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The Old Colonel - Present Perfect Practice.

Read this text about the old colonel. Then use the answer prompts to write questions using either the present perfect or the past simple.

I think I have had a very interesting life. I'm 73 now and I don't work anymore. I was in the army for 51 years. I retired when I was 69. I have been to so many countries that I can't remember all of them. I've been to Australia six or seven times and to South Africa three times. I have also been once to Russia but I didn't like it at all: much too cold for me!

They say that love is the greatest thing and I agree. I've been married four times but never for more than five years. I don't think women really understand me!

I've never been on television, but I've been on the radio once. It was a programme about life in the military about twenty years ago. I met the Prime Minister on the same day. Actually, I've met a lot of famous people: members of the royal family, famous politicians and also famous cinema and television personalities. I've never met the American President though which is a pity.

Because I've travelled a lot, I've seen a lot of wonderful things and have also eaten and drank some strange foods and drinks. I ate cat and rat in India and drank something called Mirto on a little island in Italy many years ago.

1. What job before retiring?
He worked in the army.

2. he in the army?
For 51 years.

3. How many been to Australia?
Six or seven times.

4. like Russia?
No, it was too cold.

5. married so many times?
Because women don't understand him.

6. Has he ever ?
Yes, he has. But never on TV.

7. When the prime minister?
When he was on the radio.

8. Has American president?
No, he hasn't but he wants to.

9. Where cat and rat?
In India.

10. drunk Mirto?
Yes, he has. In Italy.