Reading Like a Scientist (H6)
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EN: The noun clause (or content clause) introduced by 'that' acts as the direct object of the verb 'shows'. In this structure, 'that' is a conjunction that connects the main clause with the subordinate clause, and it can often be omitted in informal speech.
He believes that honesty is the best policy.
EN: The simple present tense is used here to state a general truth, scientific fact, or permanent situation. 'Research' is an uncountable noun and takes the singular verb 'shows', while 'sleep' is also uncountable and takes the singular verb 'improves'.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
EN: The structure 'It is widely believed that...' uses 'it' as a dummy subject (or preparatory subject) to introduce a passive construction. The real subject is the 'that-clause' (that practice builds skill) which is placed at the end of the sentence to avoid a top-heavy structure. This is a common formal way to express a general public opinion without specifying who holds the belief.
It is widely believed that education is the key to success.
EN: The conjunction 'that' introduces a noun clause functioning as the extraposed real subject of the sentence. Within this noun clause, 'practice' is the subject, 'builds' is the transitive verb in the simple present tense, and 'skill' is the direct object.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'according to' is used to state the source of information or ideas. It is followed by a noun or noun phrase (e.g., 'the study').
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
EN: The simple present tense is used here to state a general truth or scientific fact. The plural subject 'plants' takes the base form of the verb 'reduce'.
Regular exercise improves heart health.
EN: The verb 'suggest' is followed by a 'that-clause' functioning as the direct object. This structure is commonly used in academic and formal writing to introduce a conclusion or implication drawn from evidence without stating it as an absolute, aggressive fact.
The research suggests that regular exercise improves sleep quality.
EN: The phrase 'matter a lot' uses 'matter' as an intransitive verb meaning 'to be important'. 'A lot' is an adverbial phrase modifying the verb to indicate a high degree of importance.
Your support matters a lot to our team.
EN: In English-speaking academic and professional contexts, using hedging verbs like 'suggest' or 'indicate' is highly valued. It shows intellectual humility and scientific accuracy, acknowledging that while the current data points to a conclusion, it is open to further investigation.
EN: The structure 'One reason is that...' uses a noun clause (that-clause) as a subject complement to explain or define the 'reason'. The word 'that' acts as a conjunction introducing the subordinate clause and can sometimes be omitted in informal speech, though it is usually kept in formal writing.
One reason is that she wanted to improve her English.
EN: The simple present tense is used here ('is', 'loves') to state general truths, scientific facts, or habitual characteristics that are always true.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
EN: In cognitive science and psychology, the phrase 'the brain loves patterns' refers to the concept of pattern recognition. The human brain naturally seeks order and repetition to process information more efficiently, which is why structured learning and habits are so effective.
EN: The transitional phrase 'In other words' is used to introduce a simplification or clarification of a previously stated idea, helping to rephrase a concept for better understanding.
In other words, we need to start over.
EN: The causative verb 'make' is used here in the pattern 'make + object + bare infinitive/adjective'. In this sentence, 'stick' acts as a bare infinitive meaning 'to remain' or 'to become permanent'.
Practice makes perfect.
EN: The phrase 'make it stick' is a common English idiom meaning to make something permanent or memorable. It is widely used in educational and self-improvement contexts to describe effective learning habits.
EN: The noun clause introduced by 'that' acts as the direct object of the transitive verb 'indicates'. In this structure, 'that' is a conjunction that introduces a complete sentence (subject + verb + object) showing what the evidence points to.
Research indicates that sleep improves memory.
EN: The simple present tense is used here to express a general truth or scientific fact. In the noun clause, 'exercise' is an uncountable noun acting as a singular subject, which requires the singular verb 'lifts'.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
EN: The structure 'It has been shown that...' uses 'it' as a dummy subject (formal subject) to introduce a passive construction. The real subject is the noun clause starting with 'that'. This pattern is commonly used in academic and formal writing to present facts or research findings objectively without mentioning a specific agent.
It has been shown that regular exercise reduces stress.
EN: The word 'reading' is a gerund (a verb ending in -ing that functions as a noun). In the 'that' clause, 'reading' acts as the singular subject, which is why the verb 'widens' takes the third-person singular ending '-s'.
Swimming keeps us healthy.
EN: The word 'data' is historically the plural form of 'datum'. In modern English, especially in scientific and academic contexts, it can be treated as either a plural noun (taking a plural verb like 'suggest') or a singular mass noun (taking 'suggests'). In this sentence, it is treated as plural, which is preferred in formal writing.
The data show that global temperatures are rising.
EN: The preposition 'between' is used to show a relationship, connection, or link involving two distinct people, things, or groups (in this case, 'the two').
