Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement in the Present Simple for ELLs

Mastering Subject-Verb Agreement in the Present Simple for ELLs

As a non-native English speaker (ELL), learning subject-verb agreement is a fundamental skill that helps you correctly express ideas in the present simple tense. In this article, we'll explore verb forms, practice exercises, and rules to help you strengthen your understanding and confidence in this vital area of language use.

Verb Forms

The present simple tense is formed by using the base form of the verb (no -ing, -ed, or other ending) followed by the third person singular verb ending (-s for third person singular subjects or not adding an -s for all others).

• I eat.
• You eat.
• We eat.
• They eat.
• He/She/It eats.

Practice Exercises

1. Choose a topic (e.g., daily activities, hobbies, or favorite foods). Write a list of ten sentences using the present simple tense with different subjects and verbs.

   a) I read a book every day. b) She studies English two hours a day. c) We play soccer every weekend. d) They help each other with schoolwork. e) He likes to play video games. f) You go to the gym three times a week. g) We watch our favorite TV show together. h) They volunteer at the local library. i) She practices playing the piano daily. j) You cook dinner with your family.

2. Write five sentences with subject-verb agreement errors. Correct them and rewrite the sentences.

   Incorrect: I walks my dog every morning. Correct: I walk my dog every morning.

Rules

1. The verb agrees with the subject in terms of person and number.

2. The present simple tense is used for:

   • Habitual and routine actions: I eat breakfast every morning.
   • General truths: Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
   • Specific facts or information: The capital of Canada is Ottawa.

3. Avoid common mistakes:

   • Using -s or not (-s) incorrectly: I helps my friend study for the test.
   • Incorrect use of irregular verbs: I eats a sandwich every lunch.

4. Remember that present simple tense doesn't use auxiliary verbs like "do" or "be" followed by the base verb.

Examples

Here are some examples of correct subject-verb agreement in the present simple tense:

• She reads a book every night.
• We play soccer every weekend.
• They watch their favorite TV show together.
• You cook dinner with your family.
• She practices playing the piano daily.

By understanding and practicing the concepts discussed, you'll strengthen your ability to use the present simple tense with confidence and accuracy, helping you communicate more effectively in English as an ELL.