1ºESO MODAL VERBS

Howdy-doody!

Let's learn some modal verbs!

Modals verbs are like auxiliary verbs. You already know three auxiliary verbs:

• I am talking to you. Verb TO BE here does not mean "exist"...

• I have done my homework. Verb TO HAVE here does not mean "own, possess"...

• Do you speak English? Verb TO DO here does not mean "carry out"...

...like in the following sentences where they have a lexical meaning:

• I am 14 y.o.

• I have a brother

• I do my homework everyday

Well, modal verbs also have a grammatical function and behave like auxiliaries:

• They can appear before the subject in questions. Can you speak now?

• They have a negative form. No, I can't. I'm busy.

But, there's a difference. As opposed to auxiliary verbs, they have "meaning" but in their case it is called modality

You should call your grandparents. They might be feeling lonely. (advice)

You must call the police. Somebody has shot the shopkeeper. (obligation)

1. Watch this video on Modal Verbs and note down the examples. Then translate them into your own language. See the differences in meaning. What do they express? Write next to each example.

Thanks! Please try to catch up! Many of you are down with homework.