LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Kinds of Questions YES / NO QUESTIONS 1

• Some questions ask for Yes or No

Are we
answers. Yes/No questions often begin
with Am, Is, or Are. A question ends ready to play?
with a question mark. No. Yes.
Am I on time to play basketball? Yes.
Is that your basketball? No, it is not.
Are we ready to play? Yes, we are.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
© Hampton-Brown

You are on a basketball team, yes? Are you on a basketball team?

Is fun to play basketball? Is it fun to play basketball?

Try It
A. Choose words from the box to begin each question. Then add the
correct end mark.

Is basketball Am I Are they Is she

1. a basketball player
2. on your team
3. your favorite sport
4. on the school team
B. Now ask three Yes/No questions about the photo. Start one
question with Am. Start one with Is. Start one with Are. Then
write the questions.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER
INFORMATION QUESTIONS 2
Kinds of Questions
• A question often begins with a question word. Each question word
asks for a different kind of information.

Question Asks
Example Answer
Word About
Who? a person Who sees the car? my friends
What? a thing What color is the car? black
When? a time When can you drive? tomorrow
Where? a place Where is the car? It’s on the street.
© Hampton-Brown

Why? a reason Why is she in the car? She wants a ride.

Avoid this problem:
Problem Solution
The car is where? Where is the car?

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to ask a question.
1. drives / car / Who / the / ?
2. Where / trunk / the / is / ?
3. the / headlights / When / are / on / ?
4. a / steering wheel / is / What / ?
5. horn / is / important / a / Why / ?
B. Ask five questions about the photo. Use a different question word
to begin each question: Who, What, When, Where, and Why.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Kinds of Questions YES / NO AND INFORMATION QUESTIONS 3

• Some questions ask for Yes or No

answers. You can start these questions
with Am, Is, or Are.
Am I early? Yes.
Is that your book? No, it is not.
Are they in the library? Yes, they are.
• You can start with a question word to ask for specific information.

Question The answer is:

© Hampton-Brown

Who sees my book? a person

What color is the book? a thing
Where is the book? a place
When is the test? a time
Why are you here? a reason
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
You are at the library, no? Are you at the library?
The test is when? When is the test?

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to ask a question.
1. has / book / Who / the / ?
2. do / study / Why / they / ?
3. the / tomorrow / test / Is / ?
4. can / study / you / When / ?
B. Talk about the photo. Write five questions and answers about the students.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Word Order WORD ORDER: SUBJECT-VERB 7

in Statements
subject verb
• In most statements, the subject
comes before the verb.
My friends ride bikes.
The bikes stay on the path.
Mr. Hernandez sees the bikes.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Pedals Max the bike. Max pedals the bike.
The girl a helmet wears. The girl wears a helmet.

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to make new statements. Then say the
new sentence.
1. ride / Max and Lilia / bikes / .
2. The friends / through the park / go / .
3. likes / bike / his / Max / .
4. Lilia / a / red bike / rides / .
5. exercise / The friends / every week / .
B. Imagine you are Max or Lilia. Write three sentences about your
bike ride. Put the subject before the verb.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

A Noun Changes to Show PLURAL NOUNS 10

“One” or “More Than One”
When you talk about more than one friends
person, place, or thing, you use nouns
that end in -s or -es.
I have many friends.
My friends are in my classes.
We carry our books in backpacks.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
© Hampton-Brown

We study with three other student. We study with three other students.
They have good idea. They have good ideas.

Try It
A. Say each pair of nouns. Listen for how the plural noun sounds.
1. boy / boys 5. tree / trees 9. bus / buses
2. girl / girls 6. cake / cakes 10. dish / dishes
3. book / books 7. bike / bikes 11. box / boxes
4. game / games 8. kite / kites 12. lunch / lunches
B. Now tell what you
see in this picture.
Write three sentences
to describe it.
Use plural nouns.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

If You Can Count It, NONCOUNT NOUNS 11

You Can Make It Plural
• Some things cannot be counted. These nouns
do not have a special ending to show
“more than one.” water
We sit in the sand. sand
I eat a lot of food.
bread
It’s fun to play in the water.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Most people enjoy fresh airs. Most people enjoy fresh air .
I eat sandwiches with wheat breads. I eat sandwiches with wheat bread .

Try It
A. Say each noun. Then use it in one of these sentences:
• Do you need some ? • I ate two .
• Do you like ? • I used three .

You Cannot Count These Nouns You Can Count These Nouns
Food apples hats
bread, meat, milk, rice, salt, tea chairs napkins
Materials chips oranges
cloth, paper, plastic, water, wood
cups sandwiches
Groups
fruit, furniture, mail, money dollars shoes

B. Now plan a picnic. Write three sentences to tell what you will
bring and where you will go. Use nouns from each box.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

If You Can’t Count It, NONCOUNT NOUNS 12

Maybe You Can Measure It
• You cannot count water, but you can
count bottles of water. When you use a
noun that names a measurement, you
can make it plural.
She is buying two bottles of juice.
These bunches of bananas are fresh.
How many cartons of milk do cartons of
you need? milk
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
The two cup of tea is hot. The two cups of tea are hot.
They need four piece of meats. They need four pieces of meat.

Try It
A. Say each phrase. Change the word “one” to “two.” Use plural
nouns to say the new phrase. Then use some of the phrases in a
sentence.

1. one slice of cheese 4. one teaspoon of salt 7. one tub of butter

2. one piece of paper 5. one carton of milk 8. one can of soup
3. one glass of water 6. one bar of soap 9. one box of cereal

B. Now tell what the girl in the photo buys at the supermarket.
Write a list to tell how much of each thing she should get.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

A Noun Can Show Who POSSESSIVE NOUNS 13

Owns Something
• Use a possessive noun to show who
has something.
the car of Teresa = Teresa’s car
the sign of the boy = the boy’s sign
the parents of all the boys = the boys’
parents
the clothes of all the children = the
children’s clothes
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
The signs of the boys are big. The boys’ signs are big.
The parents of the boy wash cars. The boy’s parents wash cars.

