Present Continuous Tense

This tense is formed using two components: the verb BE (in the present tense), and the -ING form of a verb. Here are the rules, using the example verb "sing":

Subject + verb+ -ing

I + am + singing

You + are + singing

He + is + singing

She + is + singing

It + is + singing

We + are + singing

They + are + singing

Examoles:

1. He is dancing like a professional dancer.

2. They are going to the beach.

3. We are having our vacation in Singapore.

How to make the -ING form
With many verbs, then you can simply add -ING to the end of the verb. However, with some verbs, you need to change the ending a little. Here are the rules:

Verb ending in. How to make the -ING form Examples

Multiple Choice Questions

1. Why does Angie congratulate Chris?
On graduating from university
On getting a new job
On getting a promotion

2. How does Chris feel about the new job?
He doesn't have time to enjoy his success.
He doesn't get paid enough.
He would like to continue studying.

3. What does he miss about university?
The interesting lectures
Staying up late and partying
The excellent salary

4. What happens if he stays up late now?
His boss will fire him.
He's always late for work.
He's tired at work.

5. What would Chris like to do?
Get a different job
Change places with Angie
Work part time

(two friends talking)

Angie: Congratulations on your new job, Chris!
Chris: Thanks, Angie. To tell you the truth, I'm not so sure I like working.
Angie: Why do you say that? Last year you wanted to get out of university!
Chris: I know, but that was last year. Now, it's just work, work, and work. I work hard all day, every day.
Angie: Oh, come on. Don't complain. You're making a good salary now. Last
           Year, you didn't make anything.
Chris: Right. Now, I have money, a nice apartment and a car. BUT I don't anytime to enjoy it all.
Angie: It can't be all that bad.
Chris: No, of course it isn't. I still have my weekends.
Angie: So tell me, what do you miss about university?
Chris: I used to go to parties; I stayed up late talking with friends...
Angie: You can go to parties now, and you can stay up late.
Chris: Right, but then I'm tired at work. I can't do that.
          I have to be serious about things.
Angie: I think you are TOO serious about everything.
Chris: That's easy for you to say, you are still at university.
Angie: Yes, but I don't have a job.
Chris: Would you like to change places with me?
Angie: Oh, come on Chris. It isn't all that bad.
Chris: Hmmm...