past simple vs present perfect to talk about experiences

Past simple v Present perfect


PAST SIMPLE




We use the Past Simple tense to
talk about a definite finished time
in the past.
I wrote a letter yesterday.
I wrote a letter at 7 o'clock.
I wrote a letter last Monday.
I wrote a letter several weeks ago.


PRESENT PERFECT








Although we can use time phrases with the
present perfect, often we don't even know
exactly when the action happened.
I have written a letter.
I have been to France.

I have worked as a chef before.
/>-5M2nU


EXAMPLES
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


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Here is part of an application letterHighlight the two tenses.

Dear Ms Small,
I am interested in applying for the post of
junior secretary. I have recently completed a
BTEC in business studies. During my course I
went on a number of work placements. I have
also completed a Level 2 typing course.
In my summer holidays I worked in a small
business as a trainee secretary. I contacted
them during my course and they were keen to
offer me a job during the summer.


ANSWERS





Dear Ms Small,
I am interested in applying for the post of
junior secretary. I have recently completed a
BTEC in business studies. During my course I
went on a number of work placements. I have
also completed a Level 2 typing course.
In my summer holidays I worked in a small
business as a trainee secretary. I contacted
them during my course and they were keen to
offer me a job during the summer.


ACTIVITY




Correct or incorrect- are the
following sentences written
correctly.
Come to the board and
mark the mistakes, or give
them a tick if they are
correct.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?
I

have worked in a
restaurant last year.
 I worked in a
restaurant last year.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?
I

have never studyed
French.
 I have never studied
French.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?
I

worked as a waitress
in 1998.
 I worked as a waitress
in 1998.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?
 She

has completed a
computer course last
year.

 She completed a
computer course last
year.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?
I

went to Southend
Adult Community
College last year.
 I went to Southend
Adult Community
College last year.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?




During my course I visited
Italy twice. I have never be
to Spain though.
During my course I visited
Italy twice. I have never
been to Spain though.


CORRECT OR INCORRECT?

I

have done a range of
part time jobs since I
left college.
 I have done a range of
part time jobs since I
left college.


C.V’s


Now we are going to work on
writing a C.V.