Modal Verbs — should, have to, could, might

A2 Elementary · Lesson 4
SHOULD / SHOULDN'T

Use should to give advice — to say what is a good or wise thing to do.

+You should make a list before you go shopping.
–You shouldn't believe everything you read online.
💡 Should expresses what the speaker thinks is a good idea — not a rule.
HAVE TO / DON'T HAVE TO

Use have to when something is required. Use don't have to when it is optional.

+I have to attend three meetings today.
–You don't have to cook — we can order in.
⚠️ Don't have to = no obligation. Mustn't = not allowed. Know the difference!
COULD

Use could for general past ability or to ask someone to do something politely.

+My father could speak four languages.
+Could you check this for me before I send it?
✏️ Form: subject + could + verb (base form)
MIGHT

Use might to express possibility — when you are not sure about something.

+I might go to the gym after work — it depends how I feel.
+The weather might improve by the weekend.
💡 Might = maybe / perhaps. The speaker is not certain.

Quick Summary

ModalMeaningExample
shouldadviceYou should try it.
shouldn'tnegative adviceYou shouldn't wait.
have toobligationHe has to go now.
don't have tonot necessaryYou don't have to pay.
couldpast ability / polite requestCould you explain?
mightpossibilityIt might work.

Exercise 1 — True or False?

Read each statement. Choose True or False.

Exercise 2 — Multiple Choice

Choose the correct modal verb to complete each sentence.

Exercise 3 — Matching

Match each sentence to the correct meaning.

Exercise 4 — Gap Fill

Choose the correct modal verb from the dropdown.

Exercise 5 — Word Order

Click the words to build the sentence in the correct order.

Exercise 6 — Word Sort

Read each sentence carefully. Click a category box first, then click the sentence to place it there.

💡 Advice

📋 Obligation

🕐 Past Ability / Request

❓ Possibility

Exercise 7 — Complete the Conversation

Choose the correct modal verb to complete the conversation.

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Exercise 1 — True / False–
Exercise 2 — Multiple Choice–
Exercise 3 — Matching–
Exercise 4 — Gap Fill–
Exercise 5 — Word Order–
Exercise 6 — Word Sort–
Exercise 7 — Conversation–