Discussing Future Plans

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, you will:

1. Understand various grammatical structures used to discuss future plans.
2. Learn useful vocabulary related to future intentions.
3. Practice through sample conversations and assignments.

Grammar Structures for Discussing Future Plans

1. Future Simple Tense:
   • Used to express intentions or predictions.
   • Example: “I will start my new job next month.”
2. Be Going To:
   • Indicates a planned action or intention.
   • Example: “I am going to visit my grandparents this weekend.”
3. Present Continuous:
   • Used for fixed plans or arrangements.
   • Example: “I am meeting my friends for dinner tomorrow.”
4. Modal Verbs (for suggestions and possibilities):
   • Might: Indicates a possibility.
     • Example: “I might travel to Europe next year.”
   • Should: Offers recommendations about future actions.
     • Example: “You should start saving for your trip.”

Sample Conversations

Conversation 1: Career Aspirations

• A: What are your plans after graduation?
• B: I will apply for internships in marketing.
• A: That sounds exciting! Are you going to focus on a specific company?
• B: Yes, I’m going to apply to some big firms in the city.

Conversation 2: Travel Plans

• A: Do you have any plans for the summer?
• B: I’m thinking about going to Japan.
• A: That’s amazing! When are you going?
• B: I might go in July if I can get time off work.

Conversation 3: Moving to a New Place

• A: Are you still planning to move to Vancouver?
• B: Yes, I’m meeting with a realtor next week.
• A: Do you have a date in mind?
• B: I should be moving by the end of the month.

Vocabulary: Difficult Words

1. Intention (noun)
   • Meaning: A plan or aim.
   • Usage: “My intention is to study abroad.”
2. Application (noun)
   • Meaning: A formal request to join or do something.
   • Usage: “I submitted my application for the scholarship.”
3. Realtor (noun)
   • Meaning: A person who helps people buy and sell homes.
   • Usage: “I’m working with a realtor to find a new apartment.”
4. Exciting (adjective)
   • Meaning: Causing great enthusiasm and eagerness.
   • Usage: “This new project is very exciting!”

Selfie Assignment

Task: Write a dialogue between two friends discussing their future plans for the upcoming year. Use at least three different structures for discussing future plans, incorporating future simple tense, “be going to,” and present continuous.

Steps:

1. Set a timer for 15 minutes.
2. Write the dialogue, aiming for 8-10 exchanges.
3. Highlight the future-planning structures you used.
4. Share your dialogue with a peer or a teacher for feedback.