Grammar is the basis of every language. It’s the most important thing you will learn at the beginning of your studies, and it’s something you should never forget. But just because you are learning grammar, it doesn’t mean you can’t have fun!

The present continuous verb tense (or present progressive) can be fun to practice. The most important point to remember is that the present continuous describes an activity that is happening now.

Games to Practice Present Continuous

1. Present Continuous – I Spy

This game requires no materials. You can play with two people or twenty, and you can play almost anywhere. Normally, this game is played by saying:

“I spy something that is _____.”

You give clues and everyone has to look around to try to guess the object.

However, Present Continuous I Spy is played by giving clues about what a mysterious person is doing or wearing. You give clues and everyone has to look around to try to guess the person being described.

Here is an example of what you can say:

The person is wearing a pink shirt.
The person is standing next to a desk.
The person is laughing.
The person is using a pen.

2. Create a Scavenger Hunt

A scavenger hunt is an activity where you make a list of objects you must find. It’s best to make the list with a friend or a group of people, and think of a prize for the winner. For example, the person with the most points could get a free ice cream or a donut.

First, make the list. Make a list of actions you want to find when you go outside. Here are some ideas.

A person is laughing.
A baby is crying.
A dog is barking.
A lizard is running.
A clock is chiming.
A horn is honking.
A woman is wearing jewelry.

Then, go outside. Take the list with you and look for the actions on your list. When you find a person or animal doing the action, announce it to the other players to get a point.

This simple activity can help make boring tasks more fun. Even a routine trip to the supermarket can become loads of fun with a scavenger hunt.

3. Be Your Own Narrator

A narrator is a person who tells a story. So, why not tell your own life story? When you are doing something, say what you are doing out loud. For example, as you pour your cereal in the morning, feel free to say:

“I am pouring cereal. I am putting milk onto my cereal. I am getting a spoon for my cereal. I am eating my cereal, and it tastes delicious!”

This might sound like a silly thing to do, and it is! However, there’s nothing wrong with being silly when you’re learning a new language.

This game will help you realize that present continuous verbs are all around you because this verb tense is always happening in the moment. You live your life in constant present continuous!

This game is also great to learn new vocabulary. You may find that there are many actions you don’t know how to say. Not only can this activity practice your present continuous grammar skills, it can also quiz your vocabulary of verbs.

Be creative, and enjoy your learning!