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Tasks in English modal ch. Exercises for modal verbs Can and May (Could and Might)

1. Choose the correct variant of the modal verb in brackets. Translate the sentences.

He … (can't/couldn't) open the window as it was stuck.
Interpreters … (may/must) translate without dictionaries.
… (Can/May) I use me your bike for today?
… (May/Could) you give me the recipe for this cake?
I hardly ever see Jane, she … (may/might) have moved to Africa.
Take an umbrella. It … (may/can) rain.
You … (could/should) stop smoking. You know you … (cannot/must not) buy health.
You … (may/must) finish the article as soon as possible.
Liz doesn't … (ought to/have to) keep to a diet anymore.
Lara … (can/might) get a playstation for her birthday.
You … (must not/needn't) read in the dark.
My grandfather is retired, so he … (shouldn’t/doesn’t have to) go to work.
The fridge is full, so we … (must not/needn’t) go shopping.
Our employees … (can/must) sign this agreement.
We … (may/ought to) reserve a table in advance if we want to have dinner there.
I … (can't/needn't) believe it! You … (have to/must) be joking.
Ann … (must/is to) finish school next year.
Sorry, I'm late. I … (needed to/had to) wait for the plumber.
What time do we … (should/have to) be at the railway station?
Don't wait for me tonight. I … (might/must) be late.
I … (maynot/can't) watch this film. It's too boring.
We've got a dishwasher, so you … (couldn't/needn't) wash-up.
You look very pale, I think you … (need/should) stay at home.
… (Could/Might) you, please, pass me the mustard?

2. Convert sentences with modal verbs to the past tense, starting with these words. Use could, had to, was to, was allowed to.

For example: Bob can't dive. (Bob can't dive.) - Last year Bob couldn't dive. (Last year Bob couldn't dive.)

You must show your identity card here. (You must show ID here.) - Last night...
We can't buy a new car. (We can't buy a new car.) - Last summer...
Mike may take my laptop computer for a couple of hours. (Mike can borrow my laptop for a couple of hours.) – This morning …
Victor has to call his mother. (Victor needs to call his mother.) - Yesterday ...
You don't need to paper the walls. (You don't need to wallpaper the walls.) - Yesterday...
She is to be at the office at 9 a.m. (She needs to be at the office at 9 am.) - Last Friday ...
You must not tell lies. (You must not lie.) - Last night ...

3. Convert sentences with modal verbs into the future tense, starting with these words. Use will be able to, will be allowed to, will have to.

For example: The baby can talk. (The baby can talk.) - Soon the baby will be able to talk. (Soon the baby will be able to talk.)

He can't get the tickets. (He can't get tickets.) - I'm afraid ...
You may use my camera. (You can use my camera.) - Tomorrow...
I am to wait for him at the airport. (I have to wait for him at the airport.) - Next Sunday...
You must tell me the truth. (You must tell me the truth.) - Very soon ...
I have to take these pills 3 times a day. (I need to take these pills 3 times a day.) - Tomorrow...
I can read this book in Italian. (I can read this book on Italian.) - In two years ...

4. Translate English proverbs paying attention to modal verbs. Try to remember the Russian equivalents of proverbs where possible.

A man can do no more than he can.
Anyone who has to ask the price cannot afford it.
People who live in glass houses should not throw stones at their neighbors.
You must learn to walk before you can run.
He who falls today may rise tomorrow.
A bird may be known by its song.
He who laughs at crooked men should need to walk very straight.
Talk of the devil and he is to appear.
A tree must be bent while young.
The wind can't be caught in a net.

5. Give advice using the modal verb should. (More suggestions are possible.)

eg: My eyes are tired. (My eyes are tired.) - You should go to bed. (You should sleep.)

I am cold. (I'm cold.)
I am thirsty. (I'm thirsty.)
I am hungry. (I am hungry.)
My life is too hectic. (My life is too busy.)
I've caught a cold. (I caught a cold.)
Somebody has stolen my purse. (Someone stole my wallet.)

6. Make sentences with modal verbs, putting the words in the right order. Translate the resulting sentences.

For example: don't / to / I / answer / have / questions / your. – I don't have to answer your questions. (I am under no obligation to answer your questions.)

the party / Linda / to / come / might / tonight.
round / work / have to / farmers / the year / all.
you / not / hospital / noise / must / make / in.
the light / I / switch / may / on ?
your / look / could / passport / I / at?
my/cook/can/quite/wife/well.
catch / last / able to / we / were / train / the.
not / jeans / you / must / wear / to / school.
didn't / you / drink / have to / much / yesterday / so.
ought to / bill / Robert / the electricity / pay / today.
better / we / find / a / should / job.
too much / you / salt / and / eat / sugar / shouldn't.
do / get / to / Turkey / I / have to / a visa ?
he / manners / improve / his / needs to.
needn't / you / complain.

You can analyze this exercise individually with English tutors via Skype, all classes are held online.

