Subject-verb agreement is a core grammar rule that says the verb in a sentence must match its subject in number. In Grade 5, you build on the basics and tackle trickier cases that confuse many writers. A singular subject takes a singular verb (The dog runs fast), while a plural subject takes a plural verb (The dogs run fast). In the present tense, third-person singular verbs add -s or -es, but plural verbs do not. Irregular verbs like is/are, was/were, and has/have must also match the subject in number. Collective nouns such as team, family, class, and audience usually act as one unit and take singular verbs (The team plays tonight). Compound subjects joined by and are plural (Maria and Sam are friends). However, when subjects are joined by or or nor, the verb agrees with the closer subject (Neither the players nor the coach is ready). Watch out for prepositional phrases that come between the subject and verb, because they do not change the verb (The bag of cookies is, not are, on the table). Inverted sentences starting with here or there also need careful checking, since the true subject comes after the verb. Mastering these rules helps your writing sound clear, polished, and grammatically correct.
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Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-Verb Agreement
What's Included in This Download
What You'll Learn
These subject-verb agreement worksheets help grade 5 students develop essential english skills through engaging activities.
How to Use These Worksheets
- Download & Print: Click the download button to get the PDF. Print on standard 8.5" x 11" paper.
- Start Simple: Begin with easier pages before moving to more challenging activities.
- Daily Practice: Dedicate 10-15 minutes each day for consistent learning.
- Use Manipulatives: Pair worksheets with physical objects like blocks or counters.
- Provide Encouragement: Celebrate progress and effort to build confidence.
- Check Progress: Use the included answer key to review work together.
Common Mistakes to Watch For
- Letting a prepositional phrase trick you into matching the verb to the wrong noun (writing 'The bag of cookies are' instead of 'is').
- Using a plural verb with a collective noun acting as one unit (writing 'The team are winning' instead of 'The team is winning').
- Ignoring the 'closer subject' rule with or/nor and using the wrong verb form (writing 'Neither the dogs nor the cat are' instead of 'is').
Frequently Asked Questions
What is subject-verb agreement?
Subject-verb agreement is a grammar rule that says the verb must match its subject in number. A singular subject takes a singular verb, and a plural subject takes a plural verb.
How do I know if a verb is singular or plural?
In the present tense, singular third-person verbs usually end in -s (runs, plays). Plural verbs use the base form without -s (run, play). For irregular verbs, learn pairs like is/are and has/have.
Are collective nouns singular or plural?
Collective nouns like team, family, class, and audience usually act as one unit and take singular verbs. For example, 'The class is taking a test' uses a singular verb because the class acts together.
What happens when subjects are joined by 'or' or 'nor'?
When subjects are joined by 'or' or 'nor', the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. For example, 'Neither the cats nor the dog is hungry' uses 'is' because dog (singular) is closer.
Why do prepositional phrases sometimes confuse subject-verb agreement?
Prepositional phrases like 'of cookies' or 'in the boxes' come between the subject and verb. They can sound like the subject, but the verb must agree with the real subject, not the noun in the phrase.
Are these worksheets really free?
Yes! All our worksheets are 100% free to download and print. There's no subscription, no hidden fees, and no registration required.
Can I use these in my classroom?
Absolutely! Teachers are welcome to print and use these worksheets in their classrooms. Make as many copies as needed for your students.