To complete the sentences with the present simple or the present continuous, it's important to understand the usage of these tenses. The present simple is used for habitual actions, general truths, and things that are always true. The present continuous is used for actions happening right now or for temporary situations.
Here's how you can complete the sentences:
Jane usually does her homework at six o'clock, but today she is watching television.
- "Does" is in the present simple because it describes a habitual action. "Is watching" is in the present continuous because it describes what Jane is doing right now, which is different from her usual routine.
I usually go to school in the morning, but today I am going to the doctor.
- "Go" is in the present simple for the habitual action of going to school. "Am going" is in the present continuous because it's a specific action happening today.
I love strawberry ice cream.
- "Love" is in the present simple because it describes a general truth or a state of liking something.
It rarely rains in August but it is raining today!
- "Rains" is in the present simple for the general truth about the weather in August. "Is raining" is in the present continuous for the current, temporary weather condition.
My brother and I usually swim on Saturday afternoon, but today we are staying at home.
- "Swim" is in the present simple for the habitual action. "Are staying" is in the present continuous because it describes what they are doing today, which differs from their usual activity.
Terry understands French but does not speak it.
- "Understands" and "does not speak" are in the present simple because they describe Terry's general abilities or lack thereof.
Listen! The baby is crying again. I think it needs some milk.
- "Is crying" is in the present continuous because it describes an action happening right now. "Needs" is in the present simple because it describes a general state or necessity.
Poppy always stays at home in the evening, but she isn't there now. What is she doing?
- "Stays" is in the present simple for the habitual action. "Is she doing" is in the present continuous to ask about her current activity, which is different from her usual routine.
These sentences illustrate the difference between habitual actions or general truths (present simple) and actions happening right now or temporary situations (present continuous).