1. Look at the examples
You already know how to say what is happening now:
We can use the same form to talk about an arrangement in the near future:
“I'm meeting a friend.”
“What are you doing tomorrow?”
“I'm visiting my sister.”
The time words tell us that these plans are for the future.
2. Questions about your plans
Ask a partner these questions. Listen to the answer, then ask one more question if you can.
- What are you doing after class?
- What are you doing this evening?
- Are you meeting anyone today?
- What are you doing tomorrow?
- Are you working tomorrow?
- What are you doing this weekend?
3. Words to help you answer
Use these phrases to talk about your own plans.
meet a friend
visit my family
phone my brother or sister
have dinner with a friend
watch a film
play football
play the guitar
study English
cook dinner
clean my room
tidy the house
go shopping
drive to town
listen to music
Some useful words may be new. Your teacher can explain them, mime them, or give an example.
4. Match the question and answer
5. Make your own plans
Write three sentences about real or imaginary plans.
These are personal answers, so there is no single correct answer. Read them to your teacher or partner.
6. A small planning challenge
Work with two classmates.
- Choose one evening next week.
- Ask each person what they are doing.
- If someone is free, make a plan together.
A: What are you doing on Thursday evening?
B: I'm staying at home.
A: Are you watching a film?
B: No, I'm not. I'm studying English.
A: Would you like to have dinner with us?
B: Yes, that sounds good!
Remember
We use the present continuous for actions happening now and for arrangements in the near future.
| Meaning | Example |
|---|---|
| Happening now | I'm talking to you now. |
| Future arrangement | I'm talking to the teacher after class. |
In this short practice, concentrate on the present continuous. We can compare it with “going to” later.