Identify linking verbs

Learning Objectives Define a linking verb in their own words. Identify the most common linking verbs (is, am, are, was, were) in sentences. Differentiate between a linking verb and an action verb. Locate the linking verb in a sentence that uses a comparative adjective. Locate the linking verb in a sentence that uses a superlative adjective. Explain that a linking verb connects the subject to a word that describes it. Create sentences using a linking verb and a comparative or superlative adjective. How do we connect a person or thing to a word that describes it, like saying a puppy *is* cute? 🤔 Let's find out! Today, we will learn about special 'connector' words called linking verbs. These verbs don't show action; they link the subject of a sentence to...

TermDefinitionExample Linking VerbA word that connects the subject of a sentence to a word that describes it. It does not show action.In the sentence "The sky *is* blue," the word "is" is the linking verb. SubjectWho or what the sentence is about.In "The *dog* is happy," the subject is "dog." AdjectiveA word that describes a noun (a person, place, or thing).The *big* red ball. Comparative AdjectiveAn adjective used to compare two things. It often ends in "-er" or uses the word "more."My bike is *faster* than your bike. Superlative AdjectiveAn adjective used to compare three or more things. It often ends in "-est" or uses the word "most."This is the *biggest* pumpkin in the patch. Action VerbA word that shows w...

The 'Equals Sign' Test A linking verb works like an equals sign (=). Try replacing the verb with an equals sign. If the sentence still makes sense (Subject = Describing Word), it's a linking verb. For example, "The apple is red" becomes "The apple = red." This makes sense! The No Action Rule Linking verbs do not show action. Ask yourself, "Is the subject *doing* an action?" In "He *is* tall," he isn't doing anything. But in "He *jumps* high," he is doing an action. So, "is" is a linking verb and "jumps" is an action verb. The Common Linking Verbs List The most common linking verbs are forms of the verb "to be." Look for these words first: is, am, are, was, were. If you...