Simple Past Reading

This simple past reading gives you examples of the simple past. Read the story and answer the questions at the bottom of the page.

Yesterday Debbie had a job interview. She went downtown to the company. The interview was for an accounting job. Debbie graduated university 3 months ago.

Her interview was at 10:00 am. She woke up at 7:00 am and left her house before 8:00 am. She waited for the bus, but it was late. She was very worried because she did not want to be late for the interview. She tried to phone the company to warn them, but her phone battery was dead.

When the bus arrived, it was almost 9:00 am. Then the bus was slow because there were many other cars. The bus finally arrived at Debbie’s stop at 9:45 am.

Debbie ran from the bus stop to the office building. When she entered she saw a sign that said the company was on the 24th floor. The elevator ride took almost 5 minutes because many people stopped at different floors.

When Debbie arrived at reception, it was 9:58. She was in time!

“I am here to see Mrs. Lewis” said Debbie.

The receptionist checked her book and replied:

“She is not here today. What is your name please?”

“My name is Debbie Gregson.”

“Sorry Debbie, but your appointment is tomorrow.”

Debbie checked her agenda. It was true. She was there on the wrong day!