Explore the rules of an American high school and practise modal verbs of obligation, permission and advice at B1 level.
Read the text about school life in the USA. Fill in each gap with the correct word.
School life in the United States can be quite different from school in Germany. Most American students wear their own clothes, but some schools have a strict dress 1 that students must follow. Students usually begin the day by saying the 2 of allegiance to the flag.
American high schools offer a huge range of 3, from science to drama to cooking. After lessons, many students take part in 4 such as sports teams, the school band, or the drama club.
There are also clear rules about 5. Students are expected to be 6 to their teachers and to arrive on 7. Breaking the rules can lead to 8, where a student must stay after school as a punishment.
Choose the correct modal verb for each school rule. Think carefully: is it an obligation, a prohibition, a lack of obligation, permission or advice?
1. You talk in the library — it is a silent study area.
2. American students say the pledge of allegiance each morning — it is required.
3. Lunch is provided free, so you bring your own food.
4. You finish your homework before the lesson begins.
5. If you feel ill, you tell a teacher straight away.
6. You eat or drink in the science lab — it is dangerous.
7. At this school, students use their phones at lunchtime — it is permitted.
8. You be rude to other students — it is unkind.
Choose ONE school rule you agree or disagree with. Write 6–8 sentences persuading the reader to share your opinion. Use at least three modal verbs.
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