How to Use the Simple Future Tense: New Semesters

For a lot of countries around the world, the month of September is the beginning of a new school term.

When talking about plans for new beginnings, we use the future tense.

The simple future tense has two different forms: "will" and " to be going to."

Will

"Will" often suggests that someone will do something voluntarily. This is a useful verb to know when you are starting a new college and need help when you first arrive.

Examples:

• I will sign up for the sports club.
• Will you show me where the library is?
• They will do their homework after football practice.

“Will” can also be used in promises.

Examples:

• I promise I will call you when I arrive at my dorm.
• Mary said she will be your study partner for the project
• My teacher said he will give me a tour of the campus.

To be going to

"To be going to” expresses that something is a set plan for the future.

Examples:

• Emma is going to begin medical school next year.
• I am going to KIC Portland next year to study English.
• Teachers are going to have one-to-one tutorials with us.

Both "will" and "to be going to" can be used when an assumption or guess is made.

Examples:

• I think this is going to be a great class!
• I'm guessing Jon will be voted class president.

Are you starting a new term this September? We'd love to hear about your future plans!