MODAL VERBS - Mind Map

What is a Modal Verb?Becoming a Modal Verb Expert:

CAN & CAN'T

Learning target:I can express ability in the present, possibility, permission and make requests.Structure:Subject + CAN /CAN'T + base form verb + complement.Exercises:Can or can't

Ability

Possibilty

The florist can deliver the bouquet early.

Permission

Can I take day off?

Requests

Can you tell me the way to the church?

COULD & COULDN'T

Learning target:I can express ability in the past, possibility and make politely requests.Structure:Subject + COULD /COULDN'T + base form verb + complement.Exercises:Can /can't / could / couldn't

Past ability

I could run ten miles in my twenties.

Possibility

He could be one who stole the money.

Polite request

Could I borrow your pen?

MUST & MUSTN'T

Learning target:I can express necessity, strong recommendation, certainty and prohibiton.Structure:Subject + MUST /MUSTN'T + base form verb + complement.

Necessity

You must fill in this form.

Strong recommendation

You must take some time off.

Certainty

That must be Tom.

Prohibiton

You mustn't smoke here.

HAVE TO & DON'T HAVE TO

Learning target:I can express necessity and lack of obligation.Semi-modal verbStructure:(+) Subject + HAVE TO / HAS TO + base form verb + complement.(-) Subject + DON'T HAVE TO / DOESN'T HAVE TO + base form verb + complement.

Necessity

She has to read three books for the English class.

Lack of obligation

She doesn't have to read. It's optional reading for extra credit.

MAY & MIGHT

Learning target:I can express possibility, give permission and make (very politely) requests.Structure:Subject + MAY /MIGHT + base form verb + complement.

Possibility

Jack may be upset. I can't really tell if he is annoyed or tired.

He might be on the bus. I think his car is having problems.

Give permission

You may leave the table now that you have finished with your dinner.

Request

May I borrow your pen?

Very politely request

Might I borrow your pen?

SHOULD & SHOULDN'T

Learning target:I can give advice.Structure:Subject + SHOULD /SHOULDN'T + base form verb + complement.

Giving advice

You should take some medicine when you feel sick.

You shouldn't eat candy when you have a toothache.