To solve this worksheet, we need to decide if the word "can" in each sentence is talking about
Ability or not.
What does "Ability" mean?
*
Ability means someone or something has the skill, power, or physical capacity to do something. It answers the question: "Is it possible for them to do this because they are strong, smart, or trained enough?"
* If the sentence is asking for permission (like "Can I go?") or talking about a possibility/option (like "We can eat pizza"), it is
not Ability.
Let's look at each sentence one by one:
1.
"He can do a handstand."
* Doing a handstand takes physical skill and strength. This is something he is able to do.
*
Answer: Ability
2.
"Can you do the dishes for me?"
* This is a polite way of asking someone to help. It is a request, not really asking if they have the physical skill to wash dishes.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is a Request)
3.
"Can I go to my friend's house to play video games?"
* The person is asking for permission from a parent or guardian.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Permission)
4.
"For dinner, we can have pizza or tacos."
* This talks about choices or possibilities for dinner. It doesn't mean the people have the super-power to turn into pizza!
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Possibility/Option)
5.
"The boss can let you have a day off."
* This talks about what the boss is allowed to do or the possibility of getting a day off.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Permission/Possibility)
6.
"Can we please have a longer recess?"
* The students are asking the teacher for permission to stay outside longer.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Permission)
7.
"I can hold my breath for ten seconds."
* Holding your breath is a physical thing your body can do. This is a skill/capacity.
*
Answer: Ability
8.
"A turtle can live for a very long time."
* This describes a natural characteristic or capability of a turtle. It is able to live a long life.
*
Answer: Ability
9.
"Can you please pass the salt?"
* This is a polite request for someone to hand over the salt shaker.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is a Request)
10.
"My dad can drive really well."
* Driving is a learned skill. Saying he drives "well" describes his ability.
*
Answer: Ability
11.
"School can close if it snows a lot."
* This talks about a possibility that might happen in the future.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Possibility)
12.
"We can wear our pajamas to school on spirit days."
* This talks about a rule or permission. You are allowed to wear pajamas.
*
Answer: Not Ability (It is Permission)
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Final Answer:
1. Ability
2. No
3. No
4. No
5. No
6. No
7. Ability
8. Ability
9. No
10. Ability
11. No
12. No
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of auxiliary verb worksheet.
