Subject-Verb Agreement Rules Worksheet

Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of writing. It refers to the agreement between the subject of a sentence and the verb that follows it. This agreement is essential to ensure clarity and accuracy in communication. Therefore, it is vital to have a good understanding of the rules of subject-verb agreement. In this article, we will discuss the subject-verb agreement rules and provide a worksheet to help you master this essential writing skill.

Rule 1: Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs.

Example: The cat chases the mouse. (singular subject, singular verb)

The cats chase the mice. (plural subject, plural verb)

Rule 2: Compound subjects connected by `and` take a plural verb.

Example: John and Mary are going to the party. (Compound subject, plural verb)

Rule 3: If the subject is a collective noun and the members act as individuals, use a plural verb.

Example: The team are playing well. (Collective noun, plural verb)

Rule 4: If the subject is a collective noun and the members act as a unit, use a singular verb.

Example: The team is playing well. (Collective noun, singular verb)

Rule 5: When the subject is a singular noun or pronoun followed by `or` or `nor`, use a singular verb.

Example: Neither milk nor sugar is in the recipe. (Singular subject, singular verb)

Rule 6: When the subject is a plural noun or pronoun followed by `or` or `nor`, use a plural verb.

Example: Neither the girls nor the boys are going to the dance. (Plural subject, plural verb)

Rule 7: When the subject is a collective noun followed by a prepositional phrase, the verb agrees with the object of the prepositional phrase.

Example: The group of students is going on a field trip. (Collective noun, singular verb)

With these rules in mind, it`s time to put your skills to the test using this subject-verb agreement rules worksheet.

Worksheet:

Directions: Fill in the blank with the correct verb form.

1. John and Mary (is, are) going to the party.

2. The team (win, wins) every game they play.

3. The committee (has, have) made the decision.

4. Neither the teacher nor the students (is, are) happy with the grade.

5. The group of dancers (perform, performs) every night.

Answers:

1. John and Mary are going to the party.

2. The team wins every game they play.

3. The committee has made the decision.

4. Neither the teacher nor the students are happy with the grade.

5. The group of dancers performs every night.

Conclusion:

Subject-verb agreement is an essential aspect of writing. It ensures that your writing is clear and accurate. By following the rules outlined in this article and practicing with the worksheet, you can master subject-verb agreement and improve your writing skills. Happy writing!