Abstract:

This paper deals with the use of modal verbs in English which is one of the most complicated topics for students learning it as a second language. The problem is caused by the fact that the English language has a more sophisticated set of modal verbs in comparison with other languages like Russian. Due to cultural specificity the category of modality plays a more important role in the English language especially in different registers including legal discourse. Consequently, it can be observed that there are no direct equivalents in English and Russian modals on account of which a lot of difficulties are caused in drafting and translating legal documents which must be written in concise and unambiguous language.

The paper aims to show that modals are connected to mentality and socio-cultural aspects which should thus be the primary focus of the teachers’ and students’ attention in the language classroom. Drawing on the Constructivist approach (Can 2009, Driscoll 2000, Kurteš et al. 2017, Marlowe & Page 2005, Murphy 1997, Nomnian 2002 and others) we study the texts of some US Federal Laws which concern Russia. The study will show that application of this method helps to combine language and culture in the process of teaching and learning to expose and educate an active and creative student. It enables students to develop linguistic and sociocultural competence and see the language as an integral part of the culture which reflects the identity of its users, their values and attitudes (Kecskes 2014, Larina & Ozyumenko2016, Larina et al. 2017, Wierzbicka 1991/2003 and many others).

Knowledge of the culture of the target language gives the learner an opportunity to analyse the text at a deeper level and answer the question why a particular modal is used in a given context and what its pragmatic meaning and function is. It enables the student to understand why people use the language in a different way and to see the logic of the differences. The results of the study can find their application in the theory and practice of translation and the teaching of English for Special Purposes.

Keywords:

Modality, legal document, English, Russian, second language acquisition, pragmatic competence.