Try It
A. Use the correct possessive noun and say the sentence.

1. club is having a car wash. (Mario)

2. come with their cars. (the parents of
the students)
3. helps the students. (the mom of Jennie)
4. is to raise $250. (the goal of the club)
5. is to help the community center.
(the plan of the members)
B. Write three sentences about the photo. Use possessive nouns.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Put Articles in Their Place ARTICLES BEFORE NOUNS 14

• When you talk about one person, place,

or thing, use a, an, or the before
the noun.
• Use a or an when you can’t be specific.
The class is doing a play.
Marc wants to be an actor.
• Use the when you are talking about
something specific.
I want to watch the school play.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
We went to theater. We went to a theater.
We saw play you liked. We saw the play you liked.
Marc wants to be the actor. Marc wants to be an actor.

Try It
A. Say each noun. Put a, an, or the in front of it and then use the
words in a sentence.
Examples: • costume • costume
• a costume • the costume
• I found a costume. • Give me the costume on the hanger.
1. actor 2. audience 3. script 4. play 5. stage
B. Now tell about a movie or a play. Write three sentences to
describe it. Use a, an, or the before nouns.

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 Use a or an Before a
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
ARTICLES BEFORE PROFESSIONS 15
Person’s Profession
• Use a before the name of a profession,
or job, that begins with a consonant.
She is a pilot. Are you a pilot, too?
• Use an before a profession, or job,
that begins with a vowel.
Is she an astronaut?
I am an engineer.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Is she scientist? Is she a scientist?
I am a architect. I am an architect.

Try It
A. Add a or an before the profession. Then say each sentence.
1. ls Javier astronaut at NASA?
2. l am scientist who works for NASA.
3. What is space engineer?
4. You are doctor.
5. Yoko is accountant.
B. Choose three people you know. Write sentences about each
person. Tell or ask what each person’s profession is. Use a or an.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out NOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 16

the Subject
• Always name the subject in a statement
or a question.
In many questions, the subject comes
after the verb.
Naomi likes to shop.
Where is Naomi now?
Is the store at the mall?
Yes, the store is near the entrance.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Buys a new hat. Naomi buys a new hat.
Is purple. The hat is purple.

Try It
A. Read the sentence. What is the subject? Make a new sentence
with the same subject.
1. Naomi is at the mall.
2. Some shoppers buy clothes.
3. ls Naomi buying clothes?
4. That backpack is on sale.
5. What does the store sell?
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences. Use a different
subject in each sentence. Make one sentence a question.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out PRONOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 17

the Subject
• The subject of a sentence can be a noun
or a pronoun. Always include the subject
in your sentence even if it is a pronoun.
We are painting together.
You can help us.
She is happy.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Is a colorful mural. It is a colorful mural.
Are working hard. They are working hard.
Am having fun. I am having fun.

Try It
A. Answer these questions about the photo. Use a subject pronoun
in your answer.
1. Does Maria have a paintbrush?
2. Will she buy more paint?
3. Does Benny like to paint?
4. Can Maria and Benny finish their mural?
5. Is the mural dry?
B. Now tell what you see in the photo. Write four sentences to
describe it. Use subject pronouns in some of your sentences.

hs.tr.LT.017.indd 1 5/11/07 5:15:42 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Verbs Have Different SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: ACTION VERBS 21

Forms
• When you tell what one other person,
place, or thing does, you have to
change the action verb. Add -s to the
verb.
Ana calls her friend Carlos. FPO
She talks about her week.
Carlos listens. Ana calls Carlos.
He asks questions.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Carlos talk to Ana every week. Carlos talks to Ana every week.
He live far away. He lives far away.

Try It
A. How does each underlined verb end? Use each verb in a new
sentence.
1. Ana calls Carlos at his new home.
2. Carlos smiles when he hears the phone.
3. He knows that Ana calls every Friday.
4. Ana says that she will come to visit him.

5. The news makes Carlos happy.

B. Write three more sentences about the photos. Use action verbs
that tell about one person, place, or thing.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Forget the -s SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: ACTION VERBS 22

• Action verbs change to go with the

subject of a sentence. Add -s to the
verb if the subject is he, she, it, or a
singular noun. Add -es if the verb ends
in -s, -ch, -sh, -x, or -z.
Andy takes pictures.
He looks through the camera.
FPO
It works well.
His friend flashes a big smile when Andy snaps the picture.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
His friend smile at the camera. His friend smiles at the camera.
She push the button. She pushes the button.

Try It
A. Choose a subject and verb to start a sentence. Then finish it with
words from the third column. Make as many sentences as you can.

Subject Verb Rest of Predicate

We takes down the trail.
Andy munches seeds and nuts.
She runs in the woods.
The friends walk photos of everyone.
A squirrel like to go camping.
B. Now talk about the photo. Write three sentences about a boy or
girl in the photo. Use action verbs.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Get the Meaning of the Verb TWO-WORD VERBS 23

• Some verbs are made up of two words.

Their meaning changes based on the
second word.
Did you turn in your homework?
Please turn down the radio.

Verb Meaning Examples

give back return We give back the money we
© Hampton-Brown

borrowed.
give in agree He argues until we give in.
give up quit I give up. What is the answer?
turn down decrease Please turn down the volume.
turn in hand in I will turn in my homework.
turn up increase Turn up the heat, please.

Try It
A. Read the questions. Use a two-word verb in your answers.
1. Do you give up hope or give in hope?
2. Do you turn up your homework or turn in your homework?
3. Do you turn up the music or turn in the music?
4. Do you give up candy or give in candy?
5. Do you give in something you borrowed or give back
something you borrowed?
B. Tell about the photo. Write three sentences about your ideas. Use
two-word verbs from the chart.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Get the Meaning of the Verb TWO-WORD VERBS 24

• Two-word verbs are made of a verb plus a small

word like in, out, or off. Sometimes the verb and
the small word are separated.
You can check two library books out.
I will check this book off my list.