There is a strong bond between the two sisters.
EN: In academic and scientific discussions, researchers often use cautious language (also known as 'hedging') to present findings. Instead of saying 'The data proves...', they prefer 'The data suggest...' to remain objective and open to further evidence.
EN: The transitional phrase 'For this reason' is used as a cohesive device at the beginning of a sentence to introduce a logical consequence or conclusion based on previously stated information.
For this reason, we decided to postpone the meeting.
EN: The modal verb 'should' is used to express recommendation, advice, or obligation, followed by the base form of the verb ('test').
We should review the data before making a decision.
EN: In academic and scientific contexts, 'testing ideas' or hypotheses is a core value. Using logical transitions like 'For this reason' is highly valued in English writing to maintain a clear, objective, and structured flow of arguments.
EN: The conjunction 'as' is used here to introduce a subordinate clause ('as the results show') that refers to a known fact or evidence, meaning 'in the way that' or 'just as'. It is commonly used in academic and formal contexts to introduce supporting evidence.
As the report indicates, sales have increased.
EN: The phrasal verb 'lead to' means to cause something to happen or exist. It is followed by a noun or a gerund (V-ing) as its object, where 'to' is a preposition, not part of an infinitive.
Regular exercise leads to better health.
EN: This sentence reflects a growth mindset, which is highly valued in Western educational and professional cultures. The idea that effort, rather than innate talent, leads to development and success is a cornerstone of modern self-improvement and learning theories.
EN: The transitional phrase 'In conclusion' is used as a sentence connector (or conjunctive adverbial) to signal that a final summary or logical result is being presented. It is typically followed by a comma.
In conclusion, we must take action to protect our environment.
EN: The simple present tense is used here to state a general truth or timeless fact. The subject 'science' is an uncountable noun (singular), so the verb 'reward' takes the third-person singular ending '-s' (rewards).
Nature rewards patience.
EN: Gerunds (verb-ing) can function as nouns. In this sentence, 'Reading' is a gerund acting as the subject, and 'questioning' is a gerund acting as the direct object of the verb 'means'.
Learning a new language requires practicing every day.
EN: The nominal relative clause (or free relative clause) 'what we read' functions as the object of the gerund 'questioning'. The word 'what' acts as 'the thing(s) that'.
We must remember what we learned.
EN: This sentence reflects a core value in Western academic and scientific training: critical thinking. Rather than accepting written information as absolute truth, students are encouraged to actively question the source, evidence, and methodology behind any claim.
EN: The noun clause starting with 'that' acts as the direct object of the verb 'shows'. This structure is commonly used to report findings, facts, or beliefs.
Studies suggest that regular exercise improves sleep quality.
EN: The adverb 'best' is the superlative form of 'well', used here to modify the verb 'learn'. The prepositional phrase 'through practice' indicates the method or means of learning.
Children learn languages best through interactive games.
EN: The structure 'It is widely believed that...' uses 'it' as a dummy subject (or preparatory subject) to introduce a noun clause starting with 'that'. This passive construction is commonly used in formal writing to express a general opinion or consensus without specifying who holds the belief.
It is widely believed that education is the key to success.
EN: The verb 'drive' is used here metaphorically to mean 'to provide the power or motivation for something to happen or develop'. In this context, 'curiosity' is the driving force behind 'real progress'.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'According to' is used to indicate the source of information. It is followed by a noun or noun phrase (e.g., 'many studies') to show where the stated facts or opinions come from.
According to the weather forecast, it will rain tomorrow.
EN: The verb 'help' can be followed by an object and an infinitive verb (either with or without 'to'). In the pattern 'help someone (to) do something', the bare infinitive (without 'to') is highly common in modern English.
This app helps me organize my daily schedule.
EN: The noun clause starting with 'that' acts as the direct object of the verb 'suggests'. It contains a complete sentence structure (subject + verb + complement) to express a complete idea or fact.
The report indicates that the project is successful.
EN: The equative comparison structure 'as + adjective + as' is used to show that two things are equal in a particular quality. In this sentence, 'rest' and 'work' are compared in terms of their importance.
This task is as difficult as the previous one.
EN: The verb 'indicate' is followed by a noun clause starting with the conjunction 'that'. This 'that-clause' functions as the direct object of the verb, expressing the fact or statement being indicated.
Research indicates that regular exercise improves sleep quality.
EN: The simple present tense is used here to express a general truth or a scientific fact that remains constant over time.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
EN: The use of nominal relative clauses (also known as free relative clauses) introduced by 'what' and 'who'. In this sentence, 'what we repeat' acts as the subject clause (meaning 'the things that we repeat'), and 'who we are' acts as the subject complement clause (meaning 'the person/people that we are').
