Prepositions of Place and Time
A preposition of place or time is a word that shows where or when something happens, linking a noun to the rest of the sentence, such as 'under', 'between', 'before' and 'during'. Year 3 pupils learn to choose the most precise preposition to add detail about position or timing to their sentences.
Before you start
No specific prerequisites - this is a good place to start.
Method
- Learn that place prepositions such as 'in', 'on', 'under' and 'between' tell us where something is.
- Learn that time prepositions such as 'before', 'after', 'during' and 'at' tell us when something happens.
- Look at the noun the preposition connects to and decide whether it needs a place word or a time word.
- Choose the most precise preposition for the exact position or time being described.
- Place the preposition directly before the noun or noun phrase it relates to.
Worked example
Choose the correct prepositions to complete: 'The cat is hiding ___ the sofa, and it always naps ___ lunchtime.'
- The first gap needs a place preposition because it describes where the cat is.
- 'Under' fits best because it shows the cat is hidden beneath the sofa.
- The second gap needs a time preposition because it describes when the cat naps.
- 'At' fits best before a specific point in the day like 'lunchtime'.
- Final answer: The cat is hiding under the sofa, and it always naps at lunchtime.
Practice questions
Try each question, then tap to reveal the answer.
Exam-style questions
Written in the style of a English exam paper, with a full mark scheme.
Write one sentence describing where your school bag is, using a preposition of place.
Complete the sentence with the most precise preposition of time and explain your choice: 'The concert begins ___ 7 o'clock.'
Identify the two prepositions in this sentence and state whether each shows place or time: 'We waited under the clock during the storm.'
Free printable worksheet
Want more practice on paper? Download the prepositions of place and time worksheet pack - 10 pages of exam-style questions with a full mark scheme. No sign-up, no email wall - just the PDF, free for personal and classroom use.
Build a full practice pack.
This topic is one of hundreds in the library - pick the ones a student needs and generate a printable PDF in minutes.