Oh, May I Please? Using Can and May

Summary
Simple lesson in using helping verbs ? can and may. Definitions of both words to clarify when you use each.

Objectives
• Give definitions of two difficult helping verbs ? can and may.

• Have students use both verbs in sentences.

• Answering questions correctly or not will show students grasp of the subject.

Suggested Grades
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade

Excerpt
Two verbs that are sometimes confusing are may and can.

May is used to ask or show permission. It means to be allowed to do something.

May I go to the store with Grandma?

Can is used to show you are able to do something. You have the ability, the power or are qualified to do it.

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