Verb Phrases as Simple Predicates | Grade 3 Printable

This focused grammar worksheet helps third-grade students master verb phrases as simple predicates. By identifying helping and main verbs, learners build a strong foundation in sentence structure. The structured exercises guide students from recognizing verb phrases to actively applying them in context, ensuring clear and complete sentence writing.

At a Glance

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

This comprehensive resource features a clear introductory explanation with examples, followed by two distinct practice sections. Part one requires students to underline the complete verb phrase acting as the simple predicate in ten sentences. Part two provides a helpful word bank, prompting learners to select the correct helping verb to complete five additional sentences. A full answer key is provided for quick and accurate grading.

• Guided practice: The worksheet opens with a clear definition and three highlighted examples showing how auxiliary and main verbs work together.
• Supported practice: Students underline the complete verb phrase in ten pre-written sentences, isolating the simple predicate.
• Independent practice: Learners use a word bank to select appropriate helping verbs, completing five sentences on their own.

This gradual-release approach ensures students confidently grasp the I Do, We Do, You Do methodology.

This resource is strictly aligned to CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.1.A, requiring students to explain the function of nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs in general and their functions in particular sentences. By focusing specifically on verb phrases, it reinforces the core mechanics of sentence construction. Both standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

Deploy this worksheet immediately following direct instruction on helping and main verbs. It serves as an excellent independent practice activity while the teacher pulls small groups for targeted support. As a formative assessment tip, monitor students during Part 1 to ensure they are underlining both the auxiliary and main verbs, rather than just the action word. Expect students to complete the tasks in 15 to 20 minutes.

This printable is designed for third-grade general education students, but it also provides excellent scaffolding for English Language Learners and students needing grammar intervention. The clear examples and word bank offer built-in differentiation for those who struggle with sentence structure. Pair this worksheet with a classroom anchor chart detailing common helping verbs for maximum instructional impact.

Mastering sentence structure is a critical component of early elementary literacy. This resource aligns with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.3.1.A, helping students explain the function of verbs in sentences. According to Fisher & Frey (2014), providing explicit instruction combined with structured, gradual-release practice significantly improves students' ability to internalize grammar rules and apply them to their own writing. By isolating verb phrases as simple predicates, this worksheet reduces cognitive load and allows learners to focus entirely on the relationship between auxiliary and main verbs. The inclusion of both identification tasks and application exercises ensures a deeper conceptual understanding. Educators can rely on this targeted practice to build the foundational grammar skills necessary for reading comprehension and effective written communication across all subject areas.