Past simple or Present Perfect? 1) How many different ways of using the Present Perfect do you know? 2) What time expressions do we use with the Past Simple and which ones with the Present Perfect? 3) With the Present Perfect when do we use “for” and “since”?

Present Perfect When there is always a connection with now, with the present Tom has lost his keys. (he can’t find it now, he hasn’t got it!) To give new information or to announce a recent happening Oh! I’ve cut my finger!

Present Perfect When we talk about experiences in our life (about a period of time that continues from the past until now) ex. Have you ever eaten snails?

Present Perfect With today / this morning / this evening etc. when these periods are not finished at the time of speaking. ex. I’ve drunk four cups of coffee today (perhaps I’ll drink more before today is finished!)

Present Perfect When ‘it is the first time, second time, third time’ etc. something has happened. ex. It’s the second time my B2 students have handed in their pieces of work  ex. It’s the first time Dorian has driven a car.

Present Perfect to talk about actions/facts that began in the past but still continue now, in the present. ex. Stefania and Marcello have been married for four years. (a period of time) Stefania and Marcello have been married since 2009 (since a point in time)

Present Perfect Note well ! The verb ‘to go’ has got two different p.p. forms: Gone and been What’s the difference between the following sentences? Jo is always on holiday. He has gone to Spain Giulia is back from Rome now. She has been there recently.

Past simple or Present Perfect? Ago This time last week Last month etc. For Since Earlier today This morning In the summer In 1966 At five o’clock In the end PRESENT PERFECT Ever Never So far Up to now Yet, already, just Lately, recently Over the last fortnight Always