A2 LEVEL VOCABULARY ABOUT APPLIANCES - 24 WORDS WITH DEFINITIONS AND SAMPLE SENTENCES

 

Here are the definitions and sample sentences for the 24 WORDS about APPLIANCES:

1 Camera: A device used to capture still photographs or record videos.

Sample sentence: I love taking pictures with my new digital camera.

2 DVD (player): A device used to play DVDs (digital versatile discs), which are optical discs used for storing and playing videos.

Sample sentence: We rented a movie and watched it on the DVD player.

3 Laptop: A portable computer that is small and lightweight, designed for ease of use and portability.

Sample sentence: I use my laptop for work and entertainment when I'm traveling.

4 Telephone: A device used for communication, enabling people to talk to each other over long distances.

Sample sentence: She picked up the telephone and dialed her friend's number.

5 CD (player): A device used to play compact discs (CDs), which are optical discs used for storing and playing audio.

Sample sentence: I love listening to music on my CD player while driving.

6 Electric lights: Lights that are powered by electricity.

Sample sentence: He switched on the electric lights in the room to brighten it up.

7 Television / TV: An electronic device used for receiving and displaying broadcast signals, allowing people to watch programs and shows.

Sample sentence: We gathered around the TV to watch our favorite show.

8 Cell phone: A mobile device that enables voice calls, text messaging, and other features through cellular networks.

Sample sentence: I couldn't reach her, so I sent her a text message on her cell phone.

9 Electricity: A form of energy resulting from the flow of electric charge.

Sample sentence: The entire city experienced a power outage due to a problem with the electricity supply.

10 Mobile (phone): A portable telephone that can be carried around easily.

Sample sentence: He uses his mobile phone to stay connected while on the go.

11 Video: Visual content that can be recorded, displayed, or broadcasted.

Sample sentence: They filmed a funny video and uploaded it to a social media platform.

12 Clock: A device used to measure and display the time.

Sample sentence: The clock on the wall shows that it's already noon.

13 Fridge: Short for "refrigerator," it is an appliance used for keeping food and drinks cold and fresh.

Sample sentence: I need to buy groceries because the fridge is nearly empty.

14 MP3 player: A portable electronic device used for playing digital audio files in the MP3 format.

Sample sentence: She plugged in her headphones and listened to her favorite songs on the MP3 player.

15 Washing machine: An appliance used for washing clothes automatically.

Sample sentence: I put the dirty clothes in the washing machine and set it to the gentle cycle.

16 Computer: An electronic device capable of processing information and executing tasks using programmed instructions.

Sample sentence: I spend most of my day working on my computer.

17 Gas: A state of matter, but here it refers to natural gas, a fossil fuel used for heating and cooking.

Sample sentence: She turned on the gas stove to start cooking dinner.

18 PC: Short for "personal computer," it refers to a desktop computer used by an individual.

Sample sentence: I upgraded my PC's graphics card to improve gaming performance.

19 Cooker: A kitchen appliance used for cooking food, such as a stove or range.

Sample sentence: She prepared a delicious meal on the cooker for her family.

20 Heating: The process of raising the temperature in a room or building to make it warm and comfortable.

Sample sentence: They turned up the heating to stay cozy during the winter.

21 Phone: Short for "telephone," it refers to a device used for communication.

Sample sentence: I'll give her a call on the phone to discuss the details.

22 Digital camera: A camera that captures and stores photographs in digital format.

Sample sentence: He took breathtaking pictures with his new digital camera.

23 Lamp: A device that produces light, typically consisting of a bulb and a shade or cover.

Sample sentence: She turned on the lamp to create a warm and cozy ambiance.

24 Radio: A device that receives and plays broadcasts of sound or music.

Sample sentence: I listen to the morning news on the radio while having breakfast.

