Verbs Is And Are Worksheets

Mastering "Is" and "Are": A Comprehensive Guide with Worksheets

Understanding the difference between "is" and "are" is fundamental to mastering English grammar. These verbs, forms of the verb "to be," indicate the state of being and are used extensively in sentences. This comprehensive guide will clarify their usage, provide practical examples, and offer several printable worksheets to solidify your understanding. We'll cover singular vs. plural subjects, exceptions, and common mistakes, equipping you with the tools to confidently use "is" and "are" in your writing and speaking.

Introduction: The Core Difference Between "Is" and "Are"

The core distinction between "is" and "are" lies in the number of the subject of the sentence. "Is" is used with singular subjects – those representing one person, place, thing, or idea. "Are" is used with plural subjects – those representing more than one.

• Singular: The cat is sleeping. The book is on the table. He is happy.

• Plural: The cats are sleeping. The books are on the table. They are happy.

Understanding Singular and Plural Subjects

Identifying whether a subject is singular or plural is crucial for correct verb usage. Here’s a breakdown:

• Countable Nouns: These nouns can be counted (e.g., one apple, two apples). Singular countable nouns take "is," while plural countable nouns take "are."

• Uncountable Nouns: These nouns cannot be counted (e.g., water, sugar, information). Uncountable nouns are always treated as singular and take "is." The water is cold. The information is accurate.

• Pronouns: Pronouns also follow the singular/plural rule:

  • Singular: I, you (singular), he, she, it
  • Plural: We, you (plural), they

• Collective Nouns: These nouns refer to a group (e.g., team, family, class). They can be either singular or plural depending on the context. If the group acts as a single unit, use "is." If the individuals within the group are emphasized, use "are."

  • The team is playing well. (Team acting as a unit)
  • The team are arguing amongst themselves. (Individuals within the team are emphasized)

Common Mistakes and Exceptions

Even native speakers occasionally stumble with "is" and "are." Let's address some common pitfalls:

• Subject-Verb Agreement with Phrases: Pay close attention to the actual subject, not the words that come after it. Phrases starting with "along with," "as well as," "in addition to," and "together with" don't change the number of the subject.

  • The teacher, along with her students, is going on a field trip. (The subject is "teacher," which is singular)

• Compound Subjects Joined by "And": Compound subjects joined by "and" are usually plural and take "are."

  • The dog and the cat are playing together.

• Compound Subjects Joined by "Or" or "Nor": With compound subjects joined by "or" or "nor," the verb agrees with the subject closest to it.

  • Neither the students nor the teacher is responsible. (The subject closest to the verb is "teacher," which is singular)
  • Either the cat or the dogs are making that noise. (The subject closest to the verb is "dogs," which is plural)

Worksheet 1: Identifying Singular and Plural Subjects

Instructions: Circle the correct form of "to be" ("is" or "are") in each sentence.

1. The apples (is/are) ripe.
2. My friend (is/are) coming over later.
3. The books (is/are) on the shelf.
4. The information (is/are) confidential.
5. He (is/are) a talented musician.
6. We (is/are) going to the beach.
7. The class (is/are) well-behaved.
8. The family (is/are) having dinner.
9. It (is/are) a beautiful day.
10. They (is/are) excited about the trip.

Worksheet 2: Creating Sentences with "Is" and "Are"

Instructions: Write a complete sentence using the given subject and the correct form of "to be" ("is" or "are").

1. Subject: The birds – Sentence: ________________________________________
2. Subject: My sister and I – Sentence: ____________________________________
3. Subject: The water – Sentence: ________________________________________
4. Subject: The flowers – Sentence: _______________________________________
5. Subject: The teacher – Sentence: _______________________________________
6. Subject: The clouds – Sentence: _______________________________________
7. Subject: My dog – Sentence: __________________________________________
8. Subject: The children – Sentence: _____________________________________
9. Subject: The news – Sentence: _________________________________________
10. Subject: My parents – Sentence: ______________________________________

Worksheet 3: Correcting Sentences with "Is" and "Are"

Instructions: Correct the sentences below. Explain why the original sentence was incorrect.

1. The team are playing exceptionally well tonight.
2. My brother, along with his friends, is going to the concert.
3. Neither the dog or the cats are barking.
4. The information is very interesting and helpful, but the data are insufficient.
5. Either the parents or the child are responsible for the broken vase.

Worksheet 4: Advanced Sentence Construction with "Is" and "Are"

Instructions: Create complex sentences using "is" and "are" correctly, incorporating at least one subordinate clause (a clause that depends on the main clause for its meaning).

1. Sentence: ____________________________________________________________________
2. Sentence: ____________________________________________________________________
3. Sentence: ____________________________________________________________________
4. Sentence: ____________________________________________________________________
5. Sentence: ____________________________________________________________________

Explanation of Worksheet Answers (Partial)

Worksheet 1:

1. are
2. is
3. are
4. is
5. is
6. are
7. is/are (depending on whether the class acts as a unit or individuals are emphasized)
8. is/are (depending on whether the family acts as a unit or individuals are emphasized)
9. is
10. are

Worksheet 3:

1. Incorrect: "Team" is a collective noun but here, the emphasis is on the individual players, thus "are" is correct. No correction needed.
2. Correct: My brother, along with his friends, is going to the concert. The main subject is "brother," which is singular.
3. Incorrect: "Neither... nor" requires agreement with the closest subject. Corrected: Neither the dog nor the cats are barking.
4. Incorrect: Data is a plural form. Corrected: The information is very interesting and helpful, but the data are insufficient.
5. Incorrect: "Either... or" requires agreement with the closest subject. Corrected: Either the parents or the child is responsible for the broken vase.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Q: What if the subject is a fraction?

  • A: The verb agrees with the noun the fraction modifies. One-third of the apples is rotten. Two-thirds of the apples are rotten.

• Q: What about titles of books or movies?

  • A: Titles are treated as singular. "The Lord of the Rings" is a classic fantasy novel.

• Q: What if the subject is a measurement?

  • A: Measurements are generally treated as singular. Ten kilometers is a long distance.

• Q: What about indefinite pronouns like "everyone," "someone," "nobody"?

  • A: These are always singular and take "is." Everyone is welcome. Someone is knocking on the door.

Conclusion

Mastering the correct usage of "is" and "are" requires understanding subject-verb agreement and paying close attention to the number of the subject. While there are exceptions and nuances, the core principle remains consistent: singular subjects take "is," and plural subjects take "are." By practicing with the provided worksheets and reviewing the explanations, you can significantly improve your grammatical accuracy and confidence in using these essential verbs. Remember to consistently review and practice to solidify your understanding. Consistent practice is key to mastering any grammatical concept!