GE L12 U6 (modal verbs for speculating and making deductions)

Unit 6
modal verbs for speculating and making deductions

Global English Level 12

1. What do you think is happening?

2. What might have happened before the picture was taken?

3. What could happen next?

💬 Use phrases like:

• Maybe…

• I think he might…

• She could be…

1. What do you think is happening?

2. What might have happened before the picture was taken?

3. What could happen next?

Picture A – Man “Floating” on Water

Picture A – Man “Floating” on Water

1. What do you think is happening?

He looks like he is floating on the water, but something seems strange. He might be lying on something hidden under the surface.

2. What might have happened before the picture was taken?

He might have walked into the lake and positioned himself on a hidden rock or platform.
Someone could have asked him to pose for a trick photo.

3. What could happen next?

People looking at the photo might start debating whether it’s real or edited.

Modal Verbs for speculation (possibility)

Modal Verb Meaning Example may possible He may be on holiday. might possible but less certain She might be studying now. could possible, neutral They could be lost.

Modal Verbs for deduction (strong belief/sure/impossible)

Modal Verb Meaning Example must almost sure it's true She must be tired. can’t almost sure it's impossible He can’t be 80 years old!

How sure are you?

Modal % Certainty Example must 90% sure He must be working late. may 50–60% He may be working late. might 40–50% He might be working late. could 50% He could be working late. can’t 0% sure He can’t be working late.

Match the modal to the meaning

A. must
B. might
C. can’t
D. could

1. It’s impossible

2. It’s definitely true (almost)

3. It’s possible

4. It’s maybe true

Match the modal to the meaning

A. must --> It’s definitely true (almost)
B. might --> It’s maybe true
C. can’t --> t’s impossible
D. could --> It’s possible

Match the modal to the meaning

A. must --> It’s definitely true (almost)
B. might --> It’s maybe true
C. can’t --> t’s impossible
D. could --> It’s possible

1. Choose one picture (A, B, C or D).
   As a group, write 3–5 sentences using:

   • must (strong belief)

   • might/may/could (possibility)

   • can’t (impossible)

   💬 Example:

   • He must be freezing.

   • He might be waiting for someone.

   • He can’t be swimming; it’s winter!

Picture Analysis Using Modals

Check! → Identify the modals for deduction

Students underline modal verbs in the dialogue.

Focus Tasks

Rewrite each sentence using:

• must

• might

• could

• can’t

Workbook page (72-73)

Listening: Two people talking about a picture

Students do:

1. Listen

2. Identify which sentence shows:

   • certainty

   • uncertainty

Coursebook page 99