Superlatives: other points

 After a superlative adjective, we do not use "of" with a singular word for a place or group. Instead, we use "in" or "on". Here are some examples to illustrate this:

Correct: Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world. Incorrect: Mount Everest is the highest mountain of the world.

Correct: She is the tallest girl in the class. Incorrect: She is the tallest girl of the class.

Correct: This is the longest bridge in Europe. Incorrect: This is the longest bridge of Europe.

To make this clear to your students, you can explain that we use "in" or "on" after a superlative adjective to indicate the place or group that the superlative applies to. We do not use "of" because it is not necessary and sounds unnatural. Here are some exercises to help your students practice using superlatives correctly:

1. Choose the correct preposition to complete the sentences:

a) Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain __ Africa. (in/on) b) The Great Wall of China is the longest wall __ the world. (in/on) c) This is the fastest car __ the market. (in/on) d) She is the most talented musician __ the orchestra. (in/on) e) The Louvre is the most famous museum __ Paris. (in/on)

2. Rewrite the following sentences using superlative adjectives:

a) This is a big house. --> _________________________________________ b) He is a good cook. --> ___________________________________________ c) They are fast runners. --> _________________________________________ d) She is a smart student. --> ________________________________________ e) That is a long movie. --> _________________________________________

3. Write a paragraph about a place or thing that you think is the best or most beautiful in the world. Use at least 5 superlative adjectives.

Example: The Grand Canyon is the most breathtaking natural wonder in the world. It is the deepest and widest canyon on Earth, with the most stunning views and colors. Visitors can take a helicopter tour to see the canyon from above, or hike along the trails to get up close to the towering rocks and cliffs. The Grand Canyon is also the most popular national park in the United States, attracting millions of visitors each year. For me, it is the most unforgettable and awe-inspiring place I have ever seen.

I hope these exercises help you practice using superlative adjectives correctly and understanding the correct prepositions to use after them.