THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION TEST 1 … · Write down all the adverbs in the sentence below. ... 3 Write the correct form of the underlined verb in the sentence below

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION - TEST 1

1. Write down all the adverbs in the sentence below.

Quietly the cat followed the mouse and then suddenly pounced on it. 2 marks

2. Choose one word to complete the sentence below.

Please wait here ....... the doctor calls you.

(a) during (b) until (c) between (d) while 1 mark

3. Choose the mostly likely punctuation mark to end the second sentence.

That’s dangerous. Stop it immediately

(a) a full stop (b) a question mark (c) an exclamation mark 1 mark

4. What punctuation mark do we use to separate the items in a list?

(a) full stop (b) comma (c) question mark (d) exclamation mark 1 mark

5. The sentences below each have an error. The errors are underlined. Write the correction in the space after each sentence. (a) I’m sorry, but I don’t knew the answer. ______________ 1 mark (b) Yesterday we are taking the train to Margate. ______________ 1 mark (c) If I’d had more time, I would help you. ___________________ 1 mark

6. In the sentences below, choose whether (a) or (b) is the subordinate clause.

1. Although it was raining heavily, we played the match. 1 mark (a) (b)

2. We had dinner before we went to the cinema. 1 mark (a) (b)

7. Complete these sentences by choosing either I or me.

(a) Jon and ____ are going to Florida at Easter. 1 mark (b) The teacher asked _____ to take the register to the office. 1 mark (c) Between you and _____, I wouldn’t go there. 1 mark (d) Sit down and listen to ______. 1 mark

8. Add a prefix to make each underlined word its opposite in meaning.

(a) I’m really sorry, but I have to agree with you this time. 1 mark (b) Nothing’s possible if you try hard enough. 1 mark (c) Stealing is legal. 1 mark (d) That beautiful vase is replaceable. 1 mark

9. Complete this sentence with a contraction that makes sense. Dad tried his best but he _________ repair my bicycle. 1 mark

10. Rewrite the sentence below in the passive voice. Begin with the underlined words. Frank Lampard took the penalty for Chelsea. 1 mark Challenge question! Explain why a semi-colon has been used in the sentence below. It rained very heavily; we were all soaked to the skin. 2 marks


1. In the sentence below, after which two words should a comma be placed.

My dog a black and white terrier is called Buster. 1 mark (a) dog (b) black (c) terrier (d) called 2. In the sentence below, where should an apostrophe be used? Im sad to have to tell you that the dog has broken its leg. 1 mark 3 Write the correct form of the underlined verb in the sentence below. Hans is learning English for two years now. 1 mark 4 Write a short question beginning with the words below. How often………. ? 1 mark

5. Write the letter S, Q or C most appropriate to describe these sentences. (a) Sit down and stop talking! 1 mark (b) Madrid is the capital city of Spain. 1 mark (c) Do you think we’ll get there on time? 1 mark 6. The sentence below is in direct speech. Rewrite the sentence in indirect speech. Begin with the words given. “Don’t do that,” I told him. I told him…………………………………. 1 mark 7. Identify whether the nouns below are (a) common (b) proper (c) abstract (d) collective 1. We saw a troupe of monkeys swing through the trees. 1 mark 2. The capital city of Wales is Cardiff. 1 mark 3. Stand back and give him some air to breathe. 1 mark 4. Isaac showed great intelligence in solving the problem. 1 mark

8. Identify both adjectives in the sentence below. Puzzled, Sherlock Holmes stood beside the lifeless body. 2 marks 9. Complete these sentences by adding an appropriate suffix to each underlined word.

(a) Many people say laugh….. is the best medicine. 1 mark (b) Unbelievable? It’s incred…… ! 1 mark

10. In each sentence below, which two words should be hyphenated?

(a) We can’t drive down that one way street. 1 mark (b) Going to Japan was a last minute decision. 1 mark

Bonus questions!

11. Suggest a synonym for each of the underlined words.

(a) We’ll have to lock him away. He’s totally deranged. 1 mark (b) The wart-nosed witch was really repulsive. 1 mark (c) You’ll need a microscope. The bacteria are minute. 1 mark

12. Explain why brackets are used in the sentence below. Sally (twin-sister of Suzie) is getting married in July. 1 mark 13. Suggest the correct word to complete the sentence. To ……. shall I give this book? (who, whom, which, that) 1 mark 14. Explain why a colon is appropriate in the sentence below. I have only one question to ask: what do we do now? 1 mark 15. Rewrite the sentence below in the passive voice. Then didn’t build Rome in a day. 1 mark


You may be asked questions like these in SATS. Make sure you understand why the correct answer is correct. 1. Say if each of these sentences is a

(a) Statement (b) Command (c) Question#

1. Stop that immediately! 2. It’s raining quite heavily now. 3. Do you understand the question? 3 marks

2. Complete these sentences with I or me.

1. Help _____ move these books, please. 2. Amy and _____ are going to the cinema tonight. 3. They’ll give the prize to either you or I. 3 marks

3. In these sentences suggest a contraction for each blank space.

Contractions: don’t = do not doesn’t = does not didn’t = did not won’t = will not can’t = cannot haven’t = have not 1. I _________ had my dinner yet, have you? 2. Adam _________ really understand the question. 3. The bus ________ be here on time, will it? 3 marks

4. An ADJECTIVE is a DESCRIBING word. Suggest better adjectives than the boring adjectives in italics.

1. This trifle is nice. Can I have some more, please? 2. “I love you madly,” said Romeo in Juliet’s ear. 3. Don’t go near that stray dog. I think it could be nasty. 3 marks

5. Use the correct TENSE - past, present, future.

These sentences each have an underlined error. Can you spot the error and correct it?

