When should you use simple-present verbs, and what do they look like?
Use the simple present for a general truth (or opinion), a regular activity, or a permanent
activity. Pine trees stay green all year. That is a
general truth. He goes to bed early on Sunday nights. That
is a regular activity.
She teaches children. That is a permanent activity.
Notice that some verbs end in s or es. For example,
She teaches children.
but
They teach children.
Why is there a difference? Look at this chart.
Notice that the verb drink works for most of the subjects. But third-person singular
subjects require an s or es on the end of the verb. Most verbs like these have an s
on the end. But if the verb normally ends with ch, sh, s, x, or z, then you need to
add es when the subject is third-person singular.
Use simple present verbs to tell what they do.
For example. You see the word He, the verb climb, and the word mountains.
Complete the sentence by saying, He climbs mountains. Notice that there is an s on the
end.
They help sick people. Notice that there is no s on the end.
She keeps people safe.
During Week 2 and Week 3 of this unit, I will talk more about present-tense verbs: both
simple-present verbs and present-progressive verbs. Some of these videos will focus on
negative forms, questions, contractions, and pronunciation.
For now, here is a little more practice for simple-present verbs.
Use simple present verbs to talk about these general truths.
Dogs hear high-pitched noises.
A mountain stream brings fresh water to the countryside.
Use simple present verbs to talk about these regular activities.
They stay a long time whenever they visit.
Paul washes the car on Saturdays.
She checks her email every morning.
Learn more about present-tense verbs by watching the videos for Week 2 and Week 3 of this unit.
Now, it's your turn. Use the simple present to tell us about one of your favorite regular
activities.
For example,
My wife and I watch a movie every Saturday night.
or
I read for thirty minutes every morning before work.
Add your comment to the discussion below this video.