MODAL VERBS

Ability

100

Five years ago, I (cannot, couldn't) play the piano.

Five years ago, I couldn't play the piano.

200

We (can, could) speak English well.

We can speak English well.

300

The volleyball team (can, could) go to the Olympics this year if they are lucky.

The volleyball team could go to the Olympics this year if they are lucky.

400

I (cannot, couldn't) run that fast when I was six years old.

I couldn't run that fast when I was six years old.

500

I think I (can, could) help you learn math if you study hard.

I think I can help you learn math if you study hard.

Obligation

100

When I grow up, I (may, might) become an engineer.

When I grow up, I may become an engineer.

200

(Might, May) I have a glass of water?

May I have a glass of water?

300

There is a small chance that we (may, might) go to the beach this weekend.

There is a small chance that we might go to the beach this weekend.

400

If you leave the stove on, the house (may, might) catch on fire.

If you leave the stove on, the house might catch on fire.

500

Billy and I (may, might) cook dinner tonight.

Billy and I may cook dinner tonight.

Possibility

100

Charles is competing in a soccer tournament. I (can, will, may) go see him his first game.

Charles is competing in a soccer tournament. I may go see his first game.

Permission/Requests

100

Which sentence expresses permission:

1. You can go to the football game tomorrow.

2. You must go to the football game tomorrow.

You can go to the football game tomorrow.