Teach the past continuous through meaningful communication rather than isolated grammar drills.

This ready-to-use B1 lesson develops students’ understanding of the past continuous through engaging speaking, reading, writing and discussion activities. Learners explore authentic situations, describe ongoing actions in the past, contrast the past continuous with the past simple, and build confidence using the target language in communicative contexts. The lesson is built around diverse, real-world people and experiences, encouraging learners to think critically while practising English.

What’s included

• Complete B1 lesson (approximately 60–90 minutes)
• Clear presentation of the past continuous
• Controlled grammar practice
• Past continuous vs past simple practice
• Speaking activities
• Guided writing task
• Authentic reading text
• Listening task based on Cherry Valentine
• Critical thinking and discussion activities
• Reflection task
• Teacher’s notes and answer key
• Learning objectives

By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:

• use the past continuous accurately
• distinguish between the past continuous and past simple
• recognise when stative verbs are not normally used in continuous forms
• ask and answer questions about past events
• discuss stereotypes and identity respectfully using English.

Ideal for

• Adult learners
• Older teenagers
• General English
• Communicative language teaching
• CEFR B1

This resource has been created by an experienced ELT teacher, editor and educational publishing professional. It is designed to combine rigorous language development with authentic, inclusive contexts that reflect the diversity of modern society.

Please note: This lesson includes discussion of identity, stereotypes and LGBTQIA+ experiences through the story of Cherry Valentine. The aim is to promote respectful communication, critical thinking and authentic language use. Teachers should use their professional judgement regarding the suitability of these topics for their own teaching context.