Essential Simple Present Tense: Adding -s and -es Worksheet

This Grade 2 grammar worksheet provides focused practice on adding -s and -es to verbs in the simple present tense. Students master the critical mechanics of third-person singular subject-verb agreement through structured exercises. By identifying verb endings and applying specific spelling rules, learners build the foundational accuracy required for clear, conventional writing.

At a Glance

• Grade: 2 · Subject: English Language Arts
• Standard: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.1.1.C — Use singular and plural nouns with matching verbs in basic sentences
• Skill Focus: Simple Present Tense Verb Endings (-s vs -es)
• Format: 2 pages · 14 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Daily grammar warm-ups or independent practice
• Time: 15–20 minutes

What's Inside

The two-page PDF includes a rule-based reference box and two distinct activity sets. Page one features a "Remember" box defining when to add -s or -es, followed by 8 isolation practice verbs. Page two transitions to context-based practice with 6 complete-the-sentence tasks. A full answer key is provided for efficient grading and immediate student feedback.

Zero-Prep Workflow

This resource is designed for a three-step immediate implementation. First, print the double-sided worksheet (1 minute). Second, distribute it for a quick review of the "Remember" rule box (2 minutes). Third, allow students to work through the 14 total tasks, then review the answers together (15 minutes). It is a perfect choice for sub plans or morning work.

Standards Alignment

The primary focus is `CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.1.1.C`, which requires students to use matching verbs with singular and plural nouns. This worksheet specifically targets the singular third-person forms that often challenge early writers. The instructions and exercises also support broader conventions of standard English grammar. This standard code can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

How to Use It

Assign this worksheet during the independent practice portion of a grammar lesson on tenses. It works best after a direct instruction session where the teacher models the -s vs -es rules on a whiteboard. For a formative assessment observation, watch for students who correctly identify the "sh" or "ch" endings but forget the "e" before the "s." Expected completion time is approximately 20 minutes.

Who It's For

This resource is ideal for Grade 2 students or Grade 1 learners ready for advanced verb mechanics. It provides necessary scaffolding through the "Remember" box for English Language Learners and students requiring IEP accommodations. Pair this with a simple present tense anchor chart or a short reading passage to see the verbs used in a larger narrative context.

Aligned to the `CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.1.1.C` standard, this worksheet facilitates the mastery of subject-verb agreement by focusing on the morphological changes of verbs in the simple present tense. Research by Fisher & Frey (2014) emphasizes the importance of the gradual release of responsibility, which this worksheet supports by moving from isolated word practice to sentence-level application. By explicitly teaching the -s and -es spelling rules, educators help students move beyond phonemic approximations to conventional spelling accuracy. This focused practice is essential for developing the automaticity required for fluent writing and effective communication. The inclusion of clear rules and contextual examples ensures that students can independently apply these grammatical conventions, leading to measurable growth in language proficiency. This standard code can be copied directly into lesson plans or curriculum mapping tools.