As a grade 9 student, it is important to have a good understanding of subject-verb agreement. This is because it is a fundamental aspect of English grammar and is essential for effective communication. Subject-verb agreement refers to the agreement in number between the subject and the verb in a sentence. In simpler terms, it means that the verb must agree with the number of the subject. For example, “He runs” and “They run” are both correct because the verb agrees with the number of the subject. Here are some exercises to help you master subject-verb agreement:
Exercise 1: Identifying the Subject
The first step in mastering subject-verb agreement is to identify the subject of the sentence. The subject is the person, place, or thing that the sentence is about. For example, in the sentence “The cat is sleeping,” the subject is “the cat.”
Directions: Identify the subject in each of the following sentences and circle it.
1. The dog barks at the mailman.
2. The students are studying for the exam.
3. My sister and I are going to the movies.
4. The book on the shelf is mine.
5. The flowers in the garden are blooming.
Exercise 2: Subject-Verb Agreement
Now that you have identified the subject in each sentence, the next step is to ensure that the verb agrees with it in number.
Directions: Choose the correct verb to complete each sentence.
1. The dog (barks, bark) at the mailman.
2. The students (is, are) studying for the exam.
3. My sister and I (is, are) going to the movies.
4. The book on the shelf (is, are) mine.
5. The flowers in the garden (is, are) blooming.
Exercise 3: Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns are words like “everyone,” “someone,” and “anyone” that do not refer to a specific person or thing. When using these pronouns as the subject of a sentence, it is important to remember that they are singular, and therefore, the verb should also be singular.
Directions: Choose the correct verb to complete each sentence.
1. Everyone (has, have) their own opinion.
2. Somebody (is, are) knocking at the door.
3. Neither of the girls (was, were) able to attend the party.
4. Anybody who needs help (can, could) ask for it.
5. Each of the boys (has, have) a different hobby.
Exercise 4: Compound Subjects
When there are two or more subjects in a sentence, it is important to remember that the verb should agree with the subject closest to it.
Directions: Choose the correct verb to complete each sentence.
1. The dog and the cat (is, are) sleeping.
2. The teacher and the principal (has, have) decided to cancel school.
3. My parents and I (is, are) going on vacation.
4. The book and the pen (is, are) on the desk.
5. The basketball coach and the players (is, are) working hard during practice.
In conclusion, mastering subject-verb agreement is essential for effective communication in English. By practicing these exercises, grade 9 students can improve their understanding and usage of subject-verb agreement, ultimately becoming better writers and communicators.