Verb Meaning Examples

check off to mark They check the books off their lists.
© Hampton-Brown

off a list
check out to borrow I need books. Can I check some out?
check over examine I always check over my work.
pick on bother Those boys pick on other kids.
pick out choose You can pick ten books out today.
pick up gather Can you help me pick my books up?

Try It
A. Read the questions. Use two-word verbs in your answers.
1. Do you check a book off a list or check a book over a list?
2. If you drop your books, do you pick them out or pick them up?
3. When you borrow a library book, do you check it out or check it off?
4. Before you turn in your homework, do you check it over or
check it off?
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences to describe what
is happening. Use two-word verbs from the chart.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Questions and QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH DO 4

Answers with Do
• You can use do to ask questions.
Use do with I, you, we, and they.
Do I kick the football now?
Do you throw the football?
Do we run to the goal?
Do they have fun?
• You can use do or don’t (do not)
© Hampton-Brown

to answer questions.
Do you want to play football? Yes, I do.
Do you want to keep score? No, I do not.
Do you play other sports? No, I don’t.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
They catch the football, no? Do they catch the football?
Do you want to play? Play. Do you want to play? Yes, I do.

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to ask a question. Then answer your
question.
1. we / Do / a / football / have / ?
2. football / they / kick / Do / the / ?
3. I / Do / run / the / ball / with / ?
4. they / practice / Do / football / ?
B. Talk about the photo. Then use Do to write two questions about it.
Write answers to your questions.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Questions and QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH DOES 5

Answers with Does
• You can use does to ask questions.
Use does with he, she, and it.
Does she teach the class?
Does he go to Lakeside School?
Does it have a computer lab?
• You can use does or doesn’t (does not)
to answer questions.
© Hampton-Brown

Does she like math? Yes, she does.

Does he know the answer? No, he does not.
Does she ask a question? No, she doesn’t.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
She learns Spanish, yes? Does she learn Spanish?
Does it help with math? No helps. Does it help with math? No, it does not.

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to ask a question. Then answer your
question.
1. book / Does / the / she / read / ?
2. she / Does / finish / homework /her / ?

3. study / late / Does / he / ?

4. he / answer / Does / the / questions / ?

B. Use Does to write two questions about the photo. Write answers.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER QUESTIONS

Questions and AND ANSWERS WITH DO AND DOES 6

Answers with Do and Does
• Use do or don’t (do not) with I, you, we,
and they.
Do you like these shoes? Yes, I do.
Do they feel comfortable?
No, they do not.
Do you think I should buy them?
No, I don’t.
• Use does or doesn’t (does not) with he, she, and it.
© Hampton-Brown

Does he like this store? Yes, he does.

Does it have cheap shoes? No, it doesn’t.
Does he have enough money? No, he does not.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
He needs new shoes, no? Does he need new shoes?
They look good? Do they look good?
Does he want to buy them? Buy. Does he want to buy them? Yes, he does.

Try It
A. Choose the correct word and ask the question. Then answer it.

1. (Do / Does) they need new shoes?

2. (Do / Does) he find a good pair?
3. (Do / Does) he think the shoes will fit?
4. (Do / Does) the shoes come in other colors?
B. Ask two questions about the photo. Use Do in one question and
Does in the other. Then write your questions and answers.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out NOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 16

the Subject
• Always name the subject in a statement
or a question.
In many questions, the subject comes
after the verb.
Naomi likes to shop.
Where is Naomi now?
Is the store at the mall?
Yes, the store is near the entrance.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Buys a new hat. Naomi buys a new hat.
Is purple. The hat is purple.

Try It
A. Read the sentence. What is the subject? Make a new sentence
with the same subject.
1. Naomi is at the mall.
2. Some shoppers buy clothes.
3. ls Naomi buying clothes?
4. That backpack is on sale.
5. What does the store sell?
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences. Use a different
subject in each sentence. Make one sentence a question.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out PRONOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 17

the Subject
• The subject of a sentence can be a noun
or a pronoun. Always include the subject
in your sentence even if it is a pronoun.
We are painting together.
You can help us.
She is happy.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Is a colorful mural. It is a colorful mural.
Are working hard. They are working hard.
Am having fun. I am having fun.

Try It
A. Answer these questions about the photo. Use a subject pronoun
in your answer.
1. Does Maria have a paintbrush?
2. Will she buy more paint?
3. Does Benny like to paint?
4. Can Maria and Benny finish their mural?
5. Is the mural dry?
B. Now tell what you see in the photo. Write four sentences to
describe it. Use subject pronouns in some of your sentences.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Verbs Have Different SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: FORMS OF BE 18

Forms
• Use the form of the verb be that goes with
the subject.
Subject + Verb Examples
I + am I am ready.
You + are You are brave.
She + is She is worried.
He + is He is scared.
© Hampton-Brown

It + is It is fast.
We + are We are excited.
They + are They are happy.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
The ride are fast. The ride is fast.
The girls be always careful. The girls are always careful.

Try It
A. How many ways can you complete these sentences?
1. glad to get off the ride.
subject verb

2. expensive, but worth it.

subject verb subject verb

3. ready to go on the next ride, but

subject verb subject

far away.
verb

B. Now tell what you see in the photo. Write three sentences to
describe it. Use am, is, and are.

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 When to Use Have
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
FORMS OF BE AND HAVE 19

• In Spanish, you use tener to tell what

you own or possess. In English, you
use have or has.
Spanish English
Ella tiene un She has a party.
fiesta.
Tengo una torta. I have a cake.
• In Spanish, you use tener to tell how old you are or how you feel.
In English, you use am, is, or are.
© Hampton-Brown

Spanish English
Tengo quince años. I am fifteen years old.
Ella tiene hambre. She is hungry.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
He has sixteen years. He is sixteen years old.
I have thirst. I am thirsty.