Level A2 Vocabulary Quiz about Appliances - 24 Questions

Question 1:

What device is used to capture still photographs or record videos?

a) DVD player

b) Laptop

c) Telephone

d) Camera

Answer: d) Camera

Question 2:

Which device is used to play DVDs?

a) Camera

b) Laptop

c) DVD player

d) Television/TV

Answer: c) DVD player

Question 3:

What is a portable computer called?

a) Telephone

b) DVD player

c) Laptop

d) Cell phone

Answer: c) Laptop

Question 4:

Which device is used for communication over long distances?

a) Cell phone

b) Electric lights

c) Camera

d) Telephone

Answer: d) Telephone

Question 5:

What device is used to play compact discs for audio playback?

a) Electric lights

b) CD player

c) Television/TV

d) Laptop

Answer: b) CD player

Question 6:

What are lights powered by electricity called?

a) Telephone

b) Electric lights

c) Cell phone

d) Camera

Answer: b) Electric lights

Question 7:

Which electronic device allows people to watch programs and shows?

a) Cell phone

b) Television/TV

c) CD player

d) Laptop

Answer: b) Television/TV

Question 8:

What is a mobile device that enables voice calls and text messaging called?

a) Laptop

b) DVD player

c) Cell phone

d) Camera

Answer: c) Cell phone

Question 9:

What device is used to play digital music files?

a) Washing machine

b) MP3 player

c) Clock

d) Gas

Answer: b) MP3 player

Question 10:

Which appliance is used for storing and cooling food?

a) Clock

b) Fridge

c) Television/TV

d) Laptop

Answer: b) Fridge

Question 11:

What is a device used for computing and performing various tasks?

a) Gas

b) PC

c) Cooker

d) DVD player

Answer: b) PC

Question 12:

What provides warmth and regulates temperature in a building?

a) Heating

b) Phone

c) Digital camera

d) Lamp

Answer: a) Heating

Question 13:

Which device broadcasts audio programs for entertainment and information?

a) Radio

b) Lamp

c) Gas

d) DVD player

Answer: a) Radio

Question 14:

What portable device allows you to make calls and send messages wirelessly?

a) Camera

b) Laptop

c) Telephone

d) Cell phone

Answer: d) Cell phone

Question 15:

What is the form of energy that powers most appliances and devices?

a) Gas

b) Electricity

c) Clock

d) Laptop

Answer: b) Electricity

Question 16:

What type of phone can be carried around and used without being connected to a landline?

a) Mobile (phone)

b) Telephone

c) Camera

d) Lamp

Answer: a) Mobile (phone)

Question 17:

What type of device is used to watch videos and movies?

a) Television/TV

b) Gas

c) DVD player

d) Cell phone

Answer: a) Television/TV

Question 18:

Which device allows you to play and control digital music files?

a) Washing machine

b) MP3 player

c) Clock

d) Laptop

Answer: b) MP3 player

Question 19:

What appliance is used for cleaning clothes?

a) Lamp

b) Washing machine

c) Gas

d) Telephone

Answer: b) Washing machine

Question 20:

What device combines various functions such as computing, browsing, and entertainment?

a) PC

b) Cooker

c) Digital camera

d) CD player

Answer: a) PC

Question 21:

What type of energy is commonly used for cooking and heating?

a) Gas

b) Clock

c) Cell phone

d) Television/TV

Answer: a) Gas

Question 22:

What is a common device for making and receiving calls?

a) Heating

b) Phone

c) DVD player

d) Lamp

Answer: b) Phone

Question 23:

What device is used for capturing digital photographs?

a) Laptop

b) Gas

c) Digital camera

d) Radio

Answer: c) Digital camera

Question 24:

What is a source of light that can be switched on and off?

a) Clock

b) Radio

c) Lamp

d) TV

Answer: c) Lamp

A2- C1 Grammar Lessons about NOUNS with exercises

 

Title: Exploring Nouns: The Foundation of Language

Introduction:

Nouns are essential elements of language that help us identify and describe people, places, things, and ideas. Understanding nouns and their various types is crucial for effective communication and building grammatically correct sentences. In this grammar lesson, we will delve into the world of nouns, exploring their forms, functions, and common grammatical rules.