Answers:

couldn't (He couldn't open the window because it was stuck.)
must (Translators must translate without dictionaries.)
May (Can I use your bike today?)
Could (Could you give me the recipe for this cake?)
might (I hardly see Jane, she may have moved to Africa.)
may (Take an umbrella. It may rain.)
should - cannot (You should stop smoking. You know you can't buy health.)
must (You must finish the article as soon as possible.)
have to (Lisa no longer needs to diet.)
might (Lara will probably get a game console for her birthday.)
must not (You can't read in the dark.)
doesn’t have to (My grandfather is retired so he doesn’t have to go to work.)
needn't (The fridge is full, so we don't have to go to the store.)
must (Our employees must sign this agreement.)
ought to (We should reserve a table in advance if we want to dine there.)
can't - must (I can't believe it! You must be joking.)
is to (Anna has to finish school next year.)
had to (Sorry I was late. I had to wait for a plumber.)
have to (What time do we need to be at the train station?)
might (Don't wait for me in the evening. Maybe I'll be late.)
can't (I can't watch this movie. It's too boring.)
needn't (We have Dishwasher so you don't have to wash the dishes.)
should (You look very pale. I think you should stay at home.)
Could (Could you pass me the mustard, please?)

Last night you had to show your identity card here.
Last summer we couldn't buy a new car.
This morning Mike was allowed to take my laptop computer for a couple of hours.
Yesterday Victor had to call his mother.
Yesterday you didn't need to paper the walls.
Last Friday she was to be at the office at 9 a.m.
Last night you didn't have to tell lies.

I'm afraid he won't be able to get the tickets.
Tomorrow you will be allowed to use my camera.
Next Sunday I will have to wait for him at the airport.
Very soon you will have to tell me the truth.
Tomorrow I will have to take these pills 3 times a day.
In two years I will be able to read this book in Italian.

Man can do no more than he can. (You can't jump above your head.)
Anyone forced to ask for a price can't afford it.
People who live in glass houses should not throw stones at their neighbors. (As it comes around, it will respond. Do not dig a hole for another - you yourself will fall into it.)
You must learn to walk before you can run. (First "az" and "beeches", and then science.)
Whoever falls today may rise tomorrow. (After bad weather - the sun. Do not grate, do not mint - there will be no kalach.)
The bird can be recognized by its song. (The bird can be seen in flight.)
He who laughs at the hunchbacks needs to walk very straight himself. (There is no better joke than on yourself.)
Talk about the devil and he will appear. (Light in sight.)
Wood needs to be bent while it is young. (Teach the child while he is small. Strike while the iron is hot.)
The wind cannot be caught in a net. (You can't keep up with the wind in the field.)

You should put on warm clothes. You should drink hot tea. (You need to wear warm clothes. You need to drink hot tea.)
You should drink water. (You need to drink water.)
You should have lunch. (You need to have lunch.)
You should calm down. (You need to calm down.)
You should take medicine. You should visit the doctor. (You need to take your medicine. You need to see a doctor.)
You should phone the police. You shouldn't carry your bag open. (You should call the police. You shouldn't carry your bag open.)

Linda might come to the party tonight. (Linda might come to the party tonight.)
Farmers have to work all the year round. (Farmers must work all year round.)
You must not make noise in the hospital. (You are not allowed to make noise in the hospital.)
May I switch on the light? (Can I turn on the light?)
Could I look at your passport? (Could I have a look at your passport?)
My wife can cook quite well. (My wife can cook quite well.)
We were able to catch the last train. (We were able to catch the last train.)
You must not wear jeans to school. (You don't have to wear jeans to school.)
You didn't have to drink so much yesterday. (You didn't have to drink so much yesterday.)
Robert ought to pay the electricity bill today. (Robert needs to pay his electricity bill today.)
We should find a better job. (We should find a better job.)
You shouldn't eat too much salt and sugar. (You shouldn't eat too much salt and sugar.)
Do I have to get a visa to Turkey? (Do I need to get a visa to Turkey?)
He needs to improve his manners. (He needs to work on his manners.)
You needn't complain. (You don't have to complain.)

Exercises "Modal verbs" (with answers) - 4.8 out of 5 based on 201 votes

Ability to do something (I can, I can)

I can play the piano.(I can)

He can answer the question.(Maybe)

I cannot play the piano. ( I do not know how)

He cannot answer the question.(can not)

Can you sing?(can you?)

Can you help me?(can you?)

I could not ski when I was little.(couldn't)

She could not jump so high.(I could not)

Exercise 1

Translate into Russian.

1. Her grandmother can knit very well. 2. I can answer the questions. They are very easy. 3. This trip is too expensive for me. I can "t afford it. 4. She can type. She can speak well on the telephone. She hopes she can find the job she"s looking for. 5. Can you go to have lunch with me? - I "m sorry. I can" t. 6. Mike can run very fast. 7. They can understand French. 8. Kate can speak English very well. 9. My brother can come and help you in the garden. 10. Can you speak Spanish?

Exercise 2

can (could).

1. I can speak English. 2. My dad can't speak German. 3. Can you speak French? 4. My sister can't skate. 5. You can swim across this river. 6. I can't drink this milk. 7. She can't understand you. 8. Did you know how to swim last year? 9. Last year I couldn't ski, but now I can. 10. Can you tell me how to get to the station? 11. Could you help me? 12. I can't translate this sentence. 13. Nobody could help me. 14. Where can I buy bread here? 15. Did your grandmother know how to dance when she was young? Yes, she still can.

