In the sentences below, underline the complete predicates.
Then enclose the simple subjects and simple predicates in brackets,
like this:
[Sue] [did call] yesterday.
1. The family was having coffee.
2. The family was content.
3. Without warning, John entered the room.
4. John made an announcement.
5. The vases are gone.
6. The family became furious.
7. Mr. Morton had struck again.
8. Mr. Morton had some nerve.
9. Someday that man will regret his actions.
10. Mr. Morton’s reputation has been damaged by these
allegations.
11. Everywhere people are hiding their vases.
The Indispensables: Nouns and Verbs | 15
12. Mr. Morton seems a little strange.
2b. Now, in the sentences that you just examined, identify action
verbs (with A) and linking verbs (with L), as in this example:
[Sue] [did call] yesterday. (A)
2c. Finally, identify the auxiliary verbs and the main verb in each
sentence you’ve examined. Remember, if there’s only one verb, it
must be the main verb.
