2006
I FIND THIS BOOK EXCELLENT FOR ALL THE LISTS OF VOCABULARY ...IT IS NICE TO REFRESH ON THE VOCABULARY SIDE OF THINGS AT TIMES AND THIS BOOK IS NICE AND STEADY.
I HAVE "SPANISH VERB" AND "PRONOUN AND PREPOSITIONS" AND FIND THEM ALL VERY USEFUL TO REFER BACK TO.
ALSO IF DOING THE EXERCISES IN THESE BOOKS USE AN A4 WRITING PAD THEN YOU CAN USE THE BOOKS OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
Another learner, 05 Aug 2006
My level of Spanish is advanced -not fluent by any means- and I can say that this is a superbly laid out book from start to finish both for the complete beginner and the advanced student. However, I would suggest that if you're looking to learn Spanish make sure this is not your sole teacher. As you would expect it is full of grammar exercises which could become tiresome if like me you prefer to speak the language. But I divulge.. For what it is -a grammar book- it's very good indeed.
Fantastic!, 02 Feb 2005
This book is so good. The grammar points are explained very well and not in a 1,000 words, just enough for us to get the most of it. Plenty of exercises put the lessons in practice and when they are all done the lesson is understood and can be applied easily.
Moreover a lot of vocabulary is provided as well, so it is not a boring grammar book!
This book is perfect for poeple who want to master Spanish or just to catch the key feature of the grammar.
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO. Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study. Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tenses and grammar, but this one has got to be the best of them all. If you read through this book step by step and do the written exercises as you proceed, you will understand verbs in no time at all.It is easy to follow and set out in a reader friendly way. clear and practical help for the student of spanish, 08 Jun 2008
In support of the many enthusiastic reviews of this book, I must agree that this is one of the clearest and easiest to understand guides to spanish verbs avaialble. As a very keen student of spanish I have an extensive collection of relevant books, but the Practice Makes Perfect series are refreshingly easy and pleasant to use. The grammar is divided into distinct sections with plenty of explanations, examples and exercises for practice, as well as answers for checking. There are also exercises in the writing of short passages which incorporate the verb conjugations learnt and introduce much new and useful vocabulary. This is a very useful book, not only for learners who attend classes and who would like a little more clarification, but especially for those trying to teach themselves. The relatively large size of print and good layout also enhance the pleasure of using this book. Interesting, useful and funny, 15 Dec 2007
I'm not a French speaker or learner myself, but bought this as a gift for a friend who is tackling the language. I'm sure they'll enjoy it as it's quite fun compared to the dry language texts I had to wade through at school. It's interesting to see that some French idioms are quite similar to ours but have an unusual slant. For example, where we have 'Pushing up the daisies', they have 'Eating the daisies from the roots up'; we write 'Rubber cheques', and they write 'wooden' ones (like taking a 'wooden nickel'?). Others are quite surreal 'Falling backwards into apples' sound quite painful, but to the French this is a soft landing. Although it's amusing, the text is scholarly enough to be useful to the serious student and the cartoons are excellent. You can't argue with the price either: great value. 101 French Idioms, 03 Jun 2007
I totally agree with the other reviewers (on whose recommendation I bought this book). I am a 'returner' to French, having learned it at school and college, but not having actively used the language for several years. I have also bought another, advanced French course, but wanted something else that would be fun to learn; this is certainly it!
Although it is both funny and witty, it is not only that. As well as a literal and figurative translation, the book gives a typical dialogue of how each idiom may be used. I have already learned some excellent phrases, which should liven up my dialogue when I visit France. I am also thinking of buying a copy for my French friend who's learning English, as it would also be good for a learner from the French person's perspective too. Well done Jean-Marie Cassagne on a first class product. I am now going to purchase the accompanying volume, French Proverbs and hope to enjoy that, too. Fun and useful!, 15 Mar 2006
I *love* this book. I bought it because of a recommendation by another reader and it's everything they promised. It had me in fits of laughter and I started using the idioms immediately because the pictures and the explanations show you the circumstances where the idiom is appropriate. I surprised the French speakers I know by my sudden use of apt figurative language. It really is fun to be able to use these sayings. The cartoons are amusing and each one is followed by a dialogue where the saying is used so you can see how it will fit into a conversation. I couldn't stop using them but luckily the people I was addressing were tolerant and highly amused. There are 101 idioms with cartoons, followed by a dialogue or a description. At the back are translations of the dialogues and a list of the idioms in alphabetical order and by key images. So, if you know you want to something to do with 'dogs' for example, you can look up dog and find the idioms associated with that image. I can't recommend this highly enough. It helps you practise your French without even realising that's what you are doing. I'm intending to order the proverbs as well! it is a real bargain. It was worth that just for the laughter it brought.
