Helping Verbs

Helping Verbs:

Are verbs that help the main verb (action or linking) in a sentence by extending its meaning. They can also add detail to how time is conveyed in a sentence.

The modal verbs (can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would)

• function only as helping verbs

• enable us to express various conditions

• help us express permission

• help us express one's ability to do something

can: ability

• They can ski.

• I can't ski.

• Can they ski? Yes, they can.

May: Permission

• You may come in.

• I may not come to class today.

• May I come in?

Should: advice

• You should stay home.

• We shouldn't go outside.

• Should I stay home? Yes, you should

Must: rule

• We must be quiet.

• You mustn't play during class.

• Must I be quiet? No, you must not.

Multiple Choice

1. Identify the helping verb in the sentence below.

We may go to the pet store.

• may

• go to

• store

Multiple Choice

2. Identify the helping verb in the following sentence.

We can see the pirate ship from here.

• see

• can

• ship

Multiple Choice

3. In the following sentence, what does the helping verb should express?

You should eat healthy food.

• rule

• advice

• ability

• permission

Multiple Choice

4. In the following sentence, what does the helping verb can express?

We can read very well.

• permission

• rule

• ability

• advice

Multiple Choice

5. In the following sentence, what does the helping verb must express?

You must not play during class time.

• ability

• rule

• permission

• advice

Multiple Choice

7. In the following sentence, what does the helping verb may express?

May I use your eraser? Yes, you may.

• permission

• rule

• advice

• ability