Noun and adjective preposition patterns

Level and focus

Level: B2
Category: Complementation

Control frequent noun and adjective complements with fixed prepositions in B2 writing and Use of English.

By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to: Choose natural preposition complements after nouns and adjectives.

Core idea

This lesson focuses on one clear grammar job. Learners should first recognise the pattern in short examples, then use it in controlled sentences, and only later combine it with other grammar.

Form

• noun + preposition: reason for, increase in, solution to, demand for
• adjective + preposition: aware of, capable of, dependent on, relevant to
• preposition + -ing where required

Meaning and use

Use this grammar when the sentence needs the meaning described in the lesson goal. At this level, accuracy is more important than stylistic variety. Keep examples short, concrete and close to everyday communication before moving to longer texts.

Examples

• There is a clear reason for the delay.
• The solution to the problem was simple.
• She is aware of the risks.
• This approach is relevant to our discussion.

Common mistakes

• Using of too often: not solution of the problem; use solution to the problem.
• Using an infinitive after a preposition: not capable of solve it; use capable of solving it.
• Treating all patterns as interchangeable: not demand to better services; use demand for better services.

Teaching sequence

1. Show the pattern with two or three very short examples.
2. Contrast the correct form with one common error.
3. Let learners complete controlled examples.
4. Ask learners to produce their own short sentence.
5. Finish with a mixed review item so they distinguish this point from neighbouring grammar.

Boundary: what not to cover here

This is the B2 bridge to C1 complex preposition and complement patterns.

Suggested practice

Start with recognition, then controlled completion, then sentence rewriting or ordering where appropriate. Keep distractors close enough to test the grammar point, but avoid trick options that require vocabulary beyond the level.

Quick check

Before you move on, can you explain the rule in one sentence and make one example of your own?