General English A2 · Lesson 4B

Grammar Bank

The rules behind this lesson — form, use, model sentences and the mistakes to avoid.

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Grammar focus of this lesson

Present continuous for arrangements vs. 'be going to' for intentions

2 structures

Present continuous
For actions happening now or around now, and for arrangements.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›am / is / are + verb-ing.
- ›Negative: isn't / aren't + -ing. Question: Are you working?
- ›Also for temporary situations and fixed future plans.
- ›Not used with state verbs (know, want, like, need).
Examples
- “I'm writing the report right now.”
- “They aren't answering the phone.”
- “We're meeting the client on Friday.”
Watch out · I am knowing ✗ → I know ✓.
Your own example
going to (plans and intentions)
For decisions already made and predictions based on evidence.
I've got this
Rules & form
- ›am / is / are + going to + base verb.
- ›Negative: isn't going to. Question: Are you going to…?
- ›Use for plans decided before speaking.
- ›Also for what we can see coming: Look — it's going to rain.
Examples
- “We're going to hire two more people next quarter.”
- “I'm not going to accept that price.”
- “Are you going to attend the conference?”
Watch out · going to work (plan) vs going to the office (movement).
Your own example