sentence patterns

The basic order of words within a sentences

The subject shows who or what a sentence is about.

For example: My pet cat sleeps all day long.

In English, every sentence needs a subject and verb. A sentence also requires a complete thought. See clauses for more information.

To help you find the subject, ask these questions:

1. What word or phrase explains the entire sentence?

2. What did the subject do? (This will also help you find the verb.)

The verb shows the subject's action.

For example: My pet cat sleeps all day long.