MAY Permission ( Can)

It May rain soon.(maybe it will rain)

Be careful: you May fail.(you can fall)

Exercise 3

Translate into Russian

1. May I invite Nick to our house? 2. You may go now. 3. If you have done your homework, you may go for a walk. 4. Don't go to the wood alone: you may lose your way. 5. May I go to the post office with Mike? 6. May I take Pete's bag? 7. Don't give the vase to the child: he may break it. 8. May we take notes with a pencil? 9. You may not cross the street when the light is red. 10. May I shut the door?

Exercise 4

Translate into English using a modal verb may.

1. May I come in? 2. May I go for a walk? 3. If your work is ready, you can go home. 4. The teacher said that we can go home. 5. The doctor says that I can already go swimming. 6. Dad said that we can go to the cinema alone. 7. I thought I could watch TV. 8. If you don't wear a coat, you might get sick. 9. Don't leave the house: Mom may come soon and she doesn't have the key. 10. Be careful: you can fall. 11. Don't touch the dog: it might bite you. 12. We may go out of town on Sunday. 13. He can forget about it. 14. It may rain soon. 15. There is nothing to do here. We can leave early today. 16. He may know this problem, so he may know the answer to this question, but I'm not very sure. 17. If you want, you can go now. 18. Where do they live now? - They may be living abroad now, but I'm not very sure.

Exercise 5

Insert verbs May or can.

1. …I come in? 2. Let me look at your exercises. I … be able to help you. 3. I … not swim, because until this year the doctor did not allow me to be more than two minutes in the water. But this year he says I … stay in for fifteen minutes if I like, so I’m going to learn to swim. 4. Libraries are quite free, and any one who likes … get books there. 5. I … come and see you tomorrow if I have time. 6. Take your raincoat with you: it … rain today. 7. Do you think you … do that? 8. I … finish the work tomorrow if no one bothers me any more. 9. … we come and see you next Sunday at three o’clock in the afternoon? 10. What time is it? - It ... - be about six o'clock, but I am not sure. 11. Only a person who knows the language very well … answer such a question.

Exercise 6

Insert modal verbs may (might) or can (could).

1. … will you help me? 2. I … imagine her speaking in public: I knew that she was so shy. 3. Something was wrong with the car: he … not start it. 4. A fool … ask more questions than a wise man … answer. 5. She asked me if she … use my telephone. 6. …I use your pen? 7. … I find a pen on that table? 8. You … read this book: you know the language well enough. 9. You … take this book: I don't need it. 10. …help you? 11. … I ask you to help me? 12. The school was silent: nothing … be heard in the long dark corridors. 13. Waiting … be endless, you know. 14. … you tell me the nearest way to the city museum? 15. They … think that I am too weak to take part in the excursion, but I am strong enough to do any kind of hard work, indeed. 16. He knew this period of history very well: he had read everything on the subject he … find in the rich university library.

MUST duty

Exercise 7

Translate into Russian.

1. Don "t worry! This is not important. - Not important! You must be joking! 2. He never comes to work late! He must have overslept today. 3. You must not argue with the boss. 4. She must stop eating much and she must lose weight. 5. You must stop smoking! If you don "t, you"re going to have serious problems with your lungs some day. 6. You must work hard at your English. 7. You must learn the words. 8. Must we learn the poem today? 9. It must be very difficult to learn Chinese. 10. You must not talk at the lessons. 11. Everybody must come to school in time. 12. Don"t ring him up: he must be very busy. 13. You must not make notes in the books. 14. I must help my mother today.

Exercise 8

Translate into English using a modal verb must.

1. He must be very tired. 2. They even have a yacht. They must be very rich. 3. Do you have to leave tomorrow morning? 4. You mustn't be late.>5. I must not forget my mother. I haven't written to her in forever. I have to write her a letter tonight. 6. This book is very valuable. You must not lose her. 7. Do you really have to leave already? 8. I must admit that I am wrong. 9. I have to work hard on my English. 10. You must listen carefully to the teacher in class. 11. You must do your homework every day. 12. You must not forget your responsibilities. 13. You must be careful on the street. 14. She should be at home now. 15. My friends must be in the park. 16. You must be very hungry. 17. It must be difficult to solve such problems. 18. I have to see my friend today.

Exercise 9

Translate into Russian

1. You must work hard at your English. 2. You must learn the words. 3. Must we learn the poem today? 4. It must be very difficult to learn Chinese. 5. You must not talk at the lessons. 6. Everybody must come to school in time. 7. Don't ring him up: he must be very busy. 8. You must not make notes in the books. 9. I must help my mother today. 10. Don't worry! This is not important. – Not important! You must be joking!

Exercise 10

Translate into English using a modal verb must.

1. I have to work hard on my English. 2. You must listen carefully to the teacher in class. 3. You must do your homework every day. 4. You must not forget your responsibilities. 5. You must be careful on the street. 6. She should be at home now. 7. My friends must be in the park. 8. You must be very hungry. 9. It must be difficult to solve such problems. 10. I have to see my friend today. 11. He must be very tired. 12. They even have a yacht. They must be very rich. 13. Do you have to leave tomorrow morning? 14. You mustn't be late. 15. I must not forget about my mother. I haven't written to her in forever. I have to write her a letter tonight.16. This book is very valuable. You must not lose her. 17. Do you really have to leave already? 18. I must admit that I am wrong.

