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At the intermediate level of English, when telling short stories and fables, we use more elaborate structures, such as the Simple Past and the use of introductory phrases that help to start the story. A fable is a story that usually teaches a lesson or moral.
Let's understand this with an example:
Once upon a time, there was a brave knight. He lived in a small village and dreamed of becoming the greatest warrior in the kingdom. One day, a terrible dragon attacked the village. The knight decided to fight the dragon to save everyone. Armed with his sword and shield, he bravely faced the dragon. After a fierce battle, the knight defeated the dragon and became a hero. The villagers celebrated his victory, and he was rewarded with a large castle and gold.
In this example, we use Once upon a time, a common phrase to begin stories, especially fables. We use the Simple Past to narrate the events, such as was, lived, decided, and defeated, which indicate past actions.
In addition, the sequence of events structure helps to make the story clear and engaging.

1. Basic Structure:
Question Word + Auxiliary Verb + Subject + Main Verb + Complement?
2. Questions with What - We use it for: things, actions or general information.
- What is your name?
- What do you want to eat?
3. Questions with Where - We use it for: places.
- Where do you live?
- Where is the bank?
4. Questions with When - We use it for: time and dates.
- When is your birthday? (When is your birthday?)
- When does the movie start?
5. Questions with Who - We use it for: people.
- Who is your best friend?
- Who called you?
Attention! If Who is the subject of the sentence, you don't need an auxiliary:
- Who likes ice cream? → No does!
6. Questions with Why - We use it for: the reason for something.
- Why are you sad?
7. Questions with How - We use it for: manner, condition or state.
- How are you?

April 14th is the Day of the Americas and marks the integration and strengthening of relations between the countries of the American continent. The date was established to promote cooperation and solidarity among the nations of the Americas, with a focus on cultural, political, economic and social aspects.
Created by the Organization of American States (OAS), the Day of the Americas aims to highlight joint efforts to promote peace, democracy, sustainable development and human rights throughout the region. The date is also an opportunity to reflect on the cultural diversities and shared communities throughout the Americas, from Canada to Argentina.
In many countries, April 14th is marked by activities that involve everything from debates on regional challenges to cultural events that celebrate the rich history and traditions of each nation. The Day of the Americas is, therefore, a date to strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity in the American continent.

Easter, a central celebration of Christianity, not only marks the resurrection of Jesus Christ, but also has a profound influence on other religious festivals in the Christian calendar, such as Pentecost and the Ascension of Christ.
Following the celebration of Christ's resurrection, Pentecost occurs fifty days after Easter, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, a pivotal event in the formation of the Christian Church. The date is therefore directly linked to Easter, as a mark of the continuation of Christ's work, with the Holy Spirit empowering his followers to spread the gospel.
Another event influenced by Easter is the Ascension of Christ, celebrated forty days after Easter. This date commemorates Jesus' ascension into heaven, where, according to Christian tradition, he sat at the right hand of God. The Ascension marks the completion of his earthly mission, paving the way for the coming of the Holy Spirit, which would be celebrated at Pentecost.
Both feasts are linked to the Easter cycle, reflecting not only the victory over death but also the strengthening and growth of the Church.

THE pulque is a traditional fermented beverage made from the juice extracted from the agave plant, which has been consumed by the indigenous peoples of Mexico for centuries. With its unique, slightly sour flavor, pulque has a rich history linked to the ancient Aztec and Toltec civilizations, who used agave to produce alcoholic beverages in religious ceremonies and celebrations.
Pulque production begins with the extraction of "miel de agave" (agave honey), which is naturally fermented to produce the beverage. Over time, pulque came to be consumed in a variety of ways, and during the colonial era it became a common drink among the working classes of Mexico, although it has lost popularity over the years in favor of more modern drinks such as tequila and mezcal.
Pulque was considered a sacred drink by the Aztecs and could only be consumed by priests, warriors or nobles. Its popularity has remained, especially in rural areas, and today it is consumed mainly in central and southern Mexico, often served in pulquerias, places that specialize in the drink.
Although it is not as common as it once was, pulque remains one of the most representative drinks of Mexican culture, connecting Mexicans with their historical and traditional roots.

