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Complete the sentences with the English past perfect continuous

Good luck!

Fill in the correct form of the English past perfect continuous. 

Remember: 

  1. Affirmatives: Subject + past perfect of 'to be' (had been) + present participle (verb + suffix 'ing') + rest of the sentence
  2. Negatives: Subject + negative form of the past perfect of 'to be' (had not been) + present participle (verb + suffix 'ing') + rest of the sentence 
  3. Interrogatives: Past perfect of 'to be' (have) + Subject + Past participle of the ver 'to be' ('been') + present participle (verb + suffix 'ing')+ rest of the sentence + question mark

Example:

  • We ... each other letters since 2004. 
  • We had been writing eacht other letters since 2004. 

They Greek since 2016. (to study)

I to the gym, before I bought a bike. (to run)

he long before the bus arrived? (to wait)

She said she all morning. (to walk)

You not to call her, before she arrived. (to try)

you fries, before you got home? (to eat)

It all day in Paris. (to rain)

John told the police that he for a place to stay. (to look)

We all morning. (to cook)

I in Spain, before I moved to Portugal. (to live) 

What our students say

Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.

4.97/5

Dear Sir/ Mam

My name is Monesh Nankoo. I am an I.T specialist/ Teacher. I am writing to show my keen interest for the position at your organization. I have completed my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science as well as my TEFL/ TESOL English master course. I do have several other qualifications in the field of I.T and logistics with are stated on my Resume.
I am a capable person along with excellent communication skills. I assure you that I will prove myself to be a valuable employee. I possess the necessary qualities needed to persevere such as adaptability, integrity and I am self-motivated.
I am really good at learning quickly and efficiently. I want to work at your company because I feel I could definitely add quality to the work that you do. I would love to work with you to achieve a greater reputation for your organization.
My future plans are to gain more experience in the field of Education or Information Technology to enhance my career.

Thank you for taking your time to review my application. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Yours sincerely,
Monesh Nankoo
Contact details:
Skype: moneshnankoo
Line: moneshnankoo
WeChat: Monesh_Nankoo
Email: Moneshnankoo@gmail.com
Alternative email: Moneshnankoo@hotmail.com
Mobile number: 0813307660/ 068 099 0519
Country: South Africa

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Monesh is a very enthusiastic and patient teacher. He is very well-organized and a native English speaker from South Africa.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Monesh N. Monesh N. ZA

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Experienced English Teacher with 13 Years of Success in Italy – Fluent in English and Italian
Hello, I’m Jason — a native English teacher from the UK, now based in the heart of Italy. For the past 13 years, I’ve been helping students of every age, level, and ability achieve their English language goals. Whether you need English for school, exams, work, or business, I can guide you to success.
My teaching approach is designed to build your confidence in speaking, strengthen your listening skills, and give you a clear, practical understanding of English grammar.
Why focus on speaking first? Because my students achieve the best results when they can start communicating in English as early as possible. Once you are able to hold a simple conversation, you will quickly develop all areas of your language ability.
Of course, if your main goal is mastering grammar or written English, I can tailor our lessons to meet those specific needs.
For professionals requiring specialised vocabulary, I offer flexible courses in business, medicine, and tourism, which can be adapted to suit any professional environment.
I work with students aged 3 to 70, and every lesson is carefully personalised to give each learner the best chance to reach their full potential.
If you’re ready to start your journey to confident English, feel free to contact me for an informal chat and a free trial lesson. I look forward to hearing from you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

4.95/5

Punctuality

4.95/5

Internet connection

4.84/5

Learning materials

4.89/5
4.93/5

Jason is really a great teacher of English, very helpful and always well prepared. After each lesson he sends me the list of vocabulary to study. I can strongly recommend him at any level of English. It's a pleasure to study with him, he is always smiling and very polite:)

Jason H. Jason H.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hi!
I'm Emma, I'm originally from London but have lived in many countries around the world, and currently live in Italy. I have learnt foreign languages myself, so I can empathise with your every concern about learning a new language!
I speak english with a very clear British accent, and I have much experience with all levels of english learners, from beginners to advanced, from young children to retired adults, online and in person.
Just let me know your needs and language goals, and I will help you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Emma is a very good teacher, she is helpful and patient. She helped me to prepare for B2 English exam. She improved my pronunciation and my vocabulary and she understood what I needed.

