Lesson 11 of 13 · Intermediate · B1

Backup plans and practical decisions

Explain likely results and alternatives when a plan depends on a condition.

1. Grammar: First conditional: if, unless, and might

Use if + present simple with will + base verb for a possible future result. Use might instead of will when the result is uncertain. Unless means if not: Unless it rains, we will walk = If it does not rain, we will walk. Avoid adding an extra negative when unless already supplies the negative meaning.

If + present, + will + verb. → If the train is delayed, I will call you.
Unless + present, + will + verb. → Unless it rains, we will walk.
If + present, + might + verb. → If I finish early, I might join you.
We won’t leave unless everyone is ready.

Model conversation

A: Will you join the picnic?

B: Unless I have to work, I will come.

A: What if the weather changes?

B: If it rains, we might move the picnic indoors.

2. Useful words and verbs

Read each meaning and example. Make your own sentence, then try to use the word during the conversation.

cancel

to decide an event will not happen

If it rains heavily, we will cancel the picnic.

reschedule

to choose a new time for something

If you are busy, we will reschedule.

reserve

to keep something for later use or for someone

If tickets sell quickly, I will reserve mine today.

check

to examine something for information

Unless you check, you might miss the change.

alternative

another possible choice

If the cafe is full, we will find an alternative.

budget

the amount of money planned for something

If it fits our budget, we might book it.

forecast

a prediction about the weather

If the forecast is bad, we will stay nearby.

backup plan

another plan to use if the first fails

If the train is canceled, our backup plan is the bus.

3. Conversation: 15 questions

Use complete sentences and add a reason or example when it fits. Open an answer starter if you need help. You may use imagined details.

What will you do if your usual transport is canceled tomorrow?
Answer starter
If it is canceled, I will …
What might you do if you finish your tasks early?
Answer starter
If I finish early, I might …
Unless the weather is bad, what will you do this weekend?
Answer starter
Unless the weather is bad, I will …
What will you do if a trip costs more than your budget?
Answer starter
If it costs too much, I will …
If your first choice of hotel is full, what alternative might you choose?
Answer starter
If it is full, I might …
What will you check before you reserve a ticket?
Answer starter
If I decide to reserve a ticket, I will check …
What will you do if a friend needs to reschedule?
Answer starter
If my friend needs to reschedule, I will …
What might happen if you leave too late for an appointment?
Answer starter
If I leave too late, I might …
What will you do unless your evening plans change?
Answer starter
Unless my plans change, I will …
How will you prepare if the forecast says it will rain?
Answer starter
If the forecast says rain, I will …
What will you do if an item you need is unavailable?
Answer starter
If it is unavailable, I will …
What condition must be met before you book an expensive trip?
Answer starter
I won’t book it unless …
What might you do if you have a little money left in your budget?
Answer starter
If I have money left, I might …
What will you do if your study partner cancels?
Answer starter
If my partner cancels, I will …
Describe a plan and a backup plan using if and unless.
Answer starter
Unless …, I will … If …, I will … instead.

4. Extend your answer

Choose three questions and answer again without the starters. Use at least three words from the word bank. Add a reason with “because,” an example with “for example,” or a contrast with “but.” Ask your partner one follow-up question.