Basic Rules
What part of speech is a modal?
verb
What is a modal that expresses ability?
can or could
Of the two modals used to request permission (may/could), which is more formal?
may
Students ________wear uniforms at our school
have to/must
When we use SHOULD to give advice, we are saying that something is a good / bad idea.
A good idea
True/false: A modal comes after the base form of the main verb.
False! A modal comes before the base form of the main verb.
What is the negative modal of can?
can't
True/False: "Could you pass me the paper?" and "Canyou pass me the paper?" are equally formal
False
You _________ take phones into the exam room
mustn't
The dog is free. We ________________(don't need to/ need to) pay for her.
don't need to
True/False There are five types of modals.
True!
I will tell you the secret, but you________ tell anyone!!!
can't
You want to borrow a calculator from your friend. What is the best way to ask?
May I borrow your calculator? OR
Could I borrow your calculator
There is an elevator in the building. You ______ take the stairs.
There is an elevator in the building. You don't have to take the stairs.
Correct the mistake: Kids couldn't write on the wall.
correct: Kids SHOULDN'T write on the wall.
True/False: Modals are conjugated in the third person with -s
False! Modals are never conjugated
What is the past tense of can?
could
Which is more informal? "Could she use this computer?" OR "Can I use your phone?"
Can I use your phone?
My company said that if I want this promotion, I _______ work hard.
have to
You ____ use your mobile phone in this place.
a.mustn't
b. couldn't
c. don't have to
A
What is the official grammar term for modals (hint: they are not the MAIN verb)?
auxiliary or helping verb
Complete the following sentence:
Color-blind people _________ see all colors.
can't
You need to ask your teacher if you can turn in your homework tomorrow. What is the most polite way to ask your teacher?
May/could I please turn in my homework tomorrow?
The museum is free. You ___________ pay to get in.
The museum is free. You don't have to pay to get in.
He ___ be good with his parents.
He has to be good with his parents.