Try It
A. Choose the correct verb and say the sentence.
1. Elena (is / has) seventeen years old today.
2. I (am / have) a present for her.
3. Elena (is / has) very excited.
4. The friends (are / have) happy for her.
5. We (are / have) hungry at the party.
B. Imagine that you are someone in the photo. Write sentences to
tell about Elena and the party. Use have, has, am, is, or are.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: FORMS OF 7: 20

the Verb
• The verbs am, is, and are are very
useful. They often appear in sentences
that give a description.
I am happy.
Tim is a great dancer.
FPO
• They also appear in sentences that tell
where someone or something is.
We are at the dance.
© Hampton-Brown

A band is on the stage.

• Sentences like these need the verbs to be complete.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
The music loud. The music is loud.
Decorations on the walls. Decorations are on the walls.

Try It
A. Use words from each column to make five sentences.

Subject Verb Rest of Predicate

The dance fun.
Tim am at school.
My friends is thirsty.
The teachers are at our table.
I awesome.

B. Now talk about the photo. Write three sentences to describe the
people and things. Write three more sentences to tell where they
are. Use am, is, and are.

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 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Verbs Have Different SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: ACTION VERBS 21

Forms
• When you tell what one other person,
place, or thing does, you have to
change the action verb. Add -s to the
verb.
Ana calls her friend Carlos. FPO
She talks about her week.
Carlos listens. Ana calls Carlos.
He asks questions.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Carlos talk to Ana every week. Carlos talks to Ana every week.
He live far away. He lives far away.

Try It
A. How does each underlined verb end? Use each verb in a new
sentence.
1. Ana calls Carlos at his new home.
2. Carlos smiles when he hears the phone.
3. He knows that Ana calls every Friday.
4. Ana says that she will come to visit him.

5. The news makes Carlos happy.

B. Write three more sentences about the photos. Use action verbs
that tell about one person, place, or thing.

hs.tr.LT.021.indd 1 10/21/08 3:56:28 PM

 Use He for Males and
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
SUBJECT PRONOUNS: HE, SHE 30
She for Females
• A pronoun can be a subject. It refers he
to a noun.
• When you talk about one male, use he.
When you talk about one female, use she.
Tyrone paints. He uses bright colors.
Jenny shapes a vase. She uses clay.
Avoid these problems: He paints.
she
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Tina is in my art class. Tina is in my art
He draws cartoons. class. She draws
cartoons.
Jeff likes photos. It Jeff likes photos.
takes many pictures. He takes many
pictures.
She shapes.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use he or she.
1. Mike loves art. is in the art club.
2. Cindy is in the art club, too. makes paper.
3. Cindy teaches Mike how to make paper. helps
Mike make blue and white paper.
4. Mr. Hassan is the art teacher. shows the
students different kinds of art.
5. Cindy finishes the vase. is proud of it.
B. Write two pairs of sentences about the photos. Use he and she.

hs.tr.LT.030.indd 1 10/21/08 4:27:11 PM

 Use It to Talk About the
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
SUBJECT PRONOUN: IT 31
Weather and More
• Use it to talk about certain subjects.

Topic Example
weather It is cold outside!
seasons It is winter.
time It is one o’clock.
dates It is February 2nd.
more topics Is it fun to snowboard?
© Hampton-Brown

• Your sentence will not be complete if you leave out the pronoun it.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
What time? What time is it?
Two o’clock already. It is two o’clock already.

Try It
A. Ask the questions. Answer each question with the pronoun it.

1. What day is it today?

2. What is the weather today?
3. What season is it?
4. What time is it?
5. Is it hard to learn to snowboard?
B. Imagine you are a snowboarder in the photo. Write three
sentences. Describe the weather, season, time, and date. Use it.

hs.tr.LT.031.indd 1 5/11/07 5:09:36 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Many Questions SUBJECT PRONOUNS: =:!H=:!>I 32

Start with Is
• When you ask about one person
or thing, use Is.
• When you respond to a guess, use the
same pronoun in your answer.
Is it famous? No, it is not.
Is he an artist? Yes, he is.
Is she smiling? No, she isn’t. Is it a photo?
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Is your sister? No, isn’t. Is she your sister? No, she isn’t.
Is a friend? Yes, is. Is he a friend? Yes, he is.

Try It
A. Have a partner find a person or a thing in your classroom. Use
these questions to guess about the person or thing. Listen to
your partner’s answers. Then change roles.
1. Is it ?
2. Is it ?
3. Is he ?
4. Is she ?
B. Now make guesses about the photo. Write three questions using is.
Then trade questions with a partner and answer them.

hs.tr.LT.032.indd 1 10/21/08 4:29:07 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Use the Correct Pronoun PRONOUN AGREEMENT 33

one one one more than one

he she it they
© Hampton-Brown

• A pronoun can be the subject of a sentence. Use the pronoun that

goes with the subject.
Use To Tell About Examples
he one male Eric sings. He loves music.
she one female Paula listens. She likes the same music.
it one thing The MP3 player is new. It stores songs.
they more than one The friends visit. They hear the music.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use the correct pronoun in the blanks.
1. Eric is in a band. is a singer.
2. Paula plays the guitar. wants to join the band.
3. Julio, Sara, and Judy come to listen. like the music.
4. The music is new. has a special sound.
B. Now tell about people and things you know. Write four sentences. Start
your sentences with He, She, It, or They.

hs.tr.LT.033.indd 1 10/21/08 4:31:55 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Answer a Question SUBJECT PRONOUNS 34

with the Right Pronoun
• Use a subject pronoun when you
answer a question.
To Tell
Use Example
About
it one Is the pizza good?
thing Yes, it tastes great.
he one Is the boy thirsty?
male Yes, he is.
© Hampton-Brown

she one Is the girl still hungry?

female No, she is not.
they two or Are the friends happy?
more Yes, they are.

Avoid this problem:

Problem Solution
Is cheese on the pizza? Yes, is. Is cheese on the pizza? Yes, it is.

