The “S" form
Contents
Introduction
The "S" form is the form of a verb that ends with "s" or "ies".Many people who learn English as a second language mistake the "s"form for a plural verb. This is a misconception.A plural verb and a singular verb have the same forms except the present simple tense form that has a third person singular subject.However,it is important to note that the verb "be" has unique characteristics;it has clear singular and plural forms.
| By the end of this unit you should be able to use appropriate forms of verbs with 3rd person singular subjects in the present simple tense. |
As you have read above, the "s"form is not a plural verb.It is a singular verb in the present simple tense. This form is used only with third person singular subjects.Knowing this unique function helps solve the problem of subject-verb agreements.
| Do you remember that the base form is also used to make the present simple tense?
Give five examples of sentences in the present simple tense with verbs in the base form. ................................................................................... ..................................................................................... ........................................................................................ ........................................................................................ .........................................................................................
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Note that the "s"form agrees with only the 3rd person singular subjects and the pronouns which substitute these.
Look at the following examples:
1. Ali walks to school.2. He walks to school everyday.
3.Sheikh writes in his book.4He writes in it everyday.
5.My cat sleeps in the sofa.6.It sleeps in the sofa when there are no visitors.
The words-"Ali","Sheikh",and "My dog",are 3rd persom singular subjects,and they are replaced by the pronouns "He",and "It"in the adjoining sentences.
| Remember this!A verb ending in "s" or "ies" is singular.This form only appears in the present simple tense and goes with the 3rd person singular subjects.Never mistake it for a plural vreb.It is not correct grammar to say "Ali and Sheikh walks to school." |
| For each of these words or group of words used as subjects write five sentences in the present simple tense:Our dog,Michael,Caroline,it,she,he.Here is a pool of verbs to help you-write,sleep,work,cook,play,swim,run. |
| Go to your closest library and read up on Principal parts of verbs.Collins Cobuild Grammar is the recommended text. |