Emma F. Emma F. GB

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hello, my name is Allison! I have been teaching German for four years and English for two. I work to fit my lessons my students' needs as well as trying to make them enjoyable.
In terms of special topics, I have experience giving lessons in German pronunciation. Also, in addition to my BA in German Studies, I also have an undergraduate degree in music.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

After nearly 100 lessons still interesting, lot of fun and many things I learned. I feel able to talk and follow conversations with others. Thanks a lot!

Allison K. Allison K. US

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Experienced English Teacher with 13 Years of Success in Italy – Fluent in English and Italian
Hello, I’m Jason — a native English teacher from the UK, now based in the heart of Italy. For the past 13 years, I’ve been helping students of every age, level, and ability achieve their English language goals. Whether you need English for school, exams, work, or business, I can guide you to success.
My teaching approach is designed to build your confidence in speaking, strengthen your listening skills, and give you a clear, practical understanding of English grammar.
Why focus on speaking first? Because my students achieve the best results when they can start communicating in English as early as possible. Once you are able to hold a simple conversation, you will quickly develop all areas of your language ability.
Of course, if your main goal is mastering grammar or written English, I can tailor our lessons to meet those specific needs.
For professionals requiring specialised vocabulary, I offer flexible courses in business, medicine, and tourism, which can be adapted to suit any professional environment.
I work with students aged 3 to 70, and every lesson is carefully personalised to give each learner the best chance to reach their full potential.
If you’re ready to start your journey to confident English, feel free to contact me for an informal chat and a free trial lesson. I look forward to hearing from you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

4.95/5

Punctuality

4.95/5

Internet connection

4.84/5

Learning materials

4.89/5
4.93/5

I'm William and I'm a Belgian student who was looking for a teacher to improve my English because I have to pass a test in September before I may start a Master education at the university. I contacted Jason and we've had 2 lessons at this time. These lessons were very usefull and Jason explained everything to me when I had a question or when there was something I understood very well on that moment. So Jason is a very good teacher also very kind and he will help you a lot with a lot of passion.

Jason H. Jason H.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hello!
I believe learning should be fun and interactive!

I would love to help you in any way I can, to improve your knowledge of English.
I love making beginners feel comfortable, and developing conversations or grammar with those who are more experienced in English!
I am very used to teaching children whose second language is English.

I love teaching and watching children come alive with individual attention, and tailoring my teaching style to their personalities. I enjoy being animated with my students!
I am comfortable teaching children and adults.
I am a South African and have a Business degree. I worked in Finance and Marketing for 7 years for Volkswagen South Africa.
I am extroverted and I love people!
I have homeschooled my children from the 2nd grade through to the 7th grade.
I have taught Life Skills to 8 year olds at a Primary School for three years.
Currently, I tutor 1st and 2nd graders at a school where the children are learning in English as a SECOND language.
I believe my personality, teaching experience and work ethic make me a great teacher!
Best Regards
Christine Rafferty

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Cristina it's very funny and smilimg Person! Her english Is clear! Very good lesson with her! Thanks Cristina!!

Christine R. Christine R.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Do you want to improve your Dutch for work and daily life in the Netherlands? I help young expats enhance their Dutch skills, so you can speak and write with more confidence. Not because you have to, but because you want to! My lessons are practical and focused on what you truly need, whether you’re a beginner or already at a higher level.

