A2 • Interactive Conversation Lesson

Past, Present and Future

Learn how to begin an answer, choose the most likely tense and build a short, confident response.

How to use this lesson

A2 students often know some grammar, but they are not sure how to begin speaking. In this lesson, each question has four types of help:

Ways to Start
Simple sentence openings you can complete.
Most Likely Tense
The tense you will probably use first and why.
Grammar Focus
The rule, structure, example and common mistake.
Model Answer
A short, realistic A2 answer.

Choose your language at the top. Inside Grammar Focus, click Translate Grammar Rule. The English remains visible so you can compare both languages.

1. Past: Your last holiday

Main idea: Talk about a finished holiday or trip. The most likely tense is the Past Simple.

Short model text

Last year, I went to Cape Town with my family. We stayed in a small hotel near the beach. The weather was sunny, and we walked a lot. We visited Table Mountain and ate seafood at a restaurant. My favourite part was the view from the mountain. I really enjoyed the trip, and I would like to go there again.

2. Present: Your normal routine and today

Main idea: Use the Present Simple for your usual routine. Use the Present Continuous for something temporary happening now.

Short model text

I usually start work at eight o’clock. I answer emails and speak to customers in the morning. At the moment, I am helping with a new project. I am checking information and writing short notes for my team. The project is busy, but I am learning a lot. This week, I am also working with a new colleague.

3. Future: A simple plan

Main idea: Use going to for a plan or intention. Use the Present Continuous for a fixed arrangement.

Short model text

Next month, I am going to visit my sister. I am going to stay for three days. We are meeting at the train station on Friday morning. On Saturday, we are going to have lunch in the city. I think the trip will be relaxing. I am very excited because I have not seen her for several months.

4. Practice

A. Choose the correct verb

1. Last year, I ___ to Durban.
Use went because “last year” is a finished past time.
2. At the moment, I ___ on a new project.
Use am working because the activity is temporary and happening now.
3. Next weekend, I am going to ___ my friend.
After going to, use the base verb: visit.

B. Start the answer in two ways

Write two short answers. Use both starters.

What did you do last weekend?

1. Last weekend, I...

2. On Saturday, I...

Possible answers:
Last weekend, I stayed at home and watched a film.
On Saturday, I visited my parents.
Why: Both starters lead naturally to the Past Simple.
What are you doing at the moment?

1. At the moment, I’m...

2. This week, I’m...

Possible answers:
At the moment, I’m studying English.
This week, I’m preparing a presentation.
Why: Both starters suggest a temporary current activity, so use Present Continuous.
What are you going to do next weekend?

1. Next weekend, I’m going to...

2. My plan is to...

Possible answers:
Next weekend, I’m going to visit a friend.
My plan is to relax at home.
Why: Both starters introduce a future plan.

C. Complete the basic sentences

1. Yesterday, I __________ to the supermarket. (go)
2. I usually __________ work at eight. (start)
3. This week, I __________ from home. (work)
4. Tomorrow, I am going to __________ dinner. (cook)
Answers:
1. went — finished past time.
2. start — normal routine.
3. am working — temporary current activity.
4. cook — use the base verb after going to.