A2 Grammar: Modal Verbs

A2 Grammar: Modal Verbs
ESL Structure Curriculum

ESL Grammar Course

A2: Elementary

Symbols representing ability (a weightlifter), permission (a checkmark), and advice (a lightbulb)

Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are special “helper” verbs that express ideas like ability, permission, advice, and obligation. They are always followed by the base form of the main verb (without ‘to’).

Scope & Content:

  • Ability: `can`, `can’t`
  • Polite Requests: `could`
  • Advice: `should`
  • Obligation: `must`

⚠️ Attention: Common Challenges

1. No `-s` for Third Person: Modal verbs are easy! They never change. There is no `-s` for `he`, `she`, or `it`.

  • Correct: “She can swim.” (Incorrect: She cans swim.)

2. Followed by Base Verb (No ‘to’): The main verb after a modal verb is always in its simplest form, without ‘to’.

  • Correct: “You should go.” (Incorrect: You should to go.)

Practice Quiz

1. I ____ speak three languages.

2. You look tired. You ____ get some rest.

3. Excuse me, ____ you help me, please?

4. You ____ wear a seatbelt in the car. It’s the law.

5. He ____ swim when he was five years old.

6. I’m sorry, I ____ hear you. The music is too loud.

7. It’s a great movie. You ____ see it.

8. She ____ come to the party because she was sick.

9. You ____ smoke in the hospital.

10. ____ I borrow your pen for a moment?