Florida - Benchmarks for Excellent Student Thinking:
ELA.5.C.3.1
Follow the rules of standard English grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling appropriate to grade level
5th Grade Writing - Principal Modals Lesson
Modal auxiliaries
Modal auxiliaries are helping verbs. They add meaning and help tell more about time. Modal auxiliary verbs also show different conditions like a request, an ability, or permission.
These are the most common auxiliary verbs, or helping verbs, and their uses:
Can: The verb “can” shows that a person or an object is able to do something. In other words, it shows ability.
Example: The girl can show you the way.
Could The verb “could” shows a past ability. It also shows a request.
Example: Sarah could easily lift 30 pounds.
May
The verb “may” shows that something is likely to happen.
Example: It may rain tonight.
It also shows a person or an object is allowed to do something. In other words, it shows permission.
Example: You may have cookies after dinner.
It also shows that someone is requesting something.
Example: May I go to a sleepover with Bethany?
Might: The verb “might” shows that something is likely to happen.
Example: The branch might break if you climb on it.
Must: The verb “must” shows that something is necessary or certain.
Example: They must study to pass the tests.
Will: The verb “will” shows a future action.
Example: Marcus will run for the student leader position.
Would: The verb “would” shows what would happen if something else happened.
Example: The teacher would help you if you ask her.
Shall: The verb “shall” shows a future action.
Example: We shall see happier days in the summer.
Should: The verb “should” shows a hope or an advice.
Example: You should wear warm clothes before going out.
5th Grade Writing - Principal Modals Lesson