Introduction
MODAL VERBS
Modal verbs are auxiliary verbs that can not function as a main verb , unlike auxiliary verbs "be" , "do" and "have" that they can function as a main verb .
Task
Modal verbs express mode. They can express ability, possibility, necessity or other status. They are auxiliary verbs future and conditional.
As complementary verbs, modal verbs do not work without another word. The other verb always goes after the modal verb and is in the base form (the infinitive without "to "). Modal verbs are not conjugated and have no time.
The modal verbs are:
- can
- could
- may
- should
- ought to
- might
- must/have to
- would
- will
- shall
- do
- need
Examples:
I can speak five languages.
We can work late tonight if you need us.
Process
Evaluation
Identify each sentence modal verbs used and enclose them in a circle:
- Bill and Tom can’t help you.
- The restaurant can be expensive if you drink a lot of wine.
- Joe could speak Spanish when he was young.
- I couldn’t sleep last night.
- I would bring an umbrella, it may rain later.
- It may be better to finish this now, rather than wait until tomorrow.
- I would bring an umbrella, it might rain later.
- It might be better to finish this now, rather than wait until tomorrow.
- I will help you.
- We will learn English.
- Chris shall be happy to see you.
- I’ll take the 3 o’clock train.
- I should call my parents more often.
- She ought to quit smoking.
- You must [have to] read this book, it’s fantastic.
- She would like to go to New York someday.
Conclusion
The English verb tenses are not enough to express ideas of chance or uncertainty. There is no conditional tense in English. At the same time, auxiliary verbs are used for conditional. Nor is there a tense and the subjunctive in Spanish. Therefore, it is very important to understand the uses of modal verbs.
Credits
Webquest created by
LUIS FERNANDO ARIZA AGAMEZ
May 02 - 2016
C.E. 11113098
English Course 2-B
Tecnologico Comfenalco University Foundation