I. Defining Nouns:

A. Nouns: Nouns are words that name people, places, things, or abstract concepts.

B. Examples: Examples of common nouns include "dog," "city," "book," and "happiness."

C. Proper Nouns: Proper nouns are specific names given to particular people, places, or things and are capitalized.

D. Examples: Examples of proper nouns include "John," "Paris," "The Great Gatsby," and "Freedom."

II. Types of Nouns:

A. Common Nouns: Common nouns refer to general, non-specific people, places, or things.

B. Examples: Examples of common nouns include "cat," "school," "car," and "idea."

C. Concrete Nouns: Concrete nouns represent physical objects that can be perceived through the senses.

D. Examples: Examples of concrete nouns include "table," "tree," "apple," and "ocean."

E. Abstract Nouns: Abstract nouns denote ideas, qualities, or concepts that cannot be perceived through the senses.

F. Examples: Examples of abstract nouns include "love," "beauty," "honesty," and "freedom."

III. Countable and Uncountable Nouns:

A. Countable Nouns: Countable nouns refer to items that can be counted as individual units.

B. Examples: Examples of countable nouns include "book," "chair," "friend," and "apple."

C. Uncountable Nouns: Uncountable nouns, also known as mass nouns, denote substances or concepts that cannot be counted as separate units.

D. Examples: Examples of uncountable nouns include "water," "knowledge," "happiness," and "furniture."

IV. Noun Forms:

A. Singular and Plural Nouns:

Singular Nouns: Singular nouns refer to a single person, place, thing, or idea.

Examples: "dog," "city," "book," and "happiness" are singular nouns.

Plural Nouns: Plural nouns indicate more than one person, place, thing, or idea.

Examples: "dogs," "cities," "books," and "happinesses" are plural nouns.

B. Irregular Plurals: Some nouns have irregular plural forms that do not follow the typical pattern of adding "s" or "es."

Examples: "child" (singular) becomes "children" (plural), "tooth" (singular) becomes "teeth" (plural).

C. Possessive Nouns: Possessive nouns indicate ownership or a relationship between two nouns.

Examples: "John's book," "the dog's tail," "the students' project."

V. Noun Functions in Sentences:

A. Subject Nouns: Subject nouns perform the action in a sentence or indicate what or who the sentence is about.

Example: "The dog chased the ball."

B. Object Nouns: Object nouns receive the action of the verb or indicate the recipient of an action.

Example: "She gave the book to him."

C. Noun Phrases: Noun phrases consist of a noun along with words that modify or describe it.

Example: "The big dog with a wagging tail chased the ball."

D. Direct Address Nouns: Direct address nouns are used to call or address someone directly.

Example: "John, please pass the salt."

E. Appositive Nouns: Appositive nouns provide additional information about another noun in the sentence.

Example: "My friend Lisa, an accomplished pianist, performed at the concert."

VI. Common Noun-Verb Agreement:

A. Subject-Verb Agreement: Nouns and verbs in a sentence must agree in number, meaning that a singular noun requires a singular verb, and a plural noun requires a plural verb.

Example: "The dog chases the ball." (Singular noun, singular verb)

Example: "The dogs chase the ball." (Plural noun, plural verb)

VII. Tips for Using Nouns Effectively:

A. Be specific: Use proper nouns when referring to specific people, places, or things.

B. Use descriptive language: Include concrete nouns and vivid adjectives to make your writing more engaging.

C. Pay attention to noun-pronoun agreement: Ensure that pronouns used in place of nouns agree in number and gender.

D. Proofread: Check for consistency in noun forms and correct any spelling or capitalization errors.

Conclusion:

Nouns play a fundamental role in our language by naming and representing people, places, things, and ideas. Understanding the different types of nouns, their forms, and their functions in sentences is crucial for clear and effective communication. By mastering the rules and concepts related to nouns, you will enhance your ability to express yourself accurately and eloquently in both spoken and written language. So, embrace the power of nouns and explore the endless possibilities they offer in your linguistic journey.

Exercise 1: Identifying Nouns

Identify the nouns in the following sentences and classify them as common nouns, proper nouns, concrete nouns, or abstract nouns.

The boy ran quickly to catch the bus.

The Eiffel Tower is a famous landmark in Paris.

Love and happiness are important for a fulfilling life.

The dog wagged its tail in excitement.

My sister and I went shopping at the mall.

Exercise 2: Countable and Uncountable Nouns

Identify whether the following nouns are countable or uncountable.

Water

Books

Knowledge

Chairs

Happiness

Exercise 3: Plural Nouns

Write the plural form of the following nouns.

