LA 8.04Simple Sentence Analysis
The child finds the action (verb), who does it (subject), and what receives it (direct object) in simple sentences using the question method.
Presentation
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Read the sentence strip with the child: "Sam kicks the ball."
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Ask, "What is the action?" The child answers "kicks." Cut out "kicks" and place it on the red circle.
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Ask, "Who kicks?" The child answers "Sam." Cut out "Sam" and place it on the subject circle.
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Ask, "Sam kicks what?" The child answers "the ball." Place it on the direct object circle.
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Read the pieces back in order to rebuild the sentence.
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Invite the child to analyze a new sentence with you asking the questions.
What catches the child’s eye
- Cutting the sentence strip apart with scissors
- The cut-out words placed on red and black circles
Extensions, easiest to hardest
- The child asks the questions without the adult
- Sentences with an adjective added ("Sam kicks the red ball.")
- Analyzing sentences the child has written
Control of error
Rebuilding and rereading the sentence shows whether it still makes sense; the adult checks.
Ready to move on when the child…
- Finds the verb and subject in a simple sentence
- Finds the direct object when there is one
Guide note
This is an introduction; full sentence analysis continues in the elementary classroom. Present only to children who read sentences with ease.