Choosing between 'if' and 'unless'

For today's mini lesson, let's talk about choosing between 'if' and 'unless'. Maybe you already know 'unless' and the way that we use it in conditional sentences to mean 'except if'. Today, let's practise choosing between 'if' and 'unless'. In the example below, 'if' is more normal because people more often stay at home during rainy weather.
 

• We'll stay at home if it rains. (rain = stay at home)
• We'll stay at home unless it rains. (rain = go out)

In the next example, 'unless' is more normal, because usually when you have to work, you can't go to a party.
 

• She'll come to the party unless she has to work. (work = no party)
• She'll come to the party if she has to work. (work = go to party)

Let's review!
 

Put in 'if' or 'unless'.

1. You should take your umbrella _______________ it's raining.
2. I will be on time for the meeting _______________ the train is late.
3. The children go to bed early _______________ they have school the next day.