Cat

Book

Knife

Child

Woman

Exercise 4: Possessive Nouns

Rewrite the following sentences by adding possessive nouns.

The book belongs to John.

The tail of the dog was wagging happily.

The project was completed by the students.

Exercise 5: Subject and Object Nouns

Identify the subject and object nouns in the following sentences.

Sarah bought a new car.

The teacher praised the students for their hard work.

My parents cooked a delicious meal for us.

The dog chased the cat up the tree.

Exercise 6: Noun Phrases

Underline the noun phrases in the following sentences.

The old man with a long beard was playing the guitar.

The red car parked in front of the house belongs to my neighbor.

The little girl with curly hair won the first prize in the competition.

Exercise 7: Noun Agreement

Choose the correct verb form to match the subject noun in parentheses.

The cat (purr) loudly.

a) purrs b) purr

The books (sit) on the shelf.

a) sits b) sit

The children (play) in the park.

a) plays b) play

The flowers (bloom) in spring.

a) blooms b) bloom

Note: Answers may vary, but here are the suggested solutions:

Exercise 1:

boy (common, concrete), bus (common, concrete)

Eiffel Tower (proper, concrete), Paris (proper, concrete), landmark (common, concrete)

love (common, abstract), happiness (common, abstract), life (common, abstract)

dog (common, concrete), tail (common, concrete), excitement (common, abstract)

sister (common, concrete), mall (common, concrete)

Exercise 2:

Water (uncountable)

Books (countable)

Knowledge (uncountable)

Chairs (countable)

Happiness (uncountable)

Exercise 3:

Cats

Books

Knives

Children

Women

Exercise 4:

John's book

The dog's tail

The students' project

Exercise 5:

Subject noun: Sarah, Object noun: car

Subject noun: teacher, Object noun: students

Subject noun: parents, Object noun: meal

Subject noun: dog, Object noun: cat

Exercise 6:

The old man with a long beard

The red car parked in front of the house

The little girl with curly hair

Exercise 7:

a) purrs

b) sit

Exercise 7 (continued):

b) play

a) blooms

Note: In exercise 7, the correct answers are provided based on the subject noun. However, it is important to consider the context and verb tense when choosing the appropriate verb form.

Remember to review the exercises and check your answers to reinforce your understanding of nouns and their various aspects.

A2- C1 Level Extended Reading about Education with answers

 

A2 Level Extended Reading about Education

Education is an important part of every person's life. It is a process of learning that helps individuals acquire knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that will enable them to succeed in their future endeavors. Education can take place in a formal setting like schools, universities, and colleges or in an informal setting like at home, in the community, or at work.

The importance of education can be seen in its numerous benefits. Firstly, education helps individuals to develop critical thinking skills. This is essential in solving complex problems, making informed decisions, and analyzing information. Secondly, education equips individuals with skills that are required in the job market. This makes them more competitive and better prepared to face the challenges of the workplace. Thirdly, education plays a crucial role in promoting social and cultural development. It helps individuals to understand and appreciate different cultures and traditions, and to interact with people from different backgrounds.

However, access to education is not equal across the world. Many individuals face barriers such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, and discrimination. In addition, the quality of education can also vary depending on the resources available in different regions.

In recent years, there have been efforts to address these challenges and to promote access to quality education for all. Initiatives such as the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4 aim to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

Overall, education is a fundamental human right that plays a critical role in the development of individuals, communities, and societies. It is essential that efforts continue to be made to promote access to quality education for all.

Questions:

    1 What is education?

    A) A process of learning that helps individuals acquire knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that will enable them to succeed in their future endeavors.

    B) A process of learning that is only available in formal settings like schools and universities.

    C) A process of learning that only takes place in informal settings.

    2 What are some benefits of education?

    A) It helps individuals to develop critical thinking skills, equips them with skills required in the job market, and promotes social and cultural development.

    B) It only helps individuals to develop critical thinking skills.

    C) It only equips individuals with skills required in the job market.

    3 Why is access to education not equal across the world?

    A) Many individuals face barriers such as poverty, lack of infrastructure, and discrimination.

    B) Access to education is equal across the world.

    C) Access to education is only unequal in certain regions.

    4 What is the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4?

    A) An initiative that aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.

