Modality: Introductory Worksheet Look at the following words: can; could; will; would; should; ought to; must; may; might; shall Each of the words and constructions, above, is a modal verb, sometimes referred to as a modal auxiliary verb, or simply as a modal. Modals show modality. This means that modals express a range of functions in English. They express likelihood, ability, permission, and obligation. Work with a partner and place the modals at the top of this page into the hierarchical continuum (see below), where the first word on the list expresses the greatest degree of likelihood, and the last word on the list expresses the least degree of likelihood. When you have finished, compare your answers with your classmates. Do you agree? Why? Why not? The first one has been done for you, although you may decide that you want to change this. must Most Likely © David McIntyre, InThinking www.englishalanglit-inthinking.co.uk Least Likely 1