Using Modal Verbs: Differentiated Set (1)

Overview:

This worksheet set focuses on improving persuasive writing by changing low modality verbs to higher modality verbs. Designed for students in the middle and upper years.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify and replace low modality verbs with higher modality verbs.
• Understand the impact of modality on persuasive language.
• Use higher modality verbs to create stronger, more assertive statements.

How the Activity Works:

Students are given a set of sentences that include modal verbs. On the easier sheet, the modal verbs are underlined, while on the more challenging sheet, students must find the modal verbs themselves. They are asked to rewrite each sentence, replacing low modality verbs (such as "might" or "could") with higher modality verbs (such as "must" or "will") to make the sentence more persuasive. For example, "She could finish the race" might become "She will finish the race." This helps students develop a deeper understanding of how to adjust the tone and strength of their language.