Try It
A. Listen to each question. Who or what does it ask about? Answer
the question with the right words.
1. Are the friends meeting for lunch?
2. Are the menus on the table?
3. Is Dan ready to order?
4. Does Monica want a sandwich?
B. Think of four Yes/No questions about the photo. Then write
answers for your questions. Use subject pronouns.

hs.tr.LT.034.indd 1 10/21/08 4:41:18 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Change the Verb to Show VERB TENSE: REGULAR VERBS 25

Past Tense
• In English, you have to change the verb
when you talk about the past.
• Many verbs add -ed to show a past
action.
Last year, I traveled to the beach
with my family.
One day, we walked on the beach.
Last night, we talked about going there again.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Last year, Alina visits the beach. Last year, Alina visited the beach.
Yesterday, she to watch her Yesterday, she watched her
vacation videos. vacation videos.

Try It
A. Listen and repeat each verb. What does the -ed sound like? Then use the
verbs in new sentences.
splashed played ended
talked showed visited
walked traveled wanted
• When I was young, I .
• Last year, my family .
• Yesterday, I .
B. Now imagine you are someone in the photo. Write a note to a
friend to describe your vacation. Use past tense verbs.

hs.tr.LT.025.indd 1 10/21/08 4:09:26 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out the Verb VERB TENSE: FORMS OF BE 26

• In English, you have to change the verb

when you tell about the past.
• The verb be has special forms in the
past.
1. Use was with I, he, she, or it.
I was at the mall yesterday.
It was fun!
2. Use were with we, you, or they.
You were there, too. We were surprised to see you.
© Hampton-Brown

• Do not leave the verb out of the sentence.

Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
Natalie happy. Natalie was happy.
The girls are at the mall yesterday. The girls were at the mall yesterday.

Try It
A. Choose words from each box to tell a story.
Last week, I my mother my father my brother my friends
was were at home at school at the mall at a game .

At first, I my mother my father my brother my friends

was were nervous happy sad scared sick .

By the end, I my mother my father my brother my friends

was were nervous happy sad scared sick .
B. Write three sentences to describe an exciting time from last week.
Tell what you felt. Use was and were.

hs.tr.LT.026.indd 1 10/21/08 4:11:47 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Change the Verb to Show VERB TENSE: IRREGULAR VERBS 27

Past Tense
• In English, you have to change the verb
when you talk about the past.
• Some verbs have special forms to tell
about the past.

Present Past Example

© Hampton-Brown

have had Yesterday, we had a great time.

go went After school, we went downtown.
feel felt It felt good to relax after school.
think thought We thought about seeing a movie.

Avoid this problem:

Problem Solution
Yesterday, I see my friends. Yesterday, I saw my friends.

Try It
A. Listen to each sentence. Change the verb to the past tense.
Then use the past tense verb in a new sentence.
1. At night, I go out with my friends.
2. My friends think we should go downtown.
3. Julia has to go home to study.
4. She feels sad about missing the fun.
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences about it. Use
irregular past tense verbs.

hs.tr.LT.027.indd 1 10/21/08 4:14:37 PM

 Add Will to Signal
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
VERB TENSE: FUTURE 28
the Future
• In English, you have to change the verb
to tell about the future. Add will before
the verb.
Tomorrow I will play soccer.
Next week we will start practice.

What will you do in the future?

© Hampton-Brown

Now In the Future

Today I play basketball. Tomorrow I will play soccer.
Now we have English class. Later we will have math.
This year they are sixteen years old. Next year they will be seventeen.

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
We finish it tomorrow. We will finish it tomorrow.
You meet my girlfriend next week. You will meet my girlfriend next week.

Try It
A. Choose words from each column to make five sentences.

I goes a test.
Today
he will go to basketball practice.
Tomorrow
she have a lesson.
In the future
they has a great time.

B. Tell about the teens in the photo. Write sentences to tell what
they will do in the future. Use will in each sentence.

hs.tr.LT.028.indd 1 10/21/08 4:18:16 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Word Order WORD ORDER: SUBJECT-VERB 7

in Statements
subject verb
• In most statements, the subject
comes before the verb.
My friends ride bikes.
The bikes stay on the path.
Mr. Hernandez sees the bikes.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Pedals Max the bike. Max pedals the bike.
The girl a helmet wears. The girl wears a helmet.

Try It
A. Unscramble the words to make new statements. Then say the
new sentence.
1. ride / Max and Lilia / bikes / .
2. The friends / through the park / go / .
3. likes / bike / his / Max / .
4. Lilia / a / red bike / rides / .
5. exercise / The friends / every week / .
B. Imagine you are Max or Lilia. Write three sentences about your
bike ride. Put the subject before the verb.

hs.tr.LT.007.indd 1 10/21/08 5:18:03 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Word Order WORD ORDER: SUBJECT-VERB-OBJECT 8

in Statements
subject verb object
• In most statements, the subject
comes first. The verb comes next, and
the object is last.
We studied Martin Luther King, Jr.
He wanted equal rights .
His followers changed the world . Martin Luther King, Jr., speaks
to a crowd in Washington, D.C.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
He great speeches made. He made great speeches .
Heard people his words . People heard his words .

Try It
A. Choose words from each column to make five statements. You
may use words more than once.
Subject Verb Object
Martin Luther King, Jr., heard equal rights.
His followers discusses his ideas.
I wanted his speeches.
My class share respect.
Everyone needs Martin Luther King, Jr.

