1. Adverbs of Time
Adverbs tell us when, how often, or for how long an action happens. They are essential for situating events in time.
| Time Frame | Common Adverbs |
|---|
| Past | yesterday, ago, already, just, yet, ever, never, before, then |
| Present | now, today, currently, still, already, yet, just, always |
| Future | tomorrow, soon, later, eventually, subsequently, subsequently |
Worked Example:
Yesterday, I visited the agricultural exhibition at Mlimani City. The farmers already displayed their crops before the official opening. The event currently showcases modern farming techniques. Tomorrow, the workshop will demonstrate irrigation methods.
2. Prepositions of Time
Prepositions indicate relationships between nouns and other words, specifically temporal relationships.
| Preposition | Usage | Example |
|---|
| in | Months, years, seasons, centuries | in 2024, in December, in the morning |
| on | Specific days and dates | on Monday, on 15th June |
| at | Specific times | at 8:00 a.m., at noon, at sunset |
| for | Duration | for three hours, for two weeks |
| since | Starting point | since 2020, since last month |
| during | While something happens | during the rainy season |
| before/after | Sequence | before the meeting, after lunch |
| until/till | Up to a point | until next week, till evening |
Worked Example:
In December 2023, many students completed their Form 6 examinations. The exams took place on 4th December and continued until 22nd December. Students had been studying since August. During the examination period, they remained focused.
3. Conjunctions for Sequencing Events
Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses. They are crucial for creating complex sentences that show relationships between events.
Time Conjunctions
- Before — "The documentary aired before the news broadcast."
- After — "After the rain stopped, we continued our journey."
- When — "When the sun sets, the market vendors pack their goods."
- While — "While the teacher explained the lesson, students took notes."
- As soon as — "As soon as the bus arrived, passengers boarded."
- Until — "We waited until the ferry crossed the lake."
- Since — "Since the drought began, water scarcity has increased."
Purpose and Result Conjunctions
- So that — "She saved money so that she could open a small shop."
- Because — "The crop failed because there was insufficient rainfall."
- Although/Even though — "Although the road was rough, we reached our destination."
Worked Example:
The research team conducted a survey before the rainy season began. After collecting data from 200 households, they analyzed the results. When they finished, they presented their findings. Since the study began, several farmers have adopted new techniques. Although challenges existed, the project continued until its completion.