We use the future simple, be going to, present continuous or present simple to talk about future actions

Compare the following examples.

a) We’ll visit Disney World some day.

(WILL: the future action may or may not happen.)

b) They are going to move a new flat.

(BE GOING TO: plans / intentions about the near future: they have already decided to do it, but it hasn’t been arranged yet.)

c) They are moving a new flat next Friday.

(PRESENT CONTINUOUS: they have already decided and arranged to do it; an arranged action for the near future.)

d) The bus leaves at nine o’clock a.m.

(PRESENT SIMPLE: for timetables)

Practice –Grammar in use

Task 1: Complete short conversations using shall (in questions) or will.

1. ‘The shops are closed tomorrow.’ – ‘I _______ buy a cake today then.’

2. ‘________ we tell the truth to Bob?’ – ‘That’s a good idea. Maybe he can help.’

3. ‘It’s too dark in here to read.’ – ‘Is it? I _______ turn on the light.’

4. ‘Please, come and see us on Sunday.’ – ‘I _______ visit you. That’s a promise.’

5. ‘______ I wear a sweater or a coat?’ – ‘It’s very cold. Put a coat on.’

Task 2: Dr Brown is the head of the politics department at a small college.