Go, Do, or play – ESL Lesson
When learning English as a second language, one of the common challenges is knowing how to correctly use the verbs “go,” “do,” and “play” in the context of sports and activities. These verbs are not interchangeable and are used with specific types of activities, which can often confuse ESL learners. Understanding the correct usage of these verbs is essential for speaking about hobbies and interests accurately and naturally.
Go, Do, and Play Practice Quiz
To reinforce your understanding of when to use “go,” “do,” and “play” with sports, a five-question quiz will follow this section. Each question will describe an activity, and you will choose which verb is appropriate. This exercise will help you apply the rules in practical contexts and ensure you feel confident in your ability to use these verbs correctly.
How do you know when to use go, do, or play when you talk about sports? Are these sentences correct? Look at them and try to guess.
1. I like to play bowling. (correct/ not correct)
2. Jim likes to play basketball. (correct/ not correct)
3. Mary likes to go skiing. (correct/ not correct)
4. We like to play hiking. (correct/ not correct)
5. They usually do golf. (correct/ not correct)
6. Mike and Carol play karate. (correct/ not correct)
Now look at the whiteboard.
Think a minute. What is the same about the words that use play?
They are all regular nouns. They are also competitive sports (you play to win.)
What is the same about the words that use go?
They are all nouns that end with -ing. They are also sports you can do alone.
What is the same about the words that use do?
They are all martial arts (like in the picture.) They are also sports you can do in groups.
Go back to the sentences on the top. Were your guesses right?
Answer Key:
1. not correct, I like to go bowling.
2. Jim likes to play basketball. (correct above)
3. Mary likes to go skiing. (correct above)
4. not correct, We like to go hiking.
5. not correct, They usually play golf.
6. not correct, Mike and Carol do karate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Using Go, Do, or Play
Use “go” with activities that end in -ing and generally involve movement from one place to another. Examples include “go swimming,” “go jogging,” and “go skiing.”
Use “do” for individual activities that do not use a ball and are often more about the activity than competing. Common examples are “do yoga,” “do aerobics,” and “do gymnastics.”
Use “play” with sports that involve a team, a ball, or a competitive aspect in a defined area. For instance, “play soccer,” “play tennis,” and “play basketball” are correct uses.
Yes, some activities might seem like exceptions due to cultural usage or idiomatic expressions. For example, “go” can be used in “go fishing” even though it doesn’t end in -ing traditionally.
Yes, “play” can also refer to playing musical instruments or games. For example, you can “play the piano” or “play chess.”