Fannie Mae Foundation: How to Buy a Home

Grammar review
Have learners look at the box under Grammar review. Point out that the simple past tense is used in the if clause, and would or could is used in the main clause when the situation is contrary to fact (not true) in the past and in the future. Also, mention the exception noted at the bottom of the box. Ask learners to
complete the sentences using would or could and their own words.

Answers will vary.

Writing
Explain long-term financial goals and ask the class to give examples. Discuss plans for meeting those goals. Have learners write their own financial goals and their plans for achieving these goals. Some sample goals that students might generate are

buying a home

starting a business

paying for a child’s college education.

Unit 1 : Lesson 4: Savings accounts

Grammar review

Unreal conditional — the situation is contrary to fact (not true) in the past and in the future. Use the simple past tense in the “if clause” and would or could in the main clause.

Examples: If you wanted to save money, you could open a savings account. If you had to open a savings account, your local bank representative would help you.

Note: I was and he, she, and it was become I were and he, she, and it were when used in the “if clause.”

Complete the sentences using would or could.

1. If you wanted to buy a house,

2. If you wanted to get a mortgage,

3. If you paid your bills on time,

4. If you showed a mortgage lender that you have enough money for closing costs
and a down payment,

Writing

My long-term financial goals

If you have long-term financial goals, for example, buying a house, you can begin to save for those goals now. List a few of your long-term goals on the lines below.

Saving money for your financial goals

Write about your plans or ideas to save money. Explain why you are saving money
and what you expect to happen if you follow those plans.

Previous Page | Next Page