A fun way to improve understanding of the French language, 07 Mar 2001
This book is a fun,entertaining book that helps learners of the language grasp colloquialisms that they wouldn't understand otherwise e.g.-(to fall into apples)means to faint!The idiom is given in a conversation to help understand what context it should be used in and these conversations are translated at the back of the book.But the best thing about this book are the comical drawings that illustrate each idiom.This gives the impression that the book has a more lighthearted approach to understanding and teaching French.A refreshing book for those wanting to speak more like a native or those who just want a more enjoyable way to improve their French.
Great book much cheaper elsewhere, 24 Jul 2008
Found the book really useful as a simple introduction into signing for babies and young children. However don't buy from here go to the makaton website as the book is much much MUCH cheaper.
excellent buy, 12 Mar 2008
This is a wonderful book, withn a few days we were signing. Very easy to understand and learn.
Fabulous Book, 02 Dec 2007
This is the best baby signing book in the UK market. The illustrations are very sweet. Every picture describes the sign beautifully and is completely in context. Your baby will learn to "read" the signs with the pictures. What a lovely early introduction to books. It's also fun to share together.
My daughter adored this book still does after several years now. I recommend this book to everyone I teach signing to. It's the simplist, clearest and best value baby signing book available.
Wow.. this really works!, 01 Dec 2006
My baby twins have just turned one, and after half hearted attempts at signing with them for the past few months, they have just started joining in! It is so amazing to realise that they really understand even though they are so tiny, and already it's stopping tantrums when i know what they're actually asking for. This week they were able to ask their Grandma for milk! They love being understood and are really proud of their achievements. The book itself is brilliant, really good to look at, and easy to understand; the babies enjoy sitting and 'reading' it... having now been totally converted to baby signing, I'm ordering the rest of the set, and am determined to do more with them. Commend the BSL approach, as it makes sense to give them a basis with which to communicate with others later in life, rather than use ASL, effectively a `foreign' language. Highly recommended.
All you need to begin with ..., 10 Sep 2006
For just under £5 this book gives you everything you need to start signing with your baby. It is quite a large board book and has drawn pictures of babies doing the signs in it. Next to the picture are written instructions on the movements necessary. I can only recommend it.
Buy BEFORE you start your dissertation!, 14 Aug 2006
I started my dissertation very late - too late - and bought this book to help me through. It's a very simple, uncomplicated book which helps you set out your dissertation in the right way and guide you through the process of planning it, writing it, and checking it.
Also, as it is written by an ex lecturer the advice is coming from the right sort of person. There is a checklist at the back of the book which helps you mark your own piece of work and check that you've done the basics. It also has some useful tips yo help you avoid the most common errors.
I managed to get a First for my dissertation, thanks largely to this book. But save yourself rushing about like I did if you can, and buy this simple little book early, before you start!
very helpful and it's in plain english, 18 Apr 2005
I bought this book alongside with other books on writing dissertations. I found this the most useful and helpful of the lot as it was written in a clear logical way that i could understand, there were no fancy words, complicated issues etc. Throughout my dissertation it has provided me with guidance on what to write in certain sections of my work, not only that it has provided me with the structure of what a dissertation should look like. Overall it has kept me sane and I would definately recommend it to people who are undertaking a dissertation, plus it is at a reasonable price too.
Lets wait and see., 01 Jun 2004
I bought this book some time ago, knowing that i would have to choose a dissertation for when i go back to university in Sept 2004. The task is much more difficult as i am currently on placement in Westminster and my university is in Sheffield so its impossible to recieve any help/ advice on what i am supposed to do. I haven't read a book in at least 8 years and then that was a shakespear book for my GCSE's i think? Anyway this was the first book i have read in all that time and found it easy to get into. It had some nice tips and advice on how to choose the right subject. It was very limited in parts and after reading two thirds of the way into the book i got bored and just flicked through the rest - it was unhelpful for my subject of Business information systems as i think it is more aimed at social degree's and masters thesis students. I did take a couple of tips from it and feel that it was a good first book to read in order to progress onto other more MEATY titles, which will go more into depth about dissertation writing. I have Since gave the book to my girlfriend and read three other titles (becoming the proverbial book worm) - i hope she gets more from it than i did. I will see if it was helpful, when i begin my final year in Sept.
Very helpful!, 11 Feb 2004
I have used this book constantly whilst thinking about my dissertation and when doing the write up. Very helpful, and very informative!
If only I had bought it sooner..., 04 Jun 2003
This book is ideal for when you are first thinking about your dissertation. Unfortunely I panic bought it when I was doing the writing up, so it was unable to provide me with information that I didnt already know at that point. I will definitely pass it on to someone going into their final year as it is a good starting point.
Bought for OU Language Course 2008, 30 Sep 2008
I bought this alongside the Spanish Grammar book as they are both set books for the OU course. High St book shops are a lot more expensive,I saved £5.00!! Both books are set out in a really easy & logical format.
