TR&W Issue 20

www.teachwire.net | 53 T E ACH RE AD I NG & WR I T I NG Different types of modal verbs and their applications Possibility Verbs such as could and would encompass advice and direction, and express personal actions and intents. They add a layer of uncertainty or potential to statements, making them suitable for discussing possibilities and promises. These are versatile in guiding others and describing one’s actions or plans. A s educators, we’re always looking for innovative ways to teach language concepts. Modal verbs, those crucial parts of English grammar, are no exception. So, let’s dive in and explore some examples of the modal verbs your KS2 pupils will be expected to know and use. What are modal verbs? Modal verbs are special verbs that modify other verbs, adding layers of meaning like possibility, ability, obligation or necessity. These verbs are distinct, because they don’t follow the usual verb conjugation rules, and lack suffixes. Understanding them is essential if pupils are to express themselves clearly and appropriately in different contexts. Prohibition Modal verbs such as must and should , that express obligation and necessity, are crucial for giving clear and direct instructions. They are often used to assertively guide a reader or listener, providing unambiguous directions for specific actions or behaviours in various situations. Suggestion Verbs and verb phrases such as could , ought to and had better can be used to imply advice or suggest actions. They are typically used in contexts where a more diplomatic or conversational tone is appropriate, avoiding the directness of a command. Ability Modal verbs can also be used to express someone’s skill or competence in doing something. Can often indicates a general ability, while could can suggest a more conditional or past ability. For example, ‘I can swim’ shows current ability, whereas ‘I could swim when I was younger’ implies an ability in the past. Shoulda, woulda, COULDA Emma Cate Stokes explains how modal verbs can help pupils produce persuasive writing that packs a real punch “Understanding them is essential if pupils are to express themselves clearly and appropriately in different contexts” TH I NK I NG L I T ERAC Y