MODAL VERBS

HOW MANY MODAL VERBS ARE THERE?

Use the tip of the initials to remember them

Might, May, Will Would, Can,

Could, Shall, Should
 RULE 1

Explain the rule

Infinitives come after modal verbs but without `to´

Write 2 examples of the rule

I may be home late.
I must go now.
 RULE 2

Explain the rule

Modal verbs take no `s´in the 3rd person singular.

Write 2 examples of the rule

He can speak three languages.
She can find any Street in London.
 RULE 3

Explain the rule

Modal verbs do not change their form according to tense.

Write 2 examples of the rule

I could play tennis when I was younger.
It might be quicker to travel by train.
 RULE 4

Explain the rule

We use modal verbs in negative sentences like we do other
auxiliary verbs (without the Word `do´)
Write 2 examples of the rule

It can´t be true.
You must not drink that.
 RULE 5

Explain the rule

With interrogative pgrases, modal verbs are used like other
auxiliary verbs.

Write 2 examples of the rule

Can I open the window?
Can I sit in that chair please?
 THE NEXT 9 TEMPLATES…
USE ONE TEMPLATE FOR EACH OF THE MODAL
VERBS AND EXPLAIN WHAT THEY CAN EXPRESS

WRITE AN EXAMPLE FOR EACH MEANING

 MIGHT
• Possibility

• Example: It might rain later so take an

umbrela.
 MAY
• Possibility or permission.

• Example: I may watch a movie tonight.

 MUST
• Probability/ logical assumption or necessity or
prohibition.

• Example: You must eat all of the vegetables.

 WILL
• Future time. Promise/Willingness. Polite
question.

• Example: We will visit London next month.

 WOULD
• Polite question. Invitations/Preferences/
Desires.

• Example: would have helped you.

 CAN
• Ability. Suggestion/Option. Impossibility.
Request.

• Example: I can speak English.

 COULD
• Past ability. Police question.
Possibility/Impossibility. Suggestion.

• Example: Itcould get much hotter in July.

 SHOULD
• Recommend. The right thing to do. Uncertain
prediction.

• Example: You shouldn´t smoke.

 SHALL
• Offer. Comfirmation. Promises.

• Example: I shall meet you there at 8.