Simple Past or Past Continuous?


Directions: Write the correct form of each verb (simple past or past continuous) given in parentheses.

       I (sit) in my dorm room studying for a big calculus test when the phone (ring) . It was my friend, Tina. She said that there (be) a really good movie out called Save the Last Dance. I (say) that I couldn’t go because I really (have) to study for my calculus test. She (reply) that if I studied calculus any longer, I would have calculations coming out of my ears. I (realize) that she was right, so we (go) .

       When we (get) to the movies, there (be) a long line. Even worse, it (rain) ! I (want) to go home, but Tina (insist) that we see the movie. While we (wait) on line, a man across the street (rob) the bank! The robber (run) out of the bank and (jump) into his car. As he (drive) away, a garbage truck (pull) in front of him and (dump) garbage on his car! He couldn’t see anything. While he (curse) about this, the police (arrive) and (arrest) him. He said that at least he would be able to take a shower in jail. Shortly after that, we (enter) the theater. The movie (entertain) , inspirational, and fun. I had a very good time, and the next day I got a good grade on my calculus test.

Written by the tutors and staff of the English Language Resource Center at Bergen Community College, NJ