B. Now write three statements about Martin Luther King, Jr.

Do they follow the subject-verb-object pattern?

hs.tr.LT.008.indd 1 10/21/08 3:03:39 PM

 Use He for Males and
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
SUBJECT PRONOUNS: HE, SHE 30
She for Females
• A pronoun can be a subject. It refers he
to a noun.
• When you talk about one male, use he.
When you talk about one female, use she.
Tyrone paints. He uses bright colors.
Jenny shapes a vase. She uses clay.
Avoid these problems: He paints.
she
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Tina is in my art class. Tina is in my art
He draws cartoons. class. She draws
cartoons.
Jeff likes photos. It Jeff likes photos.
takes many pictures. He takes many
pictures.
She shapes.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use he or she.
1. Mike loves art. is in the art club.
2. Cindy is in the art club, too. makes paper.
3. Cindy teaches Mike how to make paper. helps
Mike make blue and white paper.
4. Mr. Hassan is the art teacher. shows the
students different kinds of art.
5. Cindy finishes the vase. is proud of it.
B. Write two pairs of sentences about the photos. Use he and she.

hs.tr.LT.030.indd 1 10/21/08 4:27:11 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Use the Correct Pronoun PRONOUN AGREEMENT 33

one one one more than one

he she it they
© Hampton-Brown

• A pronoun can be the subject of a sentence. Use the pronoun that

goes with the subject.
Use To Tell About Examples
he one male Eric sings. He loves music.
she one female Paula listens. She likes the same music.
it one thing The MP3 player is new. It stores songs.
they more than one The friends visit. They hear the music.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use the correct pronoun in the blanks.
1. Eric is in a band. is a singer.
2. Paula plays the guitar. wants to join the band.
3. Julio, Sara, and Judy come to listen. like the music.
4. The music is new. has a special sound.
B. Now tell about people and things you know. Write four sentences. Start
your sentences with He, She, It, or They.

hs.tr.LT.033.indd 1 10/21/08 4:31:55 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Answer a Question SUBJECT PRONOUNS 34

with the Right Pronoun
• Use a subject pronoun when you
answer a question.
To Tell
Use Example
About
it one Is the pizza good?
thing Yes, it tastes great.
he one Is the boy thirsty?
male Yes, he is.
© Hampton-Brown

she one Is the girl still hungry?

female No, she is not.
they two or Are the friends happy?
more Yes, they are.

Avoid this problem:

Problem Solution
Is cheese on the pizza? Yes, is. Is cheese on the pizza? Yes, it is.

Try It
A. Listen to each question. Who or what does it ask about? Answer
the question with the right words.
1. Are the friends meeting for lunch?
2. Are the menus on the table?
3. Is Dan ready to order?
4. Does Monica want a sandwich?
B. Think of four Yes/No questions about the photo. Then write
answers for your questions. Use subject pronouns.

hs.tr.LT.034.indd 1 10/21/08 4:41:18 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Use the Right Preposition PREPOSITIONS 41

• At, on, and in are prepositions. They

can tell where something is.
• Use at to show an exact location.
The friends are at the school.
• Use on to show a more general area.
Their school is on Whittier
Boulevard.
Their school is on a corner.
• Use in to show an even bigger area.
© Hampton-Brown

Whittier Boulevard is in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles is in the West.
Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
Our school bus stops on Our school bus stops at the park.
the park.
My teacher lives at My teacher lives in Riverside County.
Riverside County.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use at, on, or in.
1. Every morning, I meet my friend the Youth Center.
2. We walk to our school Oak Avenue.
3. Sometimes we ride to the bus stop Main Street.
4. We meet our friends the music store.
5. It has the best music our city.
B. Now tell about places near your school. Write three sentences
that use at, on, or in.

hs.tr.LT.041.indd 1 5/11/07 5:28:27 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Use the Right Preposition PREPOSITIONS 42

• You can use prepositions like at,

on, and in to talk about time.
• Use at to tell about an exact time.
The new year begins at 12 o’clock
midnight.
• Use on to tell about a longer period
of time.
People celebrate at midnight
This year, New Year’s Eve is on on New Year’s Eve.
Saturday.
• Use in to tell about an even longer period of time.
© Hampton-Brown

New Year’s Day is the first day in January.

Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
Thanksgiving is on November. Thanksgiving is in November.
My birthday is at Tuesday. My birthday is on Tuesday.

Try It
A. Say each sentence. Use at, on, or in.
1. Presidents’ Day is February.
2. Halloween is October 31.
3. Our Fourth of July party will start 5 o’clock.
4. My birthday is Thanksgiving.
5. The winter dance is the month of December.
B. Now tell about a celebration you know. Use at, on, and in to
write sentences about when it happens.

hs.tr.LT.042.indd 1 10/21/08 5:07:01 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Adjectives Usually Come PLACEMENT OF ADJECTIVES 35

Before Nouns
Adjectives describe, or tell more about,
nouns. They usually come before the nouns
they describe.
Animal rescuers are courageous and
kind people.
They find lost, sick, or hurt animals. An incredible, brave rescue
The frightened, dangerous animals
need help.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Animal rescuers have tools special . Animal rescuers have special tools.
They also use reflexes quick . They also use quick reflexes.

Try It
A. Tell about the rescue. Say each sentence with the adjective
in parentheses.
1. The rescuers rushed to the disaster. (brave)
2. They searched for the animals. (helpless)
3. Christine picked up the animals. (wounded)
4. She washed them with soap. (mild)
5. The animals were safe. (tired and frightened)
B. Imagine you are an animal rescuer in the photo. Write an e-mail to a
friend. Use adjectives to describe your experience.

hs.tr.LT.035.indd 1 10/21/08 4:44:52 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Never Make an ADJECTIVES 36

Adjective Plural
• Adjectives are words that describe
nouns. The adjective does not change,
even if the noun is plural.
This is a large zoo.
We have two large zoos in the city.
• Use a before an adjective that begins
with a consonant. Use an before an We see powerful tigers.
adjective that begins with a vowel.
© Hampton-Brown

A male tiger may weigh up to 500 pounds.

An old tiger may hunt people.
Avoid these problems:
Problem
The cubs are smalls tigers.
A adult, male tiger lives alone.
Solution
The cubs are small tigers.
An adult, male tiger lives alone.