Highly recommended
Not very castellano, 16 Jul 2007
Book is a good on getting refresh on verbs but I found there quite a many "errors" (not really errors but weird way of putting sentence together, looked like it was translated directly from English. I am not native English speaker so I spotted those). There was sentences is Spanish that you wouldn't say in castellano perhaps something that is common in Latin America.
IMHO If you want to learn castellano find some book written by Spanish but if you just want to play around verbs and get some refresh on Spanish I think this is ok.
One part of an excellent 3-book set., 14 Mar 2007
I also have the other two books in this series, 'Spanish Verb Tenses' and 'Spanish Prepositions & Pronouns'. The three together form a really first class set. This book, covering grammar, unavoidably duplicates considerable amounts of the other two but I wouldn't dissuade you from getting this one if you already have either or both of the others. Buy all three.
The tuition and exercises are presented clearly and in well structured form. There are answers to the questions in the back of the books. TIP! Don't do the exercises on the pages provided for your answers! I did - in pencil, fortunately - and spent ages rubbing out my answers when I realised I wanted to revise/recap. I would have needed an ocean of Tippex if I'd done them in ink.
No: do the tests on loose sheets or your pc. The answer pages in the back are perforated. This is very handy [other publishers note - do the same] because it means you can tear them all out, put them in a folder and avoid endless flipping back and forth between questions and answers. If you do your exercises on loose sheets, you can file them with the answer pages and monitor how well you're progressing.
I like the large format, too. It has enabled the publisher to lay the text out in a clear and logical way. The Oxford U.P. books are good, but the small format leads to a very dense and cramped presentation. These books are far superior in that respect.
I thoroughly recommend them.
EXCELLENT , 02 Dec 2006
I FIND THIS BOOK EXCELLENT FOR ALL THE LISTS OF VOCABULARY ...IT IS NICE TO REFRESH ON THE VOCABULARY SIDE OF THINGS AT TIMES AND THIS BOOK IS NICE AND STEADY.
I HAVE "SPANISH VERB" AND "PRONOUN AND PREPOSITIONS" AND FIND THEM ALL VERY USEFUL TO REFER BACK TO.
ALSO IF DOING THE EXERCISES IN THESE BOOKS USE AN A4 WRITING PAD THEN YOU CAN USE THE BOOKS OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
Another learner, 05 Aug 2006
My level of Spanish is advanced -not fluent by any means- and I can say that this is a superbly laid out book from start to finish both for the complete beginner and the advanced student. However, I would suggest that if you're looking to learn Spanish make sure this is not your sole teacher. As you would expect it is full of grammar exercises which could become tiresome if like me you prefer to speak the language. But I divulge.. For what it is -a grammar book- it's very good indeed.
Fantastic!, 02 Feb 2005
This book is so good. The grammar points are explained very well and not in a 1,000 words, just enough for us to get the most of it. Plenty of exercises put the lessons in practice and when they are all done the lesson is understood and can be applied easily.
Moreover a lot of vocabulary is provided as well, so it is not a boring grammar book!
This book is perfect for poeple who want to master Spanish or just to catch the key feature of the grammar.
EXCELLENT, 26 Oct 2008
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK ALONG WITH THE SPANISH VERBS AND THEY ARE EXCELLENT BOOKS.
I USE AN A4 WRITING PAD TO WRITE MY ANSWERS TO THE EXERCISES THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN.
A VERY USEFUL BOOK TO KEEP REFERRING BACK TO.
WORTH THE MONEY
Another superb addition to the practice makes perfect series, 20 May 2008
Having struggled at learning Spanish for a few years, and not being able to devote a huge amount of time to it, it's important to make the most of the chances I do get.
The practice makes perfect series is ideal - you get loads of practice, varied exercises, and excellent translation sections, practicing translating a decent sized bit of text which is really helpful.
Pronouns and prepositions are ideally suited to this format, as there are so many different rules and ways to use these items that the only way to learn them is to get practice in doing so.
Highly recommended.
Fantastic revision book for any serious Spanish student!, 25 Sep 2005
I was a first-year uni student doing a joint-honours degree and one of the subjects I majored in was Spanish, although I was really doing it ab-initio (meaning I had to start Spanish from scratch) because I have never done Spanish before at A Level.
