The document expresses abilities in the present and future, as well as discussing permission and asking for things. In the present, the author expresses they can swim but others cannot, and that they are able to attract people and be strong. As a child, they could ride a bike but not tidy their room. In the future, they will be able to play violin and ride a motorbike when older. The document also provides examples of informally and formally asking permission to do things or for information.

1. Expressing present abilities
I can swim
But…..
He can’t swim!

2. But I can also say….
I’m so cool! I always succeed in
attracting people!
I’m able to be very…very strong!
I’m capable of taming wild beasts!

3. When I was a child….
I Could Ride A Bike…
But……
I couldn’t tidy my bedroom!

4. I couldn’t run so fast when I was 3….
But…….
That morning I was able to be back in time!!
And I also managed to get some cheese!

5. In the future…
I’ll be able to play the violin,
one day!
AND……..
I’ll be able to ride a
motorbike when I grow up!

7. Expressing possibility, permission
Can I go to the toilet, please?
I Could go out with
friends when I was
15

8. Asking permission (informal)
Can I open that door, please?
Can we go swimming?

9. Asking permission (formal)
• Do you mind if I make you a
few questions?
• May I ask you some
more details about
the job?
• Could I leave my car
here, sir?

10. Asking something…(informal)
• Can I have a sandwhich,
instead?
Can I have a
French
Croissant,please?

11. Asking something (formal)
Could you give me the telephone
number of Mr. Whitman, please?(kind)
May I have his phone number, please?
(very formal)
Would you mind repeating that, please?
Do you mind repeating that name,
please?