The future

1.

THE FUTURE
Present Simple;
Present Continuous;
Be going to;
Future Simple

2.

A
timetabled
event
Fixed
plans
An
intention/
prediction
A promise/
spontaneous
decision/
prediction

3.

PRESENT SIMPLE
We use the present simple when we talk about timetables,
programmes etc. (for public transport, cinemas etc.):
• My train leaves at 11.30, so I need to be at the station by
11.15.
• What time does the film start this evening?
• It’s Wednesday tomorrow. / Tomorrow is Wednesday.

4.

TO ARRANGE = TO PLAN, TO ORGANISE
(ДОГОВОРИТЬСЯ, СПЛАНИРОВАТЬ ЗАРАНЕЕ,
НАЗНАЧИТЬ ЧТО-ЛИБО)

5.

PRESENT CONTINUOUS
I’m doing something (tomorrow) = I have already decided
and arranged to do it:

6.

TO BE GOING TO
I am going to do something = I’ve decided to do it (but
perhaps not arranged to do it) / I intend to do it:
A: I hear Sarah has won some money. What is she going to
do with it?
B: She’s going to buy a new car.
A: Your shoes are dirty.
B: Yes, I know. I’m going to clean them.
(= I’ve decided to clean them, but I haven’t arranged to
clean them)

7.

TO BE GOING TO

8.

FUTURE SIMPLE
We use I’ll (= I will) when we’ve just decided to do
something:

9.

MATCH THE SENTENCES WITH THEIR MEANINGS
I’m meeting my friend tonight.
Intention
I’m going to do my homework tonight.
Fixed plan
His train arrives at five on Sunday.
Prediction
My school year finishes in May.
Fixed plans
What are you doing tonight?
Timetabled event
Look at the clouds, it’s going to rain!
You’ll be famous, I’m sure.
Next time I’ll go with you, I promise.
Promise
Timetabled event
Prediction