Simple Subjects and Verbs

A Simple Subject A simple subject is the most important word in the complete subject. It is a noun or a pronoun. To find the simple subject, place the words “who?” or “what?” before the verb. The answer is the simply subject of the sentence.

A Simple Subject Examples: Shirley has a big dog. Ken knows the answer to the question. That coat looks expensive. Hint: Find the action word in the sentence and place “who?” or “what?” in front of the verb. Who?/What? + has = simple subject Who?/What? + knows = simple subject Who?/What? + looks = simple subject

A Simple Predicate A simple predicate is the verb in the sentence. It is the most important word in the complete predicate. The simple predicate (the verb) tells what the subject is doing. It is the action or “do” word in the sentence.

A Simple Predicate Find the action word or “do” in the following sentences and then ask “who?” or “what?” to find the subject. Jane bought a new car. I heard a cry of a wolf in the woods. Mary telephoned her mother last night. Jim painted his house last summer.