2. Modals are special auxiliaries that
have meaning. Can & could are used
in English to describe our abilities.
• Use can to talk about present or
future abilities
• Use could to talk about past
abilities
3. Examples . . .
Present Abilities:
1. Melissa can type very quickly.
2.2. I can’t speak Italian,
but I’d like to learn.
4. Past Abilities:
1. Two years ago, they couldn’t buy a
house in San Diego, but now they can.
2. Sara couldn’t attend the party
because she already had plans.
5. Use ___________ or
_____________ to talk about:
• Present abilities
Use ______________ or
______________ to talk
about:
•Abilities in the Past
6. Final Note . . .Final Note . . .
Because CAN and COULD are
auxiliaries, they are used with ALL
subjects in English. For example:
CAN
learn English.
COULD
7. Final Note . . .Final Note . . .
Because CAN and COULD are
auxiliaries, they are used with ALL
subjects in English. For example:
CAN
learn English.
COULD