Why are Modal Verbs Tested in Exams?

In English exams, modal verbs are typically used to assess a student's ability to express ideas and opinions with precision and nuance. This means that exam questions may require students to use modal verbs to indicate probability, obligation, or advice in a particular context.

What is a Modal Verb?

Modal verbs are special verbs that we use to talk about how likely or necessary something is. They are also used to give advice or make suggestions. Here are some examples of modal verbs:

• can
• could
• may
• might
• must
• should
• would

How are Modal Verbs Tested?

An exam question may ask students to complete a sentence using a modal verb to express a degree of obligation. The student may need to choose the correct modal verb, such as "should," "must," or "ought to," based on the context of the sentence.

Similarly, in a speaking test, the examiner or the computer may ask a question that requires the use of a modal verb to indicate a particular degree of certainty, such as "might," "may," or "could."

Can you give me sentences and explanations?

Let's take a look at some examples to see how they are used:

• "I can ride a bike." - This means that you have the ability to ride a bike.
• Could you please pass me the salt?" - This is a polite way to ask someone to pass you the salt.
• You should eat your vegetables." - This is advice, telling someone that it's a good idea to eat their vegetables.
• I must finish my homework before I can watch TV." - This means that it is necessary for you to finish your homework before you can watch TV.

What are two most important uses of Modal Verbs?

When you are looking at coaching for IELTS, you should be able to use the right tone, both in writing and in speaking. In these cases, Modal Verbs become important. They help us to express different degrees of certainty and obligation. When we use modal verbs, we can make our statements more polite, or we can give suggestions and advice without sounding too forceful. The last part is especially useful when you are looking at writing an IELTS General Writing Letter.

Here is a short quiz on Modal Verbs

1.  Which modal verb expresses ability?

    A) must    B) can    C) may

2. Which modal verb expresses a strong obligation?

    A) should    B) could    C) must

3. Which modal verb expresses a possibility in the present?

    A) can    B) may    C) will

4. Which modal verb expresses a preference?

    A) might    B) would    C) should

5. Which modal verb expresses a future possibility?

    A) will    B) would    C) may

6.  Which modal verb expresses a past ability?

    A) could    B) must    C) should

Answers for Modal Verbs Quiz

1.  B) can   2. C) must  3. A) can   4. B) would   5.  C) may  6. A) could