1. Modal Overview
Modals are auxiliary words used in combination with verbs to show:
prediction or probability of events
show necessity
make requests
give advice
and more!

2. Modals
can / could
will /would
may / might
shall /should
must

3. Phrasal modal counterparts
Phrasal Modals
can, could
be able to
will, shall
be going to, be about to
must
have to, have got to
should, ought to
be to, be supposed to
would (=past habit)
used to
may, might
be allowed to, be permitted to

4. Modal and Similar Expressions: Review

5. Practice: What are some things you can do?
What are some things that you could do as a child?
I can touch my toes.
When I was a child, I could do back flips.
Practice:

6. Logical Probability High Certainty Low Certainty
Expresses the certainty of statement. There are different levels for this certainty.
Someone’s knocking.
That must be Sydney.
That will be Sydney.
That should be Sydney.
That may be Sydney.
That could/might be Sydney.
High Certainty
Low Certainty

7. Modal and Similar Expressions: Review

8. Prediction High Certainty Low Certainty
Expresses the certainty of statement. There are different levels for this certainty.
What did the weatherman say?
It will rain tomorrow.
It should rain tomorrow.
It may rain tomorrow.
It could/might rain tomorrow.
High Certainty
Low Certainty

9. Modal and Similar Expressions: Review

11. Necessity Expresses necessity, can be external or internal.
Internal: I have to see my doctor about this rash.
External: You must fill out the top of this form.

12. Modal and Similar Expressions: Review

13. Use (Social Functions)
Making Requests:
Will / Would / Can/Could you help me with this math problem?
Specific requests for permission:
May/Might / Can/Could I leave the room now?

14. Use (Social Functions)
Giving Advice
You must see a doctor
You should/ought to see a doctor
You might/could see a doctor
More Urgent
Less Urgent

15. Use (Social Functions)
Express Desire - would like to
Sarah would like to travel around the world.
Ralph would like an apple.
Offer/Invitation - would you like (to)
Would you like something to drink?
Would you like to dance?

16. Use (Social Functions)
Preference - would you rather (X than Y), would prefer to
Brad would rather study languages than mathematics.
Joe would prefer to go to school instead of working.