1. Last Sunday Sally buys a new dress for the disco. 2. Tomorrow morning we caught the train for Margate. 3. Hans is learning English for three years now. 3 marks

6. Add a PREFIX to the word in italics to make the sentence make sense.

1. The children were very happy when the teacher gave extra homework. 2. That clock is weird. Its hands are going round clockwise. 3. Don’t you dare obey me. You naughty Labrador! 3 marks

7. An ADVERB adds information to a verb. It tells us HOW something was done. Pick out the adverbs in these sentences.

1. Carefully, Sherlock Holmes examined the body. 2. Suzie plays the piano very well. 3. My cat can run as fast as a cheetah! 3 marks

8. NOUNS are NAMING words. Common - Proper - Abstract - Collective. What kind of nouns are the nouns in italics.

1. We watched a family of dolphins swimming the bay. 2. Put everything on that table over there, please. 3. The soldier showed great courage during the battle. 4. I’m reading The Hobbit at the moment. 4 marks

9. Change from ACTIVE to PASSIVE Example: The cat ate the mouse. (active) The mouse was eaten by the cat. (passive)

1. Eva will sing the next song. 2. Joel answered all the questions correctly. 3. Our teacher is teaching us grammar. 3 marks

10. SPOT ONE MISTAKE IN EACH LINE OF THE STORY ONLY A DREAM In the middle of the night, Mummy herd little Johnny crying, so she jumped out of her bed and ran to his room. Little Johnny was sitting up in his bed rubing his eyes and cryng. “Why are you crying, littel Johnny”? she asked. “Oh, mummy,” sed little Johnny, “I was dreaming. I dreamed you gave me away to a very rich cuple – millionaires! They adopted me and gave me everything in the world what I asked for.” “Oh, little Johnny,” said mummy. “We would never give you away. Were going to keep you forever. And dont forget. It was only a dream.” Little Johnny looked at mummy and said: “Yes, mummy, I no it was only a dream. And thats why I was crying.” 12 marks


1. ‘oliver twist was written by charles dickens.’

(a) Which four words in the sentence above should start with a capital letter?

___________ ____________ ____________ ____________ 2 marks

(b) What is the correct name for these kinds of nouns? ___________ nouns 1 mark

(c) Is the sentence written in the active or passive voice? ___________ voice 1 mark 2. An exclamation mark is often used to (a) end a statement (b) indicate a question (c) add emphasis (d) none of these 1 mark

3. Complete the sentence below with appropriate connectives.

(a) We missed the train _________ we ran all the way to the station. 1 mark

(b) We missed the train _________ running all the way to the station. 1 mark 4. Which pair of pronouns best complete this sentence?

After ____ finished playing, Dad took ____ home in the car.

(a) I/we (b) we/us (c) us/we (d) I/we 1 mark

5. Which two sentences use the correct form of the plural? (a) The dog chased both sheeps into the farmyard. (b) Our cat loves hunting for mice. (c) Mum bought two loaves of fresh bread at the bakers. (d) It’s time to put both babys to bed. 2 marks 6. Look at the sentence below. Then explain why two commas have been used.

Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Arsenal have reached the semi-finals.

_______________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________

1 mark

7. You are looking over your work and you decide to replace the word ‘ran’ in the sentence below. Write a more suitable word in the space below. The dog grabbed the juicy bone and ran off with it. 1 mark 8. Complete the sentence below in your own words. How often __________________________________________ ? 1 mark 9. Look at the example: happy - unhappy Add a prefix to the word below to turn each word into its opposite meaning.

(a) ____possible (b) ____equal (c) _____correct 1 mark each

10. Add a subordinate clause in the space between the commas.

The 2012 Olympics, , were a huge success. 1 mark Challenging questions! 11. Choose the correct form to complete the sentence. Between _____________, I wouldn’t like to be in his shoes.

(a) ourselfs (b) our selves (c) ours elfs (d) ourselves 1 mark

12. Add both a prefix and a suffix to the word happy to create an abstract noun. 1 mark

13. Identify the common, proper, abstract and collective nouns in the sentence below. There was great excitement amongst the crowd when Gerard scored the winning goal. 2 marks

14. Name the adverb in this sentence: I hope we all do well in SATS! 1 mark

15. The teacher’s book is on the desk. Does the apostrophe in the sentence above contain an apostrophe of omission on an apostrophe of possession? 1 mark


1. Choose the appropriate connectives to complete the sentences below.

.............. it started to rain, we continued playing the match. We stopped, .............,

.............. lightning started to flash across the sky. (a) as soon as (b) although (c) however 1 mark

2. Change the underlined nouns to the plural form.

(a) I saw the wolf in the forest. (b) I can see the child over there.

(c) Don’t touch the tomato. (d) Please peel the potato for me. 2 marks 3. Place the commas in the correct places in these sentences. (a) Please answer the phone for me Sally. 1 mark (b) I’d like chips an egg sausages but no peas. 1 mark (c) Fortunately Liverpool scored in the last minute and won the match. 1 mark (d) It’s rather chilly today isn’t it? 1 mark 4. You are looking over your work and you decide to replace the word ‘yummy’ in the sentence: The cupcakes were absolutely yummy. ______________ 1 mark 5. Underline the subordinate clauses in these sentences. (a) I’ve lost the book you wanted to borrow from me. 1 mark (b) Because Jon felt so ill, he stayed at home for the day. 1 mark (c) No one knows whom to blame for disaster. 1 mark (d) My cat, who is ten years old now, can still catch mice. 1 mark 6. What kind of nouns are used in the sentence below: common - proper - collective - abstract? 2 marks

Miss Smith always told the class that a little knowledge is a dangerous thing.

7. Insert the missing inverted commas in the sentences below. (a) Please sit down he told the children. 1 mark (b) The nurse said, I’m going to take your temperature. 1 mark (c) I’m not sure, said David, but I think I know the answer. 1 mark (d) May I go now? asked Suzan. 1 mark

8. Which word is furthest in meaning to ‘sensible’ in the sentence below? I think you’ve made a very sensible decision.

(a) foolish (b) wise (c) reasonable (d) sound 1 mark

9. Choose the correct form of the verb to complete the sentence below. Both children ______ absent from school yesterday.

(a) was (b) are (c) is (d) were 1 mark

10. Chance the sentence below from a command to a polite request. Get my coat now! 1 mark

Chal leng ing ques t ions ! 11. Complete this sentence correctly. Please give the money to ………… it belongs.

