CAN

• We use can to say we are able to do something.

They can program a computer.

 

• We use can I or can we to ask permission.

Can I use the phone, please?

Yes, of course. / Sorry. I'm afraid it's for staff only.

 

• We also use can to talk about what is possible.

Can I fly direct from Moscow to Sydney?

No, you can't. You need to change.

 

A.  Put the questions in the right column according to the meaning of can.

can (ability)

can (permission)

can (what is possible)

2

 

1

 

1. Can we fly direct from Madrid to London?

2. Can you use the new computer?

3. Can he speak Spanish?

4. Can I use your laptop for an hour or so, please?

5. Where can I buy phone cards?

6. Excuse me. Can I open the door?

7. Can you see me now?

8. Can we just make a phone call, please?

9. Can we go there by underground?

 

 B. Translate into Russian

1. I can answer the questions. They are very easy. 2. This trip is too expensive for me. I can't  afford it. 3. She can type. She can speak well on the telephone. She hopes she can find the job she's looking for. 4. Can you go to have lunch with me? - I'm sorry. I can't. 5. Mike can run very fast. 6. They can understand French. 7. Kate can speak English very well. 8. My husband can come and help you in the garden. 9. Can you speak Spanish? 10. Where can I park my car? 11. Can we have breakfast in our room?

A.      Put this dialogue into the correct order.

    Pam:   Hi, Jude.

    Jude: Well, I can't do Thursday, but Friday is OK.

1  Pam:   Pam Ransfild speaking.

2  Jude: Oh, hello, Pam. This is Jude Barret here.

    Pam:  I'm sorry, Jude. I can't. But I can make Thursday or Friday.

    Jude: Pam, I'm calling about that meeting. Can you make next Wednesday?

    Pam:  Of course. I can pick you up from the station if you like.

    Jude: 10.30 o'clock's fine. Oh, and can I bring my colleague, Sabrina?

              You met her at the conference.

    Pam: OK. Friday it is. Can we meet in the morning - say 10.30 o'clock?

    Jude: Great. See you on Friday. Bye.

 

D. Practise the dialogue with a partner.

 

E.  Look at the dialogue again.  Write questions beginning with CAN.

Can Judith and Paolo meet on Friday?

 

F.  Complete the e-mail Jude writes to Sonia about the arrangements.

Sonia

I called Pam Ransfild about the meeting. She ……..1 make it on Wednesday, but she ……………….. 2 do………….. 3 at 10 o'clock. She says of course you…………... 4 come with me! And she…………. 5 pick us up from the……………… 6.

See you soon,

Jude.