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Exercise 1.
In the above text find modal verbs which say that :
- something wasnt possible
- something is possible now
- we are sure something is true now
- we are sure something happened
- something is obligatory
Exercise 2.
In which case does the modal verb express modality (M) and in which case does it express possibility (P)
or certainty (C)?
Newton couldnt use present-day technologies.
He had to rely on observation.
He must have been influenced by the data available at his time
He might have been mistaken.
Today we may rely on high-tech research procedures.
The expanding universe may be explained by big bang.
Exercise 3.
Put the sentences into Past Tense.
1. I must begin now.
2. You dont have to come.
3. You cant mean it.
4. You should help me.
5. The data must be wrong.
6. I cant speak German.
7. We may use calculators at the exam.
8. You may be right.
Exercise 4.
Make the following text less resolute using may, might, can, could.
The universe originated as a minute but very hot body. The temperature has been continuously falling as
the expansion has continued. Variations in background radiation discovered in 1992 explain why the
universe formed into galaxies and stars. In a uniform universe there is no reason for a gravitational
collapse at any point. The four fundamental forces in the universe originated from a single force. This
force existed when the big bang occurred. As the universe cooled, the forces separated. Research into the
future is only speculative. The universe will continue to expand indefinitely or an eventual contraction
will occur.
Exercise 5.
Match sentences 1-5 with the explanations in a-e.
Exercise 6.
Use suitable modal verbs to complete the sentences.
1. However angry you are, you never talk to people like that.
2. This report is urgent you . finish it by four oclock.
3. . I help you with the report?
4. John have gone home, his PC is still on!
5. You .. have checked the data, I did it yesterday.
6. Something bad . have happened to Joan, she has never been late like this.
7. You .. have deleted the file, you need it later.
8. The secretary have already left, but I am not sure. Check her office.