the helping verb that is always paired with the main verb

a type of auxiliary verb that helps us to talk about how likely, possible, necessary or obligatory something is to happen

Modal verbs

English

Writing sentences in the simple present, past and future tense

Writing sentences in the progressive present, past and future tense

Writing sentences in the perfect present tense

Using modal verbs

In this unit, pupils learn to use modality whilst maintaining the correct tense. In 'Three tense forms, modality, active voice and passive voice', pupils will learn the difference between the active voice and the passive voice.

In 'Tense forms: simple, progressive and perfect', pupils applied their understanding of the past, present and future of the different tense forms in sentence contexts. In this unit, pupils will learn to use modality whilst maintaining the correct tense.

In this unit, pupils review the rules for the simple and progressive present, past and future tenses as well as the perfect present tense. They learn about modal verbs for the first time, learning that they can be useful for applying to speech sentences, persuasive writing and rhetorical questions.

Three tense forms and modal verbs

To show that we are definitely going to do more.

To show that we feel an obligation to do more.

What is the purpose of the modal verb 'ought to' in this sentence? "We ought to do more for the environment."

What are the modal verbs in this sentence? "We might do French today, or we may practise for the play." 

Tick the modal verbs that show certainty. 

Which sentence contains a modal verb showing obligation? 

Which of these sentences is written in a perfect tense? 

An auxiliary verb based on the infinitive 'to have'.

An auxiliary verb based on the infinitive 'to be'.

Which of the following would always be found in a perfect tense sentence?

Match the sentences to the perfect tense used. 

Tick the sentences that use the perfect present tense correctly. 

Match the simple past tense verb to the correct past tense form of the verb that would be used in the perfect present tense.

Choose the correct perfect present verb form to complete the gap: "Sam (to speak)__________ several times this lesson."

Starter Quiz

Which of these sentences is written in a perfect tense?