Subject-Verb Agreement - 6th Grade Grammar
Introduction
Imagine you're reading a story, and suddenly, a sentence feels off, almost like a jarring note in a beautiful song. Chances are, the culprit is a subject-verb agreement error. Understanding how subjects and verbs work together is fundamental to crafting clear and grammatically correct sentences. Whether you're a 6th-grade student eager to ace your language arts assignments or a parent looking to support your child's grammar skills, mastering subject-verb agreement is crucial. In this article, "Subject-Verb Agreement - 6th Grade Grammar," we'll explore the rules and nuances of this essential grammar concept with engaging examples and practical exercises. Dive in and let's harmonize your sentences!
Subject-Verb Agreement
Verbs must agree with their subjects in number: A singular subject requires a singular verb, and a plural subject requires a plural verb.
Present tense verbs with a single subject add -s to the base.
Examples:
Julia walks her dog each morning.
A hiker walks along trails that are not very steep.
A rock climber needs special equipment to ascend a mountain.
Present tense verbs with a plural subject do not add -s.
Examples:
Cole and Remy walk to school every day.
Rock climbers choose steeper slopes.
Smooth rocks require special climbing techniques.
Steel spikes help the climber reach the top.
A verb may have more than one subject. More than one subject for the same verb is called a compound subject. Treat a compound subject like a plural subject and do not add -s to the verb.
Examples:
The players and coaches meet on the field.
Shoulder pads and helmets protect the players.
A collective noun is considered singular if it names the group as a whole. It is considered plural if it refers to the group’s members as individuals.
Examples:
The football team practices every day after school.
The team drink water during and after practice.
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Subject-Verb Agreement Activity
Select the correct present-tense form.
Subject-Verb Agreement Quizizz Quiz
Conclusion
Subject-verb agreement is more than just a grammar rule; it's the backbone of clear and effective communication. By ensuring that subjects and verbs agree in number, you make your writing smoother and more understandable. Whether you're dealing with singular and plural subjects, compound subjects, or collective nouns, these guidelines will help you avoid common pitfalls. Keep practicing, refer back to this guide, and soon you'll find that achieving subject-verb agreement becomes second nature. Happy writing and remember—consistency is key!