So, dear English Learner, you have studied the theory on the topic and now let's get down to practice. After completing 11 exercises below, you will learn to distinguish the meanings of basic modal verbs can, may, must, should, and make negative and interrogative sentences with them. Below is a brief summary of the main meanings of these verbs.

English modal verbs. Exercises for Beginners (Level 1)

Exercise 1. Choose a modal verb based on its meaning and context. Translate the sentences.

When both verbs seem to fit, choose the more typical situation.

You (must, can) go to bed now.
She (may, should) read this book.
I (must, may) go home.
He (can, may) speak English.
The students (must, may) use a calculator at the Maths lessons.
My mother (can, should) cook many delicious dishes.
My father (must, can) drive a car.
Jack (can, must) play the guitar very well.
You (should, must) ask his advice.
Kate (may, can) remember a lot of words.

Exercise 2. Make these sentences containing modal verbs negative.

You must read in bed.
You can cross the road when the lights are red.
You should open the window. It is cold outside.
It is already late. She must go outside.
He should dress so formal if he goes to a picnic.
You must keep books at home so long.
You can park here.
Students may shout at the lessons.
Teachers may be late for school.
Parents must obey their children. ( obey- obey)

Exercise 3 Make these sentences interrogative.

She can play chess.
He can play hockey.
They may go to the cinema.
I may open the window.
Children and adults must clean their teeth twice a day. (How often...?)
Children must go to school. (Where...?)
English learners must learn English words every day. (What...?)
You should keep your room tidy. (What...?) keep tidy- keep in order)
Children should listen to their parent`s advice.
They should be polite.

Exercise 4 Make up questions from words and give short or full answers to them.

your brother/ play/ table tennis/ can? - Yes, he...
your cousin/ can/ ride a horse? - No, he...
may/ go to/ I / the cinema? - Yes, you...
late/ may/ come home/ she? - No, she...
learn this poem/ must/ she/ by heart? - Yes, she...
books/ how many/ they/ must/read? – Only two.
wear/ smart clothes/ for the party/ should/ they? - Yes,…
salt/ how much/ should/ put in the dish/ I ? – Just a little.
the student/ mobile/ phones/ use/ can/ at the exams? - No, they...
children/ come to school / in time/ must? Yes, they...

Exercise 5 Look for mistakes.

You don't can go to the party.
He must take his dog for a walk.
I can help you.
He must not be late.
Can his brother speak French?
Paul must go there.
You don't must smoke here.

Exercise 6 Choose the correct CAN'T or COULDN'T.

Beginners need to remember that the modal verb CAN is in the past tense - COULD.

When my sister was a little girl, she (can't / couldn't) read.
You (can/ could) see this picture in the Tretyakov Gallery.
Yesterday I lost my keys and (can't / couldn't) get into my flat.
I (can't/ couldn't) go out because I have a lot of work.
He (can't /couldn't) speak English when he was 10.

Remember that CAN'T and MUSTN'T are often translated NOT.

Remember that

CAN'T - DO NOT (general rule, prohibition)

MUSTN'T - IMPOSSIBLE (personal decision of the speaker)

Exercise 7 Say what NOT to do. Use verbsCAN'T andMUSTN'T.

You _____ tell anybody about it. It is a secret.
The baby _______ drink cold milk.
You ______ cross the street here.
You _______speak so loudly. It is very late.
Little children _____ leave home alone.

Exercise 8 Translate the sentences with the expression IMPOSSIBLE. Use the verbs CAN'T (general rule, prohibition) and MUSTN'T (speaker's decision).

He can't drink cold milk. He's sick. (be ill.)
She can't eat oranges.
We can't run here.
You can't talk loudly in the library. (at the library.)
You can't smoke here.

Exercise 9 Give advice to teachers and students using should (shouldn't) based on context.

Remember! Should is advice and is not mandatory.

Teachers/Students

explain the rules very well, get bad marks, give instructions, give bad marks, give nicknames, answer questions

Exercise 10 Translate sentences with forms modal verbs into English.

He must … _____________ learn new English words.
She can … ______________play the guitar.
People should … ____________ be careful when crossing the street.
Drivers should not… __________drive fast.
She is allowed to … ____________go to the cinema today?
I can't … ____________ come home late.
I can't … ______ speak English well.
Children must not … ____________run here.
They are not allowed to… ___________play computer games.
You should … ___________ try again.

Exercise 11 Translate the sentences with modal verbs.

I can't play the guitar.
He can't play table tennis.
Do you know how to ride a bike?
Does your sister know how to drive a car?
Can you give me your pen?
Very hot. Can you open the window?
May I go to the cinema?
May I use a calculator?
You must teach English words every day.
You should read books in English.
Adults should not yell at children.
You must not (shouldn't) use mobile phone on the exam.

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continue

1. Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate forms of the verbs.

