concentrate
to give your attention to one activity
It is difficult to concentrate in a noisy room.
Lesson 5 of 13 · Intermediate · B1
Everyday challenges and decisions
Explain what is easy, useful, or difficult and how much time an activity needs.
1. Grammar: It is + adjective + to; It takes
Use It is + adjective + to + base verb to evaluate an activity. Add for + person to say who experiences it: It is difficult for me to focus. Use It takes + person + time + to + verb for duration. Ask Is it …? and How long does it take …? Keep a base verb after to.
- It is + adjective + to + verb. → It is useful to plan ahead.
- It is + adjective + for me + to + verb. → It is difficult for me to concentrate.
- It takes me + time + to + verb. → It takes me twenty minutes to prepare.
- How long does it take you to get ready? → It takes me half an hour.
Model conversation
A: Is it easy for you to concentrate at home?
B: Not always. It is difficult to focus when it is noisy.
A: What helps?
B: It is useful to take a short break.
2. Useful words and verbs
Read each meaning and example. Make your own sentence, then try to use the word during the conversation.
prepare
to make yourself or something ready
It takes me ten minutes to prepare.
avoid
to keep away from something
It is useful to avoid distractions.
arrange
to organize or plan something
It takes time to arrange a meeting.
necessary
needed for a purpose
It is necessary to check the details.
convenient
easy or suitable for your situation
It is convenient to shop nearby.
worthwhile
useful enough to justify the time or effort
It is worthwhile to practice every day.
distraction
something that takes your attention away
My phone can be a distraction.
3. Conversation: 15 questions
Use complete sentences and add a reason or example when it fits. Open an answer starter if you need help. You may use imagined details.
Is it easy for you to concentrate at home?
Answer starter
It is easy / difficult for me to … because …
How long does it take you to get ready in the morning?
Answer starter
It takes me … to get ready.
Is it convenient to use public transport where you live?
Answer starter
It is / isn’t convenient to … because …
Is it necessary to plan your meals in advance?
Answer starter
It is / isn’t necessary to …
How long does it take you to prepare a simple meal?
Answer starter
It takes me … to prepare …
Is it difficult for you to avoid distractions while studying?
Answer starter
It is … for me to avoid …
Is it useful to write down new English words?
Answer starter
It is useful / not useful to … because …
How long does it take you to arrange a meeting with friends?
Answer starter
It takes me … to arrange …
Is it worthwhile to compare prices before shopping?
Answer starter
It is / isn’t worthwhile to …
Is it easy for you to ask someone for help?
Answer starter
It is … for me to …
What is difficult for you to do in English?
Answer starter
It is difficult for me to …
What is important to check before a trip?
Answer starter
It is important to check …
How long does it take you to choose an outfit?
Answer starter
It takes me … to choose …
What is convenient about your neighborhood?
Answer starter
It is convenient to …
What is worthwhile to practice for ten minutes every day?
Answer starter
It is worthwhile to practice … because …
4. Extend your answer
Choose three questions and answer again without the starters. Use at least three words from the word bank. Add a reason with “because,” an example with “for example,” or a contrast with “but.” Ask your partner one follow-up question.