Verb Agreement: Subject-Verb Agreement: Singular vs. plural matching

Subject-Verb Agreement: Matching Up Words

In English, the verb in a sentence has to match (agree with) the subject. It’s like a puzzle where the pieces fit together perfectly.

Basic Rule:

• Singular subject = singular verb
• Plural subject = plural verb

Examples:

• The dog barks. (singular subject + singular verb)
• The dogs bark. (plural subject + plural verb)

Things to Watch Out For

1. -s Endings: In the present tense, singular verbs often end in -s. Plural nouns often end in -s. This can be confusing!

   • He walks to school. (singular verb with -s)
   • The girls play soccer. (plural noun with -s)

2. Tricky Words: Some words sound plural but are actually singular.

   • Everyone is happy. (Everyone = singular)
   • Nobody wants to leave. (Nobody = singular)

3. Phrases Between Subject and Verb: Don’t be fooled by words that come between the subject and the verb. The verb still needs to agree with the subject.

   • The book on the table is mine. (The subject is “book,” not “table”)

Let’s Practice!

1. Choose the Correct Verb:

   • The cat (meow/meows) loudly.
   • The students (is/are) studying.
   • Everyone (needs/need) to bring a pencil.
   • The news (was/were) surprising.

2. Correct the Mistakes:

   • The boys plays soccer every day.
   • The box of cookies are empty.
   • Each of the students need a textbook.

Challenge!

Write a paragraph about your favorite sport or hobby. Use at least 5 different subjects and make sure the verbs agree with them.