Functions and examples - will

1. We use 'will' to give or ask for information or facts about the future.

Her parents will be here in about an hour.
All her friends will come to her wedding.

2. We use 'will' for plans or decisions made at the time of speaking.

"We need some paper for the photocopier." "Okay, I'll go and get some."
"What would you like to eat?" "I'll have a pizza please."

3. We use 'will' to predict the future.

I think it will rain tomorrow.
Al Pacino will win the award for Best Actor.
Do you think Brazil will win the World Cup?

4. We use 'will' to predict the present.

Don't phone her now, she'll be busy.

5. We use 'will' to offer to do something.

I'll take you to the airport tomorrow.
That suitcase looks heavy, I'll carry it for you.

6. We use 'will' to agree to do something.

Okay, I'll come with you

7. We use 'will' to promise to do something.

I promise I won't tell anyone you broke the window

8. We use 'will' to make requests (or give orders).

Will you open the door for me please?
Will you marry me?
Will you shut up please?

9. We use 'will' to refuse to do something or talk about refusals.

No, I won't cook your dinner, you can cook it yourself.
I've asked him but he won't do it.

Functions and examples - going to

1. We use 'going to' for plans or decisions made before speaking.

Is John coming home soon? - Yes, I'm going to meet him at the airport tomorrow.
I'm going to watch TV in a minute, because my favourite programme is on.

2. We use 'going to' to predict the future based on present evidence.

Look at the sky. It's going to rain soon.
Germany have just scored. England are going to lose again.

Form

Question
Am I going to play?
Are you going to play?
Is he/she/it going to play?
Are we going to play?
Are you going to play?
Are they going to play?


See also: Future continuous / Future perfect