Exploring the Present Continuous

• Engels
• WO
• HBO
• Middelbare school
• Studiejaar 2

Exploring the Present Continuous

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to use the present continuous tense in writing and speaking for situations happening now and in the future.

Explain to students that the goal of the lesson is to develop their understanding and usage of the present continuous tense.

What do you already know about using the present continuous tense?

Introduction

The present continuous tense is used to describe actions happening at the present moment or plans for the future.

Start the lesson by explaining the basic concept of the present continuous tense and its purpose.

Forming the Present Continuous

To form the present continuous tense, use the verb 'to be' followed by the present participle (-ing form) of the main verb.

Explain the structure of the present continuous tense, emphasizing the use of 'to be' and the present participle form of the verb.

Examples - Present Actions

I am studying for my exams. They are playing football in the park. 

Provide examples of present actions using the present continuous tense.

Examples - Future Plans

She is meeting her friends tomorrow. We are going on a vacation next week.

Give examples of future plans expressed with the present continuous tense.

Signal Words

Signal words such as 'now', 'currently', and 'at the moment' are often used with the present continuous tense.

Explain that certain words indicate the use of the present continuous tense and help to convey the intended meaning.

Practice Exercise 1

Rewrite the following sentences using the present continuous tense: 'I eat breakfast every morning.' 'They work in an office.'

Provide a practice exercise for students to reinforce their understanding of the present continuous tense.

Practice Exercise 1 - Answer Key

I am eating breakfast (now). They are working in an office.

Review the exercise answers with the class, highlighting the correct usage of the present continuous tense.

Practice Exercise 2

Complete the sentences with the appropriate form of the verb in the present continuous tense: 'I ______ (watch) a movie tonight.' 'She ______ (study) for her exam at the moment.'

Give another practice exercise for students to apply their knowledge of the present continuous tense.

Practice Exercise 2 - Answer Key

I am watching a movie tonight. She is studying for her exam at the moment.

Review the exercise answers to ensure students understand how to correctly use the present continuous tense.

Speaking Activity

Pair up with a partner and discuss what you are currently doing and what you have planned for the weekend using the present continuous tense.

Engage students in a speaking activity where they can practice using the present continuous tense in a conversational context.

Writing Task

Write a short paragraph describing what you are doing at this moment in your life  and any upcoming events using the present continuous tense.

Assign a writing task that allows students to demonstrate their ability to use the present continuous tense in writing.

Review

Recap the main points of the lesson and ask if there are any questions or areas that need further clarification.

Summarize the key concepts covered in the lesson and provide an opportunity for students to seek clarification if needed.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully learned how to use the present continuous tense in writing and speaking for situations happening now and in the future.

End the lesson on a positive note, acknowledging students' achievements and reinforcing their understanding of the present continuous tense.

Further Practice

Continue practicing the present continuous tense in your everyday conversations and written work to reinforce your skills.

Encourage students to continue practicing the present continuous tense outside of the classroom for further reinforcement.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.