What you can expect:

Lessons for beginners to advanced learners (B2 to C1), with a methodical and structured approach
Exercises that fit your work and life in the Netherlands
Focus on building confidence and keeping your self-respect, as you find your place as a new resident
Long-term collaboration, aimed at lasting progress and making the most of your new country
In my lessons, you’ll not only learn the language but also how to communicate your unique value and fully use the opportunities in your new home. This way, you’ll get to know the Netherlands better and make your own special contribution!

Ready to improve your Dutch? Contact me and let’s explore the possibilities!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

4.96/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

4.89/5

Learning materials

4.96/5
4.96/5

Monique is very good and very patient teacher! It is always fun to have a lesson with her! I really love it

Monique M. Monique M.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hello everyone I am SAKI. I’m from Hyogo prefecture. I have been teaching Japanese in Italy.
Everyone who loves Japan, everyone who loves anime, everyone who loves Japanese TV series and everyone who loves Japanese food, I would like to share your loves!!
Let's speak Japanese together.

I have taught Japanese for 5 years in class and online.
・Conversation
・Chinese characters, Hiragana, Katakana
・grammar and business conversation
・About culture
Feel free to ask me questions!

✳︎favourites✳︎
・watching Miyazaki movies, reading books and manga
・I am a big fan of traveling and eating local foods
・I often go to Corse island for holiday. One of my favorite places! The sun, crystal clear water and delicious food.
・I like sports (especially volley ball and base ball!!)

I am looking forward to having a conversation with you!
Thank you

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Saki san explains very well. I enjoy the lessons very much. Its very good that we always start the lesson with repeating the previous lesson - it makes it easier for me to remember.

SAKI T. SAKI T.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

MERHABA :)
Hello! I am Omer, a teacher of both English and Turkish living and working in Lithuania.
My hometown is Antalya and I am a native speaker of Turkish. I speak proper and clear Istanbul Turkish (this is the most common dialect of Turkish) If you're looking for a teacher who's devoted, attentive, and fun, you've come to the right place. I never come to a class empty-handed and always make sure my students are engaged, entertained, and learning. Whatever your level in Turkish (or English), I can provide you with a casual, open environment where you feel comfortable experimenting with the language you're learning. Hoping to see you soon! :-)

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Ömer is an experienced teacher who speaks multiple languages. He teaches to people of all ages and levels (A1 to C2.) He is very organized and has lots of learning materials.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Ömer  Y. Ömer Y. TR

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

I've been living and working as a Turkish teacher in London for 5 years. I studied Turkish language and literature. I graduated from Kocaeli University in 2009. I have pedagogical proficiency and a Teaching Turkish for Foreigners certificate from Istanbul University.

I have experience at high schools and secondary schools in İstanbul/Turkey for 5 years.

All the collateral will be provided by me. I will give you homework after every lesson and we will check it together.

I use a theory book and an excercise book for my lessons, versions vary according to your level (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1). They're all published by Istanbul University and are called `Turkish For Foreigners`

I also use powerpoint presentations during my lessons. It makes it easier to understand the grammar rules.
My lessons are about grammar, listening, speaking and writing.

Lessons are interactive and fun as I believe a playful approach to learning a new language helps retaining information. Games and other devices such as cards will be be used during the lessons.

For more information please do not hesitate to ask me any questions. Thank you very much. Have a great day! :)

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Samet has a lot of teaching experience. He is patient and enthusiastic to learn you a new language. Furthermore, he has lots of different teaching materials that make his lessons fun and interactive.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Samet T. Samet T. TR

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

I am TEFL qualified and I have over 16 years experience in 7 countries. Because of Covid I now teach only online using English File (oup). I will first analyse and assess your exact level. Then I will prepare a FREE sample lesson. After that I will fix any problems you may have below that level, so that you can progress with a solid ability in Grammar, Reading, Pronunciation, Listening and of course Speaking.
I like my lessons to be fun, but I am serious about teaching. If you really want to improve, I can help you.