I bought this book together with the other book in this series "SPANISH PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS" at the Borders bookshop in York. I have flipped through some other Spanish practice exercise books on the market, but I found many of them were either too difficult or don't provide enough exercises. It really depends on what type of study style you prefer. If you are the type who can just read and memorise a couple of textbooks to get yourself through your Spanish exams, then perhaps you don't need this book that much. I am nothing like that. I dislike reading/memorizing from texts and prefer learning by working through loads of revision exercises. This book suited my purposes to a T. In fact, I admit I was quite a lazy student in the beginning. I'd attend classes regularly but would never do much homework or self-study after classes. When the exams were approaching, I started worrying about how I'm going to revise all those things I've learnt in class in such a short time. This book was an absolute life-saver. One month before the Spanish exams, I made sure I sat down for at least 1 to 2 hours each day working dilligently at all of the exercises in these 2 books. By the time of the exam, I had, needless to say, already gone through ALL the questions in these 2 books and voila! I ended up getting a class 2:1 grade for my Spanish at the end of my first-year in Uni!
supercharge your spanish, 19 Jun 2004
Spanish Pronouns and Preposition is an excellent learning resource for students of spanish at any level, and this along with the companion verb book are amongst the most useful spanish books you can find, i would highly recommend the purchase of both.
The books are workbook style, and are very well constructed, each chapter deals with an idividual area, introducing each new idea clearly and concisely and then an excericise to prcatice the new knowledge, quite often there are some interesting little features of the excercises which really help to emphasise the point.
The book serves well as an accompaniment to a course or as a stand alone teaching guide, and is very clear especially as regards the grammar, the voise of an experinced teacher shines through. it is possible to approach this book from start to finish, although it is also possible to pick out individual chapters as needed.
This book feels very complete, and is one of the most complete guides to the mechanics underlying the spanish language.
Another winner, 15 Jun 2004
I bought this book, already owning "Practice makes perfect: Spanish verb tenses" and both books are of equally high value. Pronouns are amongst the key elements to conversational Spanish and knowledge of pronouns is crucial to Spanish sentance construction! Amongst many other things, they enable talking without constant repetition (I saw the food, then I ate the food but I didn't like the food because the food was bad etc...). As with my previous purchace, this book helps to explain the "rules" in a clear and logical way, helping the reader to gain a detailed understanding of the different sets of pronouns and how they feature in converrsation. Each new rule is explained simply with many accompanying excersizes to assist memorization and the learning curve is set at a consistant pace. For those looking for a precise breakdown of Pronouns and prepositions and how each device is incorporated into everyday language, get this. Don't be put off by the seemingly specific nature of the book if you are new to the Spanish. Learning the underlying structure of Spanish has been a great way to start learning, much more beneficial than the "starter guides" that are available, which seem to tend towards the "Una cervesa por favor", without helping the student to understand what it is that they are saying. I have only been learning Spanish for four months and between this book, "PmP: Verb Tenses" and a pocket dictionary, I feel that I am progressing at a consistant rate and have no major questions that this combination of books isn't able to address. BUY IT!
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
Customer Reviews
EXCELLENT BOOK, 26 Oct 2008
ABSOLUTELY WORTH EVERY PENNY.
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK A GOOD FEW YEARS AGO. I USE IT ALL THE TIME IN BETWEEN MY CLASSES AT NIGHT SCHOOL AND ALWAYS REFER BACK TO IT WHEN WE MOVE TO DIFFERENT USES OF VERBS IN CLASS.
I DO THE EXERCISES IN A A4 SCRAP PAD THAT WAY THE BOOK CAN BE USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN, THEN I CHECK THE ANSWERS FROM THE BACK OF THE BOOK.
I HAVE EVEN BOUGHT THIS BOOK FOR A GOOD FRIEND AND HE AND HIS CO WORKER THINK IT IS EXCELLENT.
PRONOUNS AND PREPOSITIONS .....COMPLETE SPANISH GRAMMAR ....AND SPANISH VOCABULARY ....ARE ALL VERY USEFUL BOOKS IN THE LEARNING RANGE ALSO.
Spanish Verbs, 15 Sep 2008
Excellent basic text on Spanish verbs. I refer to it time and time again, even after years of study.
Know Spanish Verbs Inside and Out!!!, 21 Jul 2008
This book on Spanish verb tenses is the best I've ever seen. In fact, it is probably the only book of its kind. I haven't seen any other books like this one, probably because it would be a waste of time for someone else to write a book like this.
The book first explains the present tense in great detail. It explains how the present tense is used in every possibleway. Although, it doesn't explain that the present tense is often used to convey a future action more often than the actual future is.
Richmond's explanation of the past tenses is also very good, but I didn't like how the imperfect and the preterit were explained. What I did like was how the author explains that the irregular preterit conjugations have predictable patterns.
The subjunctive is explained towards the end, which is one of the most difficult things to master in Spanish grammar. I didn't particularly care for the author's explanation of the subjunctive because it seems to be a "regurgitation" of how other books explain it.
All in all, this book is well worth its price. Every Spanish student (and teacher) should have a copy of "Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses."
Brandon Simpson
This book is the best, 04 Jul 2008
I have read a few books on Spanish verb tens | | |