Try It
A. Add an adjective to each sentence. Add a or an before the adjective
if needed. More than one answer is possible.
1. The tiger babies cannot see at birth.
2. After a few months, the babies play outside.
3. baby might bite his mother’s tail.
4. mother watches over her babies.
B. Now tell about another animal. Write four sentences to describe
it. Use adjectives.

hs.tr.LT.036.indd 1 5/11/07 5:19:11 PM

 Use Many, Much,
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
INDEFINITE ADJECTIVES 37
Some, and Any
• Indefinite adjectives can be used in
questions and answers.
• Use many to ask about things you can
count. Answer with a specific amount.
How many pineapples do we need?
We need one pineapple.
• Use much to ask about things you We have some groceries.
can’t count.
© Hampton-Brown

How much jam do we have?

We have two jars.
• Use some and any to ask about things you can and cannot count.
Answer with some, any, or a specific amount.
Can you buy some milk? Yes, I see some here.
Do we have any yogurt? No, we don’t have any.
Can you see any pasta? Yes, I see five boxes of pasta.

Try It
A. Choose a word to complete each question. Then answer the
questions with some, any, or a specific amount.
1. How (many / much) carrots do you want?
2. Do you have (many / any) juice in your cart?
3. How (many / much) butter do we need?
4. Do you see (some / many) soup on the shelf?
5. Can you look for (much / some) sugar?
B. Now talk about the photo. Write four questions and answers about groceries.
Use many, much, some, and any in your questions and answers.

hs.tr.LT.037.indd 1 10/21/08 4:53:10 PM

 Place Not After Am,
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
PLACEMENT OF NOT 38
Is, and Are
• The word not makes a sentence mean
“no.” Place not after a form of the verb be.
I am not ready to bowl.
It is not my turn.
My friend’s turn is not over.
The pins are not all down.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Bowling balls not are light. Bowling balls are not light.
I not am a good bowler. I am not a good bowler.

Try It
A. Answer these questions. Use not and a form of the verb be.
1. Are you in the classroom? ,I in the
classroom.
2. Are the lights off? , the lights off.
3. Is the teacher there? , the teacher here.
4. Is the door open? , the door open.
5. Are you sick? ,I sick.
B. Tell about the photo. Write three sentences about bowling. Use
am, is, and are. Then add not to make your sentences mean “no.”

hs.tr.LT.038.indd 1 10/21/08 4:58:10 PM

 Put Not Between the
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
PLACEMENT OF NOT 39
Helping Verb and the Main Verb
• Some sentences tell what is not
happening. Put not between the helping
verb and the main verb to show what is
not happening right now.
I am not playing soccer.
My friends are not waiting for me.
It is not raining today.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
The girls not are jogging in the park. The girls are not jogging in the park.
Charlie not is reading a book. Charlie is not reading a book.

Try It
A. Say what is not happening right now. Put not in the right place.
1. We are sitting in the school library.

2. Some people are doing homework.

3. Mr. Lee is reading poetry.

4. I am whispering to my friends.

5. We are getting a lot of work done.

B. Tell about the photo. Write three sentences that put not in the
right place.

hs.tr.LT.039.indd 1 10/21/08 5:04:24 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Watch Out for Double NEGATIVE SENTENCES 40

Negatives
• Use negative words to tell what is not true or not
happening.
Joey does not like scary movies.
My sisters are afraid of nothing.
We never see violent movies.
• Use only one negative word in a sentence.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
I never get none of the popcorn. I never get any of the popcorn.
No one went nowhere. No one went anywhere.

Try It
A. Answer the questions. Choose words from the word box to give
negative answers.
no not none nothing
nobody no one never nowhere
1. Do you have enough money? .
2. Is a good movie playing? .
3. Did Jorge tell you about the movie?
.
4. Is the movie theater crowded? .
5. Did anybody save us a seat? .
B. Now talk with a partner about the photo. Write three sentences about
it. Make at least two of the sentences negative.

hs.tr.LT.040.indd 1 5/11/07 5:26:20 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out NOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 16

the Subject
• Always name the subject in a statement
or a question.
In many questions, the subject comes
after the verb.
Naomi likes to shop.
Where is Naomi now?
Is the store at the mall?
Yes, the store is near the entrance.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Buys a new hat. Naomi buys a new hat.
Is purple. The hat is purple.

Try It
A. Read the sentence. What is the subject? Make a new sentence
with the same subject.
1. Naomi is at the mall.
2. Some shoppers buy clothes.
3. ls Naomi buying clothes?
4. That backpack is on sale.
5. What does the store sell?
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences. Use a different
subject in each sentence. Make one sentence a question.

hs.tr.LT.016.indd 1 5/10/07 6:01:43 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out PRONOUNS IN THE SUBJECT 17

the Subject
• The subject of a sentence can be a noun
or a pronoun. Always include the subject
in your sentence even if it is a pronoun.
We are painting together.
You can help us.
She is happy.
Avoid these problems:
© Hampton-Brown

Problem Solution
Is a colorful mural. It is a colorful mural.
Are working hard. They are working hard.
Am having fun. I am having fun.

Try It
A. Answer these questions about the photo. Use a subject pronoun
in your answer.
1. Does Maria have a paintbrush?
2. Will she buy more paint?
3. Does Benny like to paint?
4. Can Maria and Benny finish their mural?
5. Is the mural dry?
B. Now tell what you see in the photo. Write four sentences to
describe it. Use subject pronouns in some of your sentences.

hs.tr.LT.017.indd 1 5/11/07 5:15:42 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Verbs Have Different SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: ACTION VERBS 21

Forms
• When you tell what one other person,
place, or thing does, you have to
change the action verb. Add -s to the
verb.
Ana calls her friend Carlos. FPO
She talks about her week.
Carlos listens. Ana calls Carlos.
He asks questions.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Carlos talk to Ana every week. Carlos talks to Ana every week.
He live far away. He lives far away.

Try It
A. How does each underlined verb end? Use each verb in a new
sentence.
1. Ana calls Carlos at his new home.
2. Carlos smiles when he hears the phone.
3. He knows that Ana calls every Friday.
4. Ana says that she will come to visit him.

