A2 · Lesson 29 · 20 min
Connecting ideas and simple conditions
In this lesson
- I can connect everyday ideas with and, but, because, so and when.
- I can use zero and first conditionals for rules and real future possibilities.
Grammar in context
Maya checks the weather before her bike ride. If it rains, she takes the bus, but if the sky is clear, she will cycle to work. She packs a sandwich because the café is expensive.
Which verb form comes after if in both parts of Maya's plan?
Connecting ideas
Use and to add information and but to show a contrast. Use because to give a reason and so to show a result. These words can join two ideas and make a message clearer.
- Leo cooks dinner and his sister washes the dishes.
- I wanted to walk, but the wind was very strong.
When, because and so
When can show the time that an action happens. Because answers why something happens, while so introduces the result. Do not use because and so together for the same reason-result link.
- When the lesson ends, we meet outside.
- The train was late, so Nadiya called her manager.
Zero conditional: rules and facts
Use the zero conditional for things that are generally true, such as everyday rules, routines and simple facts. The usual form is if + present simple, present simple. You can put the if part first or second.
- If you heat ice, it melts.
- The printer stops if the paper tray is empty.
First conditional: real possibilities
Use the first conditional for a possible future situation and its expected result. Use if + present simple, will + base verb. Do not use will directly after if in this pattern. Questions can begin with What will you do if...?
- If I finish early, I will visit my aunt.
- What will Sam do if he misses the last bus?
Common mistakes
Compare the incorrect and corrected forms.
Avoid
If it will rain, we will stay at home.
Use
If it rains, we will stay at home.
After if, use the present simple for a future possibility.
Avoid
I was tired, because so I went home.
Use
I was tired, so I went home.
Use either because for a reason or so for a result, not both together.
Put it into practice
Try the exercises, write your own examples and check your understanding.