Teacher's Notes

Speaking Activity

School Rules

Modal Verbs

Activity Type

Speaking Activity

Focus

Using modals for rules, obligations, and permissions

Aim

Students design rules for imaginary scenarios using a variety of modal verbs.

Level

A2–B2

Time

20–25 minutes

Preparation

Print one scenario card per group.

Procedure

1.

Divide the class into groups of 3–4.

2.

Give each group a scenario card.

3.

Groups brainstorm and write at least 8 rules for their scenario, using must, mustn't, can, can't, should, shouldn't, have to, don't have to.

4.

Each rule must use a different modal verb where possible.

5.

Groups present their rules to the class.

6.

The class votes on which set of rules is the most creative and which is the most fair.