English: Unit 1 ‘Signs of the Time’ – Predictions, Modals and Opinion Writing – Second Year Secondary

Introduction

In the Algerian Second Year Secondary English curriculum, Unit 1: “Signs of the Time” focuses on expressing opinions, making predictions, and discussing future trends. This unit introduces learners to the language of prediction and probability, modal verbs (especially will, may, might, could), and the structure of opinion-based essays. By the end of this lesson, students will be able to discuss future possibilities, express certainty and uncertainty, and write a well-structured opinion paragraph.

Learning Objectives

• Learn and use vocabulary related to future trends, predictions, and technology
• Master modal verbs for prediction: will, may, might, could, must, can’t
• Use expressions of certainty and uncertainty (definitely, probably, perhaps, likely)
• Structure and write a coherent opinion essay or paragraph
• Practise reading comprehension on texts about future predictions

Part 1: Key Vocabulary — Future Trends and Predictions

A. Nouns related to future trends:

• Prediction — a statement about what will happen in the future
• Forecast — a prediction based on data or analysis (e.g., weather forecast, economic forecast)
• Trend — a general direction of change or development
• Innovation — a new idea, method, or invention
• Breakthrough — a significant discovery or development
• Prospect — the possibility of a future event occurring
• Outlook — the likely future situation (e.g., economic outlook)

B. Adjectives for expressing probability:

• Certain / Sure / Definite — 100% probability
• Likely / Probable — high probability (75-90%)
• Possible / Plausible — moderate probability (40-60%)
• Unlikely / Improbable — low probability (10-25%)
• Impossible — 0% probability

C. Verbs for predictions and forecasts:

• predict, forecast, anticipate, expect, foresee, envision, project
• Scientists predict that temperatures will rise by 2°C by 2050.
• Economists forecast a recession next year.

D. Phrases for giving opinions:

• In my opinion… / From my perspective… / As far as I’m concerned…
• I believe that… / I think that… / I feel that…
• It seems to me that… / It is widely believed that…
• Some people argue that… / Many experts claim that…

Part 2: Grammar — Modal Verbs for Prediction

A. Degrees of Certainty with Modal Verbs:

Modal Verb	Degree of Certainty	Example
Will	100% — Certain prediction	Humans will continue to use technology.
Must	95% — Logical conclusion	The experiment must be working; the results are clear.
Should / Ought to	80% — Expected outcome	The project should be completed by next month.
May	50% — Possible	It may rain later this evening.
Might / Could	30-40% — Possible but uncertain	Robots might replace many jobs in the future.
Can’t / Couldn’t	0% — Impossible	This can’t be true; the evidence is against it.

B. Adverbs of Probability:

• Definitely / Certainly — before the main verb, after “be”: It will definitely happen.
• Probably — same position: She will probably come.
• Perhaps / Maybe — at the beginning of the sentence: Perhaps it will work.
• Likely / Unlikely — used with “be likely/unlikely to”: He is likely to attend the meeting.

C. Other Future Forms:

• Will + infinitive — predictions, promises, spontaneous decisions
• Be going to + infinitive — intentions, predictions based on evidence
• Present Continuous — fixed future arrangements
• Simple Present — scheduled events (timetables)

Examples:

• Look at those dark clouds! It is going to rain. (evidence)
• The flight leaves at 6 AM tomorrow. (schedule)
• I am meeting my doctor next Tuesday. (arrangement)
• I think Algeria will win the next African Cup. (prediction)

Part 3: Reading Comprehension — “The Future of Work”

Read the following text carefully, then answer the questions below.

Text:
Will robots take over our jobs? This is a question that many experts are asking today. According to a recent study by McKinsey, up to 800 million jobs could be automated by 2030. However, this does not mean that humans will become obsolete. While some jobs will disappear, new ones will certainly be created. For example, jobs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and healthcare are likely to grow significantly. Experts argue that humans must develop new skills, especially in creativity and emotional intelligence, to stay relevant in the future job market. The future of work may be uncertain, but one thing is definite: change is coming.

