Simple Past Tense

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/simple-past-tense

Introduction

### Course Review: Simple Past Tense on Coursera If you're looking to enhance your English language skills, particularly in mastering the simple past tense, the "Simple Past Tense" course on Coursera might just be what you need. This comprehensive course offers a structured and engaging approach to understanding and using the simple past tense effectively. #### Overview The "Simple Past Tense" course is designed for learners at various levels, focusing on how to form and utilize the simple past tense. It begins with the basics of regular and irregular verbs, which can often be challenging for English learners. With a balanced mix of theory and practical exercises, this course seeks to equip students with the tools they need to communicate past actions clearly. #### Syllabus Breakdown 1. **Simple Past with Regular & Irregular Verbs** In the first week, the course dives into the formation of the simple past tense, starting with the verb "to be." Understanding how to correctly form the simple past for both regular verbs (by adding -ed) and the complexities of irregular verbs is essential here. The course thoughtfully highlights common patterns and spelling changes, which are crucial to mastering this tense. 2. **Simple Past Negative & Object Pronouns** The second week shifts focus to the formation of negative sentences in the simple past, emphasizing the differences between the BE verb and all other verbs. This week also covers object pronouns (e.g., "she" vs. "her"), which are pivotal for constructing meaningful sentences and preventing common grammatical errors. 3. **Simple Past Question Forms** In the third week, you'll learn how to form questions in the simple past, an essential skill for conversational English. The module covers yes/no questions and information questions using both the BE verb and auxiliary "did," ensuring that students feel confident engaging in past-tense dialogues. 4. **More Useful Grammar Forms** The final week encompasses additional grammar points that will enhance your English language skills. You'll learn the distinctions between demonstrative pronouns ("this," "that," "these," "those") and how to compare adjectives, as well as the use of infinitives. This broadens your grammar toolkit, allowing for more nuanced expressions in your writing and speaking. #### Review and Recommendations The "Simple Past Tense" course excels in its clarity and organization. The bite-sized lessons make complex grammar concepts accessible, and the interactive components encourage practice and retention. Each week builds on the last, providing a logical progression that helps reinforce learning. I highly recommend this course for anyone wishing to solidify their understanding of the simple past tense, whether you're a beginner seeking a foundation or an intermediate learner looking to refine your skills. The structured approach, combined with engaging content and practical examples, makes this course not only educational but also enjoyable. Moreover, the ability to learn at your own pace on Coursera allows for flexibility, catering to busy schedules. By the end of this course, you will feel more confident in using the simple past tense, leading to improved communication skills in English. ### Final Thoughts In conclusion, if you're serious about mastering the simple past tense and expanding your overall English grammar proficiency, the "Simple Past Tense" course on Coursera comes highly recommended. With its well-thought-out modules and practical exercises, you're bound to gain a deeper understanding of English grammar that will serve you well in both daily conversation and professional settings. Dive in and transform your language skills today!

Syllabus

Simple Past with Regular & Irregular Verbs

This week is about the simple past. You will learn how to form BE in the simple past first. Then you will learn about how to add -ed to form the simple past of regular verbs and the spelling changes you need to make. Then you will see a long list of irregular verbs in the simple past. There are many irregular verbs that you just need to remember.

This week, you will learn about how to form the negative of the simple past. It is different for BE and for all other verbs. The good news is that in the negative form there are no irregular forms. You will also learn about object pronouns. You will learn the difference between the pronouns “she” and “her,” and “he” and “him.”

This week is all about how to form questions in the simple past. You will learn how to ask questions with the BE verb and how to use “did” to ask questions with all other verbs. This will include yes/no questions and information questions.

In this last week, we will look at some other grammar points to help you express yourself in English. You will learn how to use “this,” “that,” “these,” and “those.” We will also look at how to change adjectives to make comparisons. Finally, you will learn about infinitives. Infinitives are an unchanged form of a verb with the word “to.” We use them with verbs like ”need,” “want,” and “like.”