Modal Verbs

Start with the forms

The Modal Verbs flashcard deck introduces how modal verbs are used with a main verb. It notes that they come before the main verb and do not take an -s, -ing or -ed suffix. It also covers the bare infinitive and the exception for ought to. Start here if you want to focus on form before moving on to examples.

The Modal verbs flashcard deck includes examples with can, should and may. You can read each example and identify the modal expression before checking what it says. The Modals deck offers another collection of expressions, including might, must, have to and be able to.

Connect meanings and examples

Several mind maps organize modal verbs by what they express. One Modal Verbs map covers ability, permission, obligation, advice, requests and offers. Another looks at possibility and certainty. Use these maps to compare the uses shown in the flashcards and to find an area you want to practice.

After looking at a map, try the Modal verbs quiz. It includes a sentence about someone who was supposed to come to soccer practice, with modal choices to consider. Return to the relevant map or flashcards as you work through the examples. Teachers can also use the maps and cards as ready-made material for practice on particular uses.

Place the topic in the unit

Modal Verbs is one section of the wider unit on verbs and their types in English language. The resources on this page let you focus on this section through forms, meanings and examples. You can move between a map, a flashcard deck and a quiz depending on the kind of practice you want.

Choose a mind map and pair it with a flashcard deck to get started.