Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs

by Adam Malik

What are Modal Verbs?

• Modal verbs are auxiliary (helping) verbs that can indicate many things.

• They can indicate: possibility (might/may), ability (can/could), permission (can/could/may), advice (should) or obligation (must/have to).

• They must not change form when used (no -ed/-ing/-y)

• The negative form of the modal verb must be after the modal verb (could not/must not/should not)

Possibility (May/Might)

• Chance something might happen.

• There might be a sale next week.

• I may not be able to buy enough food.

Ability (Can/Could)

• Describes if you can do something or not

• I can afford that jacket!

• I could buy the popcorn.

Multiple Select

Which of these modal verbs show possibility?

• may

• might

• could

• can

Permission (Can/Could/May)

• to request something from someone

• Can I please have an apple?

• Could you keep the noise down?

• May I go to the toilet?

Advice (Should)

• used to give advice to someone

• You should stop spending so much money!

• You should not be so nervous.

Obligation (Must/Have to)

• something you have to do

• You must look both ways before crossing the street.

• You have to be careful around these parts.

• You must stop being so careless!

Multiple Choice

I ______ run 100 meters in 12 seconds.

• can

• may

• should

Multiple Choice

What is the modal phrase Should used for?

• Permission

• Advice

• Obligation

• Possibility

Multiple Choice

When is the modal verb must used?

• To indicate advice

• To indicate ability

• To indicate possibility

• To indicate obligation

Multiple Select

Which use of can is correct?

• Can I have some Coke please?

• You can buy it before it runs out of stock.

• I can draw with my left hand.

Multiple Select

Pick the sentences with the correct modal verbs.

• I can be late for today's party.

• You should sleep early today.

• You must be careful when crossing the road.

• I must finish this book by today.