This very fuzzy video clip of an extremely sleepy baby is a big hit with both students and teachers. It is fun to talk about both before and after you see it, but you will have to be careful with the verb forms you choose.

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The sleepiest baby: Time-switching activity

This very short, very fuzzy video clip of a sleepy baby is a big hit with both students and teachers. I have linked to an unedited version at the bottom of the page, but I suggest you use my edited version instead because we can stop the video and talk about it several times.

Notice that as the time changes, the verb forms change as well. This is automatic for a native English speaker, but it takes quite a bit of practice for a learner. OK, let's begin.

We are going to see a very, very sleepy baby. Before you start watching, decide what you think will happen. Here are your choices. Remember which one you choose.

I think the baby is going to fall forward.
I think the baby is going to fall to the left (ie., your left).
I think the baby is going to fall to the right (ie., your right).
I think the baby is going to fall backwards.
I think the baby is going to wake up.

Now watch part 1:

Now, before we watch part 2, let’s review:

What did you say you thought was going to happen?

I said I thought the baby was going to…

Do you want to change your mind?

No.
Yes, I think the baby is going to…

Now watch part 2:

Now, before we watch the last part, do you want to change your mind?

No.
Yes, I think the baby is going to…

Now watch part 3:

OK, what happened?
The baby …….
What did you think was going to happen?
I thought the baby was going to….

You can find an unedited version   version here (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpi8J1Iudb8)

To further understand the past simple,see Understanding English verb forms.

You can find a full description of Understanding English verb forms here:

http://www.bangkokpost.com/learning/books/196206/understanding-english-verb-forms

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http://www.se-ed.com/eshop/Products/Detail.aspx?No=9786167061030&CategoryId=482

http://www.chulabook.com/description.asp?barcode=9786167061030