Welcome to B1 Grammar! Whether we are coordinating tour schedules with our team or communicating with international guests, using the right tone is essential.
Modals are special helper verbs that change the "feeling" of a sentence. Today, we will focus on expressing possibility, making polite requests, and asking for permission in professional environments.
warning Common B1 Mistake
A very common error is adding the word "to" after a modal verb. Modal verbs must be followed directly by the base verb. Never say "Could you to help me?". Always say: "Could you help me?"
Modal Verbs in Context
Possibility
Might
Used to express that something is possible, but not certain.
Example: We might need a faster lens today because the natural light is fading.
Possibility
Could
Used to show that something is a possible option or situation.
Example: The heavy afternoon rain could force us to change our route.
Polite Request
Would
Used for making a formal and very polite request.
Example: Would you please share the new documentation with Lisa?
Polite Request
Could
Used as a polite way of asking someone to do something.
Example: Could you explain the itinerary to the new students?
May
Used to ask for or give permission in a formal or professional setting.
Example: May I scan this art piece to add it to our archive?
Can
Used to ask for permission in everyday, neutral situations.
Example: Can we use the camera for the training video today?
Professional Scenarios (B1)
contact_support Office Coordination
You need Sophea to review a document, but you want to sound very polite. What should you say?
(Hint: Remember the rule about using 'to' with modals.)
photo_camera Equipment Planning
The sky is getting very cloudy. Which modal best expresses the possibility of rain?
(Hint: Which modal implies a weak possibility?)
account_balance The Formal Presentation
You are starting a formal presentation at the university. How should you ask for permission to begin?
(Hint: Which modal is the most formal way to ask for permission?)
workspace_premium
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Study Resources
Lesson Summary & Review
Let's review the key concepts covered in the interactive module above to ensure you are ready to use modal verbs correctly.
Using Modals
- Possibility: Use might or could when something is not 100% certain.
- Polite Requests: Use would or could to ask someone to do something respectfully.
- Permission: Use may for formal situations and can for casual situations.
The Grammar Rule
Never place "to" after a modal verb. They are always followed directly by the base form of the verb.
Correct: "Could you help me?"
Incorrect: "Could you to help me?"