(a) whomever (b) whoever 1 mark 12. Underline the subject of the sentence below. ‘Singing in the Rain’ is one my favourite movies. 1 mark 13. Underline the error in the sentence below.

Let’s share the money between you and I. 1 mark 14. Underline all the adverbs in the sentence below. Bravely, our troops fought as hard as they could, and eventually triumphed even better than expected. 2 marks 15. Which of these sentences is grammatically correct? (a) None of the children is here. (b) None of the children are here. 1 mark


1. Write down both adverbs that appear in the sentence blow.

Amy played the piano quickly but well. 1 mark

2. Identify the connective in the sentence below.

Since it had snowed during the night we were able to go skiing. 1 mark (a) Since (b) during (c) were (d) skiing

3. Rewrite the sentence below in the active voice.

Both goals were scored by Messi during extra time. 1 mark

4. In the sentence below, after which word should a comma appear?

However hard we tried we just couldn’t get the door to open. 1 mark

5. In the sentence below which verb is in the wrong tense?

It was a lovely day so we went to the park and have a picnic. 1 mark

6. How many words in the sentence below require a capital letter?

we visited the eiffel tower in paris during out trip to france. 1 mark

7. The word sweet has more than one meaning. Write two sentences that show two different meanings. 1 mark 8. Rewrite the sentence below using two contractions. I do not like garlic so I will not eat it. 2 marks 9. Correct the grammar in the sentence below. We shared the sweets between ourself. 1 mark 10. Identify and write down all the prepositions in the sentence below. Please put it on the desk, under the desk or even in the desk. 1 mark

Challenging questions! 11. Insert a comma and a semi-colon in the sentence below to clarify its meaning. Ian enjoys apples oranges and pears I prefer bananas. 1 mark 12. Add a subordinate clause that makes sense to the sentence below. You should also add the necessary punctuation. 1 mark This book is really great. 2 marks 13. Add both a prefix and a suffix to the root below to complete the sentence. One thing I really don’t like is kind. 2 marks 14. Indicate whether these sentences are Simple (S), Compound (Com) or Complex (Comp).

(a) If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again! 1 mark (b) Jack and Jill went up the hill to fetch a pail of water. 1 mark (c) Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall. 1 mark

15. Identify the figures of speech used in the sentences below alliteration - simile - metaphor - personification - onomatopoeia

(a) The wind battered the window like a hammer battering a nail. 1 mark

(b) Ding dong merrily on high – In heaven the bells are ringing. 1 mark

(c) The Moon was a bright, gold coin in the dark sky. 1 mark

(d) Five flags fluttered and flapped in the breeze. 1 mark

(e) The telephone screamed, “Will someone please answer me?” 1 mark


1. Circle all the adverbs in the sentence below.

I carefully and quietly closed the door behind me. 1 mark

2. Circle one word to complete the sentence below.

Bill and Ben played cards _______ waiting for their dinner.

(a) which (b) while (c) during (d) between 1 mark

3. Complete each sentence with the most likely punctuation.

Choose from . ? ! (a) Stop or I will shoot (b) It was snowing yesterday (c) Do you think it will snow today 1 mark

4. The sentences below each have an error. The errors are underlined. Write the correction, making sure the verb matches the tense.

(a) Yesterday Humpty Dumpty fall of a wall. __________ (b) We had roast chicken and chips every Sunday. __________ (c) The children play in the park at the moment. __________ 1 mark

5. Put the teacher’s words into direct speech. Be careful with the punctuation. The teacher politely told the children to close their books. ____________________________________________ 2 marks 6. Look at this sentence. Amy invited Eva, Sam, Sally and Joe to her birthday party.

(a) What is the name of the punctuation mark used after Eva and Sam? ___________ 1 mark

(b) Why is this punctuation mark needed in the sentence? ___________________________________________ 1 mark

7. Complete the sentences below using either I or me. (a) Please turn on the TV for ______. (b) Neither you nor ______ know the answer. (c) Let’s keep this a secret between you and _____. (d) Trust _____. I know what I’m doing. 2 marks

8. Write out this sentence putting in all the punctuation that’s needed. Come here said Miss Jones and wait quietly. 1 mark

9. Complete the sentence below with a contraction that makes sense. If I were you, I ___________ touch that cable. It might be live! 1 mark 10. Add a suffix to the underlined word to make it an adjective. I think you’re making a dread_____ mistake. 1 mark

11. Add a prefix to the underlined word to make the opposite meaning. Don’t be so ___happy. Everything’s going to be all right. 1 mark

12. Underline the subordinate clause in each sentence below.

(a) Although we tried our hardest, we didn’t quite make it. (b) Do you know to whom this book belongs? (c) After drinking his hot chocolate, Sam went off to bed. (d) Mum asked Dad to turn up the heating because it got quite cold. (e) We turned on the alarm before leaving for the cinema. 2 marks

Level 6

1. Rewrite these sentences, changing them from the active to the passive voice.

(a) Charles Dickens wrote ‘Oliver Twist’. (b) Nobody gave the correct answers. 2 marks 2. Add a subordinate clause to each of the following sentences. (a) Ben’s Auntie Susan lives in Dover. (b) We walked, _______________, all the way to the park. 2 marks

3. Insert a comma and a semi-colon to clarify the meaning of this sentence. I’m going to have chicken chips and peas you can have whatever you want. 1 mark 4. Label each of the underlined nouns below as common, proper, abstract or collective.

As we pulled out of Dover, there was great excitement as the children watched a school of dolphins frolic around the ferry. 2 marks

5. Underline the adjectives in the sentence below which should be hyphenated? That cross eyed baboon is really vicious and bad-tempered. 2 marks

6. Add a prefix to the underlined words in these sentences so that they make sense.

(a) Susan’s cupcakes are quite resist. (b) Billy couldn’t hide his happiness when he failed miserably (c) Moving a pawn backwards is legitimate in chess. (d) That watch must be faulty. The second hand is going clockwise!

