ESL WORKSHEET - Past perfect tense (I)

LESSON PLAN FOR ENGLISH TEACHERS

PAST PERFECT 1

LinguaHouse

Dec. 12, 2024

Level: Intermediate (B1-B2)
Type of language: General English
Tags: Grammar Practice; Present Perfect; Past Perfect; 13-15 Years Old; 16-18 Years Old; 18+ Years Old
Publication date: 12/12/2024

This updated worksheet presents the main uses of the past perfect tense as well as the difference between the past perfect and present perfect. The worksheet is suitable for both classroom practice and self-study. (by Luca Burns)

• CLICK HERE to download the student’s worksheet in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download the teacher’s lesson plan in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download/listen to the audio in American English.
• CLICK HERE to download the student’s worksheet in British English.
• CLICK HERE to download the teacher’s lesson plan in British English.
• CLICK HERE to download/listen to the audio in British English.

AUDIO TRANSCRIPT

Speaker: Last year, Anna decided to organize a surprise party for her best friend, John. By the time the guests arrived, Anna had already decorated the entire house and prepared all the food. She was very excited because she had never organized a surprise party before.
John had no idea about the party. He thought that they were just going out for dinner. When they returned home, John was shocked to see all his friends waiting for him. Anna noticed that John looked very happy and realized that all her hard work had paid off.
Anna and John had been friends for over ten years, and she wanted to make this birthday special. She remembered that last year, John had mentioned he had always wanted a surprise party. After everyone had enjoyed the food and drinks, they started dancing and playing games.
As the night went on, Anna felt proud because she had managed to bring all of John's friends together. It was a night they would always remember. When the party ended, everyone thanked Anna for the wonderful evening. She had just finished cleaning up when John hugged her and said, "This is the best birthday I've ever had."

Adapted from: https://www.linguahouse.com/esl-lesson-plans/general-english/past-perfect-1. Accessed on October 10, 2025. LinguaHouse.com © 2008–2025. All rights reserved.