1. Jack has got a headache. He … sleep well recently.
a) can't
b) couldn't have
c) hasn't been able to

2. I … sleep for hours when I was a little girls.
a) could
b) am able to
c) can

3. Tom … play tennis well but he … play a game yesterday because he was ill.
a) couldn't, could
b) can, was able
c) can't, couldn't

4. I didn't want to be late for the meeting. We … meet at 5 sharp.
a) were to
b) had to
c) could

5. Where are my gloves? - I … put them on because it's cold today.
a) can't
b) have to
c) needn't

6. You … take an umbrella today. The Sun is shining.
a) needn't
b) mustn't
c) can't

7. I'm sorry, you didn't invite me to your birthday party. You … invite me next time.
a) must
b) should
c) need to

8. Well, it's 10 o'clock. I … go now.
a) can
b) has to
c) must

9. You … smoke so much.
a) would
b) can't
c) shouldn't

10. We have got plenty of time. We … hurry.
a) must
b) needn't
c) should

2. Translate the sentences into English.

1. You must quit smoking.
2. The party was great. You should have come.
3. You can solve this problem.
4. You should visit your sick friend.
5. You should have visited your sick friend, but you didn't.
6. Would you like some more tea?
7. I had to do it.
8. I don't know why we were in a hurry. We didn't have to rush.
9. I would like to go with you.
10. You can do whatever you want.
11. Olga needs to pay more attention to classes in English language.
12. I'm not sure, but maybe he's wrong.
13. He was allowed to take his father's car last Friday.
14. I can count to 50 in Spanish.

3. There is a mistake in each sentence. Correct the mistakes.

1. Actors may learn a lot of dialogues by heart.
2. Your glass is empty. Must I refill it?
3. Would I introduce Mr. Brown to you?
4. My sister can play a few musical instruments.
5. Some years ago I couldn't speak English.

Right answers:

1. Complete the following sentences using the most appropriate verb forms.

1. c | 2. a | 3. c | 4. a | 5. b | 6. a | 7b | 8. c | 9. c | 10.b

2. Translate the sentences into English.

1. You must stop smoking.
2. The party was great. You should have come.
3. You can solve this problem.
4. You ought to visit your sick friend.
5. You ought to have visited your sick friend, but you didn't.
6. Would you like some more tea?
7. I had to do that.
8. I don't know why we hurried. We needn't have hurried.
9. I'd like to go with you.
10. You may do everything you want.
11. Olga needs to pay more attention to her English classes.
12. I'm not sure but he may be wrong.
13. He was allowed to borrow his father's car last Friday.
14. I can count to fifty in Spanish.

3. Every sentence has a mistake. Correct the mistakes.

1. may-must
2. must-can
3. would - can
4. can play - can play
5. didn't can - couldn't

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Exercise 1.

1. You must quit smoking.

2. The party was great. You should have come.

3. You can solve this problem.

4. You should visit your sick friend.

5. You should have visited your sick friend, but you didn't.

6. Would you like some more tea?

7. I had to do it.

8. I don't know why we were in a hurry. We didn't have to rush.

9. I would like to go with you.

10. You can do whatever you want.

11. Olga needs to pay more attention to her English classes.

12. I'm not sure, but maybe he's wrong.

13. He was allowed to take his father's car last Friday.

Answers:

1. You must stop smoking.

7. I had to do that.

9. I'd like to go with you.

1. You must stop smoking.

2. The party was great. You should have come.

3. You can solve this problem.

4. You ought to visit your sick friend.

5. You ought to have visited your sick friend, but you didn't.

6. Would you like some more tea?

7. I had to do that.

8. I don't know why we hurried. We needn't have hurried.

9. I'd like to go with you.

10. You may do everything you want.

11. Olga needs to pay more attention to her English classes.

12. I'm not sure but he may be wrong.

13. He was allowed to borrow his father's car last Friday.

14. I can count to fifty in Spanish.

Exercise 2.

Translate into English.

1. You can borrow this book if you like.

2. You can take this book: it is not heavy.

3. You don't have to take this book.

4. I can't take this book.

5. Just think: it was possible not to go there.

6. You can immediately disagree: think for a few days.

7. You can go there today.

8. You can not go there today.

9. You don't have to rewrite the essay.

10. You can stay: you have time.

11. You can stay if you want.

12. You don't have to stay if you don't want to.

13. You can not tell him about it.

14. You can tell him about it.

15. We do not need to repeat these rules: we know them.

16. It was possible not to write an essay.

17. He could not come: everything was already done.

Answers:

4. I cannot take this book.

7. You may go there today.

1. You may take this book if you like.

2. You can take this book: it is not heavy.

3. You need not take this book.

4. I cannot take this book.

5. Just think: we need not have gone there!

6. You need not agree at once: think a few days.

7. You may go there today.

8. You need not go there today.

9. You need not rewrite the composition.

10. You can stay: you have time, don't you?

11. You may stay if you like.

12. You need not stay if you don't want to.

13. You need not tell him about it.

14. You may tell him about it.

15. We need not repeat these rules: we know them.

16. We need not have written the composition.

17. He need not have come: everything had already been done.

Exercise 3

Insert the appropriate modal verbs ( must, may, can, need, to have to, to be able to).

1. You … not come to help them tomorrow: the work is done.

2. You … not change the whole text as the beginning is all right. You … only rewrite the second part of it.

3. … will you help me now? - I am afraid not: I am in a great hurry. I shall be free in the evening. Come to my place at about eight, and I … help you.

