Modals in The Past Form

Modals in the past are :
*Could.
*Might.
*Would.
*Should.

The formula of Modals in the past form :

I. COULD + VERB BASE.
Ø To offer Suggestion or Possibilities.
Example :
Dian : “I’m having trouble with math.”
Andi : “Why you don’t ask Kiki? Perhaps she could help you.”

Ø To indicate that ability existed in the past but doesn’t exist now.
Example :
Santa : “Nik, can you climb the mango tree?”
Niky : “Well, I could climb the mango tree when I was so young, but I think I’m too heavy to climb it.”

II. WOULD + VERB BASE.
Ø For an action that was repeated regulary in the past.
Example :
Wu Zun : “What did you do on holidays?”
MJ : “I would visit my grandparents and my other family in the village, but how not anymore.”

Ø Insert rather into the pattern and use this expression to express preferences.
Example :
Jerry : “What would you rather do in weekend, go to the party or stay at home?”
Tom : “I would rather stay at home than go to the party.”

Ø To express polite request.
Example :
Mr. Gunawan : “Would you mind posting the letter?”
Jubaedah : “No, not at all.”

III. SHOULD + VERB BASE.
Ø To give definite advice.
Example :
Mother : “Ika, you should study tonight. You will have math test tomorrow, won’t you?”
Ika : “I will, Mom.”

IV. MIGHT + VERB BASE.
Ø To tell possibilities
Example :
Nhia : “Why is Riko taking the bus to get home?”
Ayu : “He might get a flat time.”

Ø To express polite request.
Example :
Beben : “Might I borrow your book?”
Vika : “Yes, of course.”