Necessity

need to be / should be / be required to be

Need to vs. should

Need to is stronger than should, but the meaning is basically the same.

  • Online learners need to be strongly motivated.
  • They also should be able to take responsibility for their own learning.

In the negative, however, the meaning is quite different.

  • Online learning needn't be a lonely experience.
    (= It's not necessary that it be a lonely experience.)
  • Online learning shouldn't be a lonely experience.
    (= It's not desirable that it be a lonely experience.)

Compare:

  • Online learning needn't be a lonely experience. There are plenty of ways you can communicate with other learners.

  • Online learning shouldn't be a lonely experience. Otherwise, learners will give up.

Note that the negative of need to is needn't (NOT: needn't to).

  • Learners need to have a good Internet connection.

  • Learners needn't be connected all the time.

1. Talking about what is necessary or desirable.

Choose the best way of completing the sentences.

2. Shouldn’t vs. needn’t.

Choose the best way of continuing each sentence.

3. Need and be required.

Employers need to set clear policies.
Staff needed to communicate.
Everyone is required to speak English.

Complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence. Use the word given and other words to complete each sentence. Do not use more than five words. Do not change the word given.