Title: A Reappraisal of Modal Verbs Presented in English Textbooks of the 2007 and 2009 National Curricula
Abstract: This study delves into whether modal verbs in English textbooks are semantically and pragmatically appropriate in the given contexts. To do so, this study analyzed 30 textbooks, which were divided into two types: those designed under the 2007 curriculum and those under the 2009 curriculum. The results show that the improper treatment of would, may, and can is detected in both types of textbooks, whereas the inadequate use of will and must occurs only in the textbooks of the 2009 curriculum. The modal will is used in the textbooks in the situation where native speakers favor a weaker modal or a verb of hope. A similar tendency is evident in the use of must since it is chosen in the textbooks in the situation where native speakers opt for a modal of weaker obligation. Moreover, the presentation of would and may in the textbooks fails to receive due consideration of interlocutors’ relationships. With respect to the modal can, it causes semantic confusion or an unintended message. On the basis of the results, suggestions are provided for the adequate presentation of modals in textbooks.
Publication Year: 2016
Publication Date: 2016-11-30
Language: en
Type: article
Indexed In: ['crossref']
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