One of the stories that we did recently took place in an MRT train.
Some of the pupils who are more sensitive to language sat up and asked, 'An MRT train?' I was so happy when they brought that up because it showed an awareness of how English was being used.
And yes, it should be 'an MRT train'.
The confusion is that we usually use the article 'an' before a word beginning with a vowel. Hence, 'an apple', 'an elephant' and 'an iron' would be correct. But 'M' is not a vowel, it is a consonant.
However, there is an additional part to this lesson that is not usually taught in schools. It is not a formal part of the curriculum and sometimes teachers may bring it up, but sometimes not. And that part is this:
When a word or letter sounds like it begins with a vowel, then when we want to put an article before it, we need to use 'an'.
'M' sounds like it is spelled 'em', so we say an 'MRT train'.
Other letters that have the same effect include:
- 'f' - 'ef'
- 'h' - 'aitch'
- 'l' - 'el'
- 'n' - 'en'
- 'r' - 'ar'
- 's' - 'es'
- 'x' - 'eks'
~. ~. ~.
Advanced Composition
1. However, my mother did not share my confidence.
2. Her lips were drawn into a tight line of displeasure.
3. ironical
4. placate
5. The jitters were contagious and before long my own edginess had escalated.
6. invigilator
7. no inkling
8. consequences
Intermediate Composition
1. sweltering
2. The passengers were packed like sardines in the carriage.
3. savour
4. catch forty winks
5. justified
6. destination
7. blearily
8. assistance
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