Lesson Content
Warm-Up Question:
Have you ever changed a whole sentence just to avoid deciding between its and it’s?
Spring is my favorite season because it’s warm but not too hot. Every tree seems to show off its new leaves, and the whole world feels fresh again. So, what season do you enjoy, and in what ways does it affect your mood?
Definitions:
Its (no apostrophe) (possessive pronoun): Possessive form of it, meaning “belonging to it.”
– The phone has lost its signal.
– Every country has its own traditions.
– Its bright colors make the bird easy to spot in the trees.
It’s (with apostrophe) (pronoun+verb): Contraction of “it is” or “it has”.
– It’s time to go.
– It’s been a busy week.
– I know the weather looks bad, but it’s going to clear up soon.
How to Remember Which Is Which:
If the meaning is “belonging to it,” use its.
➤ Example: The company increased its profits.
Quick Tip: Think of “its” like his, hers, or theirs. There are no apostrophes in those possessives.
If you can replace it with “it is” or “it has”, use it’s.
➤ Example: It’s raining → It is raining.
Let’s Practice:
Teacher Resources: Grammar Infographic
This infographic is available as a downloadable PDF for individual or classroom use. You can choose between a full-color version and a printer-friendly version. Each file is formatted for easy printing and comes in two sizes: North American letter (8.5″ x 11″) and A4 (210 x 297 mm).
