Modal Verbs of Permission

Modal verbs of permission are essential for expressing allowance and consent in English. Each modal verb carries a
different degree of formality, which influences its usage in various contexts. Let's explore these modal verbs in terms of
their formality and provide examples:

1. Can: This is commonly used for general permission, and it's considered informal.
- Informal: "Can I use your computer?"
- Informal: "You can borrow my pen."

2. Could: This is often used to request permission in a more polite and formal manner.
- Formal: "Could I go to the restroom, please?"
- Formal: "Could you please pass me the book?"

3. May: "May" is considered more formal and polite, particularly in written communication.
- Formal: "May I have a moment of your time?"
- Formal: "May I ask a question?"

4. Might: "Might" is rarely used for permission, and when it is, it usually conveys a very polite and tentative tone.
- Very Polite: "Might I request a small favor?"
- Very Polite: "Might I have a moment to speak?"

In the examples above, "can" is the least formal, often used among friends and in casual situations. "Could" is more
formal and is suitable for polite requests. "May" is considered even more formal, especially in written contexts. "Might,"
though used less frequently, conveys an extremely polite and tentative approach to seeking permission.

Lesson Plan: Modal Verbs of Permission

OBJECTIVES
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
1. Differentiate between the modal verbs "can," "may," and "could" for expressing permission, understanding
their levels of formality and appropriateness in various contexts;
2. Construct sentences using modal verbs of permission in both spoken and written form, demonstrating
comprehension of the correct usage and structure;
3. Enhance their communication skills by effectively using modal verbs of permission to engage in
conversations that simulate real-life scenarios.

MATERIALS
- Whiteboard and markers
- Handouts with sentences for practice
- Role-play scenario cards
- Slides or projector for visual aids

INTRODUCTION (10 minutes)

1. Begin with a brief discussion on situations where permission is required and different ways people ask for permission.
2. Present the three modal verbs of permission: "can," "may," and "could." Explain that each has a different level of
formality and usage.

Objective 1: Differentiating Modal Verbs of Permission (15 minutes):**

3. Display sentences on the board that use different modal verbs of permission. Discuss the differences in meaning and
level of formality.
4. Engage students in a brainstorming activity where they suggest contexts where each modal verb would be appropriate.

Objective 2: Sentence Construction Practice (20 minutes):**

5. Distribute handouts with incomplete sentences. Students complete each sentence using the appropriate modal verb of
permission.
6. Review and discuss the completed sentences as a class, highlighting correct usage and structure.

Objective 3: Role-Play Activities (15 minutes):**

7. Divide the class into pairs or small groups. Provide each group with a role-play scenario card that involves seeking or
granting permission.
8. In their groups, students discuss and plan a short role-play conversation using the assigned scenario.
9. Encourage students to use the appropriate modal verb based on the context and the formality of the situation.

Role-Play Presentations and Discussions (10 minutes):**

10. Each group presents their role-play to the class. After each presentation, have a brief class discussion about the
scenario and the use of modal verbs.
11. Guide discussions to highlight the nuances of different modal verbs and how they contribute to the conversation's tone.

Wrap-up and Reflection (5 minutes):**

12. Summarize the main points of the lesson, emphasizing the differences between modal verbs of permission.
13. Ask students to share any insights they gained from the role-play activities and discussions.

Homework (optional):**
14. Assign students to write a short paragraph using the modal verbs of permission to describe a situation they
encountered during the day.

Assessment
- Evaluate student participation and accuracy during the sentence construction activity and role-play presentations.
- Review the homework assignments for correct usage of modal verbs of permission.

Extension
- Provide additional scenarios for practice and encourage students to create their own role-play scenarios.
- Explore newspaper articles, advertisements, or real-life dialogues where modal verbs of permission are used to express
specific ideas.

Remember to adapt the lesson plan based on the needs and proficiency level of your students. Encourage active
participation and engage them in practical activities to reinforce their understanding of modal verbs of permission.