Modals

Modal verbs

Characteristics (kenmerken)

• They never change their form. (you can't add -s, -ed or -ing)

• They are always followed by an infinitive without 'to'. (hele werkwoord)

• They allow speakers to express certainty (zekerheid), possibility (mogelijkheid), willingness (bereidheid), obligation (verplichting), necessity (noodzaak), and ability (vermogen).

Expressing an ability or possibility

To express an ability or possibility you use 'can' or 'be able to'.

He can play tennis well.

She is able to speak five languages.

You can also use 'could' to express a general ability to do something.

'He could swim when he was five.'

Multiple Choice

Fill in the gap: I _____ to answer this question.

• could

• be able

• am able

• can

Giving advice with 'should' and asking permission with 'may'.

'Should' is used to ask for or giving advice. It is also used when asking for suggestions.

Which t-shirt should I buy?

You should visit a doctor.

Should eat a pizza or a hamburger for dinner?

'May' is used to ask for permission.

May I visit you this afternoon?



Multiple Select

When do you use the word 'should' in your sentence?

• When expressing an ability.

• When asking for permission.

• When asking for or giving advice.

• When asking for suggestions.

• When expressing a possibility.

Recap with a few more questions

What did you learn?

Multiple Select

Fill the gap: After her nightmare, she ____ sleep anymore.

• was not able to

• should not

• cannot

• could not

This was my lesson for you today!

Thank you for listening.