What you decide today shapes who you become tomorrow.
EN: The transition phrase 'In other words' is used to introduce a statement that repeats what has been said in a different and usually simpler or more direct way.
EN: This sentence is a variation of the famous philosophical quote often attributed to Aristotle: 'We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.' It emphasizes the Western psychological and philosophical focus on habit formation and self-actualization.
EN: The structure 'One reason is that...' uses a noun clause (that-clause) functioning as a subject complement to explain a cause or reason. The word 'that' is a conjunction and does not play a grammatical role inside the clause itself.
One reason is that she wants to improve her English.
EN: The phrase 'paths we use' contains a defining relative clause (adjective clause) with a omitted relative pronoun 'which' or 'that'. When the relative pronoun acts as the object of the verb in the relative clause (we use [paths]), it can be omitted.
The books we read shape our minds.
EN: The concept of 'the brain strengthening paths we use' refers to neuroplasticity, a widely discussed topic in modern psychology and neuroscience, emphasizing that habits and repetitive actions physically reshape our brain structure.
EN: The phrase 'For this reason' is a transitional adverbial phrase used at the beginning of a sentence to indicate a cause-and-effect relationship, linking the current statement to the previously mentioned context.
For this reason, we decided to postpone the outdoor event.
EN: The modal verb 'should' is used to express advice, recommendation, or obligation. It is followed by the base form of the verb (in this case, 'review').
You should drink more water during hot summer days.
EN: The verb 'suggest' is used here with a 'that'-clause to indicate that a fact or statement is likely true based on evidence. Note that 'data' is historically plural (singular: 'datum'), so it takes the plural verb 'suggest' without an 's' in formal writing.
Recent studies suggest that regular exercise improves sleep quality.
EN: The comparative structure 'A matters more than B' uses the verb 'matter' (to be important) to show that one element has greater significance or value than another.
In teamwork, communication matters more than individual skill.
EN: In English academic and professional contexts, presenting arguments using 'The data suggest...' is preferred over 'The data prove...' because scientific inquiry always leaves room for new evidence and avoids absolute certainty.
EN: The conjunction 'as' is used here to introduce a subordinate clause ('as the results show') that refers to a known fact or statement, meaning 'in the way that' or 'just as'. It is a common way to introduce supporting evidence in academic or formal contexts.
As the report indicates, sales have increased this quarter.
EN: The verb 'beat' is used here in the simple present tense ('beats') to mean 'to be better than' or 'to surpass'. This is an informal but widely accepted usage in both spoken and written English when comparing the effectiveness of two methods.
For long-term health, a balanced diet beats extreme fasting.
EN: The transition phrase 'In conclusion' is used at the beginning of a sentence to signal that you are summarizing the main points or reaching a final decision. It is typically followed by a comma.
In conclusion, we must work together to achieve our goals.
EN: The phrasal verb 'turn A into B' means to transform or change something (A) into something else (B). 'Turn' is the transitive verb, and 'into' is the preposition introducing the result of the transformation.
With hard work, she turned her hobby into a successful business.
EN: The use of 'how' as an interrogative adverb to ask about the method or manner of doing something. In this sentence, 'how' is placed at the beginning of the question, followed by the auxiliary verb 'do' for the simple present tense.
How do you solve this math problem?
EN: Direct address (vocative case). When addressing someone directly by name, the name is separated from the rest of the sentence by a comma. It can be placed at the end of the sentence for a more natural, conversational tone.
What are you cooking, Mom?
EN: In academic and professional English, 'a study' refers to a scientific research paper or investigation. Asking someone 'how' they read a study implies looking for their strategy or methodology (e.g., reading the abstract first, looking at the data, etc.), which is a common topic of discussion among students and researchers.
EN: The noun clause 'what the evidence shows' acts as the direct object of the verb 'ask'. In English, noun clauses introduced by question words (like 'what', 'how', 'why') follow statement word order (subject + verb) rather than question word order.
She wants to know what the teacher said.
EN: The word 'First' is a transition adverb used at the beginning of a sentence to sequence ideas or steps in a process. It is typically followed by a comma.
EN: In scientific and academic contexts, starting a statement with evidence-based reasoning (e.g., 'First, I ask what the evidence shows') reflects a critical thinking mindset valued highly in Western education. It emphasizes objectivity over personal opinion.
EN: The verb 'show' is followed by a noun clause introduced by the conjunction 'that'. This 'that-clause' acts as the direct object of the verb, explaining what the research is showing. In English, the conjunction 'that' can often be omitted in informal speech, but is usually retained in formal or academic contexts.