THE Canadian whiskey It is widely recognized for its smoothness and elegance, winning admirers around the world. Its history dates back to the country's first settlers, who brought whisky distillation techniques from Europe. However, it was in Canada that whisky gained its own identity, characterized by its lightness and versatility, which makes it a perfect drink to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in cocktails.
Whisky production in Canada spread across the provinces, but it was in Ontario and Quebec that the first distilleries began producing this spirit commercially, in the 19th century. Over time, Canada has established itself as one of the largest whisky producers in the world.
Brands such as Crown Royal, which was created in 1939 to celebrate the visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Canada, are examples of how Canadian whisky has deep roots in the country's history. This particular whisky is known for its smooth blend, composed primarily of corn, which gives it a smoother, sweeter flavor than other types of whisky.
Today, Canadian whisky is a prestigious drink, widely enjoyed both in cocktails and in its pure form, and remains one of the country's most representative and respected alcoholic beverages.

The Casa Rosada, the seat of the Argentine government, is one of the most emblematic buildings in Buenos Aires. Its history dates back to the 16th century, when the site housed a Spanish fort to protect the city. Over time, the building was renovated and, in the 19th century, under the government of Domingo Faustino Sarmiento, it acquired its iconic pink color, which symbolized the union between the Unitarians (white) and Federalists (red), rival political factions at the time.
Located in Plaza de Mayo, the Casa Rosada has been the scene of historic events, such as speeches by Juan and Eva Perón, as well as notable political demonstrations. Today, in addition to being the center of executive power, the site houses the Casa Rosada Museum, where you can see presidential objects, antique furniture and exhibits on Argentine history.
Visitors can take free guided tours of the historic rooms, the famous presidential balcony and explore the palace's rich architecture. An essential tour for anyone wanting to understand Argentine politics and culture.

Opened in 1819, the Prado Museum (Museo del Prado) is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world. Located in the heart of Madrid, Spain, it was founded by King Ferdinand VII to display the royal collections. The neoclassical building that houses it was designed by Juan de Villanueva and later expanded by other architects, such as Rafael Moneo.
With more than 8,000 works of art, the museum is famous for its vast collection of European painting, notably works by masters such as Diego Velázquez, Francisco Goya, El Greco, Peter Paul Rubens and Hieronymus Bosch. In addition to paintings, the Prado also houses sculptures, drawings and decorative arts.
Considered the main museum in Madrid and one of the most important in Europe, the Prado attracts millions of visitors annually. Its impressive collection and contribution to the preservation of classical art make the Prado Museum a must-see for any art lover visiting the city.

Catalan is the official language of Barcelona, ​​and learning a few expressions can enrich any tourist's experience. Here are some useful phrases:
Bon dia – Good morning
Bona tarda – Good afternoon
Bona nit – Good evening
Com estàs? – How are you?
Molt bé, gràcies – Very well, thank you
On és el lavabo? – Where is the bathroom?
Què tal? – How are you?
Quant costa? – How much does it cost?
Tinc gana/sede – I'm hungry/thirsty
Un cafè si us plau– A coffee, please
Perdona, on està...? – Excuse me, where is...?
Si us plau – Please
Gràcies – Thank you
Adéu – Goodbye
Em pots ajudar? – Can you help me?
M'agrada – I like it
Although many in Barcelona speak Spanish, using Catalan is a sign of respect for the local culture, and the Barcelonans will certainly appreciate the effort.

Grammar is the set of rules and norms that govern the use of language. It defines how words are formed, combined and organized to express ideas clearly and efficiently. Grammar involves aspects such as morphology (the study of words), syntax (the ordering of words in sentences), semantics (the meaning of words) and phonology (the sounds of the language).
Studying grammar is essential to mastering a language, whether in written or spoken communication. By learning the grammatical rules, we are able to understand and produce texts correctly, coherently and precisely, in addition to avoiding ambiguities. Grammar also helps to preserve linguistic identity and facilitates the learning of other languages.
The first attempts to systematize grammar appeared in Antiquity, with scholars such as Plato and Aristotle, but it was with the Romans, such as Cicero, that the first more structured rules appeared. Modern grammar began to be formalized by scholars in the 16th century, such as Port-Royal, in France. Grammatical rules then emerged from the study and observation of languages ​​over time, seeking patterns and norms to organize the use of language.

