The Simple Present vs the Present Progressive

Reading Exercise: Understanding Frequency Adverbs

Read the following passage carefully and pay attention to the usage of frequency adverbs. Then, answer the questions based on the passage.

Vocabulary:

1. Amidst = “in the middle of” or “surrounded by.”
2. Whether: It introduces two or more alternatives.
3. Either: It refers to one of two options or possibilities.
4. Running Errands: It refers to completing small tasks or chores outside of the home.
5. Household Chores: It refers to tasks or duties that need to be done regularly to maintain a household.
6. Leisurely Stroll: “Leisurely” means taking things in a relaxed manner. A “stroll” is a casual walk.
7. Hectic: Busy
8. Catching up on: get up to date on. (ponerse al dia)

Examples:

Amidst / Among

1. He finds his keys amidst the mess on the table.
2. Amidst all the noise, she hears her phone ring.
3. They play a game among the crowd.

Whether / If

1. She can’t choose whether to wear a dress or jeans.
2. He can’t choose whether to go out or stay home.
3. I’ll check if the store is open.

Either

1. You can sit either here or there.
2. Either movie sounds good to me.
3. She said she doesn’t like either cake or pie.

Running Errands

1. Mom is running errands, like going to the bank.
2. Tomorrow, I’ll be running errands all morning.
3. Running errands includes picking up the laundry.

Household Chores

1. Doing household chores, like washing dishes, is part of my daily routine.
2. On Saturdays, we split the household chores among us.
3. He dislikes household chores, especially vacuuming.

Leisurely Stroll

1. On Sundays, we take a leisurely stroll by the lake.
2. A leisurely stroll in the evening helps me relax.
3. They enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the old town.

Hectic / Busy

1. My week was hectic, full of meetings and deadlines.
2. She had a hectic morning with the kids.
3. The city life is too hectic for some people.

Catching up on

1. This weekend, I’m catching up on sleep.
2. He spent the evening catching up on his favorite TV show.
3. She’s catching up on homework this afternoon.

Passage: The Busy Life of Alex

Alex is a hardworking individual who has a busy schedule. On weekdays, Alex wakes up early in the morning at 6:00 AM. After getting ready, Alex usually has a quick breakfast and rushes to catch the bus to work. The bus arrives punctually, and Alex is able to get to work on time.

At the workplace, Alex completes tasks and attends meetings. Alex’s co-workers often wonder how Alex stays organized amidst the hectic routine. During lunch breaks, Alex occasionally goes to the nearby park to get some fresh air and relax. This helps recharge for the rest of the day.

In the evenings, Alex prefers to do some physical activity. Whether it’s going for a jog, practicing yoga, or hitting the gym, Alex tries to stay active. However, because of the demanding job, these activities are only possible a few times a week. He spends most evenings at home, either cooking dinner or catching up on some reading.

On weekends, Alex values personal time. Saturdays are usually reserved for running errands and doing household chores. Alex also meets friends for a meal or a movie, which happens very often. Sundays, on the other hand, are dedicated to relaxation. Alex loves sleeping in and having a late brunch. Sunday afternoons often involve watching a movie marathon or simply taking a leisurely stroll.

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