modality 11 th grade

1. UNIT 5: “ON THE MOVE”
“MODALITY”
11th grade

2. Modal verbs are generally used in the present
tense. If we want to indicate a situation in the
past, we have to use alternative forms instead
of the regular modal verbs.
Examples:
Must not Not allowed to
Can Be able to
*Be able to is a more formal alternative than can.

3. Modal words and expressions are used to
add detail to phrases about probability, ability,
warnings or advice, permission, and
obligation.
Example: Likely to, allowed to, supposed to,
be able to or be sure to.

4. 1. If we want to talk about probability, we use LIKELY TO
(probable), BOUND TO (de seguro / seguramente), and
CERTAIN TO (seguro que).
Examples:
He´s not likely to try smuggling parrots again.
(It is improbable that he will try smuggling parrots again)
The pilot is bound to know better than us.
(The pilot has to know better than us)
You’re certain to have your own airport story.
(You must have your own airport story)

5. 2. If we want to talk about obligation, we use SUPPOSED
TO (suponer).
Example:
I am supposed to check in at 7 a.m.
(I have an obligation to check in at 7 a.m. for the flight to everywhere)
3. If we want to talk about ability, we use BE ABLE TO (ser
capaz de).
Example:
If fell asleep, I wouldn’t be able to wake up in time.
(If I fell asleep, I would not have the ability to wake up in time)

6. 4. If we want to give warnings or advice, we use BE SURE
TO (estar seguro de)
Example:
Be sure not to miss the plane.
(I advice you not to miss your plane)

7. Material created and selected by
Danitza Lazcano Flores,
Teacher of English,
Master in Education and
Educational Counselor.