Understanding Ability: Can, Could, Be Able To

This video lesson by Stewart covers the use of 'can', 'could', and 'be able to' in English to express ability. It explains how 'can' is used for present ability and typical situations, while 'could' is used for past ability. The lesson also discusses the limitations of 'can' and introduces 'be able to' as a substitute for various tenses and modal verb combinations. Additionally, it covers the use of 'couldn't' in negative situations, providing examples for clarity.

What is the main focus of the lesson introduced by Stewart?

• Understanding 'can', 'could', and 'be able to' for expressing ability

• Exploring passive voice in English

• Using 'will' and 'shall' for future tense

• Learning about past perfect tense

Which of the following is an example of using 'can' to express ability?

• I will ride a bike.

• I can ride a bike.

• I might ride a bike.

• I should ride a bike.

Which sentence shows a typical situation using 'can'?

• It can rain in the desert every day.

• It can be hot in Madrid in August.

• It can snow in the Sahara.

• It can be cold in the summer.

Which of the following is an example of using 'can' for a possible situation?

• It can be cold in the summer.

• It can snow in the Sahara.

• It can be hot in Madrid in August.

• It can rain in the desert every day.

Which of the following is an example of using 'can' for a possible situation?

• It can be cold in the summer.

• It can snow in the Sahara.

• It can be hot in Madrid in August.

• It can rain in the desert every day.

Why can't 'can' be used with the present perfect tense?

• Because 'can' is only used for future tense

• Because 'can' is not a modal verb

• Because 'can' is used with conditional sentences

• Because 'can' is limited to present and past simple tenses

What is the limitation of using 'can' in English?

• It is not a modal verb.

• It can only be used in the future tense.

• It cannot be used with other modal verbs.

• It is only used for hypothetical situations.

How do we express ability in the future tense?

• Using 'should'

• Using 'be able to'

• Using 'can'

• Using 'could'

Which sentence correctly uses 'be able to'?

• I be able to ride a bike.

• I am able to ride a bike.

• I will be able to ride a bike.

• I am be able to ride a bike.

Which of the following is NOT a correct use of 'can'?

• I can swim now.

• I can have swum.

• I can swim.

• I can swim tomorrow.