Lesson Plan Teknis | Verbs: Simple Past and Present Perfect

Objective

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The aim of this lesson is to lay a solid groundwork for understanding the present perfect and simple past, highlighting their significance in the job market. By recognising and effectively utilising these verb tenses, learners will be better equipped to handle real-life scenarios such as job interviews, crafting CVs, and communicating effectively in a professional setting. Mastering these language skills is vital for students to become competent communicators and confident professionals.

Objective Utama:

1. Identify the structure and usage of the present perfect and simple past.

2. Apply tenses effectively in everyday, real-world situations.

3. Distinguish between present perfect and simple past verbs in both written and spoken contexts.

Objective Sampingan:

1. Enhance the ability to spot common errors in the use of verb tenses.
2. Improve listening and reading comprehension through practical examples.

Introduction

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

This introduction aims to highlight the relevance of verb tenses, particularly in the context of the present perfect and simple past. It aims to engage students from the very beginning, demonstrating the practical and professional value of these skills. This phase serves as a motivational springboard for learning, linking lesson content with real-world applications in the job market.

Curiosities and Market Connection

Curiosity: Did you know that many interviewers assess candidates’ grammar skills during interviews? The ability to use verb tenses correctly reflects a strong command of the language, giving candidates a competitive edge. Market Connection: In today's job market, particularly with multinational companies, proficiency in English communication is crucial. Understanding how to parse and utilise the simple past and present perfect can elevate reports, emails, and presentations, making communication more professional and impactful.

Contextualization

Picture yourself in a job interview, needing to convey your past experiences and accomplishments. Mastery of the simple past and present perfect can significantly enhance the clarity and accuracy of your responses. These verb tenses are more than just grammar; they're invaluable tools for sharing your story effectively and impressing prospective employers.

Initial Activity

Steps for the Initial Activity:

1. Thought-Provoking Question: Kick off the class by asking: "What’s the difference between 'I worked here for two years' and 'I have worked here for two years'?" Let students ponder and discuss briefly.
2. Short Video: Show a concise video (3-5 minutes) that elucidates the difference between the simple past and present perfect through practical examples. Suggested video: Explaining Verb Tenses.
3. Discussion: After the video, prompt a brief discussion about key takeaways, encouraging students to share personal examples.

Development

Duration: (40 - 45 minutes)

This segment's goal is to reinforce students' understanding of the simple past and present perfect through engaging, interactive activities. The initial reflective exercise raises awareness about the significance of verb tenses in effective communication. The mini challenge offers practical application in a simulated job market context, while the fixation exercises ensure comprehension and correction of errors that may arise.

Topics

1. Usage of the Simple Past

2. Usage of the Present Perfect

3. Differences Between Simple Past and Present Perfect

4. Practical Applications within the Job Market

Thoughts on the Subject

Encourage students to consider instances when they had to articulate past experiences in English, such as during job interviews or casual conversations. Ask them how the accurate use of verb tenses influenced the clarity and precision of their messages. Motivate them to contemplate the significance of selecting the appropriate verb tense to convey their intended meaning.

Mini Challenge

Crafting a Professional Experience Report

In this task, students will produce a fictional report detailing both their past and present work experiences, incorporating both the simple past and present perfect. This exercise simulates a real-world scenario where clarity and precision in communication are paramount.

1. Divide students into small groups (3-4 students).

2. Provide a worksheet with a template for the professional report.

3. Instruct each group to populate the report with fictional details about past professional experiences (simple past) and current accomplishments (present perfect).

4. Encourage creativity and detail in their descriptions, using realistic or imaginative examples.

5. Once complete, each group should present their report to the class, emphasising their use of verb tenses.

Implement knowledge of simple past and present perfect in a relevant, practical context, enhancing writing and presentation skills in English.

**Duration: (30 - 35 minutes)

Evaluation Exercises

1. List 5 sentences using the simple past to describe previous professional or academic experiences.

2. List 5 sentences using the present perfect to describe recent or ongoing achievements.

**3. Correct the sentences below by adjusting the incorrect verb tenses (use present perfect or simple past):

1. She has worked here since 2018.
2. I finished my homework yesterday.
3. They graduated last year.
4. He visited London three times last year.
5. We have moved to this city two years ago.**

4. Compose a paragraph about a significant event in your life while correctly employing both the simple past and the present perfect.

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

This final stage aims to solidify the knowledge gained throughout the lesson, ensuring students understand the practical and professional significance of mastering the studied verb tenses. The discussion and recap provide an avenue for reflection on the learning process, while the closure reinforces the content’s relevance and application in daily life.

Discussion

Facilitate an open conversation about what students learned during the lesson. Ask how they felt about using the simple past and present perfect in practical contexts, such as the professional experience report. Encourage them to share how a solid grasp of these verb tenses might benefit their future professional and academic interactions.

Summary

Summarise the key points covered: the use of the simple past, use of the present perfect, distinctions between these verb tenses, and their practical applications in the job market. Reinforce the importance of using these tenses accurately to effectively communicate past experiences and current achievements.

Closing

Conclude the class by underscoring the real-world relevance of the material discussed. Explain that the skill to accurately use the simple past and present perfect transcends mere grammar; it’s an essential tool for effective communication in professional scenarios. Thank the students for their contributions and encourage them to continue practising these verb tenses in their day-to-day activities.