Using since and for with the present perfect
Overview
This elementary-level lesson focuses on the use of since and for with the present perfect tense. The aim of the lesson is to help students understand how these words can be used to indicate the duration or starting point of an action in the present perfect. It is important for students to master the usage of these common prepositions as it allows them to more accurately describe events and experiences over time.
The lesson plan includes a simple boardwork suggestion that introduces the target language. After that, students will participate in several collaborative writing and grammar exercises. The session will end with a classroom game that provides a fun and interactive way for students to consolidate their learning and end the lesson on a high note.
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Lesson Outline
Classroom activities
Use of the board
The students review how the use of since and for with the present perfect tense to give more detail about events.
Explain to the class that we use for to express duration and since to highlight when a particular event or activity began. Next, write the sample 'How long' question on the board and elicit example responses using both for and since. Finally, you can use the timeline to expand the concept in terms of the common time expressions that apply to each.
For vs since
Students have to complete time expressions with the target grammar for the lesson.
Perfect sentences
Students have to make present perfect sentences from a list of prompts on the board.
Interview time
For this writing and speaking activity, the students have to prepare questions and then use them to interview a partner.
Classroom games
Call my bluff: Since, for, just, already and yet
Players have to trick the opposing side using a present perfect statement about themselves.
More elementary ESL lesson plans
Our suggested next lesson is on using just, yet and already with the present perfect. If you've found these materials helpful, be sure to check out our complete list of upper-elementary lesson plans, as well as our entire library of ESL lesson plans.
Also, if you use an iOS or Android device, have a look at the TEFL Handbook app. An ESL lesson planner for English teachers. It has a lot more content and gives you faster access to our ESL resources, making it easier to use in class.
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750+ Low-prep classroom activity ideas
1100+ Printable ESL flashcards
160+ ESL lesson plans
8 Distinct language levels
Offline access through the TEFLHandbook app
Reduce your planning time and improve the way you present and teach English grammar.
Access the entire TEFLHandbook library
Significantly reduce your planning time and improve the way you present and teach English grammar.
Access the entire TEFLHandbook library
Significantly reduce your planning time and improve the way you present and teach English grammar.