2 marks 7. Explain why a colon has been used in the sentence below. There’s only one thing I have to say to you: Drop dead! 1 mark 8. Add the word that completes the sentence below correctly. After _________ had my dinner, I watched TV for while. 1 mark

9. Hyphenate the adjective where required in the sentence below. You can’t drive down that narrow road; anyway, it’s a one way street. 1 mark

10. Write one sentence indicating the correct use of the dash - . 1 mark

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION - TEST 8 1 mark for each correct answer 1. Where should the commas be placed in the following sentences?

(a) Haggis when prepared properly is very tasty.

(b) Adam the son of John and Sally has passed his driving test.

(c) I was born and raised in Edinburgh the capital city of Scotland.

(d) Scrooge was a cruel cold-hearted miser until the ghosts visited him.

(e) Having finished the mini-marathon I was ready for a hot bath.

2. Go back to Question 1. Which three sentences contain a subordinate clause?

3. Where are capital letters required in the following sentences?

(a) we’re going to france in august.

(b) i love learning french and so does my brother leo.

(c) the tower of london is an exciting place to visit.

4. Change the following sentences from the active to the passive.

(a) That dog has just bit me.

(b) The police will eventually catch the thief.

(c) Most pupils made a couple of mistakes in the test.

(d) The news shocked us.

(e) Who might have taken the money?

5. Change the following direct speech to indirect speech. The first one is done for you.

(a) “He’ll be here tomorrow.” She told me he would be here next day.

(b) “I don’t understand the question.” He said he ___________ the question.

(c) “Open that window!” He told me ___________ that window.

(d) “I haven’t done my homework.” Sally said she ____________ her homework.

(e) “Eve didn’t say that at all.” Adam said that Eve ____________ that at all.

6. Replace the underlined words with personal pronouns. Then first one is done for you.

(a) Ben is over there. Give the book to Ben. He is over there. Give it to him.

(b) The girls gave apples to Miss Smith. _____ gave _____ to _____.

(c) My brother and I both like Heavy Metal music. _____ both like _____.

(d) Actually, the pupils quite enjoy grammar. Actually, ______ quite enjoy ____.

7. Add prepositions in the blank spaces to complete the Squirrel’s Tale.

Squirrel Nutty ran _____ the oak tree and shook _____ a pawful

_____ delicious acorns. Then he scrambled _____ the tree, gathered

_____ the nuts and found a place to bury them. He dug a hole

_____ his sharp claws and buried the nuts _____ a rose bush that

was blooming _____ a hundred red roses.

Unfortunately, when Squirrel Nutty returned _____ the winter, he couldn’t

find the bush; all the roses had withered and fallen, so every bush looked

exactly the same as every other bush. What do you suggest he should do?

8. Complete each of these sentences so that they make good sense.

(a) How long have you .........................................................?

(b) How well does .................................................................?

(c) How much money ...........................................................?

(d) How often do the children .............................................?

(e) How long has David ........................................................?

9. Complete these sentences with there, they’re or their.

(a) Tell the children to put _______ jackets over ________.

(b) Are you looking for the cakes? ________ over _______.

(c) Were ________ many people at the game? Yes. ________ were.

(d) _________ not coming tonight. __________ car has broken down.

10. Use a prefix or a suffix or both to complete these sentences.

(a) That’s not legal. In fact, it’s down right _____________ .

(b) Max isn’t sane. In fact, he’s clearly suffering from __________.

(c) The therapy I recommend for you is called ________therapy.

(d) Boy______ and girl______ both happen during __________hood.

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION - TEST 9 1 mark for each correct answer

1. Complete each of these sentences with . ? or !

(a) Oh no, it’s raining again (b) It’s raining again (c) Are you tell me it’s started raining again

2. Add all the end stops and capital letters required in these sentences.

(a) stop that immediately someone could get hurt

(b) amy doesn’t understand the question neither do i

(c) where’s the tower of london it’s in london of course 3. Reminder! Use a comma where it helps your reader to understand what you’re writing about. Now add commas to these sentences. (a) Our cats are called Fizzy Funky Fifi and Fred. (b) Come here Ben. (c) William usually called the Conqueror won the Battle of Hastings. (d) Eva said “I think it’s going to be hot this afternoon.” (e) “I hope you’re right” said Vida. (f) If at first you don’t succeed try try again. 4. Place the inverted commas – the direct speech marks – to show the actual words the speaker said. Add any necessary punctuation.

(a) The Red Queen shouted Off with their heads! (b) That’s a bit harsh said Alice. (c) Mind your own business the Red Queen shrieked. (d) Alice stuck out her tongue and said I will not! (e) That’s what you think shouted the Red Queen. Off with her head, too!

5. Rewrite the following text. Use contractions to shorten the underlined words. My English is getting better. Before these lessons began, I did not know how to use full stops correctly, and I was not sure about capital letters. However, I have been working with my partner and I am more confident now. My teacher is patient with me and explains things carefully. I would like to say thank you for all the help we have been getting. I had better stop now or I will burst into tears with happiness!

6. Reminder! An apostrophe (upstairs comma) can be used to show possession or belonging. Add apostrophes to these sentences. 1) Here's Leos pencil. 2) Sally is my sisters best friend. 3) Both cars bumpers got bashed. 4) Who took the mens jackets? 5) The poor birds wing is broken. 6) The childrens minibus has arrived. 7) Why is Louis brother crying? 8) All the mices tails were cut off. 9) Jamess answer is correct. 10) That’s the foxs den. 11) It’s the bosss problem. Not mine. 12) The ladies room is over there. 7. In the active voice we focus on the doer. In the passive voice we focus on what was done. Say whether these sentences are in the active or in the passive.

(a) Both windows were broken by those naughty girls. (b) Mrs. Mulligan is teaching us about active and passive sentences. (c) The next Olympics will be staged in Brazil. (d) Mum’s making lasagna for dinner. (e) Horse meat has been found in the burgers!

