Mastering the Present Simple: A Guide to Proper Verb Tenses

Mastering the Present Simple: A Guide to Proper Verb Tenses

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will understand the rules of present simple and be able to use them correctly in sentences.

Introduce the learning objective and explain the importance of mastering the present simple tense for effective communication.

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

What is Present Simple?

The present simple is a verb tense used to describe actions that happen regularly or facts that are always true.

Define the present simple and provide examples of how it is used in everyday language.

Forming Present Simple

To form the present simple tense, add -s or -es to the base form of the verb for third-person singular subjects.

Explain how to form the present simple tense and give examples of regular and irregular verbs.

Third-Person Singular Verbs

Third-person singular verbs in the present simple tense end in -s or -es. Examples: he walks, she watches, it goes.

Provide examples of third-person singular verbs and explain how to use them correctly in sentences.

Negative Sentences

To make a negative sentence in the present simple, use the auxiliary verb 'do' or 'does' + not + base form of the verb. Example: He does not eat meat.

Explain how to form negative sentences in the present simple and give examples.

Question Sentences

To make a question sentence in the present simple, use the auxiliary verb 'do' or 'does' + subject + base form of the verb. Example: Does she like pizza?

Explain how to form question sentences in the present simple and give examples.

Spelling Rules

There are important spelling rules to follow when using the present simple tense, such as adding -es to verbs ending in -ch, -sh, -x, -z, and -s.

Provide a list of spelling rules and exceptions for the present simple tense.

Common Mistakes

Common mistakes when using the present simple tense include forgetting to add -s to third-person singular verbs and using the wrong verb form.

Provide examples of common mistakes and explain how to avoid them.

Practice Exercises

Complete the following sentences using the present simple tense: 1. She _____ (work) at a bank. 2. They _____ (not like) spicy food. 3. Does he _____ (play) guitar?

Provide practice exercises for the students to complete individually or in pairs. Review the answers together as a class.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You now have a better understanding of the present simple tense and how to use it correctly in sentences.

Summarize the key points of the lesson and encourage students to continue practicing the present simple tense in their writing and speaking.

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.