So I walk in and… · I was wondering if… · You're always losing things · Scientists have found…
Building on C1
Every form is known — now choose for effect
By C1 you control all the tense forms. At C2 the same form can create drama, politeness, irritation or news value. The choice is about the effect on the listener, not only about time.
The historic present
Telling a past story as if it were happening now
So I walk into the room and this man turns round and says…
Informal storytelling: vivid, immediate.
Ronaldo takes the ball, beats two defenders — and scores!
Live commentary.
Scientists discover new species in the Amazon
Headlines use the present for recent events.
The past for distance and politeness
Moving back in time makes a request softer
very direct
I want to ask you something.
softer
I wanted to ask you something.
softest
I was wondering if you could help.
Did you want a coffee?
Waiter: past form, present offer.
Continuous aspect for attitude
Not only "in progress"
irritation
You're always losing your keys!
temporary behaviour
He's being very rude today. (not usually)
tentative
I'm hoping you can come. · We were thinking of leaving early.
News: perfect then past
Headline fact, then the details
Scientists have found water on Mars. The team made the discovery last month using a new probe.
Present perfect announces; past simple gives details with times.
Once a time is given (last month, in 2023), switch to the past simple.
Common mistakes
Where learners go wrong most often
I wonder if you can help me, please.
→
I was wondering if you could help me.
past for a softer request
He is rude today — it's not like him.
→
He's being rude today.
temporary behaviour → being
Scientists have found water on Mars last month.
→
Scientists found water on Mars last month.
a past time → past simple
You always lose your keys! (irritated)
→
You're always losing your keys!
always + continuous for irritation
Your turn
Answer out loud — full sentences
Choose tense and aspect for effect.
1
Tell a funny story from last week in the historic present: So I…
2
Make a polite request to a stranger with I was wondering if…
3
Complain about someone's habit with always + continuous.
4
Report a piece of news: one sentence in the present perfect, then details.