Casa · B1 Intermediate · Lesson 1 of 20 · Step 1

Experiences & Achievements

Present Perfect vs Past Simple

Distinguish between the present perfect and the past simple
Use the present perfect for life experiences and unfinished time periods
Use the past simple for completed actions with a specific time

Words · tap a card to see it used

Grammar

Present perfect vs past simple

Use the present perfect (have/has + past participle) for experiences without a specific time, actions in an unfinished time period (today, this week), and results that matter now. Use the past simple for completed actions at a specific time in the past (yesterday, in 2019, last year).

I have visited Japan twice. (experience — no specific time)

I visited Japan in 2022. (specific time in the past)

She has written three novels this year. (unfinished time period)

She wrote her first novel when she was twenty-five. (specific past time)

Exercises · type, then check

1. Complete each sentence with the present perfect or past simple form of the verb in brackets.

1.I (never / try) sushi before.

2.She (move) to Berlin in 2020.

3.We (already / finish) the project.

4.They (visit) the Louvre when they were in Paris.

5. you ever (speak) in front of a large audience?

2. Choose the correct tense to complete each sentence.

1. I ___ that film three times — it's my favourite.

2. We ___ to Italy last summer and loved it.

3. She ___ a lot of progress since January.

0 of 8 answered · nothing you type leaves this device

Reading

A Life of Adventures

My name is Kenji, and I have always loved trying new things. I have lived in four different countries and have learned to speak three languages. Last year, I moved to Portugal, where I took up surfing. It was terrifying at first, but after a few weeks I started to enjoy it. In 2021, I climbed Mount Fuji with my brother. That was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but the view from the top was unforgettable. I haven't decided where to go next, but I have already started saving money for my next adventure. I believe that experiences are more valuable than possessions.

1. How many languages has Kenji learned?

2. When did he climb Mount Fuji, and who did he go with?

Speaking · say it out loud, with a partner or alone

1Tell your partner about three things you have done in your life that you are proud of. When did you do them?

2Ask your partner: 'What is the most interesting place you have ever visited?' and follow up with questions about when they went and what they did there.

Writing

Write 6–8 sentences about your personal achievements and experiences. Use both the present perfect and the past simple. Include at least two examples of each tense.

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Finished?

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