Comprehension Questions:

1. How many jobs could be automated by 2030, according to the study?
2. Which sectors are expected to grow in the future?
3. What skills should humans develop to stay relevant in the job market?
4. Find in the text a phrase that expresses certainty.
5. Find in the text a phrase that expresses possibility.
6. Do you agree with the author’s opinion? Justify your answer.

Part 4: Writing — The Opinion Essay

A. Structure of an Opinion Essay:

1. Introduction: Introduce the topic and state your opinion clearly.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Present your first argument with examples and evidence.
3. Body Paragraph 2: Present your second argument (and address a possible counter-argument).
4. Conclusion: Summarise your arguments and restate your opinion.

B. Useful Expressions for Opinion Writing:

• Introducing opinion: In my view… / It seems to me that… / I strongly believe that…
• Adding arguments: Furthermore… / Moreover… / In addition… / Another key point is…
• Contrasting: However… / On the other hand… / Nevertheless… / Although…
• Concluding: To conclude… / In conclusion… / All things considered… / Taking everything into account…

C. Model Opinion Paragraph — “Will Technology Improve Education?”

In my opinion, technology will significantly improve education in the coming years. First of all, digital tools such as tablets, educational apps, and online platforms make learning more interactive and engaging for students. For instance, students can now access video lessons, virtual labs, and online quizzes from anywhere. Furthermore, artificial intelligence may personalise learning according to each student’s needs, helping struggling learners catch up faster. Some people argue that technology can be distracting, but I believe that when used properly, its benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. In conclusion, I am convinced that technology will transform education for the better, making it more accessible, personalised, and effective.

Part 5: Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the correct modal verb

1. It’s cloudy. It ________ (will / might / must) rain later.
2. He has been studying all year. He ________ (should / can’t / might) pass the exam.
3. This ________ (must / might / could) be the right answer — I’m not sure.
4. There are 24 hours in a day. That ________ (can’t / must / may) be true.
5. With hard work, you ________ (will / might / must) succeed.

Exercise 2: Rewrite the sentences using the adverb in brackets

1. He will arrive on time. (definitely) → ________
2. They may change the schedule. (perhaps) → ________
3. She is going to win. (likely) → ________
4. The meeting won’t happen. (probably) → ________

Exercise 3: Writing Task

Write an opinion paragraph (120-150 words) on one of the following topics:

1. Will artificial intelligence replace teachers in the future?
2. Should all schools in Algeria introduce tablets instead of textbooks?
3. Is online learning better than traditional classroom learning?

Use at least three expressions of opinion and two modal verbs for prediction.

Part 6: BAC Exam Tips for Second Year (Streams)

• For Scientific streams: You may be asked to predict scientific developments or discuss technological trends. Use accurate modal verbs (will, may, might, could).
• For Literary streams: Opinion essays on social or cultural topics are common. Structure your essay clearly and use a range of opinion expressions.
• For Economics / Management stream: You may need to discuss economic forecasts. Vocabulary like “forecast”, “outlook”, “prospect” will be useful.
• Always use topic sentences to start each paragraph in an opinion essay.
• Avoid overusing “I think” — vary your expressions (I believe, In my view, It seems to me).

Summary

In this lesson we covered Unit 1: “Signs of the Time” for Second Year Secondary English. We explored vocabulary related to predictions and future trends, mastered modal verbs for expressing certainty and uncertainty, practised reading comprehension on the future of work, and learned how to write a well-structured opinion essay. These skills are essential for success in the BAC exam and for all streams.

Similar Lessons

• Bac English: Modal Auxiliaries (Modal Verbs) – Rules, Examples and Practice – 3rd Year Secondary School
• Bac English: Linking Words and Connectors – Writing Guide with Examples – 3rd Year Secondary School
• English: Unit 1 “Getting Through” – Vocabulary and Grammar – First Year Secondary