The Simple Present Tense

The Simple Present Tense Hello, My name is Skippy. I am a detective. I solve mysteries. I need to learn some English grammar to help me solve some mysteries. I have a great idea! Why don’t we learn together? It will be fun! OK? Let’s begin.

What happens in the winter? It snows. Is winter warm or cold? Winter is cold. Is winter cold every day? Yes! Does it snow every day? No. Does it snow regularly or often? Yes.

The simple present tense describes actions that occur daily or on a regular basis.

What are some things you do daily or on a regular basis? ✎

You eat breakfast.

✎

You sleep.

✎

You brush your teeth.

✎

You clean your room.

Alan R. Cohen

© 2006 All Rights Reserved

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Exercise Change the verbs in the following sentences from the simple past tense to the simple present tense. 1. I listened to the radio. 2. She played the piano. 3. Juan brushed his teeth. 4. She spoke to her boy friend on the phone. 5. The boys ran to the candy store.

Mystery OK. Now we understand the present tense. It describes actions that occur daily or on a regular basis. Now you can help me solve a little mystery. I received the following note. I need to identify the person. It is written in the present tense. I’ll need your help.

I need your help. I want you to be a good citizen. Study. Listen to your teachers. Listen to your parents. Do your homework. I am the leader of the United States. Who am I?

Alan R. Cohen

© 2006 All Rights Reserved

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Exercise Answers 1. I listen to the radio. 2. She plays the piano. 3. Juan brushes his teeth. 4. She speaks to her boy friend on the phone. 5. The boys run to the candy store.

Mystery Answer

The President of the United States.

Alan R. Cohen

© 2006 All Rights Reserved

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