5. The news makes Carlos happy.

B. Write three more sentences about the photos. Use action verbs
that tell about one person, place, or thing.

hs.tr.LT.021.indd 1 10/21/08 3:56:28 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Forget the -s SUBJECT-VERB AGREEMENT: ACTION VERBS 22

• Action verbs change to go with the

subject of a sentence. Add -s to the
verb if the subject is he, she, it, or a
singular noun. Add -es if the verb ends
in -s, -ch, -sh, -x, or -z.
Andy takes pictures.
He looks through the camera.
FPO
It works well.
His friend flashes a big smile when Andy snaps the picture.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
His friend smile at the camera. His friend smiles at the camera.
She push the button. She pushes the button.

Try It
A. Choose a subject and verb to start a sentence. Then finish it with
words from the third column. Make as many sentences as you can.

Subject Verb Rest of Predicate

We takes down the trail.
Andy munches seeds and nuts.
She runs in the woods.
The friends walk photos of everyone.
A squirrel like to go camping.
B. Now talk about the photo. Write three sentences about a boy or
girl in the photo. Use action verbs.

hs.tr.LT.022.indd 1 10/21/08 4:05:30 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Change the Verb to Show VERB TENSE: REGULAR VERBS 25

Past Tense
• In English, you have to change the verb
when you talk about the past.
• Many verbs add -ed to show a past
action.
Last year, I traveled to the beach
with my family.
One day, we walked on the beach.
Last night, we talked about going there again.
© Hampton-Brown

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
Last year, Alina visits the beach. Last year, Alina visited the beach.
Yesterday, she to watch her Yesterday, she watched her
vacation videos. vacation videos.

Try It
A. Listen and repeat each verb. What does the -ed sound like? Then use the
verbs in new sentences.
splashed played ended
talked showed visited
walked traveled wanted
• When I was young, I .
• Last year, my family .
• Yesterday, I .
B. Now imagine you are someone in the photo. Write a note to a
friend to describe your vacation. Use past tense verbs.

hs.tr.LT.025.indd 1 10/21/08 4:09:26 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Leave Out the Verb VERB TENSE: FORMS OF BE 26

• In English, you have to change the verb

when you tell about the past.
• The verb be has special forms in the
past.
1. Use was with I, he, she, or it.
I was at the mall yesterday.
It was fun!
2. Use were with we, you, or they.
You were there, too. We were surprised to see you.
© Hampton-Brown

• Do not leave the verb out of the sentence.

Avoid these problems:
Problem Solution
Natalie happy. Natalie was happy.
The girls are at the mall yesterday. The girls were at the mall yesterday.

Try It
A. Choose words from each box to tell a story.
Last week, I my mother my father my brother my friends
was were at home at school at the mall at a game .

At first, I my mother my father my brother my friends

was were nervous happy sad scared sick .

By the end, I my mother my father my brother my friends

was were nervous happy sad scared sick .
B. Write three sentences to describe an exciting time from last week.
Tell what you felt. Use was and were.

hs.tr.LT.026.indd 1 10/21/08 4:11:47 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Change the Verb to Show VERB TENSE: IRREGULAR VERBS 27

Past Tense
• In English, you have to change the verb
when you talk about the past.
• Some verbs have special forms to tell
about the past.

Present Past Example

© Hampton-Brown

have had Yesterday, we had a great time.

go went After school, we went downtown.
feel felt It felt good to relax after school.
think thought We thought about seeing a movie.

Avoid this problem:

Problem Solution
Yesterday, I see my friends. Yesterday, I saw my friends.

Try It
A. Listen to each sentence. Change the verb to the past tense.
Then use the past tense verb in a new sentence.
1. At night, I go out with my friends.
2. My friends think we should go downtown.
3. Julia has to go home to study.
4. She feels sad about missing the fun.
B. Now tell about the photo. Write three sentences about it. Use
irregular past tense verbs.

hs.tr.LT.027.indd 1 10/21/08 4:14:37 PM

 Add Will to Signal
LANGUAGE TRANSFER
VERB TENSE: FUTURE 28
the Future
• In English, you have to change the verb
to tell about the future. Add will before
the verb.
Tomorrow I will play soccer.
Next week we will start practice.

What will you do in the future?

© Hampton-Brown

Now In the Future

Today I play basketball. Tomorrow I will play soccer.
Now we have English class. Later we will have math.
This year they are sixteen years old. Next year they will be seventeen.

Avoid these problems:

Problem Solution
We finish it tomorrow. We will finish it tomorrow.
You meet my girlfriend next week. You will meet my girlfriend next week.

Try It
A. Choose words from each column to make five sentences.

I goes a test.
Today
he will go to basketball practice.
Tomorrow
she have a lesson.
In the future
they has a great time.

B. Tell about the teens in the photo. Write sentences to tell what
they will do in the future. Use will in each sentence.

hs.tr.LT.028.indd 1 10/21/08 4:18:16 PM

 LANGUAGE TRANSFER

Don’t Use the Present VERB TENSE: PRESENT PERFECT 29

Tense When You Tell
About the Past
• In Spanish, you can use the present tense when you
tell about an action that started in the past and is
still happening now.
• In English, you need to use the present
perfect tense.
Spanish English
Desde enero, vivo Since January, I
© Hampton-Brown

en Nueva York. have lived in New York.

Avoid these problems:
Problem
Since last month, my sister is sad.
For a long time, she wants to go
back to Puerto Rico.
Solution
Since last month, my sister has
been sad.
For a long time, she has wanted
to go back to Puerto Rico.

Try It
A. Say each sentence with the correct verb.
1. For a long time, my family (wants / has wanted) to move.
2. Last month, we (look / looked) for a new home. Then we found one.
3. Since we bought the house, we (pack / have packed) every day.
4. This morning, we (move / moved) all our things.
5. For a long time, we (wait / have waited) for this moment!
B. Now tell about the photo. Write four sentences about the family.
Use the past tense and the present perfect tense.

hs.tr.LT.029.indd 1 10/21/08 4:20:38 PM