What are Modal Verbs?; Recap: Can, Could, May, Might; New Modals: Must, Should, Will, Would, Shall; Understanding Modal Verb Functions; Practice Using Modals

Understanding Modal Verbs

English

Understanding Modal Verbs

Learn how modal verbs add meaning and nuance to your sentences.

Agenda

• What are Modal Verbs?

• Recap: Can, Could, May, Might

• New Modals: Must, Should, Will, Would, Shall

• Understanding Modal Verb Functions

• Practice Using Modals

What Are Modal Verbs?

Modal verbs are special helping verbs that add meaning to a main verb. They show things like possibility, ability, permission, or necessity.

Action to connection: modal verbs enable possibilities.

Adding Meaning to Verbs

Modal verbs like 'can' or 'might' always appear before a main verb, which stays in its base form. For example, you say 'I can swim,' not 'I can swims.' Also, modal verbs never change their spelling, regardless of the subject.

Swimmers can achieve high performance with proper technique.

Recap: Can &amp; Could

• "Can" shows present ability. (e.g., "I can run fast.")

• "Can" shows possibility. (e.g., "It can rain tomorrow.")

• "Could" shows past ability. (e.g., "He could read at age 4.")

• "Could" makes polite requests. (e.g., "Could you open the door?")

Recap: May &amp; Might

Remember, 'may' is used for permission, like "You may leave now." It can also show a stronger possibility. 'Might' indicates a weaker or more uncertain possibility, for example, "It might rain later today."

Boy anticipates future, like 'may' or 'might' possibilities.

New: Must for Obligation

We use 'must' to show a strong obligation or something that is necessary. Think of it like a rule or a personal duty you feel you have to do. For example, 'You must wear a helmet when riding your bike' or 'I must finish my chores before playing games.'

You must wear a helmet for a joyful ride.

Must for Certainty

We use 'must' when we are very sure about something because of strong evidence. It shows a logical conclusion. For example, 'He hasn't eaten all day, so he must be hungry.' You are almost certain based on the facts.

Must be hungry: Empty plate reflects food disturbances.

Detective must be hungry based on evidence.

New: Should for Advice

• Use 'should' for advice.

• "You should study for your test."

• "We should try that new restaurant."

• It's a suggestion, not a command.

Should for Expectation

We also use 'should' to talk about what we expect to happen. It means something is likely or probable. For example, 'The package should arrive tomorrow' means we expect it to. Or, 'They should be here by now' shows an expectation.

Boy reflects at bus stop, expecting arrival.

Understanding Modal Verbs

What are Modal Verbs?; Recap: Can, Could, May, Might; New Modals: Must, Should, Will, Would, Shall; Understanding Modal Verb Functions; Practice Using Modals

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