Lesson 63: Problem points

About this lesson

In this lesson you will get to know the most common "problem points" in English at A1 level – the modal verbs can, could, will and would. You will see how they are used in real situations: asking for permission, making a request, making an offer and talking about the future. You will practise through dialogues, exercises and speaking tasks in order to build confidence in communication. The lesson focuses on understanding why these verbs are "problematic" and how to tell them apart in context.

40 minutes

What you'll learn

• Recognise and use the modal verbs can, could, will and would at A1 level.
• Make requests and ask for permission with could and can.
• Talk about the future with will.
• Make offers and express politeness with would.
• Distinguish between formal and informal styles of communication.
• Correct typical mistakes in the use of modal verbs.

Lesson vocabulary

• can I can speak a little English.
• could Could you repeat that, please?
• will I will help you with the exercise.
• would I would like a cup of tea, please.
• modal verb Can, could, will and would are modal verbs.
• repeat Could you repeat that, please?
• prefer I prefer tea to coffee.
• polite 'Could you help me?' is very polite.
• please Could you help me, please?
• help Can you help me with this exercise?
• slowly Could you speak more slowly, please?
• want I want a coffee.
• window Can I open the window?
• tired I'm a little bit tired today.
• tomorrow I will call you tomorrow.

All lessons in this level