Biochemistry is the science that studies the chemical reactions and molecular processes that occur in living organisms. This interdisciplinary field combines principles of chemistry and biology to understand how cells work, including the structure and function of biomolecules such as proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids.
Biochemistry has fundamental applications in medicine, biotechnology, nutrition and pharmacology, enabling advances in the understanding of diseases, drug development and biomolecule engineering for various industrial sectors. Techniques such as genetic engineering and molecular biology drive research into metabolism, cell signalling and gene regulation.
In addition, biochemistry is essential for emerging fields, such as clinical biochemistry and industrial biotechnology, which seek innovative solutions for human health and sustainability. Its impact extends from the discovery of new treatments to the production of food and biofuels, making it an indispensable science for technological and scientific advancement.

The series "The Great Discovery" has become one of the biggest hits on television, captivating millions of viewers with its engaging and mysterious plot. With an average of 10 million viewers per episode, the series quickly became the top of the most-watched series.
The story follows an experienced detective who finds herself involved in a seemingly simple murder case in a small town. However, as the investigation progresses, deep secrets begin to be revealed, transforming the investigation into a web of mysteries much bigger than expected. The engaging narrative, combined with impactful performances and impeccable cinematography, made the series a ratings phenomenon.
Critics praised the well-structured script and complex characters, which guarantee unexpected twists in each episode. The success was so great that there is already speculation about a possible second season. "The Great Discovery" proves that the crime thriller genre continues to be one of the audience's favorites, combining tension, drama and mystery in an unforgettable production.

Jurassic World: Rebirth hits the big screen as one of the biggest productions in the franchise, maintaining the essence of action and adventure that has won over millions of fans around the world. The film, which is part of the sequel to the famous dinosaur series, brings a new and exciting story, expanding the Jurassic World universe with new threats, never-before-seen dinosaurs and a suspenseful plot.
With a plot that mixes nostalgia and innovation, the film follows the main characters trying to control a new generation of genetically modified dinosaurs. However, the situation gets out of control, unleashing chaos that puts humanity at risk. The script brings moments of breathtaking action and state-of-the-art special effects, which are a great attraction for fans of science fiction and entertainment cinema.
Jurassic World: Rebirth is a success in several parts of the world, breaking box office records and reaffirming the universal appeal of the franchise. With a strong director and cast, the film promises to become another milestone in the history of cinema, consolidating the popularity of prehistoric creatures among a new generation of viewers.

Symbolism was a literary movement that emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction to Realism and Naturalism. Focusing on subjectivity, mystery, and the musicality of language, Symbolism sought to express the deepest emotions and states of mind, rejecting the objectivity and materialism of these earlier periods.
The movement was influenced by 19th-century philosophical and religious currents, such as idealism and spiritualism, which believed in a reality beyond the physical world. Poets such as Charles Baudelaire, with his work The Flowers of Evil (1857), and Stéphane Mallarmé, with The Raven, were pioneers of Symbolism in France. In Brazil, the movement gained prominence with poets such as Alberto de Oliveira, Raul de Leoni and Cruz e Sousa, who used poetry to explore themes such as the transcendental and the occult, with a sensorial language full of metaphors.
The historical context of Symbolism was marked by growing industrialization and urbanization, which generated a feeling of anguish and alienation. The movement reflected the search for an escape from reality, in a world that was becoming increasingly mechanized and impersonal.
Symbolism, with its focus on the unconscious and the imagination, influenced modern poetry, highlighting the power of the word as a vehicle for a subjective and sensorial experience.

In 2019, the world was hit by an unprecedented pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus, which led to COVID-19, a highly contagious disease. The outbreak was initially detected in China and quickly spread across the globe, resulting in millions of infections and deaths. In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared COVID-19 a pandemic.
The impact on public health was devastating. Healthcare systems in many countries were overwhelmed, with hospitals overwhelmed and essential equipment in short supply. The virus spread rapidly due to its transmissibility, forcing governments to implement strict social isolation and quarantine measures.
Economically, the pandemic caused a global recession, with a drop in production, business closures, rising unemployment and an unprecedented financial crisis. International trade was also severely affected, and many countries faced challenges in distributing effective vaccines and treatments.
Social interactions were profoundly altered, with physical distancing, mandatory mask-wearing and the transition to remote working and online learning. The pandemic has also highlighted social and economic inequalities, exacerbating mental health and well-being issues around the world.

