In and On
In and on are common position words. They help us explain where something is.
We use in when something is inside a place or container. We use on when something is resting on a surface.
Learning Objectives
- Understand the meaning of in.
- Understand the meaning of on.
- Tell the difference between in and on.
- Use in and on in simple sentences.
Using In
We use in when something is inside another thing or place.
The ball is in the box.
The pencil is in the bag.
Using On
We use on when something is resting on a surface.
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The book is on the table.
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The toy is on the bed.
In or On?
The apple is on the table.
In the first sentence, the apple is inside the basket. In the second sentence, the apple is resting on the table.
Examples Around Us
- The books are in the bag.
- The pencil is in the box.
- The cup is on the table.
- The plate is on the table.
- The toy is in the cupboard.
Common Mistakes
- Do not use on when something is inside a container.
- Do not use in when something is resting on a surface.
- Look at the actual position before choosing the word.
Practice
1. The ball is ___ the box. (in / on)
2. The book is ___ the table. (in / on)
3. The pencil is ___ the bag. (in / on)
4. The cup is ___ the table. (in / on)
5. Which word means inside?
Try It Yourself
Find two objects that are in something and two objects that are on something. Say a sentence about each.
Quick Revision
- In means inside something.
- On can mean resting on a surface.
- In and on describe different positions.
- Look carefully before choosing in or on.
Next Step
In the next lesson, you will learn about under and over.