Subjects and Predicates - 6th Grade Grammar
Introduction
Have you ever felt like your sentences are missing something? Understanding subjects and predicates can transform your writing from confusing to clear. For 6th graders and their teachers, mastering these elements is essential for constructing complete and engaging sentences. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of subjects and predicates and learn how to create sentences that pack a punch!
Understanding Subjects and Predicates
A sentence expresses a complete thought. Every sentence has two important parts: the subject and the predicate. A sentence that does not have both a subject and predicate is incomplete. It is a sentence fragment.
Subjects
The subject tells whom or what the sentence is about.
The complete subject is all the words in the subject part.
The simple subject is the main word or words in the complete subject.
The strongest swimmers crossed the bay. (complete subject)
The strongest swimmers crossed the bay. (simple subject)
The home soccer team was on the field before the game. (complete subject)
The home soccer team was on the field before the game. (simple subject)
Loyal soccer fans filled the stands of the Emerson Eagles’ stadium. (complete subject)
Loyal soccer fans filled the stands of the Emerson Eagles’ stadium. (simple subject)
Predicates
The predicate tells what the subject does or is.
The complete predicate is all the words in the predicate.
The simple predicate is the main verb in the complete predicate.
The strongest swimmers crossed the bay. (complete predicate)
The strongest swimmers crossed the bay. (simple predicate)
James and Maria visited the Art Institute of Chicago while in the city. (complete predicate)
James and Maria visited the Art Institute of Chicago while in the city. (simple predicate)
They especially enjoyed the Impressionist paintings. (complete predicate)
They especially enjoyed the Impressionist paintings. (simple predicate)
Avoiding Sentence Fragments
What does it mean a sentence fragment?
A sentence that does not have both a subject and predicate is incomplete. It is a sentence fragment.
My mother builds a shed. (complete sentence)
the size of the shed (needs a predicate)
stores tools and supplies (needs a subject)
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Subjects and Predicates Activity - 6th Grade Grammar
Read each sentence. Decide which word or group of words is the sentence part named in parentheses. Select the letter of your answer.
Subjects and Predicates - Interactive Quizizz Quiz
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Conclusion
Understanding subjects and predicates is fundamental for constructing complete and clear sentences. For 6th graders, mastering these grammar basics can significantly improve their writing skills. Keep practicing, and remember to always check that your sentences have both a subject and a predicate. With these tools in hand, your writing will be more engaging and effective.
FAQs
Q: What is the simple subject of a sentence?
A: The simple subject is the main noun or pronoun that the sentence is about. For example, in the sentence "The cat chased the mouse," the simple subject is "cat."
Q: How do you find the complete subject?
A: The complete subject includes all the words that describe the simple subject. For example, in "The hungry cat chased the mouse," the complete subject is "The hungry cat."
Q: What is the simple predicate in a sentence?
A: The simple predicate is the main verb or verb phrase that tells what the subject does. For example, in "The dog barked loudly," the simple predicate is "barked."
Q: What are some tips for identifying the complete predicate?
A: The complete predicate includes all words that describe what the subject is doing. Look for verbs plus any modifiers, objects, phrases, or clauses. For example, "The dog barked loudly all night" has the complete predicate "barked loudly all night."