Past Simple — Narrative

Article excerpt · target grammar marked

In a 2019 survey of 8,000 first-time international travellers, 74% used the same word to describe their arrival: overwhelming. They stepped off the plane, walked through customs, and felt it immediately.

Grammar Reference · Past Simple — Narrative

Past simple — form

She arrived at the airport and walked through customs. — regular verbs: add -ed

Irregular past simple

He found the hotel, went inside, and sat down. — memorise each form

Sequence with past

They landed, collected their bags, then caught a taxi. — events in order

Common error

She leaved early. ✗ → She left early. ✓ — leave is irregular

01Exercise 1 — Form · Write the Correct Form

Past Simple — Narrative

1.She her passport at customs before the officer waved her through.

2.They the wrong train and ended up far from their destination.

3.He his bags down and looked out at the unfamiliar city street.

4.The jet lag her so badly that she slept for twelve hours.

5.We a local guide to help us navigate the old part of the city.

6.She her itinerary from her bag as soon as she arrived at the hotel.

02Exercise 2 — Transform

rewrite with the new structure

1.I go to the market every morning.

2.She finds the hotel easily.

3.They do not understand the signs.

4.He takes a photo of the departure board.

5.We arrive at customs with heavy bags.

6.Do you feel overwhelmed by the new city?

03Exercise 3 — About You

in your notebook

Personalise: complete five sentences about yourself using the target grammar.

Past Simple — Narrative01EnglishPlans.com