Modals. Revision

 Modal verbs

https://es.liveworksheets.com/worksheets/en/English_as_a_Second_Language_(ESL)/Modal_verbs/UNIT_1*_Modals_of_obligation,_permission_and_necessity_vc1234519ng

The modal verbs include can, must, may, might, will, would, should. They are used with other verbs to express ability, obligation, possibility, and so on. Below is a list showing the most useful modals and their most common meanings:

Modal	Meaning	Example
can	to express ability	I can speak a little Russian.
can	to request permission	Can I open the window?
may	to express possibility	I may be home late.
may	to request permission	May I sit down, please?
must	to express obligation	I must go now.
must	to express strong belief	She must be over 90 years old.
should	to give advice	You should stop smoking.
would	to request or offer	Would you like a cup of tea?
would	in if-sentences	If I were you, I would say sorry.

Modal verbs are unlike other verbs. They do not change their form (spelling) and they have no infinitive or participle (past/present). The modals must and can need substitute verbs to express obligation or ability in the different tenses. Here are some examples:

Past simple	Sorry I'm late. I had to finish my math test.
Present perfect	She's had to return to Korea at short notice.
Future	You'll have to work hard if you want to pass the exams.
Infinitive	I don't want to have to go.

Past simple	I couldn't/wasn't able to walk until I was 3 years old.
Present perfect	I haven't been able to solve this problem. Can you help?
Future	I'm not sure if I will be able to come to your party.
Infinitive	I would love to be able to play the piano.

Modals are auxiliary verbs. They do not need an additional auxiliary in negatives or questions. For example: Must I come? (Do I must come?), or: He shouldn't smoke (He doesn't should smoke).

Important: The explanations and examples on this page are just an introduction to this extensive and complex area of English grammar. Students of English who want to learn more should consult a good reference work, such as Swan's Practical English Usage.

Do a quiz on modal verbs.

Modal Verbs

Modal Verbs 

MODALS PPT 

https://learnenglish.britishcouncil.org/es/english-grammar/verbs/modal-verbs

Here is a list of modals with examples:

Modal Verb	Expressing	Example
must	Strong obligation	You must stop when the traffic lights turn red.
	logical conclusion / Certainty	He must be very tired. He's been working all day long.
must not	prohibition	You must not smoke in the hospital.
can	ability	I can swim.
	permission	Can I use your phone please?
	possibility	Smoking can cause cancer.
could	ability in the past	When I was younger I could run fast.
	polite permission	Excuse me, could I just say something?
	possibility	It could rain tomorrow!
may	permission	May I use your phone please?
	possibility, probability	It may rain tomorrow!
might	polite permission	Might I suggest an idea?
	possibility, probability	I might go on holiday to Australia next year.
need not	lack of necessity/absence of obligation	I need not buy tomatoes. There are plenty of tomatoes in the fridge.
should ought to	50 % obligation	I should / ought to see a doctor. I have a terrible headache.
	advice	You should / ought to revise your lessons
	logical conclusion	He should / ought to be very tired. He's been working all day long.
had better	advice	You 'd better revise your lessons

Remember

Modal verbs are followed by an infinitive without "to", also called the bare infinitive.

Examples:

• You must stop when the traffic lights turn red.
• You should see to the doctor.
• There are a lot of tomatoes in the fridge. You need not buy any.

Grammar Exercise - Modals

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Do the exercise on modal verbs and click on the button to check your answers

(Before doing the exercises you may want to read the lesson on modal verbs )