8. Use the verb in the brackets to complete these sentences. Remember to choose the appropriate tense.

(a) Elliot _______ to Anfield to watch Liverpool once a month. (go) (b) Last weekend Dad _______ us to Howlett’s Zoo. (take) (c) I ___________ doing my homework. Have you? (finish) (d) “Dinner __________ ready in ten minutes,” said mum. (be) (e) If I were you, I __________ the opportunity. (grab)

9. Nouns can be common, proper, abstract or collective. What kind of nouns are the highlighted words?

(a) We watched a pride of lions feasting on a gazelle. (b) Joe and Gabe both scored from the penalty spot. (c) Please help me move the tables and chairs for the Bingo tonight. (d) Few things are more important than a good education. (e) The seagulls down at the harbour make a terrific racket. (f) We watched the ferry entering Dover Harbour. (g) There’s a coven of witches in the play ‘Macbeth’. (h) For me, kindness is more important than most things.

10. An adjective is a describing word. Pick out all the adjectives in these sentences.

(a) “Who’ll buy my red, round, rosy apples?” called out the delightful apple-seller.

(b) Jack has lovely, forget-me-not blue eyes. (c) Puzzled, I gazed down at the bloody knife

sticking out of the corpse. (d) I don’t care if it’s got horsemeat in it; it’s

delicious anyway! (e) Year 6 is probably the most intelligent group in

the entire school.

11. Adverbs are words that we use to describe other words, especially verbs. For now, think of an adverb as word that tells us HOW or WHEN or HOW OFTEN something was done.

Pick out all the adverbs in these sentences. (a) Sometimes Amy plays the piano well, but sometimes badly. (b) Carefully, Rooney place the ball expertly in the far corner. (c) Recklessly, Joel rode his bicycle too fast down the avenue. (d) Work hard… and you will succeed. (e) We frequently have afternoon tea in the garden if it’s warm. (f) Suzie always does her homework as soon as she gets home. (g) Yesterday, love was such an easy game to play. (h) Let’s unpack first. Later we can wander through the village.

12. A sentence has a main clause that can stand on its own. We can also add subordinate clauses to the main sentence. There are lots of different kinds of subordinate clauses. Underline the subordinate clauses in these sentences.

(a) A sentence has a main clause that can stand on its own. (b) Although I was very tired, I decided to run all the way home. (c) Oscar, who is only 5, has started reading Harry Potter books! (d) After finishing dinner, we went for a stroll along the beach. (e) Here’s the book I borrowed from you. (f) The vampire stayed in his coffin until darkness fell on the town. (g) As soon as she saw the spider, Miss Muffet took off like a rocket. (h) Louis grabbed all the licorice, which annoyed all his classmates. (i) I honestly have no idea what you’re blethering about. (j) Unless you finish that lasagna, there will be no pudding for you.

Reminder: A complex sentence is formed when you add a subordinate clause to a main clause.

13. Complete these sentences by adding a prefix to the underlined word.

(a) I love my puppy even when he’s a little _____obedient. (b) On this occasion, I just have to _____agree with you. (c) Dan likes apples nearly as much as he _____likes pears. (d) Your heartbeat is just a little bit _____regular. (e) The magician made the rabbit suddenly _____appear. (f) Parking on a double yellow line is _____legal. (g) _____fortunately, he lost his winning Lottery ticket. (h) Now you’re just being _____responsible. (i) I’m coming! I’m coming. Don’t be so _____patient. (j) You might believe it, but I _____believe it! (k) “You’re being quite _____logical,” Mr. Spock told Captain Kirk.

14. Complete these sentences by adding a suffix to the underlined word.

(a) The new armchair is very comfort_____ . (b) Thank you for your kind______ and help_________ . (c) I love to hear the sound of children’s laugh____ . (d) That story is not only incred______; it’s imposs______ . (e) Jesus had to spend 40 days and nights in the wild_________ . (f) Let’s take the radio with us. It’s not heavy. It’s port______ .

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR & PUNCTUATION - TEST 10 1 mark for each correct answer

1. The colon can be used in a number of ways:

• before a list of words or phrases • to signal to the reader something important is coming • in the 24 hour clock

In the following sentences, insert a colon in the appropriate places.

1. To be or not to be that is the question. 2. Our flight is leaving at 1530 hours. 3. On safari we saw these animals elephants lions cheetahs and jackals. 4. Juliet murmured Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo. 5. We’re lost what do we do now?

2. The semi-colon links two sentences that are closely related. The semi-colon can be used instead of a full stop. The semi-colon is used in the place of a connective.

In the following sentences, insert a semi-colon in the appropriate places.

1. It was raining cats and dogs everyone got soaked to the skin. 2. The horses had been sadly neglected they were in a dreadful state. 3. Boys are from Mars girls are from Venus that’s a scientific fact. 4. Phone me tomorrow I’ll give you my answer then. 5. I thought semi-colons were difficult they’re actually quite easy to use.

3. We use the dash to show a sudden break or shift in your train of thought. Use a dash to show something has suddenly occurred to you. Complete these sentences by adding a comment after the dash.

1. I’ve just realised it’s nearly six o’clock -

2. My mum says broccoli is good for me -

3. That dog looks really vicious -

4. They want £100 for those trainers -

5. I’ve got lots and lots of homework -

4. The hyphen looks like a small dash but we use it to make compound words. Here are some examples: a one-way street, a bad-tempered cat, Connor is football-crazy. a clean-shaven man Add hyphens where they are needed in these sentences.

1. I’m a little over weight; you’re a little under weight. 2. Swimming in a fast flowing river can be life threatening. 3. Adam is my brother in law. Eve is my sister in law. 4. That was a match winning goal. 5. We made a last minute decision to have a holiday in sun drenched Spain.

5. We use round brackets (also known as parentheses) when we want to add some extra information without breaking into a sentence. This is useful when it’s only a little amount of information we want to add. Think of some extra information you might pop in these brackets.

1. Many people ( ) think dogs are better pets than cats. 2. The Hobbit ( ) has been made into a movie. 3. Suzie is absent from school again ( ). 4. Our school ( ) is one of the best in the area. 5. Brackets ( ) can be quite handy.