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Peter has over 15 years of teaching experience. He is a very kind and patient teacher. He teaches to all levels from A1 to C2.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Peter S. Peter S. GB

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

**** Please contact me before booking a lesson, thanks! :-)*** Hello everyone, I'm Federica and I'm an italian and english teacher. Before being a teacher I've been a student infact I graduated in languages so I know very well how hard can be learning a new language. I'm interested in music, cinema, literature and I enjoy talking about several topics. I've been teaching since 2009 and in 2012 I've qualified as italian language teacher. I've experience with children and adults, with in company courses, with total beginners as well as with advanced. Also I've succesfully prepared a number of students for the most important english and italian certification (CELI, CILS, FIRST, PET, KET). Over the last years I've became specialized in one-to-one or small groups lessons because in this way I can create a tailored programme for each student. I follow a communicative approach and in my classes there's lot of room for speaking but I don't neglect grammar, listening and writing. I provide you with material, sometimes selfmade, other times taken from books, videos, or songs, but always useful to help you to immerse in the target language! At the end of every lesson I always assign homework in order to revise the things learnt. I define myself as a happy, positive and very patient person and I do my best to make the class a funny and relaxed moment. I look forward to meet you online!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

After a year of classes with Federica, I can only say that she is an excellent teacher, I am very satisfied with my progress

Translated by Google Translate

Federica C. Federica C. IT

Thanks a lot! It's amazing how much progress you've made with English in one year! Keep going like this!

Translated by Google Translate

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hello! My name is Lucille and I’m from South Africa. I’m a fun and adaptable tutor who is able to adjust my teaching method according to the focus and needs of every individual student. I have 120hr TEFL certification and 4 years of experience in teaching children of all ages as well as adults. I’m a former actress, dancer, musician and makeup artist. My lessons are a warm and friendly environment where students are able to freely express themselves and are able to ask me questions at any time.

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Lucille is an enthusiastic teacher. She has 4 years of teaching experience. She has taught to children and adults. Furthermore, she is eager to help you learn English!

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Lucille V. Lucille V. ZA

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

HI ! I'm Costin and I live in United Kingdom. I am a C2 - Certified ESL Teacher and in the last 6 years I have been an Online ESL teacher and I have taught English to more than 12000 online students.
I own a wide experience in online teaching being always ready to adopt and develop most suitable teaching techniques according to the level and needs of each student.
I use professional online materials / lesson plans which include pictures, vocabulary words, reading texts, grammar, free talk and variety of different learning subjects !
I will help you to evaluate together your primary learning interests and establish all details about the best teaching methods we will apply according to your needs and English learning plans.
I am very friendly, patient, energetic, enthusiastic and professional while teaching, ready to correct, explain and answer to all necessary issues during each class.
Teaching English is my passion ! and my focus is to help you to discover your maximum potential of your abilities to learn and use English language with full confidence anywhere in the world !
See you in my class ! :)

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Costin has a lot of experience in teaching groups. He mainly teaches to adults. He teaches different kinds of English. Furthermore, he specializes in International Business marketing vocabulary. His learning materials are personalized to the students wants and needs.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Costin B. Costin B. GB

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I spent a few years in the United States where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in Spanish and German. Over the years, I have given private lessons in Italian, English, Spanish, and Japanese, with Japanese being the most requested at the moment. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to teach the language at an American college with a native Japanese teacher, applying the method that they use to learn their own language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important for learning a language, and a good method is even more fundamental. No days spent on textbooks are needed; consistency and fun during lessons are the most important parts of learning. You will see results right away! I am patient, flexible, and will adapt in every way to your personal needs. I look forward to seeing you on my profile for a trial lesson and discovering an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Alessia is a really nice teacher with a lovely personality. It was very helpful. I recommend her for anyone, child or adult. Thank you

Alessia T. Alessia T.

Thank you , I really appreciate it!

