A1 Grammar Lesson 1

Unit 1 – Verb BE (Singular)

1A. Verb BE with I and You

1. Affirmative (Positive Sentences)

We use am with I and are with you.

Subject Full Form Short Form
I I am I’m
You You are You’re

Examples:

  • I am a teacher → I’m a teacher
  • You are my friend → You’re my friend

2. Negative Sentences

To make a negative sentence, add not.

Subject Full Form Short Form
I I am not I’m not
You You are not You aren’t / You’re not

Examples:

  • I am not tired → I’m not tired
  • You are not late → You aren’t late / You’re not late

✔ Both forms are correct.

âš  Important
  • Say I’m not, NOT I amn’t

3. Questions with I and You

To form a question, put the verb before the subject.

Statement Question
I’m ready. Am I ready?
You’re busy. Are you busy?

Examples:

  • Am I in the right class?
  • Are you okay?

4. Short Answers

Use Yes or No + subject + verb.

Question Positive Negative
Am I early? Yes, you are. No, you aren’t.
Are you a student? Yes, I am. No, I’m not.
âš  Important
  • Say Yes, I am (NOT Yes, I’m)
  • Say Yes, you are (NOT Yes, you’re)
  • Do NOT use short form after Yes

Quiz 1