Mastering the Past: Simple Past vs. Present Perfect

Mastering the Past: Simple Past vs. Present Perfect

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to differentiate between the past simple and present perfect tenses and use them correctly in sentences.

What do you already know about using the past simple and present perfect tenses?

Understanding Past Simple

The past simple is used for actions completed at a specific time in the past. Example: I visited Paris last year.

Understanding Present Perfect

The present perfect links past actions to the present. It often uses 'have/has'. Example: I have visited Paris.

Key Differences

Past simple is specific to a time. Present perfect is indefinite, focusing on experience or change.

Interactive Quiz

Decide if each sentence uses past simple or present perfect. Example: 'She has lived here since 2010.'

Common Mistakes

Avoid using past simple for ongoing actions. Example mistake: I lived here for two years. (Correct: I have lived here for two years.)

Practice Activity

Write sentences about your weekend using both tenses. Share with a partner.

Summary & Recap

The past simple is for completed actions. The present perfect connects past to present. Practice both!

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

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