Grammar Unit 1: Lesson 4.

2
Making Collective Nouns Agree with Verbs

Rules:

1. If a collective noun is singular, all members singular of the collective unit are doing the SAME thing, and there needs to be an S added to the end of the verb.

2. If a collective noun is plural, all members of plural the collective unit are doing DIFFERENT things, or acting as individuals. individuals

Guided Practice
Underline the collective noun in each sentence. Above the noun, write P (plural) or S (singular). Then circle the correct verb.

1. The mob (was, were) gathered outside of the capitol building. 2. The Senate (takes, take) a break for coffee every day at 11 am. 3. The cast of actors (leaves, leave) the stage together. 4. The couple (drives, drive) to work separately. 5. The herd of cows (walks, walk) back to the barn.

Guided Practice
Check your answers
1. The mob (was, were) gathered outside of the capitol building. 2. The Senate (takes, take) a break for coffee every day at 11 am. 3. The cast of actors (leaves, leave) the stage individually. 4. The couple (drives, drive) to work separately. 5. The herd of cows (walks, walk) back to the barn.

Testing Your Knowledge

1. When is a collective noun singular?
AN: when all members of the collective unit are doing the same thing

2. What type of verb does a singular collective noun require?

AN: singular

3. How do you make a verb singular?

AN: add an S to the end

4. When is a collective noun plural?

AN: when members of the collective unit are acting as individuals or doing different things.