setting the class

[Mnemon]

English Idioms in Use book


This usage of set is a new one one me. The meaning can be guessed at, but is it in common use in AE/BE?
Additionally, does it work for you if I say, "setting class such a ...." instead of the class?

 

[Piscean]

The meaning can be guessed at, but is it in common use in AE/BE?

It's common enough in BrE.

Additionally, does it work for you if I say, "setting class such a ...." instead of the class?

No.

 

[Mnemon]

No.

Can you elaborate?
I've heard people saying, "OK class, pipe down". Not the class. Why the same cannot be applied here?

 

[Piscean]

We can use 'class' as a form of address with no article; we can say 'in class' (= during the lesson/period), but when we use 'class' to refer to the group of learners as a whole, we use articles as we do with any other noun.

 

[jutfrank]

This sense of set is very familiar to teachers, who routinely set work, set homework, and set other various tasks for their students.