Mastering grammar is essential for effective communication, and the use of worksheets can provide a fun and engaging way to enhance understanding of language rules. Subject-verb agreement, one of the fundamental aspects of grammar, often poses challenges for learners. This article introduces five simple subject worksheets designed to solidify your grip on subject-verb agreement, enriching both your written and spoken language skills.
Worksheet 1: Matching Subjects and Verbs
One of the basic principles in grammar is that subjects and verbs must agree in number. Let’s start with an easy worksheet to reinforce this concept:
- Instructions: Identify the subject and match it with the correct verb form. Here are some sentences:
| 1. The dog (bark, barks) | 2. My brothers (is, are) | 3. Each student (has, have) |
| 4. The committee (disagree, disagrees) | 5. Not only the manager but also the employees (work, works) |
Worksheet 2: Identifying the Subject
To correctly apply subject-verb agreement, it’s crucial to identify the subject in a sentence. Here’s a worksheet to practice this:
- Instructions: Find the subject in each of the following sentences:
- On the shelf lies a book about grammar.
- As the storm grew stronger, all the windows shook.
- There are many reasons to study grammar.
Worksheet 3: Subject-Verb Agreement with Compound Subjects
Compound subjects can be tricky. This worksheet focuses on this specific area:
- Instructions: Choose the correct verb form for each sentence with compound subjects:
| 1. Bread and butter (is, are) a staple of many diets. | 2. Either the teacher or the students (needs, need) to prepare the classroom. | 3. Neither the manager nor his employees (knows, know) the outcome of the meeting. |
📝 Note: When a compound subject is connected by “and”, the verb is usually plural. However, when subjects are connected by “or” or “nor”, the verb agrees with the nearer subject.
Worksheet 4: Verb Agreement with Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns like “anyone”, “everything”, and “nobody” can be singular or plural. This worksheet helps clarify their use:
- Instructions: Fill in the correct verb form:
- Everyone in the class (has, have) to submit their project on time.
- Many (take, takes) this approach seriously.
- Either of them (is, are) capable of handling the project.
Worksheet 5: Special Cases in Subject-Verb Agreement
Some sentences have unique structures or subjects that can confuse students. Here’s a worksheet to address these:
- Instructions: Correct the sentences where necessary:
- The series of lectures (has, have) been well received.
- Ten dollars (is, are) enough for the movie ticket.
- The team of engineers (is, are) arriving tomorrow.
As we wrap up this guide to better grammar through subject worksheets, it's clear that consistent practice with subject-verb agreement can greatly enhance one's language proficiency. By working through these worksheets, learners can overcome the intricacies of grammar, leading to more effective communication in both written and verbal forms. The journey of mastering grammar is an ongoing one, and these tools are just the beginning of your exploration into the beauty and complexity of the English language.
Why is subject-verb agreement important?
+
Subject-verb agreement ensures that the sentence structure is grammatically correct, making it easier to understand and more pleasant to read or hear.
Can these worksheets be used for all levels of grammar learners?
+
Yes, while these worksheets are simple, they can serve as a review for advanced learners and a foundational practice for beginners.
How often should I practice with these worksheets?
+
Regular practice, ideally once or twice a week, can help reinforce grammar rules. Incorporating these exercises into your study routine is beneficial.
