Essential There Is or There Are Worksheet | Grade 6

This Grade 6 grammar worksheet provides targeted practice for mastering existential sentence structures using "there is" and "there are." Students learn to distinguish between singular and plural subjects in both affirmative and interrogative contexts. By completing these exercises, learners build the foundational syntax required for clear, descriptive writing and accurate verbal communication in standard English.

At a Glance

• Grade: 6 · Subject: ELA Grammar
• Standard: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.6.1 — Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage
• Skill Focus: Existential "There is/There are"
• Format: 1 page · 13 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Quick grammar review or bell-ringer
• Time: 10–15 minutes

The worksheet features 13 fill-in-the-blank problems divided into two distinct sections. The first seven items focus on the affirmative form, requiring students to identify singular and plural nouns to select the correct verb. The final six items transition to the interrogative form, challenging students to structure questions correctly. A helpful visual anchor chart is included at the bottom for student reference.

This resource is designed for a zero-prep workflow. 1. Print the single-page PDF (30 seconds). 2. Distribute to students as a warm-up or independent practice (1 minute). 3. Review the 13 answers as a whole class using the provided key (5 minutes). Total teacher preparation time is under two minutes, making it an ideal emergency sub plan or transition activity.

Aligned to CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.6.1, this worksheet ensures students can demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar. It specifically targets subject-verb agreement within existential clauses. This standard code can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

Use this worksheet during the "You Do" phase of a gradual release lesson on sentence structure. It serves as an excellent formative assessment tool; observe if students struggle more with the interrogative inversion than the affirmative statements. Completion typically takes 10 to 15 minutes, allowing for immediate feedback and correction during the same instructional block.

This resource is perfect for Grade 6 students, English Language Learners (ELL), or older students requiring remedial grammar support. It pairs naturally with a descriptive writing unit or a lesson on subject-verb agreement. The included anchor chart provides necessary scaffolding for students who need a visual reminder of singular versus plural rules.

According to the RAND AIRS 2024 report, targeted grammar practice that isolates specific syntactic structures, such as existential "there" clauses, significantly improves student writing clarity and technical accuracy. This worksheet addresses CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.6.1 by providing 13 structured opportunities for students to apply subject-verb agreement rules in both statement and question formats. Research from Fisher & Frey (2014) emphasizes that short, focused tasks are vital for moving students toward linguistic mastery without cognitive overload. By utilizing a clear affirmative-to-interrogative progression, this resource supports the gradual release of responsibility. Educators can rely on this evidence-based approach to reinforce foundational English conventions. The inclusion of a visual reference chart further aligns with best practices for differentiated instruction, ensuring that all learners can access the curriculum effectively. This standalone practice tool is a reliable addition to any middle school ELA curriculum or intervention program.