Specific features of teaching grammatical modality in languages of different systems

Abstract

The article deals with the specific peculiarities of modals in two languages of different systems: English and Georgian. The number of verbs and the variety of their functions in both languages create many difficulties for English learners.

The multiplicity of ways in which modal verbs may be combined in actual usage permits many patterns to be built in present-day English. From a historical point of view, it is interesting to note that many of them are quite recent in development. Modality and tense are so intertwined that in English it is hardly possible for learners to combine them as a single variable. Some verbs function both as tense-auxiliaries and as modals. It is therefore of primary importance for researchers to study them in contrast with the modal verbs in other languages. We especially find it very confusing to see modals of synthetic language in analytical grammar frames.

Difficult kinds of exercises offered in the article are selected considering homonymy and synonymity in this part of English grammar. Observing the contrasting patterns and contrasting forms in this field is sure to lead English learners and students to a deeper understanding of modern English.