Adverb Time Clauses

Today's lesson looks at as soon as, while and as. There are three activities for you to try.

As soon as

We use as soon as when the second action happens immediately after the first action.  As soon as is an example of an adverb clause, which is often called a time clause. 

"As soon as I saw her, I knew there was something wrong."w

While

When two things happen at the same time, we can use the word while, which mean 'during that time'.  We usually use while with the past continuous tense because the meaning of 'during that time' indicate an action in progress.

"I can't talk to anyone while I'm driving."

As

When two things happen at the same time we can also use words like as and just as. They are both commonly used adverb clauses with time.  When an adverb clause begins the sentence, use a comma to separate the two clauses.  When the adverb finishes the sentence, there is no need for a comma.

"He was shot in the back as he tried to escape."

"The phone rang just as we were leaving."

1 - Susan and Ben's Vacation

Susan and Ben are planning their vacation together.  Complete the following sentences using 'as', 'just as', 'while' and 'as soon as'.

Yesterday, I told Ben we have to start planning for our vacation. Ben told me that we could do it A. ___ he got home. I was so excited and prepared a lovely dinner for us.

B. ___ I was cleaning the kitchen, Ben did some research on the internet. We have decided to go to Engand for our summer vacation.

Ben switched off his computer just C. ___ the phone started ringing. It was his boss phoning from South Africa. According to his boss, an urgent project came up. I felt like crying D.___ I listened to the conversation. Our vacation plans were ruined.

2 - Comprehesnsion Questions

1. When were Ben and Susan going to plan for their vacation?
2. What did Ben do while Susan was cleaning the kitchen?
3. When did Ben's boss phone him?
4. Why did Susan feel like crying?

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Now choose the correct word to complete each sentence:

• 1. I was cleaning the house ___ my husband washed the car.
  
  while
  as soon as
  
  
• 2. He knocked at the door ___ I walked into the kitchen.
  
  while
  as
  
  
• 3. I bumped in to him ___ I turned the corner.
  
  as
  while
  
  
• 4. I will phone you ___ I get home.
  
  as soon as
  as
  
  
• 5. My mother got ill ___ I was abroad.
  
  while
  as