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Dear Sir/ Mam

My name is Monesh Nankoo. I am an I.T specialist/ Teacher. I am writing to show my keen interest for the position at your organization. I have completed my Bachelor's degree in Computer Science as well as my TEFL/ TESOL English master course. I do have several other qualifications in the field of I.T and logistics with are stated on my Resume.
I am a capable person along with excellent communication skills. I assure you that I will prove myself to be a valuable employee. I possess the necessary qualities needed to persevere such as adaptability, integrity and I am self-motivated.
I am really good at learning quickly and efficiently. I want to work at your company because I feel I could definitely add quality to the work that you do. I would love to work with you to achieve a greater reputation for your organization.
My future plans are to gain more experience in the field of Education or Information Technology to enhance my career.

Thank you for taking your time to review my application. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Yours sincerely,
Monesh Nankoo
Contact details:
Skype: moneshnankoo
Line: moneshnankoo
WeChat: Monesh_Nankoo
Email: Moneshnankoo@gmail.com
Alternative email: Moneshnankoo@hotmail.com
Mobile number: 0813307660/ 068 099 0519
Country: South Africa

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Monesh is a very enthusiastic and patient teacher. He is very well-organized and a native English speaker from South Africa.

This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.

Monesh N. Monesh N. ZA

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Experienced English Teacher with 13 Years of Success in Italy – Fluent in English and Italian
Hello, I’m Jason — a native English teacher from the UK, now based in the heart of Italy. For the past 13 years, I’ve been helping students of every age, level, and ability achieve their English language goals. Whether you need English for school, exams, work, or business, I can guide you to success.
My teaching approach is designed to build your confidence in speaking, strengthen your listening skills, and give you a clear, practical understanding of English grammar.
Why focus on speaking first? Because my students achieve the best results when they can start communicating in English as early as possible. Once you are able to hold a simple conversation, you will quickly develop all areas of your language ability.
Of course, if your main goal is mastering grammar or written English, I can tailor our lessons to meet those specific needs.
For professionals requiring specialised vocabulary, I offer flexible courses in business, medicine, and tourism, which can be adapted to suit any professional environment.
I work with students aged 3 to 70, and every lesson is carefully personalised to give each learner the best chance to reach their full potential.
If you’re ready to start your journey to confident English, feel free to contact me for an informal chat and a free trial lesson. I look forward to hearing from you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

4.95/5

Punctuality

4.95/5

Internet connection

4.84/5

Learning materials

4.89/5
4.93/5

Jason is really a great teacher of English, very helpful and always well prepared. After each lesson he sends me the list of vocabulary to study. I can strongly recommend him at any level of English. It's a pleasure to study with him, he is always smiling and very polite:)

Jason H. Jason H.

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hi!
I'm Emma, I'm originally from London but have lived in many countries around the world, and currently live in Italy. I have learnt foreign languages myself, so I can empathise with your every concern about learning a new language!
I speak english with a very clear British accent, and I have much experience with all levels of english learners, from beginners to advanced, from young children to retired adults, online and in person.
Just let me know your needs and language goals, and I will help you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Emma is a very good teacher, she is helpful and patient. She helped me to prepare for B2 English exam. She improved my pronunciation and my vocabulary and she understood what I needed.

Emma F. Emma F. GB

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

Hello, my name is Allison! I have been teaching German for four years and English for two. I work to fit my lessons my students' needs as well as trying to make them enjoyable.
In terms of special topics, I have experience giving lessons in German pronunciation. Also, in addition to my BA in German Studies, I also have an undergraduate degree in music.
Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting you!

Reviews

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5

After nearly 100 lessons still interesting, lot of fun and many things I learned. I feel able to talk and follow conversations with others. Thanks a lot!

Allison K. Allison K. US

Review

Teaching methodology

5/5

Communication

5/5

Punctuality

5/5

Internet connection

5/5

Learning materials

5/5
5/5