Could in Modern scientific and Technical Discourse

Grigorieva Yulia, Mets Maxim

The article is devoted to the problems of using and teaching grammatical structures in the English language focussing on the example of the modal verb could. It comprises both topics of the evolution of recommendations on the use of some grammatical forms in textbooks, and some features of this evolution observed in the scientific, technical and media context. Another important issue is the ways of teaching complex grammar phenomena to students, especially of technical direction. Modern articles, films and publications of the popular science genre, news releases, as well as professional forums and blogs reflecting the trends of today were considered. The methodological basis was the approach based on the study of LRR (literary and colloquial speech) and its penetration into the media and popular science and professional discourse of oral and written nature. The article gives a lot of authentic examples taken from the living language, which can be a good help in teaching grammar not only to students of technical universities, but also to the students of linguistic profile.

Keywords:English language, scientific and technical discourse, grammar, modals, English teaching