Lesson Plan | Technical Methodology | Verbs: Introduction to Modal Verbs

Objectives

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

This stage of the lesson plan aims to provide a solid foundation for students to understand and use modal verbs in English. Knowing and being able to apply these verbs is essential for effective communication in various everyday situations and in the job market, where linguistic skills are often valued. Developing practical skills early prepares students for real contexts, making them more competitive and better equipped to face future challenges.

Main Objectives

1. Identify the main modal verbs in English: can, could, may, must, and should.

2. Understand the functions and uses of modal verbs in practical situations.

Side Objectives

1. Apply modal verbs in contextually relevant sentences.

Introduction

Duration: (15 - 20 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to contextualize the importance of modal verbs in daily life and in the workplace, piquing students' interest through practical examples and interactive activities. This introduction lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the uses and applications of modal verbs, making learning more relevant and engaging.

Contextualization

Modal verbs are fundamental in communication in English as they allow expressing possibilities, abilities, permissions, and obligations. Imagine a professional who needs to request permission to carry out a task or indicate the necessity of completing a project. Modal verbs are essential tools for these situations, making communication clearer and more efficient.

Curiosities and Market Connection

In the job market, the correct use of modal verbs can make the difference between successful communication and misunderstanding. For example, when writing a formal email, using 'can' to express ability or 'must' to indicate an obligation can demonstrate professionalism and clarity. Additionally, in job interviews, knowing how to use these verbs appropriately can help answer questions with more confidence.

Initial Activity

Provocative Question: Start the class by asking: 'How would you ask for permission to leave work early in English?'. Short Video: Show a 2-3 minute video where professionals use modal verbs in different situations in the workplace. Quick Discussion: Ask students to share examples of when they could use modal verbs in their everyday lives, both at school and at home.

Development

Duration: (50 - 55 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to provide intensive and contextualized practice of modal verbs, encouraging students to apply their knowledge in simulated situations that reflect the reality of the job market. By the end of this stage, students are expected to feel more confident in using modal verbs correctly and effectively, both in written and oral communication.

Covered Topics

1. Identification of the main modal verbs: can, could, may, must, should.
2. Functions and uses of modal verbs in various contexts.
3. Differences between modal verbs and other auxiliary verbs.

Reflections on the Theme

Guide students to reflect on how the correct use of modal verbs can impact the clarity and effectiveness of their communication in real situations, both in the school environment and in the job market. Ask how they would feel receiving clear and precise instructions, comparing it with confused communication without the proper use of modals.

Mini Challenge

Professional Communication Challenge

Students will be divided into small groups and will receive scenarios of professional situations where they need to use modal verbs to communicate effectively.

Instructions

1. Divide students into groups of 3-4 people.
2. Distribute cards with different professional scenarios to each group (e.g., asking permission to leave early, offering help to a colleague, explaining a project obligation).
3. Each group must create a short dialogue (5-6 lines) using at least two modal verbs discussed in the lesson.
4. After creating the dialogue, each group will present their scene to the class.
5. Encourage the class to provide feedback on the use of modal verbs and the clarity of communication.

Objective: Practice using modal verbs in practical contexts and develop effective communication skills for everyday and workplace situations.

Duration: (35 - 40 minutes)

Evaluation Exercises

1. Complete the sentences with the appropriate modal verb (can, could, may, must, should): a) You _____ finish your homework before going out. b) _____ I use your phone? c) They _____ arrive on time if they hurry. d) We _____ follow the safety rules at all times. e) When I was a child, I _____ play the piano.
2. Translate the following sentences into English, using the appropriate modal verbs: a) Can I help you? b) You should study for the test. c) They could come tomorrow. d) I should call her. e) Can you lend me a pencil?
3. Write an original sentence for each modal verb discussed in class (can, could, may, must, should).

Conclusion

Duration: (10 - 15 minutes)

The purpose of this stage is to consolidate students' learning, reinforcing the connection between theory and practice. By promoting reflection on the content and its real applications, this stage aims to increase students' confidence in using modal verbs and highlight the relevance of these skills for effective communication in daily life and the job market.

Discussion

Facilitate a discussion on how the use of modal verbs was addressed during the lesson. Ask students how they felt about applying modal verbs in their dialogues and what difficulties they encountered. Encourage them to reflect on how these skills can be useful in real situations, both at school and in the workplace. Request them to share personal experiences where they could use the modal verbs learned.

Summary

Summarize the main content presented during the lesson, highlighting the modal verbs 'can', 'could', 'may', 'must', and 'should'. Recap the functions and uses of these verbs in different contexts, emphasizing the importance of clear and effective communication.

Closing

Explain that the lesson connected theory and practice by providing a theoretical basis followed by practical and challenging activities that simulated real job market situations. Comment on the importance of modal verbs for efficient communication and how this can positively impact students' academic and professional lives. Encourage students to continue practicing these modal verbs in their daily activities.