Zero conditional

Level and focus

Level: B1
Category: Conditionals

Use the zero conditional for general truths, rules and repeated results.

By the end of this lesson, learners should be able to: Combine if or when with present simple in both clauses for general conditions.

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.

Form

• if/when + present simple, present simple
• present simple + if/when + present simple
• used for general truths, rules and regular results

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

• If you heat ice, it melts.
• When people are tired, they make mistakes.
• If the alarm rings, leave the building.
• Plants die if they don't get water.

Common mistakes

• Using will in the result for general truths: not If you heat ice, it will melt.; use If you heat ice, it melts..
• Confusing zero and first conditional: not If it rains, the streets get wet tomorrow.; use If it rains tomorrow, the streets will get wet..
• Using past forms for general rules: not If you mixed red and blue, you get purple.; use If you mix red and blue, you get purple..

Teaching sequence

1. Show the pattern with two or three very short examples.
2. Contrast the correct form with one common error.
3. Let learners complete controlled examples.
4. Ask learners to produce their own short sentence.
5. Finish with a mixed review item so they distinguish this point from neighbouring grammar.

Boundary: what not to cover here

This should be taught before or alongside the first conditional.

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.

Quick check

Before you move on, can you explain the rule in one sentence and make one example of your own?