ESL Grammar: Present Progressive

Forming Present Progressive 

Affirmative

Subject  +  to be  +  ing verb

Example: He is talking

Negative 

Subject  +  to be  +  not  +  ing verb

Example: She is not running

Question

To be  +  subject  +  ing verb

Example: Are they eating?

Uses of Present Progressive 

1. to describe an action that is going on at this moment: We are studying the present progressive. I am helping you practice English. 

2. to describe an action that is going during a period of time or trend: Is she still dating Bob? More and more men are wearing longer shirts. 

3. to describe an action or event in the future which has already been planned or prepared: We are going to the movies tomorrow. Are they going to call you tomorrow? 

4. to describe a temporary event or situation: I usually eat Mexican food on Fridays, but tonight I'm eating Italian food. The weather forecast was good, but it's snowing right now. 

Present Progressive Exercises 

Instructions: Fill in the blank with the verb given in the present progressive 

1. He _______ (to go) to the movies with Sara.
2. She ______ (to date) Tommy.
3. We ______(to help) the community by picking up trash.
4. I _______ (to grow) tired of her lies.

Instructions: Make the sentence negative 

1. I am studying to become a doctor.
2. He is drinking beer alone again.  
3. They are trying vegan food tonight.  

Instructions: Ask the teacher a questions using the given verb in the present progressive 

1. to sleep
2. to swim
3. to read

ESL Present Progressive Conversation Questions 

1. What do you think your best friend is doing right now?

2.  Why are you studying English online instead of in a classroom?

3. Are people lying about their lifestyle on social media?

4. Why is the earth's temperature increasing?

5. What TV shows are you watching these days?

6. How are you improving your English?