4. John … not tell us the rules of the game: we know them.

5. … I return the book to you on Friday? I am afraid I … not finish it before. - No, that's too late. You … bring it to me not later than Wednesday.

6. It is already six o'clock. We … hurry if we don't want to be late.

7. … do you translate this text into English? - I think I ….

8. They spent all the morning on the river bank. Only Ann … return home as she … not stay in the sun for such a long time.

9. How do you feel when you … take a test? - I'm always a little frightened and unhappy. 10. She … decorate a room nicely.

11. We … not afford to pay the bill.

12. He's got a lung problem and he … go to hospital every two weeks.

13. Ann ... not go to his birthday party yesterday because she ... go to the dentist.

14. You … take medicine three times a day before meals. You … don't stop taking it until you have finished the bottle. Don't forget. You … drink water as much as you …. You … get up tomorrow if you like. You … not stay in bed all the time. But you … not do any work at all. You … just relax for a few days.

Answers:

1. You need not come to help them tomorrow: the work is done.

2. You need not change the whole text as the beginning is all right. You must only rewrite the second part of it.

3. Can you help me now? - I am afraid not: I am in a great hurry. I shall be free in the evening. Come to my place at about eight, and I'll be able to help you.

4. John need not tell us the rules of the game: we know them.

5. May I return the book to you on Friday? I am afraid I can't finish it before. - No, that's too late. You must bring it to me not later than Wednesday.

6. It is already six o'clock. We must hurry if we don't want to be late.

7. Can you translate this text into English? - I think I can.

8. They spent all the morning on the river bank. Only Ann had to return home as she could not stay in the sun for such a long time.

9. How do you feel when you have to take a test? - I'm always a little frightened and unhappy. 10. She can decorate a room nicely.

11. We can't afford to pay the bill.

12. He's got a lung problem and he has to go to hospital every two weeks.

13. Ann could not go to his birthday party yesterday because she had to go to the dentist.

14. You must take medicine three times a day before meals. You must not stop taking it until you have finished the bottle. Don't forget. You must drink water as much as you can. You can get up tomorrow if you like. You need not stay in bed all the time. But you must not do any work at all. You must just relax for a few days.

Exercise 4

The use of the modal verb should.

Translate into Russian.

1. You should know how to raise your children not to be losers.

2. You shouldn't give the child everything he wants. You shouldn't satisfy his every craving for food, drink and comfort. Otherwise, he will grow up to believe the world owes him a living.

3. You shouldn't laugh at him when he picks up bad words. This will make him think he isn't cute. It won't also encourage him to pick up "cuter" phrases.

4. You shouldn't avoid using the word "wrong". This won't condition him to believe, later, when he is arrested for stealing a car, that society is against him.

5. You shouldn't pick up everything he leaves lying around - books, shoes and clothing. You shouldn't do everything for him, otherwise, he will be experienced in throwing all responsibility onto others.

6. You shouldn't quarrel frequently in the presence of your child. Otherwise, he will not be too shocked when the home is broken up later.

7. You shouldn't take his part against neighbors, teachers and policemen. They aren't all prejudiced against your child.

8. When he gets into trouble, you shouldn't apologize for yourself by saying, "I never could do anything with him."

Answers:

1. You should know (You should know) how to raise children so that they are not failures.

2. You should not give your child everything he wants. You should not satisfy his every desire for food, drink and comfort. Otherwise, he will grow up believing that society is obligated to support him.

3. You should not laugh at the child (at him) when he picks up bad words. This will make him think that he is not a very resourceful (not very smart; not very smart) child at all. It will also not encourage him to grasp (will not encourage him to grasp "prettier" phrases.

4. You should not avoid using the word "Bad" ("You are wrong"). It will not teach him to think that society is against him, if suddenly (later) he is arrested for stealing a car.

5. You should not pick up books, shoes, clothes - everything that he (the child) scatters anywhere. You should not do everything for him, otherwise he will learn to shift his responsibility to others.

6. You shouldn't fight often in front of your child. Otherwise, he will not be too shocked if later there is discord in the family (the family (house) falls apart).

7. You should not be on his side against neighbors, teachers and policemen. They don't all have a negative preconceived notion of your child (They don't all prejudice your child).

8. If he gets into trouble (in an unpleasant story), you should not justify yourself by saying: "I could never do anything with him."

Exercise 5

Translate into English using a modal verb should combined with the required form of the infinitive ( Indefinite Infinitive -Perfect Infinitive).

