Present Progressive vs
Imperative
Definition
• Progressive (also called continuous): the verb
form be + verb + -ing.
• It focuses on the continuation (not the
completion) of an action.
• Example: She’s reading the paper.
We are watching TV.
• Imperative: a sentence that gives a command or
instructions.
• Example: Hurry!
Don’t touch that!
Check your understanding
• Read the sentences and state whether they are in the present
progressive or imperative.
1. Be quiet. 2. I’m trying to read the paper.
3. I’m working in a factory until I can find a better job.
4. Don’t go now! 5. It’s still raining outside.
6. Don’t panic! 7. Take a deep breath.
8. Come in! 9. Make yourself at home.
10. He’s getting ready for a field trip.
• What is the difference between present progressive and imperative?
FORM
Present Progressive
Imperative
Affirmative Statements
Affirmative
Subject
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
I
You
He
She
It
We
You
They
Be
Verb + -ing
am
are
is
is
is
are
are
are
studying
studying
studying
studying
eating
studying
studying
studying
now.
now.
now.
now.
now.
now.
now.
now.
Base form
of Verb
Bend
Raise
Sit
Study
Read
Eat
Bring
your knees.
your hand.
down.
chapter two.
unit five.
your lunch.
your bag.
FORM
Present Progressive
Negative Statements
Subject +
•
I
•
He
•
We
Be + Not + Verb-ing
am not studying.
is
not studying.
are not studying.
Imperative
Negative
Don’t + Verb 1
• Don’t
bend your knees.
• Don’t
smoke in this room.
• Don’t
move!
USE
Present Progressive
Use the present progressive:
• To describe something that is
happening right now.
•
To show that the action is
temporary.
•
To describe something that is
happening in the extended
present time.
Imperative
Use the imperative:
• To give directions and instructions
• To give orders or commands
• To give advice or make
suggestions
• To give warnings
• To make requests (use please)
• To make informal invitations
BE CAREFUL! The imperative form
is the same in both the singular
and the plural.
Practice
• Look at your friends around you. Write at
least ten sentences about them using
present progressive.
• Example: Siti is reading her textbook.
• Then, change your sentences into
imperative.
• Example: Read your textbook!
Practice
•
•
Decide what you need to be happy. In the circle below, draw a pie chart showing what
you need to be happy. Make the biggest sections of the chart the things you need
most.
Compare your pie chart with your friend’s. Then, discuss it with him / her. Use
imperative to give suggestions to your friend.