Choose the right modal verb

1. There are plenty of tomatoes in the fridge. You                               mustn't               needn't               may not               should not              buy any.
2. It's a hospital. You                               mustn't               needn't               may not               don't have to              smoke.
3. He had been working for more than 11 hours. He                               must               need               had better               mustn't                be tired after such hard work. He                               may               should               must               had better              prefer to get some rest.
4. I                               could               might               can               must              speak Arabic fluently when I was a child and we lived in Morocco. But after we moved back to Canada, I had very little exposure to the language and forgot almost everything I knew as a child. Now, I                               may               can               must               need              just say a few things in the language.
5. The teacher said we                               can               needn't               must               should              read this book for our own pleasure as it is optional. But we                               could               need               needn't               mustn't              read it if we don't want to.
6.                               May               Need               Must               Can              you stand on your head for more than a minute? No, I                               may not               needn't               can't              .
7. If you want to learn to speak English fluently, you                               could               need               needn't               mustn't              to work hard.
8. Take an umbrella. It                               need               should               mustn't               might              rain later.
9. You                               shouldn't               need               needn't               may not              leave small objects lying around . Such objects                               must               need               may               mustn't              be swallowed by children.
10. People                               couldn't               needn't               mustn't               may not              walk on grass.
11. Drivers                               could               must               may              stop when the traffic lights are red.
12.                               May               Must               Should               Will              I ask a question? Yes, of course.
13. You                               couldn't               needn't               mustn't               may not               take your umbrella. It is not raining.
14.                               Can               Need               Should               May              you speak Italian? No, I                               shouldn't               mustn't               may not               can't              .

Related pages:

• Modals
• Present and past of modals
• Exercise on modals
• Exercise on modals in the past
• Exercise on modals: mustn't or needn't
• Exercise on the meaning of modals
• Must and have to
• Shall and will

 

EBAU Practice (Reading) & Dubbing (Speaking)

ORD. JUNE 19

Why Young People don’t Watch TV the Old Way.

Since rising to prominence in the 1950s, television has become a universal experience for people of all ages. And until recently, due to lack of variety, everyone watched the same programmes most of the time. The top-rated non-sporting event in American history was the M*A*S*H finale, viewed by 105.9 million Americans. That was nearly half the U.S. population in 1983. But the days of the family gathered around the TV set and watching their favourite show together are now long gone.

Many young people no longer have cable and it’s become more and more common to hear people say they “don’t even have a TV.” Both of these statements may be true, but it doesn’t mean young people are consuming less visual entertainment. It just means they’re watching less live television on traditional television screens. People aged 25-34 watch less than half as much live TV as those aged 50-64, but they’ve just turned their attention to other screens and different times.

Streaming services like Netflix are largely responsible. Thanks to its cheap monthly subscription that can be shared between multiple users, I know exactly zero people my age who do not have access to Netflix. Its success can be attributed to a number of factors, most notably its ease of use – you can connect to Netflix via your phone, computer, Smart TV, a gaming console, or nearly anything with an internet connection. Many traditional networks now even post their shows online, for free – accessible for anyone who wants to watch.

Access to whichever show you want, whenever you want, has made television a more solitary experience. We can now watch a sporting event or our favourite show on a tablet or a phone. The top rated shows on television remain on networks like CBS and NBC, but the median age of viewers is creeping towards 60.

What lies ahead is even more confusing. Today’s kids are even more adverse to traditional TV; entire careers are now made off producing daily or weekly YouTube videos. One particular YouTube personality, Logan Paul, has 17 million subscribers and posts a new video daily. But all in all consumers both young and old benefit. An increasingly competitive marketplace provides us with hundreds of shows to choose from and watch however we like. It’s a golden age for television, even if we don’t call it television anymore.

(M*A*S*H – a popular American TV series from the 1970 and 80s.) May 30, 2018. Edmonton Prime Times (Adapted)

Question 1: [2 POINTS] Indicate whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE and  write down which part of the text justifies your answer.

1. At least three quarters of the people in the US watched the end of M*A*S*H in 1983. 

FALSE. That was nearly half the U.S. population in 1983.

2. The author has many friends his age who do not use Netflix.

FALSE I know exactly zero people my age who do not have access to Netflix.

3. The fact that Netflix is not difficult for people to use makes it attractive.

TRUE. Its success can be attributed to a number of factors, most notably its ease of use.

4. Logan Paul uploads a video to YouTube 3 times a week.

FALSE Logan Paul, has 17 million subscribers and posts a new video daily.