1. Children should be more attentive to their parents.

2. He should see a doctor.

3. He should have gone to the doctor a long time ago.

4. You shouldn't give your child so many sweets.

7. You should go there and talk to them.

8. You should have gone there (earlier) and talked to them.

9. He shouldn't have been so rude.

10. He should not have forgotten my request.

11. She should have returned long ago.

12. You shouldn't go there.

14. You should talk to your uncle when he arrives.

15. She didn't have to wear such heavy things.

16. He should have remembered this.

17. You had to ask permission.

18. You shouldn't have worried.

19. You should work harder.

20. She should listen to the teacher's advice.

21. You should apologize: you are wrong.

22. You should not miss your English lessons.

Answers:

12. You shouldn't go there.

19. You should work more.

1. Children should be more attentive to their parents.

2. He should consult the doctor.

3. He should have consulted the doctor long ago.

4. You should not give the child so many sweets.

5. He should read this book. 6. He should have read this book.

7. You should go there and speak to them.

8. You should have gone there and spoken to them.

9. He should not have spoken so rudely.

10. He should not have forgotten about my request.

11. She should have returned long ago.

12. You shouldn't go there.

13. You should have read this book last year.

14. You should speak to your uncle when he comes.

15. She should not have carried such heavy things.

16. He should have remembered about it.

17. You should have asked permission.

18. You shouldn't have worried.

19. You should work more.

20. She should listen to the teacher's advice.

21. You should apologize: you are wrong.

22. You should not miss English lessons.

Exercise 6

Translate English proverbs paying attention to modal verbs. Try to remember the Russian equivalents of proverbs where possible.

A man can do no more than he can.
Anyone who has to ask the price cannot afford it.
People who live in glass houses should not throw stones at their neighbors.
You must learn to walk before you can run.
He who falls today may rise tomorrow.
A bird may be known by its song.
He who laughs at crooked men should need to walk very straight.
Talk of the devil and he is to appear.
A tree must be bent while young.
The wind can't be caught in a net.

Answers:

Man can do no more than he can. (You can't jump above your head.)
Anyone forced to ask for a price can't afford it.
People who live in glass houses should not throw stones at their neighbors. (As it comes around, it will respond. Do not dig a hole for another - you yourself will fall into it.)
You must learn to walk before you can run. (First "az" and "beeches", and then science.)
Whoever falls today may rise tomorrow. (After bad weather - the sun. Do not grate, do not mint - there will be no kalach.)
The bird can be recognized by its song. (The bird can be seen in flight.)
He who laughs at the hunchbacks needs to walk very straight himself. (There is no better joke than on yourself.)
Talk about the devil and he will appear. (Light in sight.)
Wood needs to be bent while it is young. (Teach the child while he is small. Strike while the iron is hot.)
The wind cannot be caught in a net. (You can't keep up with the wind in the field.)

Exercise 7. (advanced level)

Translate into English.

1. I was supposed to meet her yesterday, but I couldn't. I really was very busy. I'm really sorry.

2. You must type and mail this letter immediately. It is very urgent.

3. I have to get up early, I have to start work at 7 o'clock.

4. If you want to pass the English exam you must study daily.

5. She has to help her son do his homework. He is very inattentive and therefore often makes many mistakes.

6. You must help your old mother. You know she's 75 years old. She is often sick and cannot do housework.

7. This month he missed a lot of lessons and therefore he has to study a lot now.

8. Yesterday the weather was bad and so they had to stay at home.

9. She did not have an English textbook and therefore she had to copy all the exercises in a notebook.

10. You don't have to go to the library. I have I have a lot of books at home and you can take any book you need.

11. Students are not allowed to talk in class.

12. We do not need to discuss this issue today. We intend to discuss it tomorrow.

13. After the lecture he had to answer questions.

14. Students are not allowed to use dictionaries when they are translating texts.

15. You can not make noise when the child is sleeping. Go play in the garden.

16. Anna has to wear glasses since childhood.

17. You should definitely visit us.

18. Don't you dare talk to me like that!

19. I promised that I would be on time. I can't be late.

20. It's late, I have to go.

21. You can't enter the classroom now. Children write a dictation.

22. I have to wake my son up in the morning.

23. She has to work from morning to evening to earn some money.

24. At first we did not understand his question, so he had to repeat this question again.

25. The director is busy now, you will have to wait a bit.

26. I'm glad I didn't have to explain anything to him.

27. You do not need to help him, he does this job well himself.

28. You must come and see our new apartment.

29. Yesterday I had a lot of work and I had to go to bed very late.

30. We didn't have to wait for her yesterday. She arrived on time.

Answers:

1. Yesterday I had to meet her but I couldn't. I was really busy. I am very sorry.

2. You must type and send this letter at once. It is very urgent.

3. I have to get up very early I must begin to work at 7 o'clock.

4. If you want to pass an English examination you must have a lesson every day.

5. She has to help her son to do homework. He is very inattentive so he often makes a lot of mistakes.

6. You must help your old mother. You know she is 75. She is often ill and can't do housework.

7. He has missed a lot of lessons this month so he has to have lessons a lot.

8. Yesterday the weather was bad so they had to stay at home.

9. She didn't have an English text book so she had to copy out all the exercises in the copy-book.

10. You don't have to go to the library I've got a lot of books at home and you can take any book you need.

11. The pupils mustn't talk at the lessons.

12. We don't have to discuss this question now. We are going to discuss it tomorrow.

13. He had to answer questions after the lecture.

14. The students mustn't use dictionaries when they translate texts.

15. You mustn't make a noise when the child is asleep. Go and play in the garden.

16. Ann has to wear glasses since her childhood.

17. You must come and see us.

18. You mustn't speak to me like this.

19. I have promised I will be in time. I mustn't be late.

20. It is already late. I've got to go.

21. You mustn't come into the classroom now. The children are having a dictation.

22. I have to wake up my son in the morning.

23. She has to work from morning till evening to earn some money.

24. At first we didn't understand his question so he had to repeat this question once again.

25. The manager is busy now so you have to wait for him for a while.

26. I am glad that I didn't have to explain anything to him.

27. You don't have to help him, he does this work well himself.

28. You must come and see jur new flat.

29. I had a lot of work yesterday and I had to go to bed very late.

30. We didn't have to wait for her. She come in time.

Exercise 8

Insert verbs can, could, may, might, should, would.

