Understanding the First Conditional

Aug 28, 2024

ESL Library: First Conditional

Conditional Mood in English

  • Definition: Used for hypothetical situations.
  • Purpose: To make guesses about outcomes when outcomes are uncertain.

What is the First Conditional?

  • Definition: Used for possible or likely outcomes.
  • Structure: If a certain condition is met, the outcome will probably happen.
  • Example: "If she studies hard, she will pass the test."
    • Condition: studying hard
    • Outcome: passing the test

Common Pattern of First Conditional

  1. If Pattern:

    • Structure: "if" + present tense, "will" + verb
    • Example: "If it is sunny tomorrow, we will go to the beach."
    • Note: Use a comma after the if clause.
  2. Will Pattern:

    • Structure: "will" + verb, "if" + present tense
    • Example: "We will go to the beach if it is sunny tomorrow."
    • Note: Do not use a comma 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

  • Look at a picture and create a first conditional sentence.
    • Example: "If you stay out late tonight, you will regret it tomorrow morning."
    • Student Examples:
      • "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 the first conditional is essential for discussing likely outcomes based on specific conditions.