ESL Library: First Conditional

What is the Conditional Mood?

• Used for hypothetical situations.
• Expresses uncertainty about outcomes.
• Used to make guesses about what might happen.

What is the First Conditional?

• Used for possible or likely outcomes.
• Indicates that if a certain condition is met, the outcome will probably occur.
• Example: If she studies hard, she will pass the test.
  (Condition: studying hard → Likely outcome: passing the test)

Common Patterns of the First Conditional

1. If + Present, will + Verb

   • Example: If it is sunny tomorrow, we will go to the beach.
   • Note: A comma is used after the “if” clause.

2. Will + Verb, If + Present

   • Example: We will go to the beach if it is sunny tomorrow.
   • Note: No comma is used before the “if” clause.

More Examples of First Conditional Sentences

• If he drives really fast, he will get a speeding ticket.
• If the students do well on the test, their teacher will let them go home early.
• If you miss the bus, you will be late for school.
• She will be tired tomorrow if she watches TV all night.
• The children will eat all these cookies if we don’t hide them.
• We will be so happy if we win the game on Saturday.

Practice Activity

• Look at a picture and create a first conditional sentence.
  • Example: If you stay out late tonight, you will regret it tomorrow morning.
  • Your Turn:
    • If the students study hard, they will get good grades.
    • She will move to a new city if she gets the job.
    • My friend will be angry if I forget his birthday.
    • I will call you if I need help with my homework.
    • If he is late, he will miss his appointment.

Conclusion

• Understanding and using the first conditional is key for expressing likely outcomes in English.
• Practice creating your own sentences!