Indirect questions
Use indirect question word order after phrases such as Could you tell me and I wonder.
Learning goal: Indirect questions
Transform direct questions into polite or embedded questions.
Level and focus
Level: B1
Category: Questions
Use indirect question word order after phrases such as Could you tell me and I wonder.
By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to: Transform direct questions into polite or embedded questions.
Core idea
This lesson focuses on one clear grammar job. Learners should first recognise the pattern in short examples, then use it in controlled sentences, and only later combine it with other grammar.
Pattern
Form
introductory phrase + question word + subject + verbDo you know where he lives?yes/no indirect questions use if/whetherCould you tell me if the office is open?
Meaning and use
Use this grammar when the sentence needs the meaning described in the lesson goal. At this level, accuracy is more important than stylistic variety. Keep examples short, concrete and close to everyday communication before moving to longer texts.
Examples
Examples
- Can you tell me where the station is?
- Do you know what time it starts?
- I wonder if she is coming.
- Could you explain how this works?
Watch out
Common mistakes
- Keeping direct question word order: not
Do you know where is the station?; useDo you know where the station is?. - Using do/does twice: not
Can you tell me where does he live?; useCan you tell me where he lives?. - Forgetting if/whether for yes/no questions: not
I don't know is it open.; useI don't know if it is open..
Teaching sequence
- Show the pattern with two or three very short examples.
- Contrast the correct form with one common error.
- Let learners complete controlled examples.
- Ask learners to produce their own short sentence.
- Finish with a mixed review item so they distinguish this point from neighbouring grammar.
Boundary: what not to cover here
This is essential for polite communication and B1/B2 writing accuracy.
Suggested practice
Start with recognition, then controlled completion, then sentence rewriting or ordering where appropriate. Keep distractors close enough to test the grammar point, but avoid trick options that require vocabulary beyond the level.
Self-check
Quick check
Before you move on, can you explain the rule in one sentence and make one example of your own?
Put it into practice
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