In Case or If? Preparing for a Possible Problem
By the end: I can distinguish a precaution from a conditional action.
Try the activities, then check your answers.
Try the activities, then check your answers.
Choose a short recording.
Take a precaution now
In case explains why you prepare for something that might happen. You do not wait for the event before preparing.
Take an umbrella in case it rains.
I’ll save a copy in case we lose the original.
Wait for a condition
If can make the action depend on the condition. The action is taken when that condition applies.
If it rains, we’ll stay inside.
If the file disappears, I’ll contact support.
Check the order of actions
A spare key is prepared before it is needed. A call made if you lose your key depends on the loss occurring.
Keep a spare key in case you lose yours.
Call me if you lose your key.
Guided practice
Say or write your answer first. Compare form and meaning with the model.
1. Choose the connector: Save a copy now ___ the computer fails later.
Compare a model and explanation
in case
The copy is a precaution before a possible failure.
2. Choose: ___ the computer fails, call the technician.
Compare a model and explanation
If
Failure triggers the call.
3. Does Take water in case you’re thirsty later mean wait until later to pack it?
Compare a model and explanation
No. Take it before the possible need.
The preparation comes first.
4. Correct the intended precaution: I’ll buy a spare if the shop runs out later. You want one before it runs out.
Compare a model and explanation
I’ll buy a spare in case the shop runs out later.
In case makes the preventative timing clear.
5. Join: I wrote down the address. My phone might stop working.
Compare a model and explanation
I wrote down the address in case my phone stopped working.
The past preparation anticipates a possible problem.
6. Join: I will use the stairs, but only if the lift is broken.
Compare a model and explanation
I’ll use the stairs if the lift is broken.
The action depends on the condition.
7. Did it rain in I brought a coat in case it rained?
Compare a model and explanation
We are not told.
The purpose does not establish the later event.
8. Write one precaution and one conditional response for a trip.
Compare a model and explanation
Take a charger in case the battery gets low. Call me if you get lost.
The timing and triggers differ.
A short conversation
Listen first, then open the transcript when useful.
Open the conversation transcript
A: Why did you print the tickets?
B: In case my phone stops working.
A: Good idea. What will you do if the train is late?
B: I’ll call the hotel if we’re delayed.
Listening checks
Listen to each extract or open its transcript. These three questions have a separate score.
Mastery quiz
Choose the best answer for each situation. The score is out of eight.
Use it in your own words
Speaking 1
Give two precautions for a journey.
Reveal a possible response
Take water in case you get thirsty. Save the address in case your phone loses its signal.
Success check: The preparations happen before possible needs.
Speaking 2
Give two instructions triggered by a problem.
Reveal a possible response
Call me if you get lost. Take a taxi if the last bus has gone.
Success check: State the triggering conditions.
Put it all together
Plan for a small event using one precaution, one conditional response and one outcome you do not yet know.
Reveal a possible response
I’ll print the list in case the tablet fails. If it fails, I’ll use paper. We don’t know whether it will fail.
Success check: Do not turn the possibility into a fact.
Take it with you
I can distinguish a precaution from a conditional action.