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Chapter 22 of 28
Study Plan

Can, May, Should, Must — Study Plan

ICSE · Class 4 · English Grammar

A step-by-step study plan for Can, May, Should, Must, ICSE Class 4 English Grammar: what to learn first, what to practise and when to revise.

45 questions20 flashcards4 concepts

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Study Plan

1
Day 1–2

Learn the Theory

Read the textbook chapter carefully. Note down definitions, formulas and key ideas. Focus on: 1. Can and Cannot (Can't), 2. May and May not, 3. Should and Should not (Shouldn't).

2
Day 3

Practise

Solve the textbook exercises and extra practice questions. There are 45 questions available for this chapter.

3
Day 4

Revise & Test

Revise key points without looking at your notes. Take a practice quiz and mark weak areas for another pass.

4
Day 7

Spaced Revision

Come back to Can, May, Should, Must after a week. Use flashcards for quick recall and try past exam questions on this chapter.

What to Focus On

  • Can = ability or informal permission
  • Cannot / Can't = no ability or refusal of permission
  • Can is friendly; used with family and friends
  • May = polite or formal permission
  • May not = refusal of permission
  • May is more respectful than can
  • Should = good advice or suggestion
  • Should not = something not recommended
  • Not a command — just a suggestion

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Can and may are exactly the same and can always be used interchangeably.

Should and must mean the same thing, so I can use them interchangeably.

Cannot means 'not allowed', not 'not able'.

Memory Tips

Can = ability or permission (casual)

Cannot (Can't) = lack of ability or refusal

May = polite permission

May not = refusal of permission

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the important topics in Can, May, Should, Must for ICSE Class 4 English Grammar?
Key topics in Can, May, Should, Must include Can and Cannot (Can't), May and May not, Should and Should not (Shouldn't), Must and Must not (Mustn't). Study these first, then practise questions on each for Class 4 exams.
How should I revise Can, May, Should, Must for Class 4 exams?
Learn the core ideas first, then work through the 45 practice questions on Can, May, Should, Must. Revise definitions regularly and use flashcards for quick recall before the exam.

Sources & Official References

Content is aligned to the official syllabus. Refer to the board website for the latest curriculum.

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