Present and Past Simple, Passive

What are we learning today?

You will learn to use the present simple, the past simple and the simple passive.

Explanation

• Present simple is for habits and facts. Past simple is for finished actions.
• Time words help you choose. Usually and every day are present. Yesterday and in 1951 are past.
• Use the passive when the action is important and the doer is not.
• Present passive: is or are + past participle.
• Past passive: was or were + past participle.

Examples

1. School starts at 8 am.
2. Scientists called the first computer "Baby".
3. This system was called the feudal system.
4. English is spoken in many countries.

Remember!

• Passive = be + past participle.
• Negative past passive: weren't allowed.

Check yourself

1. Complete in the passive past: The computer ___ (call) Baby.
2. Is this active or passive: A team wrote three problems?
3. Complete with the negative past passive: Women ___ to act in plays. (allow)