English — Expressing Ability: Can, Could, Be able to — Exercises — 2nd Year Secondary — Algerian Curriculum

Expressing Ability: Can, Could, Be able to

In English, we use different modal verbs and expressions to talk about ability in the present, past, and future. This lesson covers the main ways to express ability.

1. Can (Present Ability)

Used to express that someone is able to do something now. Example: I can swim very well. She can speak three languages.

2. Could (Past Ability)

Used to express general ability in the past. Example: I could run fast when I was young. He could play the piano at age five.

3. Be able to (All Tenses)

Can be used in all tenses. Example: Present: I am able to help. Past: I was able to finish on time. Future: I will be able to come tomorrow. Present Perfect: I have been able to solve the problem.

Important Note

“Could” is used for general past ability, but “was/were able to” is used for specific achievements in the past. Example: The plane was damaged but the pilot was able to land safely. (NOT: could land)

Exercises

1. Complete: “When I was young, I ____ (can/could) climb any tree.”
2. Choose: “He studied hard and ____ (could/was able to) pass the exam.”
3. Rewrite: “She can speak Arabic.” (using “be able to” in future).
4. Correct the error: “Yesterday I can finish my homework.”
5. Write 3 sentences about your abilities using can, could, and be able to.

Related Lessons

Check also Modal Verbs: Can, May, Must and Conditionals: Types 1, 2 and 3.

دروس مشابهة

• اللغة الإنجليزية — Past Simple vs Past Continuous: Formation and Usage — 1ثانوي
• اللغة الإنجليزية — The Passive Voice: Formation and Usage — 1ثانوي — شعبة آداب
• اللغة الإنجليزية — Phonics: vowel sounds (ملخص) — السنة الثانية ثانوي