| Element | FORM/USE: PRESENT SIMPLE 'IF' CLAUSE + 'WILL', FUTURE, LIKELY OUTCOME (FIRST CONDITIONAL) |
|---|---|
| SuperCat | CLAUSES |
| SubCat | conditional |
| Lexical Range | N/A |
| Level | B1 |
| Cando | Can use 'if' + present simple to introduce a possible future condition, with 'will' in the main clause to talk about a likely result. |
| Corrected Learner Example | I talked to my parents and I think if you tell them your reasons, they will accept it. (Germany; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; German; Pass) I'm sure your parents will be happy if you go with them. (Spain; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; Spanish - European; Pass) If you live in the countryside you will see beautiful nature. (Thailand; B1 THRESHOLD; 2008; Thai; Pass) |
| Uncorrected Learner Example | |
| Comments | Note on punctuation: many grammar books stress that when the 'if' clause precedes the main clause, it must use a comma. We cannot establish a consistent competency for this (and punctuation in general). It seems too idiosyncratic. L1 can be a skewing factor. |
