Year 7 English — Modal verbs

Choose the modal verb that carries the right meaning — ability, permission, obligation, advice or possibility.

Name: ________________________

1.It is the law: every rider ____ wear a helmet.
- a) can
- b) might
- c) must
- d) may
2.Which sentence gives advice?
- a) You can park here.
- b) You might park here.
- c) You must park here.
- d) You should park closer to the gate.
3.You look tired. I think you ____ take a short rest, but it is entirely up to you.
- a) will
- b) should
- c) must
- d) can
4.Ravi is only six, but he ____ already read long stories.
- a) can
- b) must
- c) would
- d) should
5.Which sentence asks for permission?
- a) You must sit here.
- b) I might sit here.
- c) Can you lift this box?
- d) May I sit here?
6.Sort each sentence by what its modal verb is doing.
Groups: Ability · Obligation · Advice
- You should drink more water.
- Passengers must show a ticket.
- I can swim across the pool.
- You must wear a helmet — it is the law.
- She can play the flute.
- You should apologise if you are late.
7.____ I borrow your pencil, please?
- a) Should
- b) May
- c) Must
- d) Would
8.Write the modal that shows there is no choice at all: Visitors ____ sign the register before entering.

Answer key — Year 7 English — Modal verbs

1. c) must
2. d) You should park closer to the gate.
3. b) should
4. a) can
5. d) May I sit here?
6. I can swim across the pool. → Ability; You must wear a helmet — it is the law. → Obligation; You should drink more water. → Advice; She can play the flute. → Ability; Passengers must show a ticket. → Obligation; You should apologise if you are late. → Advice
7. b) May
8.
- must
- have to