Printable Simple Predicate Worksheet | Grade 3 ELA

This Grade 3 grammar worksheet provides targeted practice with simple predicates, helping students identify and use main verbs to build complete sentences. By isolating the action word in a sentence, young writers learn how to construct clear, grammatically correct statements.

At a Glance

• Grade: 3 · Subject: ELA
• Standard: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.1.A — Explain the function of verbs in particular sentences
• Skill Focus: Identifying simple predicates
• Format: 4 pages · 22 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Independent practice and grammar review
• Time: 15–20 minutes

This comprehensive four-page resource features 22 distinct tasks broken into four manageable sections. It begins with a clear definition and worked example of a simple predicate. Students then progress through underlining verbs in pre-written sentences, matching subjects to logical predicates, completing sentences using a provided word bank, and finally generating their own original sentences. A complete answer key is included for quick grading.

• Guided practice: The worksheet opens with an instructional box and example, followed by 10 straightforward identification tasks where students simply underline the action verb.
• Supported practice: Next, students tackle 4 matching questions and 5 fill-in-the-blank exercises using a word bank, requiring them to evaluate context and meaning.
• Independent practice: The final section challenges students with 3 open-ended prompts to write their own sentences and identify the simple predicate they used.

This gradual-release approach ensures students build confidence before applying the skill independently.

Aligned to CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.1.A, this resource requires students to explain the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in general and their functions in particular sentences. It also supports broader sentence-building skills by reinforcing the relationship between subjects and predicates. Both standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

This worksheet is highly effective as an independent practice activity following direct instruction on sentence structure. Teachers can assign the first two pages as classwork and reserve the final two pages for homework or a formative assessment. Reviewing the "Create Your Own" section provides excellent formative-assessment observation data on whether students can actively apply grammar rules in their own writing. Expected completion time is 15 to 20 minutes.

Designed primarily for third-grade ELA students, this resource is also appropriate for second graders needing enrichment or fourth graders requiring foundational grammar review. The clear instructions and word banks provide built-in differentiation for English Language Learners. It pairs perfectly with a mini-lesson or anchor chart on action verbs.

Mastering sentence structure requires explicit instruction on the role of verbs within a sentence. Aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.1.A, this resource helps students explain the function of verbs in particular sentences by isolating the simple predicate. According to Fisher & Frey (2014), utilizing a gradual release of responsibility model—moving from identification to independent application—significantly improves student retention of grammar conventions. By breaking down the components of a sentence, educators can reduce cognitive load and help young writers construct more complex, grammatically accurate prose.