1. … you be prosperous and happy!

2. I trust that your fears … not be realized.

to know wliat I … do.

4. A good general makes every preparation against defeat … such a contingency arise.

5. It makes my blood boil to think that such cruelties … go on around us.

6. … such circumstances arise. I shall take steps to deal with them.

7. Whatever … have happened, the result is the same.

8. Who can say what … have happened, had not the accident been averted?

9. Some of these rocks…probably have

10. He was so indifferent to public opinion that he did not care what the papers … say.

11. I … support your enterprise, but I am not yet convinced that it deserves it.

12. With a little encouragement, he … do wonders.

13. I am not likely to be moved by anything you … say; I judge by results.

then we … perhaps believe his words.

15. We hope that you Majesty … long rule over us, and that your reign … be as

Answers:

not be realized.

3. In my perplexity I appealed to my guide to know wliat I should do.

5. It makes us.

with them.

same.

been deposited by passing icebergs.

that it deserves it.

wonders.

say; I judge by results.

14. Let him show what he has done;

15. We hope that you glorious as those of your predecessors.

2. I trust that your fears may not be realized.

3. In my perplexity I appealed to my guide to know wliat I should do.

4. A good general makes every preparation against defeat should such a contingency arise.

5. It makes my blood boil to think that such cruelties can go on around us.

6. Should such circumstances arise. I shall take steps to deal with them.

7. Whatever may have happened, the result is the same.

8. Who can say what might (could) have happened, had not the accident been averted?

9. Some of these rocks may perhaps havebeen deposited by passing icebergs.

10. He was so indifferent to public opinion that he did not care what the papers would say.

11. I would (could) support your enterprise, but I am not yet convinced that it deserves it.

12. With a little encouragement, he could (would) do wonders.

13. I am not likely to be moved by anything you may (might) say; I judge by results.

14. Let him show what he has done;then we can (could) perhaps believe his words.

15. We hope that you Majesty may long rule over us, and that your reign may be asglorious as those of your predecessors.

Exercise 9(First level)

Translate into English.

1. Children should go to bed early.

2. You should definitely invite them to dinner.

3. I don't feel well. I must go to the doctor.

4. Do I have to get up so early on Sunday again?

5. Are you supposed to ask questions during exams?

6. “In the evening you must return at 11 o'clock,” said the mother.

7. You should definitely go out of town in the spring.

8. I need to listen to radio programs in English. I want to speak English well.

9. Should I bring a friend with me?

10. Children shouldn't watch TV this late..

Answers:

1. Children must go to bed early.

2. You must certainly invite them to dinner.

3. I feel bad. I must go to see a doctor.

4. Must I again get up so early on Sunday?

5. You mustn't ask questions during the exams.

6. "You must return at 11 o'clock in the evening", - said the mother.

7. You have to go the country on spring.

8. I must listen to English radio broadcasts. I want to speak English well.

9. Shall I bring my friend with me?

10. Children mustn't watch TV so late.

Exercise 10

Fill in the gaps with one of the modal verbs ( must or have to):

1. “Now look here, young lady, you *** be home before 2.00 AM. Do you understand?"

2. He *** take the bus today as his car broke down yesterday.

3. In a mosque you *** take off your shoes before entering.

4. Dogs *** be kept on leads.

5. You *** leave now if you want to catch the 9.30.

6. In a decent kitchen the staff *** wash their hands frequently.

7. “You *** prepare this exercise for tomorrow!”

8. In Third World countries people often *** be very ingenious simply to survive.

9. Our sales people *** be more persistent when dealing with customers.

10. I *** go now, I'm late already.

Answers:

1. must. 2. has to. 3. must. 4. must. 5. must. 6. must. 7. must. 8. have to. 9. must. 10. have to.

Exercise 11(average level)

Use of the verb May (might).

Translate into English.

1. Perhaps they know about everything, but do not want to tell us.

2. It's already five o'clock. - Wait a bit, he might come soon.

3. Where is Paul? - I don't know, he may have gone to the conservatory.

4. Tell him that he could be more considerate of his older friends.

5. Although it looks like it will rain, but who knows, maybe the weather will be fine tomorrow.

6. You can find this expression in any book.

7. I called him several times, but no one answered the phone. “Maybe he hasn't returned yet.

8. Perhaps the professor has been giving a lecture for more than two hours, but the students are listening to him with great attention.

Answers:

2. It's five o'clock. - Wait a little, he may soon come.

3. Where is Paul. - I don't know, he may have gone to the conservatoire.

4. Tell him that he might be more attentive to his older friends.

5. Though it is likely to rain, but who knows, the weather may be fine tomorrow.

6. You may come across this expression in any book.

7. I rang him up several times, but no one answered. - He may not have returned yet.

8. The Professor may have been giving a lecture for more than two hours, but the students have been listening to him with great attention.

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