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ESL forum >
Ask for help > The word "partner"
The word "partner"
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Yolandaprieto
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The word "partner"
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Hello everybody,
I just wanted to know if we can use the word "partner" instead of "classmate". I sometimes have to use it so often that I get tired of using it and I would like to find a synonym but our language assistant (she is British) says "partner" doesn �t have the same meaning although in our teacher book is also used. Can you give me an answer to this question, please?
My best wishes
Yolanda
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20 Mar 2014
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MarionG
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Indeed, there is a difference between the two words. Generally, the kids in class are each other �s classmates but as soon as they really work together on something (when working in pairs on an assignment for example), they become partners.
Hope this helps. |
20 Mar 2014
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tvillikko
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If students work in pairs, �partner � is ok. In groups, people are not partners but other members of the group or in the whole class,they are classmates. �Partner � is not an exact synonym of �classmate �. With older students �colleagues � is ok, I would say.
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20 Mar 2014
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tvillikko
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Forgot to say: I usually say �work with your friends... � instead of �classmates � because I assume that they are all friends in class. I feel this is the most common expression.
Tanja |
20 Mar 2014
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Yolandaprieto
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Thanks for your answers. I am very grateful.
Yolanda
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20 Mar 2014
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MoodyMoody
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If you want other words that mean about the same as "classmate," try "fellow student" or even "colleague." |
20 Mar 2014
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Jayho
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Hi Yolanda
My students sit in groups of 4. I use:
Work with a partner - meaning one person in your group (next to or opposite you)
Work with the person next (or opposite) to you
Work with your group
If I do a whole class activity I use classmates.
Friends is a good term for primary/secondary students.
Cheers
Jayho
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20 Mar 2014
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FrauSue
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Hi Yolanda,
I would use "friends" or "others in the class" for general group work. "Partners" are for pair work, as stated above. I don �t think "colleague" is correct for a school environment.
Other ideas: work with each other work with another pupil discuss with your peers (more formal) work with a friend work in a small group work in groups of three work in groups of four talk to someone else in the class compare your answers with another pupil |
21 Mar 2014
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edrodmedina
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Hello Yoli. I have my students pair up as partners or buddies.
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21 Mar 2014
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