A2 / B1 GRAMMAR- The future (I)

1. We can use the present simple to refer to a future event when it is scheduled:
• We have an exam next week.
• The train leaves at 2 pm.
• The programme starts at 8.

2.  We use the present continuous for future arrangements (official events and specified plans):
• We’re playing against your team next week. (We are talking about an official competition)
• The ministers are meeting in London next Monday.
• We are flying to Toronto next week. We are meeting some CEOs shortly after our arrival.

  

3. We use will + infinitive for:

a)      Predictions: It will rain tomorrow.

b)      Offers and Promises: I will call you next week.

c)      Decisions made at the moment of speaking: OK. I’ll send you an email with the information when I arrive home.

4. We use be going to for:

a)      Plans and decisions made before the moment of speaking:

       They are going to visit their cousin next week.

       I’m going to play basketball with my friend this afternoon (informal match)

b)       Describing events that are highly likely to happen soon:

 Look at the boy! He is going to fall!

 Look at those dark clouds. It’s going to start to rain before we get to the    school.

5. May, might, could + infinitive:

a)      May (+ probable): They may arrive on time tomorrow. (50 % chances).

b)      Might (- probable): She might turn up tonight but I don’t think so.

                                        (20-30% chances)

c)      Could (- probable): They could hire that coach for the next season, though the  incumbent one has a lot of possibilities to stay. (20-30% chances)