Subject and verb agreement is an essential grammar concept that students in 7th grade must understand to write fluently and correctly. Understanding this fundamental grammar rule is crucial as it helps students to avoid common errors in their writing, making their essays and assignments more polished and professional. This article will cover the basics of subject and verb agreement and how it applies to 7th-grade writing.
What is subject and verb agreement?
Subject and verb agreement means that the subject (noun or pronoun) and the verb tense (past, present, or future) in a sentence agree in number. In simpler terms, if the subject of the sentence is singular, the verb should be singular, and if the subject is plural, the verb should also be plural. This rule is essential to communicate ideas clearly and accurately.
For example, let`s look at the following sentences:
– The cat jumps on the table.
– The cats jump on the table.
In the first sentence, the subject `cat` is singular, and the verb `jumps` is singular, which is in agreement. In the second sentence, the subject `cats` is plural, and the verb `jump` is plural, which is also in agreement. Using the correct subject and verb agreement makes the sentences sound natural and makes the meaning of the sentence clear.
Common subject and verb agreement errors
Mistakes in subject and verb agreement are common, even for experienced writers. Here are some common errors to avoid:
1. Indefinite pronouns: Indefinite pronouns like `everyone,` `no one,` `someone,` `anyone` are singular, so the verbs used with them should also be singular.
For example:
– Everyone is going to the party.
– Someone has left their phone on the table.
2. Collective nouns: Collective nouns refer to a group or entity, but they are singular, so the verb used with them should also be singular.
For example:
– The team is playing well.
– My family enjoys spending time together.
3. Compound subjects: A compound subject has two or more subjects connected by `and.` If the subject is plural, use a plural verb; if it is singular, use a singular verb.
For example:
– John and Sarah are playing soccer in the park.
– The dog and the cat are sleeping in the sun.
Conclusion
Subject and verb agreement is crucial in writing effectively, especially for students in 7th grade. Understanding this rule can significantly improve their writing skills and make their essays more polished and professional. Encourage students to proofread their work to check for subject-verb agreement errors and practice using this grammar rule in their writing.