APM Welcome, APM North West Network Conference, Synergies Across Sectors
Future tenses
1. The main structures to refer to the future are:
Present simple – Sure
The train leaves at 9.30 tomorrow.
Present continuous
I’m leaving at 9.30 tomorrow.
Going to
I’m going to leave soon.
Future simple
I’ll leave when I am ready.
The difference depends on how sure
you are. Unsure
2. As well as using the present tense to talk about facts,
routines and habits, it is also used for the future in
two contexts:
Transport information
The flight leaves at 10.00 on Friday.
The train arrives at 11.00 in the morning.
The bus doesn’t get to Edinburgh until midnight.
After time prepositions
When we finish the course, we’ll speak English
perfectly!
Before we have lunch today, we need to do the
shopping.
After they find a flat, they will look for a job.
3. Normally, we use this structure for
things happening now. But it is
also used for plans and appointments (citas)
that we are sure about.
They are getting married in December - (the
wedding is planned)
We’re flying to London next week – (we have
the tickets).
Where are you going after class? –(near future)
I’m going to the gym.
4. This structure is only used for the future. It is mainly
used to talk about intentions and plans (not
absolutely certain) in the future.
I’mgoing to study more.
We’re going to travel around the United States.
They’re not going to arrive in time for the film.
Look at the clouds. It’s going to rain. (prediction with evidence)
Note: This structure is very useful because:
It can be used for nearly all future situations.
It is similar to the Spanish structure
e.g. Voy á llegar tarde = I’m going to arrive late
5. The future simple consists of will/won’t +
infinitive. It is used in two contexts.
Predictions and opinions about the future.
Spain will win the match.
Scientists won’t find a cure for the common cold
(refriado).
I won’t win the lottery.
Instant Decisions
It’s hot in here. I’ll open the window.
We need some milk. I’ll get it.
Look at the time. We’ll have to leave.
Now try the exercises in this unit and you WILL
learn how to use the future in English!