    B) An initiative that aims to promote formal education only.

    C) An initiative that aims to promote informal education only.

    5 What is the role of education in social and cultural development?

    A) Education helps individuals to understand and appreciate different cultures and traditions, and to interact with people from different backgrounds.

    B) Education has no role in social and cultural development.

    C) Education only plays a role in cultural development.

    6 Is education a fundamental human right?

    A) Yes

    B) No

    C) It depends on the region.

Answers:

1. A
2. A
3. A
4. A
5. A
6. A

B1 level extended reading with 6 multiple choice questions about education 

Education is one of the most important aspects of our lives. It is a process that enables us to acquire knowledge, skills, values, and attitudes that help us live a fulfilling life. There are different types of education, ranging from formal to informal, and each type serves a specific purpose.

Formal education is the type of education that takes place in schools, colleges, and universities. It is structured, systematic, and follows a curriculum. The goal of formal education is to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. Formal education is usually divided into different levels, such as primary, secondary, and tertiary education.

On the other hand, informal education is the type of education that takes place outside of formal institutions. It is often self-directed and does not follow a set curriculum. Informal education can include things like reading books, attending seminars, and watching educational videos. The goal of informal education is to provide learners with new knowledge and skills that can help them achieve their goals.

There are many benefits of education. For one, education helps us develop critical thinking skills. By learning about different subjects and analyzing information, we can make informed decisions and solve problems. Education also helps us develop social skills by providing opportunities to interact with others and work collaboratively. Furthermore, education is essential for personal growth and development, as it enables us to explore our interests and passions.

However, access to education is not equal for everyone. In many parts of the world, people do not have access to quality education, either because of financial constraints or because of social and cultural barriers. This lack of access to education can have a significant impact on a person's life chances and opportunities.

In conclusion, education is a vital aspect of our lives that has a profound impact on our personal and professional development. It provides us with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes we need to succeed in life and make a positive contribution to society.

Questions:

    1 What is formal education?

    a) Education that takes place outside of formal institutions.

    b) Education that takes place in schools, colleges, and universities.

    c) Education that is often self-directed.

    2 What is the goal of formal education?

    a) To provide learners with new knowledge and skills that can help them achieve their goals.

    b) To equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life.

    c) To develop critical thinking skills.

    3 What is informal education?

    a) Education that is structured and systematic.

    b) Education that takes place outside of formal institutions.

    c) Education that is divided into different levels.

    4 What are some benefits of education?

    a) Developing critical thinking skills, social skills, and personal growth and development.

    b) Developing physical skills, social skills, and personal growth and development.

    c) Developing critical thinking skills, social skills, and physical growth and development.

    5 Why is access to education not equal for everyone?

    a) Because education is not important for everyone.

    b) Because of financial constraints or social and cultural barriers.

    c) Because education is not available in all parts of the world.

    6 What impact can lack of access to education have on a person's life?

    a) No impact.

    b) Significant impact on a person's life chances and opportunities.

    c) Minor impact on a person's life chances and opportunities.

Answers:

1. b) Education that takes place in schools, colleges, and universities.
2. b) To equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life.
3. b) Education that takes place outside of formal institutions.
4. a) Developing critical thinking skills, social skills, and personal growth and development.
5. b) Because of financial constraints or social and cultural barriers.
6. b) Significant impact on a person's life chances and opportunities

B2 level extended reading with 6 multiple choice questions about education 

Education is an important part of people's lives, and it plays a crucial role in shaping individuals and societies. In this extended reading, we will explore some different aspects of education, including its benefits and challenges.

Benefits of Education

There are many benefits to education. One of the most significant is that it can improve people's economic prospects. Studies have shown that people with higher levels of education tend to earn more money than those with lower levels of education. This is because education provides people with the skills and knowledge they need to be successful in the job market.

Education can also lead to better health outcomes. People with higher levels of education tend to have better health than those with lower levels of education. This is because education can provide people with the knowledge they need to make healthy choices, such as eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly.

Another benefit of education is that it can promote social mobility. People from disadvantaged backgrounds can use education to improve their economic and social circumstances. Education can provide people with the skills and knowledge they need to access better-paying jobs and achieve their goals.