Studies show that regular exercise improves sleep quality.
EN: The simple present tense ('shows', 'shape') is used here to express general truths, scientific facts, or habitual actions that are consistently true over time.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
EN: In English, the word 'days' is often used metaphorically to mean 'daily life' or 'lifespan' rather than just literal 24-hour periods. The phrase 'shape our days' carries a philosophical nuance, emphasizing how routine actions define the quality of our overall existence.
EN: The structure 'It is widely believed that...' uses 'it' as an empty subject (dummy pronoun) to introduce a passive construction. The real subject is the 'that-clause' at the end. This pattern is commonly used to express general opinions or consensus without specifying who holds the belief.
It is widely believed that healthy food boosts energy.
EN: The word 'most' is used here as an adverb meaning 'to the greatest extent' or 'most of all', modifying the verb 'helps'. It functions as a superlative adverb to show that practice is the single most effective factor.
Of all the methods, this one works most.
EN: The prepositional phrase 'According to' is used to indicate the source of information. It is followed by a noun or noun phrase (in this case, 'the data') and is typically set off by a comma when it introduces a sentence.
According to the weather report, it will rain tomorrow.
EN: The verb 'aid' means to help or assist. In the present simple tense, when the subject is singular ('sleep'), the verb takes the third-person singular ending '-s' ('aids'). It can directly take a noun object ('memory') without a preposition.
Regular exercise aids digestion.
EN: The verb 'suggest' is followed by a 'that-clause' acting as the direct object. This structure is commonly used to present an implication, conclusion, or hypothesis based on evidence.
The evidence suggests that the theory is correct.
EN: The verb 'deserve' is a transitive verb meaning to be worthy of something. It is followed directly by a noun phrase (in this case, 'our respect') as its object.
Her hard work deserves our praise.
EN: In modern academic and professional discussions, there is a growing cultural shift towards recognizing the importance of rest and mental health, moving away from 'hustle culture'. Phrasing like 'rest deserves our respect' reflects this contemporary value of self-care and sustainable productivity.
EN: The transitional phrase 'In other words' is used to introduce a simplification, clarification, or alternative explanation of a previously stated idea. It is typically followed by a comma and a complete independent clause.
He is extremely busy; in other words, he cannot join us.
EN: The sentence uses a simple active voice structure (Subject + Verb + Object) where plural nouns ('steps', 'results') are used generically without articles to represent general concepts.
Good habits bring positive changes.
EN: This sentence reflects a common Western philosophical and self-improvement mindset that emphasizes incremental progress (the 'aggregation of marginal gains' or 'atomic habits') over sudden, massive shifts. It is often used in motivational contexts to encourage persistence.
EN: The transitional phrase 'For this reason' is used as a cohesive device at the beginning of a sentence to link it to a previously stated cause or situation, functioning as a sentence connector meaning 'therefore' or 'thus'.
For this reason, we decided to postpone the meeting.
EN: The adverb 'daily' is used here as an adverb of frequency meaning 'every day'. It typically modifies the verb (in this case, 'review') and is placed at the end of the clause.
She exercises daily to stay healthy.
EN: The conjunction 'as' is used here to introduce a subordinate clause ('as the results show') that refers to a known fact or statement, meaning 'in the way that' or 'according to what'.
As the report suggests, we need to change our strategy.
EN: The phrasal verb 'pay off' is an intransitive verb meaning to yield good results or succeed after effort has been made.
All her hard work finally paid off when she passed the exam.
EN: The phrase 'effort pays off' reflects a strong cultural value in English-speaking academic and professional environments, emphasizing meritocracy and the belief that hard work, rather than just innate talent, leads to success.
EN: Imperative sentences are used to give orders, advice, or instructions. They start directly with the base form of the verb, omitting the subject 'you' because it is understood.
Listen carefully to the instructions.
EN: The conjunction 'and' is used here to connect two imperative clauses ('Think...' and 'question...'), showing a sequence of actions or a logical connection between two instructions.
Work hard, and achieve your goals.
EN: This sentence encapsulates the core philosophy of scientific skepticism, which encourages individuals not to accept claims at face value but to seek empirical evidence. It is a common motivational quote in educational and scientific contexts.
Key vocabulary words with IPA pronunciation, definitions, example sentences, and interactive quizzes.
Phrases with type tags, bilingual definitions, usage notes, and example sentences.
To ensure that newly acquired knowledge or skills are permanently remembered and retained.
To yield good results; to succeed or be successful after effort.
The process of analyzing information deeply, logically, and thoroughly before drawing a conclusion.