Question 2: [2 POINTS] Answer the following questions in your own words according to the text.

a) According to the text, how has the way people watch TV changed over the last 50 years?

The text says that people watch less live TV although they still watch TV shows on computers and other portable devices. This is particularly true for younger people, and as a result people don’t watch TV as a family much nowadays and so it has become a less sociable activity.

b) How does the author say a person’s age affects the way they probably watch tv programmes nowadays?

Younger people watch shows on their own on their phones, computers or tablets. They often use online services to view the shows they want to watch, whenever they want to watch them. Older people still tend to watch TV in the more traditional way.

Question 3: [1,5 POINTS] Find words or phrases in the text that correspond to the words and definitions given.

1. usual, typical (paragraph 2) common

2. through (paragraph 3) via

3. average (paragraph 4) median

4. specific (paragraph 5) particular

5. everything considered, on the whole (paragraph 5) all in all

Question 4: [1,5 POINTS] Choose the correct option, a, b, c or d for each question and COPY the sentence onto your answer sheet.

1. The text says that young people...

a) used to watch more live television.

b) are getting used to watching more live television now.

c) don`t watch any live television at all.

d) didn’t use to watch as much live television.

2. The text suggests that if services like Netflix were more expensive,...

a) more people could afford them.

b) nobody would use them.

c) fewer people would probably watch them.

d) nobody would ever use them.

3. The text explains that the shows people watch the most...

a) are no longer produced by the traditional networks.

b) are still produced by the traditional networks.

c) can no  longer be seen on portable devices.

d) can now only be seen on portable devices.

EBAU Practice- Reading. Chocolate for breakfast

Chocolate cake for breakfast? Research says it's good for both your brain and your waistline

    We all know breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Here's why it should also be the sweetest.

    File this one under "studies we would definitely volunteer for:" New research says eating chocolate regularly can actually improve brain function. Yes, that sweet, sticky treat you seem to crave at the most inopportune times is now being associated with a host of cognitive benefits, including memory and abstract reasoning. It's all part of a long-term, large-scale study out of Syracuse University in New York that measured the effects of chocolate consumption on 968 people aged 23 to 98, without changing their overall dietary habits."Habitual chocolate intake was related to cognitive performance, measured with an extensive battery of neuropsychological tests," the researchers wrote. "More frequent chocolate consumption was significantly associated with better performance on [these tests]."

    We're willing to bet that's not the first time you've heard about a study touting the benefits of chocolate on your health. A few years ago, researchers at Tel Aviv University in Israel reported that eating chocolate in the morning – yes, every morning – was found to help people lose weight, despite long-held beliefs that chocolate is one of those occasional splurge foods that dieters must resist in order to achieve their weight-loss goals.

    The biggest takeaway of this research, according to study leader Dr. Daniela Jakubowicz, is that eating a higher-calorie breakfast in the morning reduces cravings throughout the day and prevents late-night snacking. "When you wake up, your brain needs energy immediately," said Jakubowicz, whose book "The Big Breakfast Diet" became a bestseller. "This is the time of the day when your body converts food into energy. Later in the day, when you eat, your body and brain are still in high-alert mode, saving the energy from food as fat reserve. This is how you gain weight even eating less." So what kind of breakfast does she suggest? Breakfast with dessert, of course. Jakubowicz said in her study, people who were given a 600-calorie breakfast that included dessert as well as proteins and carbohydrates lost more weight than people who were given a 300-calorie breakfast but ate more later in the day.

    What is it about chocolate that's so beneficial? Experts say it's a nutrient called a flavonoid that's commonly found in plant-based foods and represents up to 20 percent of the compounds present in cocoa beans. High levels of flavonoids are also found in tea, red wine and fruits such as grapes and apples.

    So next time you're thinking about that chocolate cake looking all lonesome on your counter, sleep on it – and indulge in the morning. Your brain – and your waistline – might thank you.