Challenges of Education

While education has many benefits, it also presents some challenges. One of the biggest challenges is access. Not everyone has equal access to education, particularly in developing countries. Lack of access to education can limit people's opportunities and perpetuate social and economic inequality.

Another challenge of education is quality. Even when people have access to education, the quality of education they receive can vary widely. In some cases, educational systems may be underfunded or understaffed, leading to inadequate education.

Finally, education can also be challenging for students. Learning can be difficult, and some students may struggle to keep up with their classmates. This can lead to feelings of frustration and low self-esteem, which can ultimately impact students' performance in school.

Multiple-Choice Questions

    What is one of the significant benefits of education?

    a. Improved health outcomes

    b. Reduced social mobility

    c. Increased economic prospects

    d. None of the above

    How can education promote social mobility?

    a. By limiting access to education

    b. By perpetuating social and economic inequality

    c. By providing people with the skills and knowledge they need to access better-paying jobs

    d. By reducing economic opportunities

    What is one of the biggest challenges of education?

    a. Quality

    b. Social mobility

    c. Lack of funding for education

    d. None of the above

    What can happen when students struggle to keep up with their classmates?

    a. They may feel frustrated and have low self-esteem.

    b. They may perform better in school.

    c. They may drop out of school.

    d. None of the above.

    How does education affect people's economic prospects?

    a. People with higher levels of education tend to earn less money.

    b. Education does not impact people's economic prospects.

    c. People with higher levels of education tend to earn more money.

    d. None of the above.

    What is one way education can lead to better health outcomes?

    a. By promoting unhealthy behaviors

    b. By providing people with the knowledge they need to make healthy choices

    c. By reducing access to healthcare

    d. None of the above.

Answers:

1. c
2. c
3. a
4. a
5. c
6. b

C1 level extended reading with 6 multiple choice questions about education 

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the benefits of experiential learning, particularly in the field of education. Experiential learning is a process of learning through experience, reflection, and application. It involves actively engaging with a subject or topic, rather than simply reading about it or listening to lectures.

There are many benefits to experiential learning. One of the most significant is that it allows students to take an active role in their own learning. Rather than simply receiving information, they are actively engaged in the learning process. This can lead to a deeper understanding of the subject matter and greater retention of information.

Experiential learning can also help students develop a range of skills, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. By working together on projects or activities, students learn to collaborate effectively and communicate their ideas clearly.

In addition to its benefits for students, experiential learning can also benefit teachers. By incorporating experiential learning activities into their lesson plans, teachers can create more engaging and interactive classes. This can help to increase student motivation and participation, and ultimately lead to better learning outcomes.

Despite its many benefits, experiential learning is still not widely used in education. This is partly due to a lack of awareness about its potential benefits, but also because it can be more challenging and time-consuming to implement than traditional teaching methods.

However, with the increasing emphasis on developing 21st-century skills such as creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking, experiential learning is likely to become more widely adopted in the coming years. As such, educators should consider incorporating experiential learning into their teaching practices in order to provide the best possible learning experiences for their students.

    1 What is experiential learning?

    A. A process of learning through experience, reflection, and application.

    B. A process of learning through lectures and reading.

    C. A process of learning through listening to music.

    2 What are the benefits of experiential learning?

    A. It allows students to take an active role in their own learning and develop a range of skills.

    B. It allows teachers to have more control over the classroom.

    C. It is less time-consuming than traditional teaching methods.

    3 Which of the following skills can be developed through experiential learning?

    A. Creativity and collaboration.

    B. Memorization and note-taking.

    C. Listening and following instructions.

    4 Why is experiential learning not widely used in education?

    A. A lack of awareness about its potential benefits and it can be more challenging to implement.

    B. It is too expensive for schools to implement.

    C. It is not effective in improving learning outcomes.

    5 What can experiential learning activities help increase in students?

    A. Motivation and participation.

    B. Absenteeism and tardiness.

    C. Apathy and disinterest.

    6 What should educators consider in order to provide the best possible learning experiences for their students?

    A. Incorporating experiential learning into their teaching practices.

    B. Ignoring the potential benefits of experiential learning.

    C. Sticking with traditional teaching methods.

Answers:

1. A
2. A
3. A
4. A
5. A
6. A