How do you teach verb tenses?

Answer 1

Teach form and function

For example present simple.

Form of present simple is, one verb in the base form for all subjects except he/she/it and singular noun subjects. For he /she etc add s to the verb.

They like ice cream. I like ice cream. We like ice cream etc

He likes ice cream. She likes ice cream. It likes ice cream. The dog likes ice cream.

(here you also have to teach the spelling of verb + s e.g watch we add es - watches)

Function of present simple is to talk about:

1) Some thing that is always true: The sun rises in the east. She comes from Korea

2) Something that is true now: I live in Singapore. She lives in Whangarei.

3) Some thing you do again and again (habits) I catch the bus to university. My father teaches English.

You can use this approach for all tenses.

Answer 2

When teaching verb tenses, start with the basics like present, past, and future. Use examples to show how verbs change to indicate different times. Practice exercises and quizzes can help reinforce the concept and identify areas for improvement. Consistent practice and gradual introduction to more complex tenses will solidify understanding.