MODAL VERBS
MODALS FUNCTIONS EXAMPLES
CAN is used to express ability,
possibility, permission,
I can run very fast.
He can come with us.
or request.
is used to express ability Could you say it again ?
could in past, permission. I could run faster when
was younger.
is used to express future I might go hiome tonight.
might plans, suggestion,
or intention.
He might read your book.
is used to express a certain Shall we go to shop?
shall prediction, advice,
recommendation,
I shall open the door.
or expectetion.
is used to express habits You should do your best
would in past, polite request We would iisit her often.
or invitation.
is used to express I must finish my
must necessity, obligation homework today.
or certainty.
is used to talk about I will help you with your
will what is going to happen homework.
in the future.
is used to express You ought to apologize for
ought to necessity, logical your mistake.
conclusion or moral
obligation.
Modal Verbs Worksheet
Brief Explanation
Modals are helping verbs that express ability, possibility, permission,
or obligation. Some common modal verbs:
can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, would
Choose the correct modal verb to complete
each sentence.
1. You ______ speak English very well. (can / must / should).
2. Students ______ wear uniforms at school. (can / must /
would).
3. I ______ go to the party, but I’m not sure yet. (must / might /
shall).
4. ______ I borrow your pen, please? (Shall / May / Must).
5. You ______ not park here. It’s a no parking zone. (might /
must / should).
Fill in the blanks using the correct modal verb:
can, should, must, may, would
1. You ______ finish your homework before watching TV.
2. I ______ help you carry those bags.
3. They ______ be at the library. Let’s check.
4. We ______ go to Bali next holiday if we have enough money.
5. He ______ like to join us if we invite him.
Modal Verbs Worksheet
Match the modal verb to its function.
Draw a line between the modal verb and its meaning.
Modal Verb Meaning
can Advice
should Possibility
Might Permission
Must Ability
May Obligation
Modal Verbs Worksheet
write the sentences using the correct modal
verb.
1. It is important that you be on time. → You ______ be on time.
2. It’s possible that she will call you. → She ______ call you.
3. I am asking for permission to leave. → ______ I leave now?
Write 3 sentences using modals of your choice.