19.10. Forming Simple Questions with 'Do' and 'Does': Exercises for Mastering 'Do' and 'Does' in Questions

Learning to form simple questions using 'do' and 'does' is a fundamental step in mastering basic English. These auxiliary verbs are essential for creating questions in the present simple tense. In this section, we will explore the rules, provide examples, and offer exercises to help you become proficient in using 'do' and 'does' in questions.

Understanding 'Do' and 'Does'

'Do' and 'does' are auxiliary verbs used to form questions in the present simple tense. The choice between 'do' and 'does' depends on the subject of the sentence:

• 'Do' is used with plural nouns and with the pronouns I, you, we, and they.
• 'Does' is used with singular nouns and with the pronouns he, she, and it.

These verbs help to form questions by inverting the subject and the auxiliary verb. Below are the basic structures:

• Do + subject + base form of the verb + ?
• Does + subject + base form of the verb + ?

Examples:

• Do you like pizza?
• Does she play the piano?
• Do they work here?
• Does it rain often in London?

Forming Questions with 'Do'

When forming questions with 'do,' remember that it is used for plural subjects and the pronouns I, you, we, and they. The structure is straightforward:

Do + subject + base form of the verb + ?

Examples:

• Do I need to bring anything?
• Do we have a meeting today?
• Do they enjoy the movie?
• Do you understand the lesson?

Forming Questions with 'Does'

When forming questions with 'does,' it is used for singular subjects and the pronouns he, she, and it. The structure is similar to 'do,' but with 'does' instead:

Does + subject + base form of the verb + ?

Examples:

• Does he know the answer?
• Does she visit her grandparents often?
• Does it work properly?
• Does the cat sleep on the sofa?

Common Mistakes and Tips

Here are some common mistakes learners make when forming questions with 'do' and 'does,' along with tips to avoid them:

• Using 'do' or 'does' with a conjugated verb: Remember to use the base form of the verb after 'do' or 'does.' For example, say "Does she like?" not "Does she likes?"
• Confusing 'do' and 'does': Pay attention to the subject of the sentence to choose the correct auxiliary verb.
• Omitting 'do' or 'does': In English, questions in the present simple tense require 'do' or 'does.' Do not leave them out.

Exercises for Mastery

Practice makes perfect. Below are exercises to help you master forming questions with 'do' and 'does.'

Exercise 1: Fill in the Blanks

Fill in the blanks with 'do' or 'does' to complete the questions:

1. ______ you like coffee?
2. ______ he play soccer on weekends?
3. ______ they have a car?
4. ______ it snow in winter here?
5. ______ we need to buy tickets in advance?

Exercise 2: Rewrite the Sentences

Rewrite the following sentences as questions using 'do' or 'does':

1. She loves chocolate.
2. They go to school by bus.
3. He reads books every night.
4. We have a meeting at 10 AM.
5. The dog barks loudly.

Exercise 3: Create Your Own Questions

Create questions using the prompts below. Choose the correct auxiliary verb ('do' or 'does') based on the subject.

1. (you/enjoy/music)
2. (he/like/spicy food)
3. (they/visit/Paris/often)
4. (she/speak/Spanish)
5. (we/need/more time)

Answers

Exercise 1 Answers:

1. Do you like coffee?
2. Does he play soccer on weekends?
3. Do they have a car?
4. Does it snow in winter here?
5. Do we need to buy tickets in advance?

Exercise 2 Answers:

1. Does she love chocolate?
2. Do they go to school by bus?
3. Does he read books every night?
4. Do we have a meeting at 10 AM?
5. Does the dog bark loudly?

Exercise 3 Sample Questions:

1. Do you enjoy music?
2. Does he like spicy food?
3. Do they visit Paris often?
4. Does she speak Spanish?
5. Do we need more time?

Conclusion

Mastering the use of 'do' and 'does' in forming questions is a crucial skill for beginners in English. With practice, you will become more comfortable and confident in using these auxiliary verbs correctly. Use the exercises provided to reinforce your understanding and continue to build your foundational English skills. Remember, practice and consistency are key to language learning success.