English Language Arts
Grade 5
15 min
Use the correct modal verb
Use the correct modal verb
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Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify modal verbs within sentences.
Define the function of common modal verbs like can, may, must, should, and might.
Select the correct modal verb to express ability or possibility.
Select the correct modal verb to express permission or obligation.
Differentiate between the meanings of similar modal verbs, such as 'can' and 'may'.
Construct sentences using modal verbs correctly to add specific meaning.
If you wanted to ask a superhero for a ride, what would you say? 'Can you fly me to school?' or 'Will you fly me to school?' 🤔 Let's find out which is best!
Today, we are learning about special helping verbs called modal verbs. These words add power to your writing by showing things like ability, permission...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
Modal VerbA special helping verb that comes before the main verb to show possibility, ability, permission, or obligation. It adds extra meaning to the sentence.You *can* solve this puzzle. ('can' is the modal verb)
AbilityShowing that someone is able to do something.She *can* speak three languages.
PossibilityShowing that something might happen, but it's not certain.It *might* rain this afternoon.
PermissionAsking if you are allowed to do something or giving someone the okay.*May* I use the computer?
ObligationShowing that something is necessary or required; it's a rule you have to follow.Students *must* finish their homework.
AdviceSuggesting what would be a good idea for someone to do.You *should* get more sleep before the big test.
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Key Rules & Conventions
The Base Verb Rule
Modal Verb + Base Form of Verb
A modal verb is always followed by the main verb in its basic form (the infinitive without 'to'). You never add -s, -ed, or -ing to the verb that follows a modal.
The No '-s' Rule
Subject (he/she/it) + Modal Verb
Modal verbs never change their form. Unlike other verbs, you do not add an '-s' to a modal verb when the subject is he, she, or it.
The Question Flip Rule
Modal Verb + Subject + Base Verb?
To turn a statement with a modal verb into a question, you simply flip the subject and the modal verb. The modal verb goes first.
4 more steps in this tutorial
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Challenging
Only one of the following sentences is completely correct. It follows the 'No '-s' Rule' and the 'Base Verb Rule'. Which one is it?
A.My brother can builds amazing sandcastles.
B.She musts practice the piano every day.
C.He might join the basketball team next year.
D.The dog should to go for a walk soon.
Challenging
You are writing a formal letter to the school principal. Which sentence is the most appropriate and respectful way to ask for something?
A.Can we have a new water fountain?
B.We must have a new water fountain.
C.May we request a new water fountain?
D.We should have a new water fountain.
Challenging
Two friends are talking about a movie.
Liam says: 'That movie might win an award.'
Zoe says: 'That movie will win an award.'
Based on their choice of modal verbs, which statement is true?
A.Liam is more certain than Zoe.
B.Zoe is expressing more certainty than Liam.
C.Both Liam and Zoe are expressing the same level of certainty.
D.Liam is giving advice, and Zoe is stating a rule.
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