Subject-verb agreement is a vital aspect of proper English grammar. It ensures that the subject and verb of a sentence agree with each other in terms of number and person. Subject-verb agreement errors can be jarring to readers, and they can detract from the overall quality of your writing. Therefore, it is essential to practice and master this skill. One of the best ways to do so is by using a subject-verb agreement worksheet.
In this article, we will discuss the importance of subject-verb agreement, the common errors that occur, and how to use a subject-verb agreement worksheet for free.
Why is subject-verb agreement important?
Subject-verb agreement is essential because it clarifies the meaning of a sentence. The subject and verb are the foundation of a sentence, and if they don`t agree, the meaning can become confusing. For example, consider the sentence, “The dogs barks loudly.” The subject, “dogs,” is plural, while the verb, “barks,” is singular. This error makes the sentence sound awkward and unclear.
Errors to look out for
Subject-verb agreement errors usually occur when the subject and verb do not match in terms of number and person. Here are some common errors to watch out for:
1. Singular subjects with plural verbs: “The bookshelves needs to be organized.”
2. Plural subjects with singular verbs: “The group is divided in their opinions.”
3. Compound subjects with singular verbs: “Bread and butter is my favorite snack.”
4. Collective nouns with singular verbs: “The team is playing well today.”
How to use a subject-verb agreement worksheet
Using a subject-verb agreement worksheet can help you identify common errors and practice proper usage. Here are the steps to using a free worksheet:
1. Search for a free subject-verb agreement worksheet online.
2. Download and print the worksheet.
3. Read the instructions carefully.
4. Review the examples given on the worksheet.
5. Fill in the blanks with the correct verb form.
6. Check your answers against the answer key provided.
7. Repeat the exercise until you feel confident in your ability to identify and correct subject-verb agreement errors.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement is a fundamental aspect of proper English grammar. Practicing this skill using a free worksheet can help you identify and correct common errors, which will enhance the clarity and quality of your writing. Remember to pay attention to the number and person of the subject and verb, and always proofread your work for errors.