6. Ellipsis is … three dots in a row, and we can use them in different ways;

1. to create a feeling of suspense. And the winner is … 2. to show that a sentence has been left unfinished because it has simply trailed

off. Watch this space ... 3. to show that part of a quotation has been left out.

The teacher told us, “Collect your books, tidy your desks ... go home.”

What the examiner expects from you! Level 1 full stops -‐ capital letters at the start of a sentence Level 2 full stops – question marks – capital letters Level 3 . ? , ! capital letters Level 4 . ? , ! capital letters “ “ apostrophes Level 5 . ? , ! capital letters “ “ apostrophes Level 5 dash hyphen brackets colon semi-‐colon ellipsis

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR & PUNCTUATION - TEST 11 1. Say if each of these sentences is a

(a) Statement (b) Command (c) Question#

4. Stop that immediately! 5. It’s raining quite heavily now. 6. Do you understand the question? 3 marks


4. Help _____ move these books, please. 5. Amy and _____ are going to the cinema tonight. 6. Between you and _____. I think the teacher made a mistake. 3 marks


Contractions: don’t = do not doesn’t = does not didn’t = did not won’t = will not can’t = cannot haven’t = have not 4. I _________ had my dinner yet, have you? 5. Adam _________ really understand the question. 6. The bus ________ be here on time, will it? 3 marks



5. Use the correct TENSE - past, present, future.

These sentences each have an underlined error. Can you spot the error and correct it?

4. Last Sunday Sally buys a new dress for the disco. 5. Tomorrow morning we caught the train for Margate. 6. Hans is learning English for three years now. 3 marks

6. Add a PREFIX to the word in italics to make the sentence make sense.

4. The children were very happy when the teacher gave extra homework. 5. That clock is weird. Its hands are going round clockwise. 6. Don’t you dare obey me. You naughty Labrador! 3 marks


5. Carefully, Sherlock Holmes examined the body. 6. Suzie plays the piano very well. 7. My cat can run as fast as a cheetah! 3 marks


4. We watched a family of dolphins swimming the bay. 5. Put everything on that table over there, please. 6. The soldier showed great courage during the battle. 8. I’m reading The Hobbit at the moment. 4 marks

9. Change from ACTIVE to PASSIVE Example: The cat ate the mouse. (active) The mouse was eaten by the cat. (passive)

4. Eva will sing the next song. 5. Joel answered all the questions correctly. 6. Our teacher is teaching us grammar. 3 marks

10. SPOT ONE MISTAKE IN EACH LINE OF THE STORY ONLY A DREAM In the middle of the night, Mummy herd little Johnny crying, so she jumped out of bed and ran to his room. Johnny was siting up in his bed crying. “Why are you crying, little Johnny”? she asked. “Oh, mummy,” sed little Johnny, “I was dreaming. I dreamed you gave me away to a very rich cuple – millionaires! They adopted me and gave me everything in the world what I asked for.” “Oh, little Johnny,” said mummy. “We would never give you away. Were going to keep you forever. And dont forget. It was only a dream.” Little Johnny looked at mummy and said: “Yes, mummy, I no it was only a dream. And thats why I was crying.” 10 marks

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR & PUNCTUATION - TEST 12 1. Correct the underlined error in these sentences.

7. Yesterday I bring my photo album to school. 8. We are in Paris this time tomorrow. 9. How long was I telling you not to do that?

3 marks

2. Use a PREFIX to make these sentences make sense.

7. Sam’s crazy. In fact, he is totally sane! 8. Breathe out! Breathe out! I’m telling you to inhale. 9. Rubbish. This time you’re talking complete sense. 3 marks

3. An ADVERB adds information to a verb. An ADJECTIVE add information about a noun.

Say whether the underlined words are adverbs or adjectives.

As the rat sat quietly on the soft, green grass and looked happily across the river, a dark hole in the bank opposite suddenly caught his eye. He smiled and imagined dreamily what a warm, comfortable home it would make for a warm-blooded creature like himself. “I could live very well in a place like that,” he thought to himself. 1 mark each correct answer 4. In these sentences suggest a contraction for each blank space.

7. I _________ do that if I were you.

8. You’d better leave as soon as you can, ____________you?

9. The bus ________ arrived yet, I’m afraid. 3 marks


7. The Harry Potter books were written by JK Rowling. 8. Who’ll buy my lovely apples, oranges and pears. 9. Anger was written all over her face. 4 I’ve never seen such a fine collection of stamps. 4 marks

6. What words did this student intend to use!

1. I’m not eating that burger. It’s got horse meet in it! 2. We herd wild buffaloes stampeding across the prairie. 3. You’re absolutely write! 4. Sally bought a pear of Armani jeans. 5. Stop it! You’re not aloud to do that. 5 marks

7. Change these sentences from ACTIVE to PASSIVE or from PASSIVE to ACTIVE Example: The cat ate the mouse. (active) The mouse was eaten by the cat. (passive)

7. We are being taught Maths by Ms. Evans. 8. The dead mice were buried in the garden by the children. 9. The next question is going to be answered by whom? 3 marks

8. Name the prepositions in these sentences.

1. Suddenly the submarine dived beneath the deep blue sea. 2. Will we put this parcel on the table or in the cupboard? 3. During class, teacher read a lovely story to us. 3 marks

9. Name the figures of speech in these sentences. simile - metaphor - alliteration personification - onomatopoeia

1. Splish, splash, I was taking a bath, long about Saturday night…..

2. She was sweet as sugar, hard as ice, But that only made me love her twice!

3. She sells seashells by the sea shore

4. It’s time for half term, whispered the clock to the room, But to whom was it whispering? (we’re not sure to whom) For the room it was empty, the children had gone, So the clock it just smiled and said, “Children… so long!”

