B1 Future: Be Going to/Present Continuous

Though the Present Continuous is a great way to indicate present events in present time, we can also use this verb tense when referring to future events as well!

The format is as follows:

1. Present Continuous for Future:
Formation: Subject + am/is/are + verb-ing:

Usage:

  • We use the present continuous for future events when we have a definite plan or arrangement.
  • It’s often used for things that are happening relatively soon or in the near future.
  • The time frame is somewhat fixed and planned.

Examples:

  • I am meeting my friend at 3 PM tomorrow.
  • She is flying to Paris next week.
  • They are having a party on Saturday.

Now you try some examples!

Quiz 1 - Present Continuous as Future

Choose the correct option.

 

We can also use the form be going to to indicate future events/situations!

The format is as follows:

2. “Be Going To” for Future:

Formation: Subject + am/is/are + going to + base form of the verb:

Usage:

  • We use “be going to” for future events when there is evidence or a strong intention to do something.
  • It’s often used for things that you’ve already decided to do or that seem likely to happen based on current circumstances.
  • The time frame is more flexible and can be in the near or distant future.

Examples:

  • I am going to study for my exam tonight. (I’ve made this plan.)
  • She is going to have a baby in a few months. (Based on the evidence of her pregnancy.)
  • They are going to buy a new car soon. (They have the intention to do so.)

Now you try some examples!

Quiz 2 - "Be Going To" for Future

Choose the correct answer.

 

So now you know the importance of these tenses!  We here at Scrambled Eggs are sure you are going to be amazing practicing these English phrases in the next couple of days!  Stay amazing!

Adjectives that end in ED vs those that end in ING

Today you will learn all about the differences between adjectives that end in ED versus ING in the English language.

Look at the following two examples to understand more clearly what I’m talking about:
– I am really excited to go to the movies this evening!
– This movie is a thriller. It is very exciting.

Can you see the difference? While both sentences use the same base word in the adjective, changing the ending of the adjective from ED to ING also changes the meaning of the adjective slightly.

We typically use adjectives ending in ED to describe feelings or emotions.

Here are some examples:

– My sister is very interested in studying medicine.
– In math class I easily become confused.
– After work, I get so tired.

Contrastingly, we use adjectives ending in ING to describe the characteristics of situations or things. That is to say, the things or people that make you feel a certain way.

For example:

– This book is so boring, I am not interested at all!
– I feel bored when I read this book.
– The ending of the book was very surprising! I did not expect things to conclude like that.
– I was surprised by the ending.
– Horror movies are very frightening, I cannot watch them alone.
– Horror movies make me feel frightened.

ING adjectives can also be used for people but be aware that it changes the meaning of what you are trying to say quite a bit!

Here is an example:
– Laura is very boring. (This sentence means, I do not find Laura interesting)
– Laura is bored. (This sentence means Laura is not interested in something!)

Adjectives that end in ED vs those that end in ING - Quiz

Let’s practice putting the difference into use! Try and choose between ING or ED for the following adjectives based on their context.

 

Luckily, Unfortunately, Despite/In spite of, Although

We all know how difficult it is to practice using conjunctions despite trying our best! Luckily, we created this fantastic exercise to help you!

This grammar exercise focuses on a few important conjunctions that may be difficult to understand and even harder to practice outside the classroom. Keep in mind the conjunctions ‘despite/in spite of’ and ‘although’ show a contrast, but ‘luckily’ and ‘unfortunately’ show an opinion.

Beware of the construction of ‘although’ and ‘despite/in spite of’

Although + subject + verb

Although she is young, she is very independent.

Despite/in spite of + noun/pronoun OR verb + ing

Despite the bad weather, we enjoyed ourselves

In spite of being a millionaire, he lives in a very small flat

 Try to fill in the gaps below using the proper conjunction – Luckily,… Unfortunately,… Despite/In spite of… Although…

Luckily, Unfortunately, Despite/In spite of, Although

Fill in the gaps.

 

Did you enjoy learning a little English today? If you can make a habit of practicing at least a little bit every day, your overall level will improve significantly.  Here are a selection of other resources you can use to continue your English journey: : https://scrambledeggsinglese.it/english-exercises/. Also, check us out on Instagram or come to our English school in Milan to say hello!