Present Simple vs Present Continuous: What's the difference?

Present Simple vs Present Continuous: What's the difference?

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson you will be able to identify and use present simple and present continuous correctly.

This slide should clearly state the objective of the lesson.

What do you already know about the difference between present simple and present continuous?

Present Simple

Present simple is used for permanent or habitual actions. It is also used for facts and general truths.

Give clear examples and explain the usage. Encourage students to think of their own examples.

Present Simple Examples

I wake up at 6am every day. The sun rises in the east. He studies English every day.

Show examples that illustrate the usage of present simple.

Present Continuous

Present continuous is used for actions happening now or around now. It is also used for temporary actions.

Give clear examples and explain the usage. Encourage students to think of their own examples.

Present Continuous Examples

I am studying English right now. She is working in the garden. They are playing soccer at the moment.

Show examples that illustrate the usage of present continuous.

Forming Present Continuous

Present continuous is formed using the verb 'to be' + present participle (-ing).

Explain the structure of present continuous and give examples.

Forming Present Simple

Present simple is formed using the base form of the verb, except for third person singular where 's' or 'es' is added.

Explain the structure of present simple and give examples.

Practice: Identify the Tense

He __________ (play) tennis every Sunday. Is this present simple or present continuous?

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Practice: Choose the Correct Tense

I __________ (listen / am listening) to music now. Which is the correct tense?

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Practice: Complete the Sentence

She usually __________ (study) at the library. Which tense do we use here?

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Practice: Make a Sentence

Make a sentence using present continuous.

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Practice: Make a Sentence

Make a sentence using present simple.

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Common Errors

Some common errors include using present continuous for permanent actions, or using present simple for temporary actions.

Explain common errors and give examples of how to avoid them.

Review

Present simple is used for __________. Present continuous is used for __________.

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Conclusion

You have learned the difference between present simple and present continuous. Keep practicing to improve your skills!

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