Introduction
Today's Goals
Give Professional Advice
Use "should" and "ought to" for recommendations and suggestions
Express Obligation
Master "must" for rules, requirements, and strong necessity
Warm-up Practice
Click to hear examples:
Why Learn Advisory Modals?
These modals are essential for leadership and professional guidance: "You should prioritize this task", "We must follow company policy", "You ought to inform the client". They help you give advice diplomatically while expressing necessary requirements clearly and authoritatively.
Advice & Obligation
Modal Strength & Authority
| Modal | Strength | Example | Professional Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Should | Moderate advice | You should review this proposal | General recommendations |
| Ought to | Moral obligation | We ought to inform the stakeholders | Ethical responsibility |
| Must | Strong obligation | All staff must attend the training | Rules and requirements |
| Mustn't | Prohibition | You mustn't share confidential data | Strict prohibitions |
Role-Play Scenarios
Workplace Advice (A2 Level)
Scenario: New Employee Orientation
Practice giving workplace advice using "should" and "ought to" with a new colleague.
Advisory Phrases for Work
Giving Advice
Expressing Obligation
Prohibitions
Ethical Dilemma Discussion (B1 Level)
Scenario: Handling Client Confidentiality
Practice using "ought to" for moral obligations and "must" for legal requirements in a sensitive situation.
Professional Ethics Phrases
Moral Obligations
Legal Requirements
Discretion
Practice Tip: Click on any dialogue line to hear the pronunciation. Use the sentence starters to create your own professional advice scenarios. Pay attention to the strength of each modal!
Practice Activities
Real Advisory Practice
Apply should, must, and ought to in practical speaking situations with these scenario cards!
How would you advise in these work situations?
Practice giving recommendations using "should" and "ought to"
Common Work Scenarios
1. Time Management: A colleague struggles with deadlines
"You should prioritize your tasks"
"You ought to use a calendar app"
2. Client Meeting: Preparing for an important presentation
"You should rehearse your slides"
"You must research the client first"
3. New Policy: Explaining office rules to a new hire
"You must complete the safety training"
"You should ask HR any questions"
4. Career Growth: Advising on professional development
"You ought to attend the workshop"
"You should update your skills"
Advisory Language
Advisory Phrases
How would you handle these ethical situations?
Use "must" and "ought to" for obligations and moral decisions
Ethical Scenarios
1. Client Confidentiality: A colleague asks about sensitive information
"We must protect client privacy"
"You ought to respect confidentiality"
2. Safety Concern: Noticing a potential hazard at work
"We must report this immediately"
"You should warn your team"
3. Honest Reporting: Being pressured to alter data
"We ought to maintain integrity"
"You must refuse this request"
4. Conflict of Interest: Discovering a personal connection to a vendor
"You must disclose this relationship"
"We ought to be transparent"
Ethical Language
Ethical Phrases
Quiz
Which modal shows the strongest obligation?
Choosing the most appropriate modal for company policies.
What's the best way to give gentle advice to a colleague?
They seem stressed about an upcoming deadline.
Which modal expresses moral obligation?
Discussing ethical responsibilities in business.
What's the most appropriate way to state a strict rule?
Creating guidelines for handling sensitive documents.
Which phrase would you use in the workplace to strongly recommend preparation?
Advising a junior colleague before an important meeting.
Mastery Achieved: You can now effectively use should, must, and ought to for giving advice, stating obligations, and expressing moral duties. Review any incorrect answers and practice the role-play scenarios again for fluency!