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Present continuous for ongoing actions Exercises in English language

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The present continuous tense, also known as the present progressive tense, is used to describe actions that are currently happening at the moment of speaking or ongoing actions that are occurring around the present time. This tense is formed using the present tense of the verb "to be" (am, is, are) followed by the base verb with an -ing ending. For example, "I am reading a book" or "They are playing soccer." Understanding how to correctly use the present continuous is essential for effective communication in English, as it helps convey immediacy and action. In addition to describing current activities, the present continuous can also be used to indicate future plans or actions that are already arranged, such as "We are meeting them tomorrow" or "She is starting her new job next week." This dual functionality makes the present continuous a versatile and frequently used tense in everyday conversation. Through a series of grammar exercises, you will practice forming and using the present continuous tense, helping you to become more confident and accurate in your use of English.

Exercise 1

1. She is *reading* a book (verb for what you do with a book). 2. They are *playing* soccer in the park (verb for a sport). 3. He is *cooking* dinner right now (verb for preparing food). 4. We are *watching* a movie together (verb for looking at a screen). 5. I am *writing* an email to my friend (verb for composing text). 6. The children are *drawing* pictures with crayons (verb for creating art). 7. She is *listening* to music on her headphones (verb for using your ears). 8. They are *dancing* at the party (verb for moving to music). 9. He is *cleaning* the kitchen after breakfast (verb for making something tidy). 10. We are *studying* for our exams (verb for learning).

Exercise 2

1. She is *reading* a book (verb for an activity involving a book). 2. They are *playing* soccer in the park (verb for a sport). 3. He is *cooking* dinner for his family (verb for preparing food). 4. We are *watching* a movie together (verb for observing something on a screen). 5. The dog is *barking* at the mailman (verb for the sound a dog makes). 6. I am *writing* an email to my friend (verb for composing text). 7. The children are *drawing* pictures with crayons (verb for creating images). 8. She is *listening* to music on her headphones (verb for using ears to perceive sound). 9. They are *cleaning* the house before guests arrive (verb for making something tidy). 10. He is *jogging* in the park every morning (verb for running at a slow pace).

Exercise 3

1. She is *reading* a book in the library (verb for looking at words). 2. They are *playing* soccer in the park (verb for engaging in a sport). 3. We are *cooking* dinner in the kitchen (verb for preparing food). 4. He is *writing* an email to his friend (verb for creating a message with words). 5. The children are *drawing* pictures in art class (verb for making images with pencils or crayons). 6. I am *watching* a movie with my family (verb for looking at a film). 7. She is *listening* to music on her headphones (verb for hearing sounds). 8. They are *running* in the marathon downtown (verb for moving quickly on foot). 9. We are *studying* for the upcoming exam (verb for learning or reviewing material). 10. He is *fixing* his car in the garage (verb for making something work again).