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

text that tries to change someone’s mind or behaviour

Using 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

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

Put these sentences in order from most certain to happen to least certain to happen. 

Show things that are definitely going to happen.

Show things that are supposed to happen or should be done.

Match the types of modal verb to their definitions.

Match the type of modal verb to the example. 

"You have one more chance," said Mrs. Begum. 

"You should stop right now!" bellowed Mr. McIntyre. 

Which of these speech sentences use a modal verb?

Which words in this persuasive sentence are modal verbs? "You must change your behaviour, or you may find yourself in deep trouble."

Which modal verb could come at the start of this rhetorical question? "__________ we look the other way while the environment is destroyed?"

To show that they have an obligation to find us somewhere to stay.

To show that they might possibly find us somewhere to stay.

To show that they definitely will find us somewhere to stay.

What is the purpose of the modal verb 'will' in this sentence? "They will find us somewhere to stay."

What are the modal verbs in this sentence? "We have to do maths first today and then we will enjoy some music." 

Tick the modal verbs that show that something is possible to happen but not certain. 

Which sentence contains a modal verb showing obligation? 

Starter Quiz

What type of word is a modal verb?