Modal Auxiliary Verbs

Front

What are modal auxiliary verbs?

Back

Modal auxiliary verbs are helping verbs that express necessity, possibility, permission, or ability. Examples include can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does the modal verb 'can' express?

Back

The modal verb 'can' expresses ability or possibility. For example, 'I can swim.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does the modal verb 'may' indicate?

Back

The modal verb 'may' indicates permission or possibility. For example, 'You may leave the table.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What does the modal verb 'must' signify?

Back

The modal verb 'must' signifies obligation or necessity. For example, 'You must wear a seatbelt.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What is the difference between 'may' and 'might'?

Back

'May' suggests a higher possibility than 'might'. For example, 'It may rain' (more likely) vs. 'It might rain' (less likely).

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

Which modal verb is used to express a strong recommendation?

Back

The modal verb 'should' is used to express a strong recommendation. For example, 'You should study for the test.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

How do you use 'could' in a sentence?

Back

'Could' is used to express past ability or polite requests. For example, 'I could play the piano when I was younger.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

What is an example of a sentence using 'will'?

Back

An example of a sentence using 'will' is 'I will go to the store tomorrow.' It indicates a future action.

Tags

CCSS.L.3.1E

CCSS.L.4.1B

CCSS.L.5.1.B-D

CCSS.L.5.1C

CCSS.L.5.1D

Front

What does 'should' imply in a sentence?

Back

'Should' implies a suggestion or advice. For example, 'You should eat your vegetables.'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

How do you ask for permission using a modal verb?

Back

You can ask for permission using 'may' or 'can'. For example, 'May I use your phone?' or 'Can I go outside?'

Tags

CCSS.L.4.1C

CCSS.L.9-10.1B