Adapted from Daily Telegraph, by Jaime Bender February 23, 2016

 

Question 1: [4 POINTS] Indicate whether the following statements are true or false and  write down which part of the text justifies your answer.

a)  Few people wanted to participate in Syracuse University study.

b)  People who participate at Syracuse’s study had to add chocolate to their diets.

c)   Dieters mustn’t eat chocolate if they want to lose weight.

d) Eat chocolate whenever you want, it will be good for your brain.

 

Question 2: [2 POINTS] Answer the following questions in your own words.

a)      Is breakfast the most important meal? Why?

b)    What should be eaten for breakfast?

 

Question 3: [2,5 POINTS] Find words or phrases in the text that correspond to the words and definitions given.

            a) Make better (par. 2)

            b) Associated with (par 2)

            c) Random (par 3)

            d) To reach a goal (par. 3)

            e) To turn (par 4)

 

Question 4: [1,5 POINTS] Choose and write the most suitable answer (a, b or c) according to the text

1. Chocolate is believed to be eaten when

            a) you feel happy

            b) you feel hungry

            c) you feel sad

            d) you are tired

2. The authors .... you have already heard about chocolate benefits.

            a) are sure

            b) aren’t certain

            c) gamble

            d) are keen on

3. You can lose weight ... you eat chocolate.

            a) but

            b) despite

            c) however

            d) although

Why we dream? Passive-Oral skills

 

Guided writing: Opinion essays

Opinion essays

Structure of the Opinion Essay:

• Introduction – introduces the topic and state your opinion clearly
• Body - consists of three or more paragraphs each presenting a separate viewpoint supported by reasons/examples
• Conclusion – summarizes/restates your opinion using different words

Useful Language

• То express opinion: I believe, In my opinion, I think, In my view, I strongly believe, I see it, It seems to me (that), As far as I am concerned, I am (not) convinced that..., In my opinion/view …My opinion is that …, I (firmly) believe …, I (definitely) feel/think that, I am inclined to believe that ……
• То list points: In the first place, first of all, to start with, Firstly, to begin with
• То add more points: what is more, another major reason, also, furthermore, moreover, in addition to this/that, besides, apart from this, not to mention the fact that
• То introduce contrasting viewpoints: It is argued that, People argue that, There are people who oppose, Contrary to what most people believe,
• As opposed to the above ideas
• To introduce examples: for example, for instance, such as, in particular, especially
• To conclude: To sum up, All in all, All things considered, Taking everything into account.

Some examples: 

Physical Education should be taught in schools. 

Do you agree or disagree? Support your opinion with arguments and examples.

Physical Education has been a part of the school curriculum for years, and I believe that it should remain so for a variety of reasons.

In the first place, offering Physical Education is vital for children who have neither the time, nor the opportunity to do sport elsewhere. Physical Education is especially beneficial for children living in crowded cities who do not have space to play. Doing sport at school gives them the opportunity to exercise and get rid of their excess energy. In addition, team sports develop children’s social skills encouraging them to work as part of a team and to cooperate with others.

On the other hand, some parents feel that Physical Education should not be a compulsory subject as not all children enjoy or are good at sport. These parents forget, however, that all children can benefit from physical activities and doing sport will give them the chance to improve their skills and their health.

In conclusion, I believe that Physical Education is an important part of every school curriculum since physical activity helps children to keep fit and stay energetic and alert.

Computers are a necessity. Do you agree or disagree? 

Support your opinion with arguments and examples.

Computers play an important role in the lives of most of us today, whether we realize it or not. Some people, however, are beginning to ask if we really need them. In my opinion, computers have become a necessary part of modern life.

In the first place, computers can save a lot of storage space. Storing information on computer disks is one of the most efficient ways of keeping data. One computer disk can hold the same amount of information as several books. Furthermore, computers save everyone a lot of valuable time. Stored information can be found at the touch of a button, whereas searching for it manually takes much longer. Therefore, our every-day lives are made easier - from going to the bank to doing the shopping.

Nevertheless, there are those who claim that computers are unnecessary and make our lives more complicated. They argue that in the past we managed very well using other methods and that we have become too dependent on computers. However, they fail to consider that the time saved by using computers for repetitive tasks enables us to use our own time more creatively and productively.

