Modals (Practice)

I. The modal CAN is used to talk about abilities,

possibilities; to ask for permission or to give permission.
CAN’T is used to talk about impossibilities. Remember
that “to” is NEVER used after CAN / CAN’T or after any
modal.

Examples: I can cook very well. (ability)

She can’t drive. (imposslbility)

He can draw. (ability)

They can’t fly. (impossibility)

A. Write three sentences about something you CAN do:

1. I can study at night

2. I can dance

3. I can play chess

B. Write three sentences about something you CAN’T do:

1. I can’t swim

2. I can’t clean with chlorine

3. I can’t study at morning

C. Read the sentences below. Write “permission”,

“possibility” or “ability” after each sentence.

1. My parents can return any minute. ___ possibility

2. You can take a break. __ permission

3. We can miss the train if we don’t hurry. __ possibility

4. He can speak English very well. _ ability

5. It can be hot tomorrow. __ possibility

6. Can I play with my friends? __ permission

7. Can you run really fast? _ ability

II. The modal SHOULD / SHOULDN’T (negative) is used to

give advice, suggestions and recommendations.
Example: A: I’m tired.
B: You should take a rest.

Read the following situations. Give a recommendation to

each person. Use SHOULD or SHOULDN’T.

1. I have a headache.
Recommendation: You should take a pill

2. We’re going to the beach.

Recommendation: You should check the weather

3. I have a test tomorrow.

Recommendation: You shouldn’t waste time
 4. My room is messy.
Recommendation: You shouldn’t invite friends

5. I’m hungry.
Recommendation: You should eat

6. I have a toothache.
Recommendation: You should go to dentist

III. The modal MUST / MUSTN’T (negative) is used to talk

about obligation or strong responsibility in the present
or future. What must you do this week?
Write three positive (must) and three negative
sentences (mustn’t).
I must…

1) I must wear mask in the hospital

2) I must wake up early in the morning

3) I must take the class

I mustn’t…

1) I mustn’t miss the English class

2) I mustn’t arrive late at work

3) I mustn’t use phone while I’m working

IV. What could you do when you were a child?

Write three sentences with the modal COULD.

1. I could sleep late

2. I could eat candies
3. I could ride a bike