Subject-Verb Agreement | English Grammar & Composition Grade 4 | Periwinkle

Introduction

This tutorial will help you understand subject-verb agreement, a fundamental aspect of English grammar. Subject-verb agreement ensures that subjects and verbs in a sentence match in number (singular or plural). Mastering this concept is crucial for effective communication, especially for Grade 4 students.

Step 1: Identify Subjects and Verbs

• Understand what a subject is: The subject is the person, place, thing, or idea that performs the action in a sentence.
• Identify the verb: The verb expresses the action or state of being of the subject.
• Example: In the sentence "The cat runs," "the cat" is the subject and "runs" is the verb.

Step 2: Match Singular Subjects with Singular Verbs

• Singular subjects require singular verbs.
• Tip: Singular verbs often end in -s or -es.
• Examples:
  • She plays soccer.
  • The dog barks loudly.

Step 3: Match Plural Subjects with Plural Verbs

• Plural subjects require plural verbs.
• Tip: Plural verbs do not typically end in -s.
• Examples:
  • They play soccer.
  • The dogs bark loudly.

Step 4: Be Aware of Collective Nouns

• Collective nouns represent a group and can be tricky.
• Example: The team is winning (singular) vs. The team are arguing (plural).
• Tip: Use a singular verb when the group acts as one unit and a plural verb when individuals within the group are acting separately.

Step 5: Understand Special Cases

• Subjects joined by 'and': Use a plural verb.
  • Example: The cat and the dog are playing.
• Subjects joined by 'or' or 'nor': The verb agrees with the nearest subject.
  • Example: Either the teacher or the students are going to the field trip.

Conclusion

Understanding subject-verb agreement is essential for clear communication in English. Remember to identify your subjects and verbs correctly, match singular subjects with singular verbs, and plural subjects with plural verbs. Practice these rules with different sentences to strengthen your skills. As a next step, try writing your own sentences and check them for subject-verb agreement.