Understanding Modal Verbs and Their Functions

In this lesson, Lulu Shaw introduces modal verbs, a type of auxiliary verb that helps the main verb by indicating the mood of a subject. The video covers main modal verbs like can, could, may, might, will, would, must, shall, and should, as well as quasi modal verbs such as dare, had better, need, ought to, use to, and would rather. Examples are provided to illustrate their use in expressing ability, possibility, necessity, or obligation. The structure and unique characteristics of modal verbs are discussed, including their placement in sentences and their lack of infinitive or past forms. The lesson concludes with a review and encourages viewers to revisit any unclear parts.

What is the primary function of modal verbs?

• To describe the subject in detail

• To act as the main verb in a sentence

• To indicate the mood of the subject

• To replace the subject in a sentence

Which of the following is NOT a main modal verb?

• Can

• Want

• Should

• Might

What does the modal verb 'can' typically indicate?

• Ability or permission

• Past habit

• Future possibility

• Necessity

Which modal verb suggests a formal permission?

• May

• Shall

• Could

• Might

What does the modal verb 'must' imply?

• A past habit

• Necessity or obligation

• A request

• A suggestion

Which modal verb is used to express a wish or willingness?

• Should

• Can

• Must

• Will

What does the modal verb 'could' imply?

• A definite action

• An obligation

• A past ability or future possibility

• A necessity

Which modal verb is used to form conditionals?

• Would

• Shall

• Must

• Can

Which modal verb is used to express a necessity?

• Must

• Would

• Could

• Might

Which modal verb is used to express a formal permission?

• Shall

• Will

• May

• Can