I can swim.
Grammar · A1
Can and can't
Say what you can do, then ask for help or permission.
She can swim.
01 · The idea
Look. Compare these examples.
Say what you can do, then ask for help or permission.
I can't swim.
Can I sit here? Yes, you can.
02 · More examples
Look at what changes.
The word stays can with I, she or they.
I can swim.
She can swim.
They can play the guitar.
Cannot = can't. Say can't swim, not can't to swim.
I can't swim.
He cannot drive.
We can't hear you.
Can I…? asks if it is OK. Can you…? can ask for help.
Can I sit here? Yes, you can.
Can you help me, please?
Can she swim? No, she can't.
03 · Build a sentence
Make a choice. See what changes.
Change one choice at a time. Watch the sentence blocks.
I can swim.
What do you want to say?
Who?
What action?
04 · Try it together
Choose the correct answer.
Quick check 1
She can ___ three languages.
Look immediately after can or can't. Does the action need to or s?
Quick check 2
I ___ swim. I never learned.
Negative.Say no about an ability or possibility. Compare can swim and cannot swim.
Quick check 3
___ you help me with this bag?
Word or form: can to ask for help.Can the person do it, help, or give permission?
05 · Real-life English
Use it in a conversation.
A: Can you read this menu? B: Yes, I can. A: I can't see the small words. Can you help me? B: Of course.
Ask a partner for help with a small everyday task.
A: Can I sit here? B: Yes, you can. This seat is free. A: Thank you.
Ask permission to use a chair, open a window or borrow a pencil.
06 · Common mistakes
Which sentence is correct?
07 · Keep this
The lesson in three small steps.
I can. She can.
I can swim. She can swim.
I can't
I can't swim. = I cannot swim.
Can I…? Can you…?
Can I sit here? Can you help me, please?
08 · Practice
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