Grammar : Take

【明報專訊】Bill is a committee member of the English Society. He just attended a weekly meeting with other committee members.

Bill : I'm really upset about what the chairperson said to me in that meeting. I can't believe he rejected my idea.

MoMo : Hey, don't take it to heart. You're great and hardworking. Everyone knows it.

Dr Panda : Yeah, you shouldn't let what he said get to you. It's important to accept constructive criticism and use it to improve yourself.

Bill : What is constructive criticism?

Dr Panda : Let me take you through what it is. Constructive criticism is feedback that is meant to help someone improve. It's like when a teacher looks at your homework and tells you what you did well and what you could do better next time. It is meant to be helpful, but not hurtful.

Bill : You're right. The chairperson did tell me that how can I improve my idea.

MoMo : That's the spirit. And don't forget to take care of yourself too. It's important to take care of your mental health.

Dr Panda : Absolutely. Why don't we all take a break and go for a walk outside? It'll help clear our minds.

■Grammar Booster

Take it to heart

To think about criticism or advice seriously.

E.g. Don't take it to heart - he was only joking about your hair.

Take someone through something

To explain something to someone.

E.g. I'll take you through this magic one more time, then you can try it yourself.

Take care of

To protect someone or something and provide the things that that person or thing needs.

E.g. Don't worry about me, I can take care of myself.

Take a break

To stop doing something for a short period of time.

E.g. I'm very tired after few tests. I'm going to take a break.

■Gear up

(Answer on next text)

1. I need to __________ my plants by watering them regularly.

2. When my boss gives me constructive criticism, I always try to ________ and use it to improve my work.

3. Let's ________ from studying and watch a movie to relax.

4. Can you ________ the steps for making this toy? I'm not sure I understand.

■Glossary

committee(n)……委員會

chairperson(n)……主席

criticism(n)……批評

feedback(n)……回饋

(Criticisms on this publication, if any, are aimed at pointing out the errors or defects of certain systems or policies with a view to rectifying or eradicating such errors or defects, as well as prompting improvement or remedy for them via lawful means. There is absolutely no intention of inciting hatred, discontent or hostility towards the government or other classes of the community.)

[Smarties' Power English 第377期]