5. His eyes they were the ocean blue His nose it was a cherry He sneezed a pint and half of gin No wonder he was merry! 5 marks

10. Can you find rhymes for Mary’s Little Lamb?

Mary had a little lamb and a baked …….. , then she had a salad, too, of lettuce and ……….. She asked her mother for some wine, but her daddy he said ……..., and mummy said, “If you touch that stuff, it’s out the door you …….! So Mary settled for dessert; she had a choice to make – a slice of mother’s apple pie or a slice of gateau (………..). Our Mary couldn’t quite decide, so she crammed both in her ………... Well, the apple pie went straight up North while the slice of cake went …………. Mary coughed and spat it out – it flew upon the floor – ‘twas then her mother grabbed her hair and threw her out the ……….. !

GORGEOUS GRAMMAR - SPAG - PRE-SATS REVIEW - 1

1. Rewrite these sentences in the passive voice.

(a) They have elected a new Pope. (b) Mr. Jones is going to drive the minibus. (c) The cat caught the mice and devoured them. (d) They’ve finally repaired that broken window. (e) Charles Dickens wrote ‘Oliver Twist’.

2. Singular and plural

Singular means one. Plural means more than one. The regular way to make a noun plural is to add -s or -es. However, some nouns are irregular and make their plural in a different way. In these sentences, underline the nouns which are in the plural form.

(a) Mice have chewed through some of the electric wiring. (b) Muslim men are allowed four wives if they can afford (c) Hungry wolves chased deer through the snowy forest. (d) Men wait here; women wait here; children wait over there. (e) I’ve bought a new set of dice for my backgammon board.

3. Statement – Question – Command . ? !

Say what kind of sentences these are and complete each one with appropriate punctuation.

(a) Do you think it’s going to rain (b) The bus should be here by now (c) Stop that silliness immediately (d) Wow (e) Really (f) Actually, I think that grammar is quite enjoyable

4. Phrase or Clause - Tick the appropriate box

A clause must have a verb in it. A phrase does not have a verb in it.

Phrase Clause That’s a lovely new jumper. You did well because you studied hard. The sun shone brightly in the clear blue sky. The children had fun playing in the park. Although I’m not hungry, I’ll have a snack. That’s a magnificent golden eagle, isn’t it?

5. Apostrophe for omission and apostrophe for possession.

We sometimes call the apostrophe the ‘upstairs comma’. There are two ways we can use the apostrophe: Omission to show we have left a letter or letters out. Possession to show that something belongs to someone or something.

omission possession Don’t touch that. It’s not yours. I bought some lovely flowers on Mother’s Day. Has anyone seen the children’s jackets? I’m not sure we’re going to be able to help you. If you hadn’t told me, I wouldn’t have gone. Amy’s sister is waiting outside for you. The farmer’s wife cut off the mice’s tails. There’s nothing we can do about it. Let’s finish the job after lunch. Messi’s probably the best in the world.

Reminder! To omit means to leave something out Omission means leaving something out.

6. Subordinate clauses

Underline the subordinate clauses in these complex sentences. Remember that a subordinate clause must have a verb and that it depends on the main clause to make sense.

(a) If at first you don’t succeed, keep on trying until you do. (b) Yesterday I met our neighbours who’ve just moved in next door. (c) Although it was difficult, we managed to do it in the end. (d) Here’s the computer game you lent me. (e) Few people understood what Harry was trying to tell them. (f) You feed the pigs while I feed the chickens. (g) Having finished my homework, I went out with my mates. (h) On arriving at the station, we discovered we’d missed the train. Handy hint: sometimes it’s easier to identify the main clause; the other bits must be the subordinate clause/s!

7. I or me ?

People sometimes confuse ‘I’ and ‘me’. Just remember that ‘I’ is the subject of a sentence while ‘me’ can never be the subject.

(a) “_____ am a very good boy,” said Little Johnny. (b) _____ don’t know the answer. It’s a complete mystery to _____. (c) Adam and _____ played until it was too dark to see the ball. (d) Look, between you and ____, _____ have to admit it was totally wrong. (e) You and _____ make a pretty good team. (f) “ _____ am the Law!” announced Judge Dredd. (g) Hand ____ the money before _____ put a bullet through your head. (h) In the opera, the Fat Lady sang “ ____ _____ _____” for an hour! (i) When I asked the Scotsman if he enjoyed haggis,

he looked at me and said: “Och ____!”

8. Nouns, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions

Read the following sentences, then answer the questions below. 1. Cinderella slipped her foot gently into the tiny, glass slipper. 2. Humpty Dumpty tumbled helplessly from the high wall. 3. Fortunately, Miss Muffet escaped the jaws of the giant spider. 4. Alice slapped George Porgie very hard when he sneaked a wee kiss. 5. The cat played ‘Hey Diddle Diddle’ beautifully on her brand new fiddle.

(a) Identify all the nouns (the names of things or people). (b) Identify all the adjectives (words that describe nouns). (c) Identify all the adverbs (words that say how something was done). (d) Identify all the prepositions (they join phrases in the sentence).

9. Tenses - past - present - future

Write the correct tense of the verbs in brackets of these sentences.

(a) Yesterday we (go) to Birdie’s where we (have) a delicious dinner. (b) Tomorrow we (drive) to Gatwick where we (catch) a flight to Paris. (c) Every Saturday Jon and Alan (play) tennis down at Island Wall. (d) If you (tell) me, I would have gone with you to London. (e) If I (be) you, I wouldn’t touch that burger with a barge pole!

10. Inverted commas for direct speech

Add them in these sentences to show the words the speaker said.

Don’t do that I told them fiercely.

Adam said Eve where did you get that apple?

Wait here said the nurse and Dr. Joy will be with you in a moment.

I’m going to remember where to put the inverted commas announced Elliot.


1. Write down all the adverbs in the sentence below.

Patiently, the cat pursued the mouse, moved fast, and suddenly pounced on it. 3 marks 2. Choose one word to complete the sentence below.

Please wait here ....... the nurse calls you.

