Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of grammar that is often overlooked by both writers and speakers. While it may seem like a minor detail, the incorrect agreement between a subject and its verb can completely change the meaning of a sentence. This is why subject-verb agreement worksheets are an essential tool for anyone wishing to master this grammar rule.
However, some subject-verb agreement worksheets can be particularly tricky. They may contain sentences with complex structures or uncommon subject types that can be confusing for learners. In this article, we will explore some of the most challenging subject-verb agreement worksheets and provide tips on how to tackle them.
1. Collective Nouns
Collective nouns refer to a group of people or things considered as a single entity. Examples include „team,“ „class,“ and „jury.“ When using collective nouns as the subject of a sentence, it can be challenging to determine whether to use a singular or plural verb.
For instance, consider the following sentence: „The jury _____ (deliver/delivers) its verdict tomorrow.“ In this case, the correct verb form is „delivers“ because „jury“ is a singular collective noun. However, if the subject were „people,“ the correct verb form would be „deliver.“
Tip: When using collective nouns, it is essential to consider whether they are acting as a single unit or individuals.
2. Indefinite Pronouns
Indefinite pronouns refer to non-specific people or things, such as „someone,“ „anyone,“ or „anything.“ These pronouns can be tricky because they do not indicate whether the subject is singular or plural.
For instance, consider the following sentence: „Someone _____ (has/have) left their phone on the table.“ In this case, the correct verb form is „has“ because „someone“ is singular. However, the pronoun „their“ is plural, which can be confusing.
Tip: When using indefinite pronouns, assume that the subject is singular unless there is a clear indication otherwise.
3. Compound Subjects
Compound subjects are sentences that contain two or more subjects joined by a conjunction such as „and“ or „or.“ The verb form used in these sentences will depend on whether the subjects are singular or plural.
For instance, consider the following sentence: „John and his friends _____ (is/are) going to the concert.“ In this case, the correct verb form is „are“ because „John and his friends“ is a plural subject.
Tip: When dealing with compound subjects, it is essential to identify whether the subjects are singular or plural and choose the verb form accordingly.
4. Subject-Verb Agreement with „Either/Or“ and „Neither/Nor“
Sentences that use „either/or“ or „neither/nor“ can be tricky to navigate. The verb form used in these sentences will depend on the subject closest to the verb.
For instance, consider the following sentence: „Neither the students nor the teacher _____ (know/knows) the answer.“ In this case, the verb form used should be „knows“ because „teacher“ is the subject closest to the verb.
Tip: When using „either/or“ or „neither/nor,“ choose the verb form based on the subject closest to the verb.
In conclusion, subject-verb agreement worksheets can be challenging, but with the right strategies, learners can tackle them with ease. By paying close attention to the type of subject being used, the sentence structure, and the context, writers can master this crucial grammar rule and produce clear, concise, and effective writing.