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A short class with Sarah and her students. The other ways are under More.
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Okay, class, today we're diving into subject-verb agreement. Let’s start with the basics. Can anyone tell me what happens to the verb when the subject is singular?
The verb must be singular as well.
Excellent! Exactly. For example, in the sentence 'The cat runs,' 'cat' is singular, and 'runs' also reflects that. Now, what about plural subjects?
The verb should be plural too, like in 'The dogs bark.'
Right! Remember: Singular + Singular = Agreement; Plural + Plural = Agreement. It's a simple way to remember it.
So, can you give us an example of a common mistake?
Sure! A common mistake is saying 'The team are winning.' It should be 'The team is winning.'
So remember: Singular and plural subjects must match with their verbs.
Let’s discuss collective nouns. Who can give me an example of a collective noun?
How about 'team' or 'group'?
Exactly! Now, collective nouns like 'team' are singular when they refer to a group acting as a whole. For instance: 'The committee decides to meet tomorrow.' Why is 'decides' singular here?
Because the committee is acting as one unit!
Correct! But what if we're talking about the members individually? Can anybody give me an example?
We could say, 'The members of the team are discussing strategies.'
Fantastic! Here, 'are discussing' shows that we are thinking of the members individually.
Remember: Collective nouns take a singular verb when viewed as a unit but a plural verb when emphasizing individual members.
Now, let’s switch gears and talk about indefinite pronouns. Who can name an indefinite pronoun?
How about 'everyone' or 'somebody'?
Great examples! Indefinite pronouns are always singular. For instance, you would say 'Everyone is here,' not 'Everyone are here.' Can someone tell me why?
Because 'everyone' is seen as one group or entity.
Exactly! Now, can anyone think of another example where a common mistake occurs?
People sometimes say, 'Everyone have to submit their projects,' instead of 'Everyone has to submit their projects.'
Correct! Remembering that indefinite pronouns take singular verbs is crucial for proper agreement.
Singular's a one, plural's a two, / Match the verb that's closest to you!
Imagine a team of superheroes. When they act together as a unit - they are strong, but when they each decide to help, they can assist many individuals. Collective nouns are like that - one name, many actions!
S-V Agreement: Singular verbs with Singular subjects, Plural verbs with Plural subjects. Remember: S-S & P-P!
SING: Singular Subjects Insist on a Singular Verb.
Term
What is subject-verb agreement?
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Term
Example of a collective noun usage.
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Term
What do indefinite pronouns require?
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Concord, or subject-verb agreement, ensures that verbs match their subjects in number and person.
The section on concord emphasizes the importance of subject-verb agreement in English grammar. It outlines essential rules such as the agreement between singular subjects and verbs, plural subjects and verbs, and special cases like collective nouns and indefinite pronouns.
Concord, or subject-verb agreement, is a fundamental aspect of English grammar that dictates the relationship between the subject and verb in a sentence. This section elaborates on the rules that govern concord, ensuring that verbs agree in number and person with their respective subjects. The key rules include: