Can / Able to

ESL Worksheet: "Can / Able to" - Expressing Ability

Level: Beginner to Intermediate

Topic: Expressing Ability

Part 1: Understanding "Can" and "Able to"

"Can" and "Able to" are used to express ability, capability, or possibility.

Can:

- Used in the present or future tense.

- Does not change form.

- Example: I can swim.

Able to:

- Can be used in different tenses (past, present, future).

- Requires helping verbs like "am," "was," "will be," etc.

- Example: She was able to finish her homework.

Part 2: Rules and Examples

Tense         | Can Example                 | Able to Example

--------------|-----------------------------|----------------------------------

Present       | I can play the guitar.      | I am able to play the guitar.

Past          | I could read at 5 years.    | I was able to read at 5 years.

Future        | I can go tomorrow.          | I will be able to go tomorrow.

Part 3: Practice with "Can" and "Able to"

Activity 1: Fill in the Blanks

Choose "can," "able to," or "could" to complete the sentences.

1. I _______ run 5 kilometers without stopping. (present)

2. When she was younger, she _______ speak French fluently. (past)

3. Next year, he _______ participate in the marathon. (future)

4. We _______ solve the problem because we worked as a team. (past)

5. She _______ help you with your project tomorrow. (future)

Activity 2: Rewrite the Sentences

Rewrite the sentences using "able to" or "can."

1. She can dance very well.

   Answer: She is able to dance very well.

2. He will be able to visit us next weekend.

3. I was able to solve the puzzle.

4. They can cook delicious food.

5. I will be able to finish the book tonight.

Activity 3: Ask and Answer

Write questions using "can" or "able to," and answer them.

1. Question: Can you play an instrument?

   Answer: Yes, I can play the guitar.

2. Question: Were you able to attend the meeting?

   Answer: Yes, I was able to join online.

Part 4: Writing Practice

Write 5 sentences about abilities you have now and abilities you had in the past. Use both "can" and "able to."

Example:

- I can cook Italian food.

- I was able to fix my bike last weekend.

Part 5: Homework

Write a short paragraph about something you were able to do recently or something you will be able to do in the future.

Example:

Last month, I was able to complete a 10-kilometer race. It was difficult, but I practiced every day. Next year, I will be able to run even further!