Modals of Deduction (Must, Might, Can’t) in the Context of Intercultural Knowledge

Introduction

Have you ever wondered how people from different cultures act or think? Do you know how to express your certainty or uncertainty about something? Today, you will learn about modals of deduction (Must, Might, Can’t) and use them to discuss different cultures.

Objective:



By the end of this WebQuest, you will be able to use modals of deduction to describe possible, probable, or impossible situations related to cultural differences around the world.

Task
  • Review the use of the modals must, might, and can’t for deduction.
  • Explore some examples of intercultural situations and describe one.
  • Complete an online quiz to check your understanding of the modals.
  • Use must, might, and can’t to make logical deductions about cultural situations.
  • Prepare for oral support.
Process

Step 1: Learn About Modals of Deduction

First, let's learn how to use modals of deduction:

  • Must: Used when you are certain about something.

    Example: "If people in Japan are bowing to greet each other, they must be following a cultural tradition."

  • Might: Used when you think something is possible but not sure.

    Example: "This festival looks very colorful, it might be a celebration of the New Year."

  • Can’t: Used when you are certain something is not true or possible.

    Example: "They are shaking hands, so they can’t be from a country where people usually bow."

Activity:

Visit the following website to read a short explanation and examples about modals of deduction:

https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/grammar/b1-b2-grammar/modals-deductions-about-present

Do both Grammar tests

Step 2: Explore Intercultural Examples

Watch this short video about different cultural traditions from around the world:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEw82IHm98A

While watching, pay attention to the different traditions. Think about what these practices mean and use modals of deduction (must, might, can’t) to make guesses about them.

  • What tradition did you find interesting? Describe it.
  • Why did you find it interesting? Explain.

Step 3: Complete the Online Quiz

To check your understanding of modals of deduction, take this short quiz:

https://forms.gle/oDp3JsVVkBzSa3na7

Make sure to review your answers before submitting the quiz!

 

Step 4: Writing and Speaking Task

Take a look at the cultural scenarios proposed. Use must, might, and can’t to make logical deductions about cultural situations. Work with a partner and discuss what the behavior must mean, what it might mean, and what it can’t mean based on your prior knowledge of the culture or logical reasoning.

Example: Scenario 1: Bowing in Japan

You notice a group of people bowing to each other as they greet.

Deductions:

  • "This must be a sign of respect."
  • "It might also indicate gratitude."
  • "It can’t be an informal or casual greeting like in some Western countries."

  • Scenario 2: Eating with Hands in India

    • In a traditional Indian restaurant, you see people eating with their hands instead of using cutlery.

  • Scenario 3: Lack of Eye Contact in South Korea

    • You notice that people in South Korea tend to avoid direct eye contact during conversations.

  • Scenario 4: Sharing Food in Ethiopia

    • During a meal in Ethiopia, you see people sharing food from a single large plate.

  • Scenario 5: Kissing on the Cheek in France

    • You observe people in France greeting each other by kissing on both cheeks.

  • Scenario 6: Silence in Finland

    • During a conversation in Finland, there are long pauses where no one speaks.

  • Scenario 7: Slurping Noodles in Japan

    • You notice people loudly slurping their noodles in a Japanese restaurant.

  • Scenario 8: Removing Shoes in Turkey

    • When visiting a home in Turkey, you see everyone removing their shoes before entering.

  • Scenario 9: Tipping in the United States

    • At a restaurant in the United States, people leave a tip for the server after paying.

  • Scenario 10: Close Personal Space in Latin America

    • In a crowded market in Latin America, people stand very close to each other while talking.

 

Present your deductions to the class using the modal verbs must, might, and can’t to explain your reasoning.

Evaluation

Evaluation:

  • Quiz score: Out of 10 points (automatic grading).
  • Writing and speaking task: 10 points (graded by the teacher based on correct use of modals and content).
Conclusion

Conclusion:

Congratulations! You have learned how to use must, might, and can’t to make deductions about cultural practices. Understanding different cultures is an important part of living in a global society. Keep practicing your modals as you explore more about the world around you!

Credits