Between the 16th and 17th centuries, the Scientific Revolution marked a radical change in human knowledge, challenging medieval beliefs and establishing the foundations of modern science. Great names such as Nicolaus Copernicus, Galileo Galilei and Isaac Newton revolutionized astronomy and physics, replacing old Aristotelian concepts with methods based on observation and experimentation.
In 1543, Copernicus published the heliocentric theory, stating that the Earth revolved around the Sun, contradicting the geocentric view defended by the Church. In the 17th century, Galileo, using the telescope, confirmed this theory and defied the Inquisition, being tried for heresy. Shortly thereafter, Newton formulated the laws of motion and gravity, cementing the scientific method and the mechanistic view of the universe.
The Scientific Revolution not only transformed astronomy and physics, but also influenced philosophy and technology, paving the way for the Enlightenment and the advances of modernity. This period redefined the relationship between science and religion and shaped the contemporary world, establishing reason as the pillar of human knowledge.

In 1453, the fall of Constantinople to the Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed II, marked the end of one of the oldest empires in history: the Byzantine Empire. The conquest of the city, a decisive milestone, profoundly altered the political and commercial dynamics of Europe.
With the weakening of the Byzantine Empire, the Ottomans established their dominance in the region and began to control important trade routes between the East and the West, impacting European trade. This led the European powers to seek new trade routes, stimulating the Age of Discovery and the great voyages of exploration, such as those of Christopher Columbus and Vasco da Gama, in an attempt to access the riches of the East.
In addition, the fall of Constantinople had significant cultural and intellectual implications. Many Byzantine scholars fled to the West, taking with them manuscripts and knowledge that contributed to the Renaissance, a period of great cultural, scientific and artistic effervescence in Europe.
This event not only marked the end of the Middle Ages, but also paved the way for the transition to the Modern Age, with great transformations in the fields of politics, culture and economy.

Homo floresiensis, popularly known as "the Hobbit", is one of the most intriguing discoveries in the study of human evolution. This species was identified in 2003 on the island of Flores, Indonesia, and surprised the scientific community due to its diminutive size and unique characteristics, challenging traditional conceptions of human evolution.
Standing only about 1 meter tall and with a remarkably small skull, Homo floresiensis lived until about 50,000 years ago, coexisting with modern humans. Its discovery has sparked debate about human origins and evolution, raising questions about the possibility that small groups of hominids survived longer than previously thought.
Homo floresiensis is believed to have been an isolated species, probably adapted to the specific environment of Flores, where geographic isolation would have led to the development of its distinctive physical characteristics, such as a small brain, which was similar in size to that of Australopithecus, a more ancient ancestor.
Homo floresiensis challenges conventional narratives of human evolution, suggesting that the story of our development may be more complex than previously thought.

The Mercator Projection, one of the most widely used maps in the world, is not only a cartographic tool, but also carries a strong geopolitical meaning. Created in the 16th century by cartographer Gerardus Mercator to aid navigation, this projection preserves angles and directions, but distorts the real size of countries and continents. Regions close to the poles, such as Europe and North America, appear much larger than they actually are, while areas close to the equator, such as Africa and South America, are reduced.
This distortion reinforces historical inequalities, giving the impression that countries in the Northern Hemisphere are more important or dominant. For centuries, this view has influenced international politics, economics and even the cultural perception of nations. Alternatives such as the Gall-Peters Projection attempt to correct these inequalities by representing the continents in their real sizes, but they face resistance due to the consolidated use of the Mercator projection. The debate over maps and geopolitical power continues, showing that the way we see the world can influence the way we think about it.

Sports have been with humanity since ancient times. Records indicate that ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians and Sumerians, already practiced physical activities for leisure and military training. In Ancient Greece, the Olympic Games, which began in 776 BC, consolidated sports competition, highlighting events such as running and wrestling. With the fall of the Roman Empire, sports lost ground, but were reborn in the Modern Age. In the 19th century, European countries standardized rules and created federations, promoting sports such as soccer and athletics. Today, sports are a global phenomenon, promoting health, culture and unity among nations.

