Year 5 and 6 Grammar
Modal Verbs
Modal verbs are used to change the meaning of other verbs. They can
express meanings such as certainty, ability or obligation. The main modal
verbs are: will, would, can, could, may, might, shall, should, must
and ought.
Underline the modal verbs in the sentences below.
I might be able to mend your car tomorrow.
If you would like to send me your details, I will record them on the
computer.
There won’t be any biscuits left for your father, if you keep eating them.
Anna can run five kilometres in twenty minutes, whereas Philip should be
able to do it in ten.
We must remain focused if we are to achieve success.
He couldn’t find his homework in time to hand it in.
If it keeps raining, we mightn’t be able to go for a walk.
I shan’t be singing in the choir tonight.
In a hundred years’ time there will be no petrol cars.
Choose the correct modal verb for the sentence.
After running 10 km, he __________ even walk to the car.
Please _____ I have an orange.
After practising so much, we ____________ win the cup.
I ___________ be able to help you, if you explain the problem.
Dad ______________ be long, he’s just popped out to the shops.
I _________ send you the address by e-mail.
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The children _______ enrol before they can take part.
You really _________ to say hello to your grandmother.
Explain the difference in meaning between the following two
sentences.
I will be going on holiday to Spain this year.
I might be going on holiday to Spain this year.
All children must learn their tables.
All children should learn their tables.
Elizabeth can play the piano at the concert.
Elizabeth could play the piano at the concert.
I may be available to go to the park this afternoon.
I shall be available to go to the park this afternoon.
Place these modal verbs in the correct box: will, would, can, could, may,
might, shall, should, must and ought.
Certain
Conditional
Obligation
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