Linking Verbs

Linking Verbs Instructional Video

Linking or Action Verbs Instructional Video

Linking Verbs Song Video

Printable Lyrics

It is important for students to understand that ALL sentences MUST have verbs.   When the verbs tell what the subject IS rather than what the subject DOES, a linking verb is born.  Whether action or linking, the verb ALWAYS begins the predicate.  Identifying the verb within a sentence, and classifying it as action or linking enables students to feel in command of their writing.

Review Video & Follow These Instructional Guidelines

Second Grade

• When reading together, pull sentences out of books and identify the verbs in various sentences.  Discuss whether the verb is action or linking.

1. Extra Engagement: Cut apart “Printable Verb Cards.”  Allow students to use the cards within a  cooperative learning structure or as a partner or independent center activity.  Students will look at the verbs printed on the card to determine if the verb is action or linking.  Hint:  Remind students that if they can do it, it's an action verb.

• Complete grammar sheets “Using Linking Verbs” and “Identifying Linking Verbs.”

1. Extra Engagement: Use the information presented within the sheet to model sentences on a whiteboard or smartboard to create a whole class lesson.  Cut the sheet apart, gluing the related answers from the answer key on the back to use within a cooperative learning structure or as a self-checking center activity.

Third Grade

• Practice differentiating verbs in sentences by completing grammar sheet “Action or Linking?”  

1. Extra Engagement: Use the "Printable Verb Cards” to review.  Allow students to use the cards within a cooperative learning structure or as a partner or independent center activity. Students will look at the verbs printed on the card to determine if the verb is action or linking.  Hint:  Remind students that if they can do it, it's an action verb.

Fourth Grade

• Complete grammar sheet “Action or Linking?”

1. Extra Engagement: Use the “Printable Verb Cards” to review.  Allow students to use the cards within a cooperative learning structure or as a partner or independent center activity. Students will look at the verbs printed on the card to determine if the verb is action or linking.  Hint:  Remind students that if  they can do it, it's an action verb.

Fifth Grade

• Review any previous recommendations as necessary.