Language point
'That has prompted the teachers' unions to call on the government to reduce the class size so that the redundant teachers could keep their jobs.'
We are all familiar with the word 'so', but do you know the difference between 'so' and 'so that'?
'So' implies a causal relationship, i.e. cause and result. However, 'so that' is used when an action is carried out in order to achieve a purpose, to accomplish something.
Examples: 'I try to get up early in the morning so that I can arrive at school on time.' 'I got up early this morning so I arrived at school on time.'
Now try the following:
1. She studies hard ________ one day she can go to university.
2. I love films, ________ I try and go to the cinema often.
3. I eat a lot of fruit and vegetables every day ________ I stay healthy.
Answers:
1. so that; 2. so; 3. so that
