SUMMARY OF UNIT 5 Forms of the Present Continuous (With Action Verbs Only) Affirmative Statement Negative Statement Yes/No Question Short Answer Wh- Question Subject Wh- Question
I’m watching a video about lemurs. You’re not watching the video. Is Steve Boyes rescuing birds? Yes, he is. What birds is he rescuing? Who is studying lemurs?
The baby lemurs are playing. That lemur isn’t gaining weight. Are you studying birds? No, I’m not. Why is Steve Boyes rescuing birds? How many scientists are studying lemurs?
Uses of the Present Continuous (With Action Verbs Only) USE
EXAMPLES
For actions that are happening at this moment
She is watching a program on TV now. The program is explaining climate change.
For longer actions that are in progress at this general time
The planet is warming. I am studying science this semester.
Uses of the Simple Present USE
EXAMPLES
For general truths
Lemurs live in Madagascar. Some birds fly south for the winter.
For regular activities, habits, and customs
I sometimes watch nature programs on TV. People often train pet parrots to talk.
With nonaction verbs
I know more about birds now. We need to protect the planet.
Action and Nonaction Verbs ACTION
NONACTION
The ice is melting.
The planet has problems.
I am thinking about the environment.
I think that climate change is a big problem.
We’re looking at a book about birds.
Those birds look beautiful.
You’re studying science.
You know a lot about nature.
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