M4 Pronouns

If you are about to play our new Pronoun Practice Speed Review Game, you might be wondering how to get the highest score possible. Pronouns are small words, but they are incredibly important in English.

Let's break down the two main concepts you will see in the game so you can play with confidence!

1. The "Singular" Secret of Indefinite Pronouns

Words like everybody, someone, nobody, and everything are called indefinite pronouns. We use them when we aren't talking about one specific, named person or thing.

Here is the most important rule to remember for the game: Treat them as singular!

Even though a word like "everybody" refers to a large group of people, grammar rules say it acts just like the words "he," "she," or "it." Because it is singular, it must be paired with a singular verb.

Examples from the game:

• Everybody is excited for the field trip. (Not are)
• Nobody knows the answer. (Not know)
• Someone has left an umbrella. (Not have)

Whenever you see words ending in -body, -one, or -thing, always look for the singular verb!

2. Identifying Different Types of Pronouns

A pronoun's main job is to replace a noun so we don't have to repeat the exact same words over and over. In the second half of the game, you will need to identify the pronouns in a sentence.

Here are the different types of pronouns you will encounter:

• Subject Pronouns: These do the action in the sentence.
  • Example: "She walked to the library."
• Object Pronouns: These receive the action.
  • Example: "The teacher gave the book to us." or "Please tell him the good news."
• Possessive Pronouns: These show that something belongs to someone.
  • Example: "Is that car yours?" or "Those blue shoes are mine."
• Reflexive Pronouns: We use these when the subject and the object are the exact same person or thing. They always end in -self or -selves.
  • Example: "I bought myself a new shirt." or "The dog hurt itself playing outside."

Ready to Play?

Good luck, have fun, and let's see how fast you can complete the Speed Review!