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
- 1
Read the sentence strip with the child: "Sam kicks the ball."
- 2
Ask, "What is the action?" The child answers "kicks." Cut out "kicks" and place it on the red circle.
- 3
Ask, "Who kicks?" The child answers "Sam." Cut out "Sam" and place it on the subject circle.
- 4
Ask, "Sam kicks what?" The child answers "the ball." Place it on the direct object circle.
- 5
Read the pieces back in order to rebuild the sentence.
- 6
Invite the child to analyze a new sentence with you asking the questions.
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.