Let’s get started
Some frequently useful words help readers notice how sure a speaker is.
Learn together
- Read “certain” for something known for sure.
- Read “probably” for something very likely and “perhaps” for something that may happen.
- Read “possible” for something that could happen, then compare the meanings.
Example to explore
certain = sure probably = likely perhaps = maybe possible = could happen
Try it yourself
- Which word means sure?
- Complete “It may rain, ___ we should pack a jacket.”
- Write a sentence with probably, perhaps, or possible and explain what it means.
Hands-on project
Draw a “how sure?” meter and place the four words on it. Discuss why context sometimes changes how sure we sound.
Reflect and grow
Which word would you choose when you do not know the answer yet?