All in all, I strongly believe that computers are a useful tool. They have changed our lives for the better and there is no reason why we should not make them work to our advantage.

Speaking and Writing- Electric cars

Should only electric cars be allowed on the road?

Some people think that only electric cars should be allowed on the road by 2040.
Do you agree or disagree?

Electric cars are one of the most innovative inventions that were done in the XXI century. Despite the fact that many people think there would be lots of positive aspects, it is clear that this transport also has enough drawbacks.

First, electric cars are not only expensive by themselves, but also are rather complicated to maintain. For example, they require electrical charge and  also fixed charging points. Moreover, not every country in the world has electro-stations as it can be unprofitable and cost too much money and not every country would be able to afford it. In addition, these vehicles have limited speedrun up to 500 kilometers for premium brands. Hence, the cheaper the automobile, the less time it can last. Perhaps this can be changed in the future, but nowadays they are not efficient in terms of daily lasting.

On the other hand, EV are obviously the best type of cars that can be offered in today's market for the environment. Although they require a lot of energy, it is generally better than gas and petrol that pollute the air with chemicals. Usage of electric automobiles can reduce carbon footprint. Besides, they can be charged with renewable energy and use things like solar power.

In conclusion, this is acontroversial topic which has both advantages and disadvantages. However, I suppose, it will take too much maintenance to change the whole car industry, as electric cars still have their downfalls. Maybe changing to EV is possible when technology is fully developed.

https://mossy.earth/guides/energy/electric-cars-pros-and-cons

https://haynes.com/en-gb/tips-tutorials/arguments-and-against-electric-cars

1. EVs save you money

2. There are loads of public EV charging points

3. There are lots of new EVs to choose from

4. EV range is growing all the time

5. Get used to electric cars because soon they'll be the only ones you’ll be able to buy

6. Don’t worry – a nation of electric cars won't mean there’s no power to boil a kettle

7. EVs are more reliable than petrol and diesel cars

8. An electric car is more environmentally friendly than a petrol or diesel one

9. An electric car is more fun to drive

10. An electric car is better to own

Electric vehicles are starting to fill roads around the world as manufacturers launch ever more impressive battery powered alternatives to compete with traditional petrol and diesel fuelled cars. But how likely is it that this electric revolution will completely replace conventional cars, what are the pros and cons, and how squeaky clean are they for the environment?

Electric Cars Pros and Cons

Energy efficiencies: BEVs convert over 77% of electrical energy from the grid to engine power, whereas ICEs convert only 12-30% of energy stored in gasoline.

No exhaust pipe flumes: less particulates, hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, ozone, and other choking pollutants in the atmosphere.

Performance: benefits include stronger acceleration, quieter and smoother drive. The torque of Tesla’s P100 D has been said to give supercars like Lamborghini a run for its money!

More efficient mechanics: fewer break downs and potentially longer life cycles.

Cost savings from refuelling: Charging stations for BEVs are often cheaper than the price of petrol or diesel and, in some locations, your vehicle can be charged for free! If you have solar energy at home, you can charge cost and emissions free.

Charging times are reducing: Tesla has slashed charging times to 30 minutes with their innovative superchargers.

Some countries offer tax credits and grants on BEVs.

Limited range is no longer an issue: A single charge can last 115 miles for most BEVs. That should cover most people’s daily journeys.

The more power, the less eco-friendly: The most powerful BEVs such as the Tesla Model S, carry heavier batteries and therefore, generate significantly higher production emissions than ICEs.

The issue of sourcing rare earth elements for batteries is yet to be fully addressed: Will increased demand for electric vehicles deplete more natural resources?

Infrastructure needs to expand to support the expected boom in BEVs: This is especially the case for owners who live in apartments unable to charge from home.

Purchase prices: BEVs are still unaffordable for most. One of the cheapest is the Renault Zoe at £20,000 (with the UK government’s PiCG incentive). Bear in mind that low running costs could outweigh this though.