In 2021, Jujutsu Kaisen not only won over audiences worldwide with its huge success, but also played a crucial role in popularizing the shonen genre among the younger generation in a new way. An interesting fact that many don't know is that the design of the protagonist Yuji Itadori was inspired by the style of the manga's author, Gege Akutami. The author drew Yuji with simpler, more "human" features, seeking to create a closer connection with the audience, making it easier for them to identify with the character.
In addition, Jujutsu Kaisen has stood out for an unexpected collaboration with the fashion world. Several streetwear brands have released collections inspired by the characters and iconic scenes from the series, showing how anime culture is increasingly influencing other industries, beyond animation. The growing popularity of anime reflects the evolution of how Japanese pop culture is interacting with fashion and other areas of contemporary society.

Cassim, a character from Aladdin and the Forty Thieves, is Aladdin's father and an accomplished leader of the thieves. Voiced by John Rhys-Davies, he left his family in search of a better life, but his wife died, leaving Aladdin an orphan. Cassim became the leader of the Forty Thieves and began a search for the Hand of Midas, an object capable of turning anything into gold.
In the film, Aladdin discovers that his father is alive and reunites with him. Despite attempts to reconcile, Cassim is arrested while trying to steal the royal treasure. Aladdin frees him, but refuses to run away with him. Cassim returns to the thieves, but is betrayed by Sa'Luk. In search of the Hand of Midas, father and son face dangers, until Cassim realizes the curse of the gold and discards the artifact, causing the destruction of the thieves. At the end, Cassim attends the wedding of Aladdin and Jasmine.

The final scene of The Little Mermaid (1989), where Ariel appears in a dazzling silver dress, is one of the most striking and technically challenging scenes in animation. The glitter effect on the dress was created entirely by hand, frame by frame, requiring meticulous work by the animators. At the time, digital techniques were not yet widely used, which made this scene an impressive feat.
Every inch of the dress was carefully lit to create a magical and ethereal effect, reinforcing the fairytale tone of the film. The soft glow of the fabric symbolizes Ariel's definitive transformation into a human and her new beginning with Prince Eric.
In addition to its technical complexity, the scene stands out visually, being considered one of the most beautiful in the film. The effort of the animation team resulted in an iconic moment that continues to enchant generations of fans. Ariel's silver dress became unforgettable and is still remembered today as one of Disney's most magical costumes.

Hans, a prince from a neighboring kingdom, initially appears as Anna's romantic interest in Frozen. After they quickly meet, he proposes to Anna, earning her trust. However, as the film progresses, he reveals himself to be a cunning and manipulative villain intent on taking the throne of Arendelle. His true nature emerges when he abandons Anna in danger and attempts to kill Elsa, shocking audiences and making him one of Disney's most memorable antagonists.

The classic Sleeping Beauty (1959) is one of the most ambitious animated films ever produced by Disney. With a high level of detail, the film took almost a decade to complete. Production began in 1951, but only hit theaters in 1959, becoming the studio's most expensive animated film to date.
In addition to its long development period, the film marked the end of an era: it was the last Disney princess animated film to be drawn entirely by hand until the release of The Little Mermaid (1989), three decades later. Its visual style also stood out among the studio's classics. Inspired by medieval and gothic paintings, artist Eyvind Earle created a unique design, with detailed settings and angular lines, setting it apart from other productions.
Even after decades, Sleeping Beauty remains a milestone in animation, with its refined aesthetic and timeless story that has enchanted generations.

Madame Wardrobe, transformed into an enchanted wardrobe, is one of the most memorable characters in Beauty and the Beast. As the castle's governess, she is elegant, refined, and has a strong and caring personality, bringing an aura of dignity to the environment. Her transformation makes her an eccentric figure, but with an undeniable charm.
Before the curse, Madame Wardrobe was one of those responsible for keeping the castle in order. After being transformed into a wardrobe, she still maintains her organized spirit and an authoritative posture, although with touches of humor. She is a great friend of Madame Potts and Lumiere, always willing to help and offer wise and comforting advice, especially to Belle.
Madame Wardrobe's relationship with Belle is affectionate, as the young woman is one of the few people who treats the enchanted inhabitants with kindness and affection. As the story unfolds, Madame Wardrobe, with her maternal personality, becomes a kind of mentor to Belle, offering her emotional support in the most difficult moments.

