Speaking Worksheet

Modal Verbs of Deduction

B2 must might can't

Speaking Practice

1 Discussion

Discuss these mystery situations with a partner. Use must, might, and can't to make deductions.

You come home to find your front door open, a half-eaten sandwich on the table, and a book left face-down on the sofa. What do you think happened?
Your friend hasn't replied to your messages in three days. What could have happened?
A very expensive painting has disappeared from a locked gallery. What are some possible explanations?
You find an old, unopened letter addressed to you in a drawer. What might it contain?

2 Follow-up

For each situation, try to make at least three deductions — one with 'must', one with 'might', and one with 'can't'. Add supporting evidence for each one.