Most sentences say the subject first, and then some don't. Here is how to find it when it's hiding behind the verb.
Not started yet.
Students will find the simple subject of a sentence even when it comes after the verb, in inverted declarative sentences, in questions, and in sentences that begin with here or there, and will know that the subject of a command is you.
Most sentences put the subject before the verb, which is natural order. In inverted order the subject follows all or part of the predicate. The subject is still the one word the sentence is about, it has just moved behind the verb.
Two ways in: turn the sentence back into natural order, or find the verb first and ask who or what did it. Here and there are never the subject. In a command the subject is you, and it is understood because it isn't written.
Choosing here or there as the subject because it is the first word, or choosing the noun that sits right in front of the verb. In At the end of the dock sits an old green canoe, dock is the noun beside the verb and it only says where. Ask who or what does the sitting.
Have the student say each sentence back in natural order out loud. If turning it around sounds wrong, switch to the second way: find the verb, then ask who or what did it.
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Before You Start
The words this lesson uses. Tap a card to see what it means, then come back to them whenever a question uses one.
Part One
Questions about the story you just read. Pick your answer straight off, or press Find it in the story if you would rather hunt for the sentence first.
Part Two
The word cards are at the top of this page. Look back at them as often as you need, then answer.