Kida, or Kidagakash "Kida" Nedakh, is one of the main characters in the Disney film "Atlantis: The Lost Continent" (2001). She is the princess of Atlantis, an advanced and mysterious civilization that, according to legend, disappeared beneath the waters of the ocean.
At the beginning of the film, Kida is portrayed as a strong, determined and independent young woman, with an important role in the rescue of her hometown and its people. Throughout the story, she joins the group of explorers led by Milo Thatch, who aim to find Atlantis and reveal its secrets.
Kida has a strong connection to the sunken city and is linked to a mysterious stone, the "Stone of Atlantis", which contains the magical powers that power the city. As the film unfolds, she begins to discover more about her legacy and the responsibilities she bears as a princess, while fighting to save her people and preserve the culture of Atlantis.
She is one of Disney's most iconic female characters, known for her leadership, courage and intelligence. Her appearance includes long silver hair and traditional clothing from her culture, as well as a symbolic tattoo on her face. Throughout the film, Kida also becomes closer to Milo, with whom she develops a relationship of friendship and affection.

Amerigo Vespucci (1454–1512) was an Italian navigator and explorer whose voyages to the New World helped redefine the geographical understanding of the time. Unlike Christopher Columbus, who believed he had reached Asia, Vespucci realized that the lands he had discovered were in fact a continent unknown to Europeans. His expeditions between 1499 and 1502 were crucial to this revelation.
In his letters, Vespucci described the new lands and peoples in great detail, convincing the cartographer Martin Waldseemüller to name the continent "America" ​​in his honor on the 1507 map. This designation became popular, cementing Vespucci in history.
Despite some controversy over the authenticity of his accounts, his influence on the understanding of the New World was undeniable. Vespucci also played an important role in the Spanish House of Contracting, helping to organize expeditions.
His legacy lives on, and he is recognized as one of the great names of the Age of Discovery.

Walt Disney Studios has confirmed the premiere of the highly anticipated live-action Snow White. The production, directed by Marc Webb and written by Greta Gerwig and Erin Cressida Wilson, promises to bring a new approach to the 1937 classic, based on the Brothers Grimm tale.
Actress Rachel Zegler will play Snow White, while Gal Gadot will play the iconic Evil Queen. Zegler's casting has sparked heated debates on social media, raising questions about representation and fidelity to the source material. In addition, the film will feature a new character, Jonathan, played by Andrew Burnap, described as a love interest for the protagonist.
Since its announcement, the production has faced challenges and controversies. The first official trailer for the film generated more than a million "dislikes" on YouTube, highlighting the dissatisfaction of part of the public with the changes to the classic story. Despite the criticism, Disney continues to bet on modernizing its narratives, seeking to include contemporary themes and increase diversity in the cast.

Cinderella is one of the most famous fairy tales in the world, but few know that its origins date back more than two thousand years. The first known version appeared in China around the 9th century, with the story of Ye Xian, a kind young girl who receives magical help to escape the tyranny of her stepmother. In the 17th century, the French writer Charles Perrault popularized the Western version that we know today, including iconic elements such as the fairy godmother, the pumpkin carriage and the glass slipper. Later, the Brothers Grimm retold the story in a darker version, where the evil stepsisters even mutilate their own feet to fit into the shoe.
The most famous adaptation came with the Disney animation, released in 1950, which cemented Cinderella as a pop culture icon. The film was a huge success, saving Disney Studios from bankruptcy after World War II. Interestingly, the dress transformation scene was one of Walt Disney's favorites and required innovative animation techniques.
The glass slipper is one of the most striking details in the story, but its choice may have come from a translation error. Some scholars believe that Perrault intended to describe squirrel-skin shoes ("vair"), but the word was confused with "verre" (glass). Regardless, the glass slipper has become a symbol of magic and hope.