Verbs BE and HAVE GOT

The difference between the verbs BE and HAVE GOT is essential for learners of English. However, the basic things and concepts are often the most difficult to explain. To be honest, I have to admit that I spent ten years searching for a way to explain this grammar. In the end, I found a solution which I share here. I hope it will make your teaching life easier.

In this post, I will share an infographic and several activities to practise the difference between the verbs BE and HAVE GOT.

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Display the following infographic and explain how it works. If the verb is followed by a part of body or face, for example long hair, it is usually the verb HAVE GOT. If the verb is followed by something, you can easily hold and put into your pocket (or a bag), e.g. a pen, it is the verb HAVE GOT.

If the verb is followed only by an adjective, e.g. slim, or by age, e.g. twenty-five, you have to use the verb BE in the proper form. If the verb is followed by a job, e.g. a mechanic, or by a preposition, e.g. from, you have to use the verb BE in the appropriate form.

The infographic below shows the explanation in as simple form as possible. Note, that if the verb is followed by a family member, you can use both verbs, though the meaning is different. e.g. I am a mother. I have got a mother.

 

To practise the grammar explained above, here is a simple worksheet.

At the top, there is the infographic, which was explained above.

In the first exercise, students should write the affirmative and negative forms of the verbs BE and HAVE GOT.

In the second exercise, students should complete the sentences with the correct form of the verbs BE and HAVE GOT.

In the third exercise, students should complete the sentences with the negative forms of the verbs BE and HAVE GOT.