The modes are seven scales created from the major scale by using each of its 7 notes in turn as a root or starting note. These scales are named in the following order:

         Ionian        Dorian        Phrygian        Lydian        Mixolydian         Aeolian        Locrian

Each of these scales (modes) has its own colour and character eg. major/minor, which are explained in more detail in my modes lessons: back to modes

The example below shows the modes derived from the C major scale.