Modal Verbs for Kids: Can, May, Might, Must and Should (Grade 4 English)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Some helping verbs are tiny, but they change the whole meaning of a sentence. They are called modal verbs. Today we will meet these modal helpers and learn what each one tells us.

A modal verb sits in front of a main verb. Look at these. I swim. I can swim. I must swim. I might swim. The main verb stays the same, but the meaning changes each time.

Can and could show ability. I can ride a bike means I am able to do it now. When I was three, I could sing the alphabet, shows ability in the past.

May and can also ask for permission. May I borrow a pencil is the polite way to ask. Might, may and could show possibility. It might snow tonight means it is possible, but not certain.

Must shows something is necessary, like a rule. You must stop at a red light. Should gives advice, a good idea but not a rule. You should drink water after running.

Will shows something that is going to happen. We will visit Grandma on Sunday. Would is softer and often goes with if. If I had wings, I would fly over the ocean.

Now it's your turn. Choose the best modal. It blank rain later, so bring an umbrella just in case. Is it must or might? Pause and try. Might! Rain is possible, not certain.

Great job! Modal helpers show ability, permission, possibility, need, advice and the future. Choose the one that fits your meaning. Practice modal helpers in the English Lab at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!