Can vs Could

Front

What is the primary difference between 'can' and 'could'?

Back

'Can' is used to express ability or possibility in the present, while 'could' is used for past ability or possibility.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

In what context would you use 'can'?

Back

'Can' is used to indicate someone's ability to do something in the present or to ask for permission.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

Provide an example of 'can' used in a sentence.

Back

She can play the piano.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

Provide an example of 'could' used in a sentence.

Back

When I was a child, I could climb trees.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does 'can't' signify in a sentence?

Back

'Can't' is a contraction of 'cannot' and indicates inability or prohibition.

Tags

CCSS.L.2.2C

Front

How do you form a question using 'can'?

Back

To form a question with 'can', invert the subject and 'can', e.g., 'Can you help me?'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

How do you form a question using 'could'?

Back

To form a question with 'could', invert the subject and 'could', e.g., 'Could you pass the salt?'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What is the past tense of 'can'?

Back

The past tense of 'can' is 'could'.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

When should 'could' be used in a conditional sentence?

Back

'Could' is used in conditional sentences to express a hypothetical situation, e.g., 'If I had time, I could help you.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What is an example of a prohibition using 'can't'?

Back

You can't park here; it's forbidden.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B