The Rationale, Module Modals
The Rationale, Module Modals
1
The Rationale; A Moulders’ Perspective
One of the main problems in learning and teaching English as a second language is the
complexity of the English modal auxiliary system. In the standard formal English the same
modals express different notions, ranging from probability through permission to obligation.
Modals are not only auxiliaries in the grammatical sense but they also appear to contribute to
the semantics of communication. Since communication is an integral part of the society, and
the most important means of human communication is language, the mechanics of language
Modal Auxiliaries help us in doing functions like warning some one, making suggestions,
giving advice, threatening others, talking about memories, etc. Good understanding of these
Learning the language is full of fun and excitement. It doesn’t need to be burdensome
and tiresome, nor does to be expensive and sophisticated, but it simply need
Due to the fact that many of the learners committed mistakes in the use of different
modals both in reading and writing, the making of this module has come to at least clear their
This learning module is brought into being to facilitate you active learners in your quest for
effective communication. This is designed to help you learn by yourselves the usefulness of
language in everyday life even without the supervision of your teacher. Here, you will value
your your individual strengths as well as assessing your own weaknessess and personal needs
Upon completing
this module, the
Understand what are auxiliaries and their role as structure words in English.
Differentiate between the modals used for possibility, obligation, and necessity by
1. Ivy is sitting at her desk. She’s reading her botany books because she has a test tomorrow.
She _________________________.
2. When Mr. Reyes was younger, he ______________ work in the garden for hours. He loves
3. Since we have to be there before the concert starts, we ____________ take a taxi.
4. “It ___________ rain tonight. Why don’t you bring an umbrella?” ”That’s a good idea. May I
borrow your?”
5. “You haven’t eaten since last night. You ________________ be very hungry.”
correspondence.
8. “Is littering against the law?” “Yes, there’s a law that says that you _________________
9. “Have you finished answering?” “Yes ________________ I leave the room now?
10. “My teacher always looks over my shoulder when I write something.” “That