Modal Verbs For Abilities And Possibilities
Have you ever wondered how to express what you can do or what might happen? Modal verbs are your go-to tools for talking about abilities and possibilities in English. In this lesson, you’ll learn how to use modal verbs like “can,” “could,” “may,” and “might” to describe what you can do and what could happen in different situations. With visual aids and interactive activities, you’ll gain confidence in using these modal verbs to communicate more effectively.
Explanation and Uses
1. Modal Verbs for Abilities:
- “Can”:
- Form: Subject + can + base verb (e.g., “I can swim.”)
- Use: To express a present ability or skill.
- “Could”:
- Form: Subject + could + base verb (e.g., “She could play the piano when she was young.”)
- Use: To express a past ability or a polite request.
2. Modal Verbs for Possibilities:
- “May”:
- Form: Subject + may + base verb (e.g., “It may rain later.”)
- Use: To suggest a possibility or probability.
- “Might”:
- Form: Subject + might + base verb (e.g., “He might come to the party.”)
- Use: To indicate a smaller possibility or uncertainty.
In the following video you will have a quick masterclass regarding this topic:
More About Modal Verbs
Dive into the interesting differences and nuances of formal and informal English:
Learning Activities
Engage in the following activities to practice what you’ve learned throughout this lesson:
“Future and Past Abilities Debate”
- Objective: Discuss and argue using “can,” “could,” “may,” and “might.”
- Instructions: Divide the class into two groups. One group argues about future possibilities using “may” and “might” (e.g., “We might travel abroad next year.”), while the other argues about past abilities using “could” (e.g., “I could run a marathon last year.”). Each group presents their arguments and responds to questions from the opposing group.
Scenario Simulation Game
- Objective: Apply modal verbs in realistic situations.
- Instructions: Create a set of realistic scenarios where students need to use modal verbs to express abilities and possibilities (e.g., “Describe what you might do if you won a scholarship,” “Explain what you could do to improve your skills in a sport.”). Students role-play these scenarios in pairs or small groups, using the appropriate modal verbs. Evaluate their usage and provide constructive feedback.