Conditional Sentences and Wishes

4

Comparing Zero and First Conditionals: Expressing Real Possibilities

To the teacher:
In this page, we’ll delve deeper into the distinctions between the Zero and First Conditionals. Students will gain a clear understanding of when to use each conditional and how they differ in expressing real possibilities and future outcomes. By examining specific examples and engaging in interactive activities, students will become skilled at selecting the appropriate conditional for different contexts.

Page 3: Comparing Zero and First Conditionals: Expressing Real Possibilities

In this section, we’ll explore the key differences between the Zero and First Conditionals and understand when to use each of them to express real possibilities and future outcomes. By examining specific examples and participating in interactive activities, you’ll develop the ability to choose the right conditional for various contexts.

Zero Conditional Recap:

The Zero Conditional is used to talk about general truths, facts, and cause-and-effect relationships that are always true. It follows a simple structure where the condition in the “if” clause leads to a certain result in the main clause.

Example:

• If you mix red and blue, you get purple.

First Conditional Recap:

The First Conditional is employed to discuss future events that are likely to happen based on a specific condition being met in the present. It involves using “will” in the main clause to indicate the future outcome.

Example:

• If it rains tomorrow, I will stay indoors.

Distinguishing Between Zero and First Conditionals:

1. Certainty vs. Likelihood:
   • Zero Conditional: Expresses facts and truths that always occur when the condition is met.
   • First Conditional: Discusses future outcomes that are likely to happen if the condition is fulfilled.
2. Time Frame:
   • Zero Conditional: Focuses on present realities and universal truths.
   • First Conditional: Centers on potential future outcomes based on present conditions.
3. Use Cases:
   • Zero Conditional: Used for scientific facts, general truths, and natural cause-and-effect relationships.
   • First Conditional: Used for predictions, promises, plans, and practical situations where present actions affect future results.

Examples:

1. Zero Conditional:
   • If you heat water to 100 degrees Celsius, it boils.
   • If you don’t water plants, they die.
2. First Conditional:
   • If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
   • If she calls, he will answer the phone.

Interactive Activity:

Instructions: Read the sentences and decide whether to use the Zero or First Conditional. Think about whether the situation is a general truth (Zero) or a future outcome (First).

1. If the sun sets, it becomes dark outside.
   • Answer: Zero Conditional
2. If you don’t leave soon, you will miss the bus.
   • Answer: First Conditional
3. If water reaches 100 degrees Celsius, it will turn into steam.
   • Answer: Zero Conditional
4. If you touch fire, you will get burned.
   • Answer: First Conditional
5. If you mix red and yellow, you get orange.
   • Answer: Zero Conditional
6. If you finish your homework early, you can watch a movie.
   • Answer: First Conditional

By practicing with these interactive activities and considering the distinctions between the Zero and First Conditionals, you’ll become proficient in selecting the appropriate conditional for different contexts. This will enhance your ability to express real possibilities and future outcomes accurately