1. Forms and Structure
When using “shall” for suggestions or offers, it typically appears at the beginning of a question. The common structures are:
- Shall I + base verb? – Used when offering to do something for the speaker or the listener.
- Shall we + base verb? – Used when suggesting a joint action or making a polite offer for group action.
These forms are direct and often imply a suggestion or invitation.
2. Using “Shall” for Suggestions and Offers
“Shall” is used in questions to make suggestions or offer help. It is polite and formal, and it invites a response.
A. Making Suggestions with “Shall I…?”
Use this form when you want to offer to do something or ask if you should take an action.
- Shall I open the window?
- Shall I make you some coffee?
- Shall I help you with your homework?
- Shall I call a taxi for you?
- Shall I set the table?
- Shall I lend you my book?
- Shall I play some music?
- Shall I iron your clothes?
- Shall I drive you to the airport?
- Shall I explain the rules again?
B. Making Suggestions with “Shall we…?”
Use this form when you want to suggest a joint action or invite others to participate.
- Shall we go for a walk?
- Shall we have dinner together?
- Shall we watch a movie?
- Shall we go to the beach?
- Shall we study together?
- Shall we organize a party?
- Shall we drive to the park?
- Shall we discuss this issue?
- Shall we go shopping?
- Shall we book our tickets now?
3. Additional Tips and Practice
Here are some tips to help you use “shall” confidently:
- Tip 1: Remember that “shall” is more common in British English. In American English, “should” or “will” is often used instead.
- Tip 2: Use “Shall I…?” when you want to offer help, and “Shall we…?” when inviting someone to join you.
- Tip 3: Practice by forming your own suggestions in daily conversation.
- Tip 4: Listen to native speakers through podcasts, videos, or conversations to hear how “shall” is used naturally.
- Tip 5: Write down your suggestions and review them with a teacher or peer for feedback.
Exercises: Shall
Exercise 1 – Choose the correct answer
1. ___ the window?
2. ___ you some tea?
3. ___ your bag for you?
4. ___ a taxi?
5. ___ off the lights?
Exercise 2 – Choose the best suggestion
1. ___ for a walk?
2. ___ a movie tonight?
3. ___ together later?
4. ___ dinner at 7?
5. ___ the tickets now?
Exercise 3 – Pick “Shall I” or “Shall we”
1. ___ play a game?
2. ___ carry that for you?
3. ___ visit the museum tomorrow?
4. ___ call you later?
5. ___ meet at 6 o’clock?
Exercise 4 – Which question is correct?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Exercise 5 – Which sentence is polite & correct?
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