(a) during (b) between (c) until (d) while 1 mark

3. Change the verb to the correct tense: present, past or future. Change the verb to the correct tense. (a) The children played in the park right now. 1 mark (b) Yesterday we are taking the train to Margate. 1 mark (c) If I’d had more time, I would help you. 1 mark

4. In the sentences below, choose whether (a) or (b) is the subordinate clause.

3. Although it was raining heavily, we played the match. 1 mark (b) (b)

4. We had dinner before we went to the cinema. 1 mark (a) (b)

5. Complete these sentences by choosing either I or me.

(e) Jon and ____ are going to Florida at Easter. 1 mark (f) The teacher asked _____ to take the register to the office. 1 mark (g) Between you and _____, I wouldn’t go there. 1 mark

6. Add a prefix to make each underlined word its opposite in meaning.

(e) I’m really sorry, but I have to agree with you this time. 1 mark (f) Nothing’s possible if you try hard enough. 1 mark (g) Stealing is legal. 1 mark (h) That beautiful vase is replaceable. 1 mark

7. Complete this sentence with a contraction that makes sense. Yesterday Dad tried his best but he _________ repair my bicycle. 1 mark 8. Rewrite the sentences below in the passive voice.

(a) Suarez bit Ivanovic on the arm. 1 mark (b) The Football Association has charged

Suarez with violent conduct. 1 mark 9. In the sentence below, after which two words should a comma be placed.

My dog a black and white terrier is called Buster. 1 mark 10. Write the letter S, Q or C most appropriate to describe these sentences. Statement - Question - Command (a) Sit down and stop talking! 1 mark (b) Madrid is the capital city of Spain. 1 mark (c) Do you think we’ll get there on time? 1 mark 11. In each sentence below, which two words should be hyphenated?

(c) We can’t drive down that one way street. 1 mark (d) Going to Italy was a last minute decision. 1 mark



13. Complete the sentence below with appropriate connectives.

(a) We missed the train _________ we ran all the way to the station. 1 mark (b) We missed the train _________ running all the way to the station. 1 mark (c) _________ we didn’t have enough money, we had to walk home. 1 mark 14. Correct these sentences by using the correct form of the plural. Singular means one. Plural means more than one. (a) Last night I counted 321 sheeps before I feel asleep. 1 mark (b) The wolfs chased the deers through the forest. 2 mark (c) The farmer’s wife cut off the mouses’ tails. 1 mark 15. Add a subordinate clause in the space between the commas. Remember a clause must contain a verb. The 2012 Olympics, , were a huge success. 1 mark 16. The teacher’s book is on the desk. Does the apostrophe in the sentence above contain an apostrophe of omission on an apostrophe of possession? 1 mark 17. Underline the subject of the sentence below. Singing in the Rain’ is one my favourite movies. 1 mark

NOUNS 1 - Common and Proper Nouns 1. Your teacher will point and pause at each of the nouns in these sentences.

At each pause you will you will say ‘common noun! or ‘proper noun!'

a) On Sunday I enjoy a boiled egg with my breakfast. b) Both Bill and Ben scored two goals each. c) Suzie bought a lovely pink blouse at Primark. d) The seagulls at Island Wall often make a terrible racket. e) WJS is situated near the library in Oxford Street. f) Cats, in my opinion, are more independent than dogs.

2. Do you remember the Terrible Tale of Pirate Pete? Here it is again with all the common and proper nouns left out. Why not organise a Boys v Girls competition! Pirate Pete was born in D - - - r. He became a pirate when he was only a thirteen-year-old - - - . He sailed on many ships – his most famous ship was the R - - - - - - - . He fought in many battles. He had many - - - - - - - - - - . He loved the life. Unfortunately he was not always lucky. Pirate Pete had his left - - - blown off by a canon - - - - during a battle off the coast of M - - - - in the Mediterranean Sea, so he was sometimes called Peg-Leg Pete. Pete had his right - - - - chopped off during a sword fight at a - - - called the Sailor’s A - - - in F - - - - - - - - e . That is why he has a - - - - for a hand. Of course you will be wondering why Pirate Pete wears an eye-patch over his left - - - . Did he lose it in a sea-battle or a sword-fight? No, he did not. One day Pete got a terrible - - - - in his left eye. For a moment he forgot about his - - - - and tried to scratch the itch with his - - - - - - - !

This was not a good - - - - !

NOUNS 2 - Collective Nouns and Abstract Nouns

A collective noun is a noun referring to a group or collection of people, creatures or things, e.g. a crowd of people, a flock of sheep, a bunch of bananas. 1. Choose the correct collective noun for these groups or collections.

1. A …….. of cows mooed their way all the way home. (a) troop (b) school (c) bunch (d) herd

2. The divers found lots of pearls in the ……… of oysters.

(a) gaggle (b) bed (c) set (d) patch

3. And God sent a ……….. of locusts to annoy the Pharaoh of Egypt. (a) crew (b) mischief (c) plague (d) a bunch

4. In ‘Macbeth’ we hear about a ………. of witches.

(a) coven (b) colony (c) tribe (d) swarm

5. A …….. of teenage kangaroos terrorized the Australian countryside. (a) murder (b) pack (c) troop (d) mob

An abstract noun is a noun referring to something which cannot be experienced with any of the five senses, such as an idea, thought or emotion, e.g. happiness, love, courage, boredom.

2. Find all the abstract nouns in these paragraphs. The pupils at WJS realise the importance of a good education. They take pride in their achievements and in their successes. They approach their work with patience and with intelligence and they always try to do their best. They show great bravery and courage when faced with examinations even though they know they will collapse in exhaustion by the end of the SATS. They know that childhood should be a great time of happiness, so they take their examinations seriously, but not too seriously.

Sentences - Simple, Compound and Complex

Suggest connectives for the blank spaces.

THE INs and OUTs of OUT and IN

Once there was a family of skunks ______ lived in a hollow tree. The family

included two little skunks _______ names were In and Out.

Now, __________ In went out, Out came in, ______ whenever Out went out, In

came in. Why? To tell you the truth, I haven’t the faintest idea.

One day a big storm blew up out of nowhere. Mother and Father Skunk, ______

were worried about their children, looked around the hollow. They wanted to

know _________ In was in and Out was out , ____ whether In was out and Out

was in. Out happened to be in ________ In happened to be Out.

Mother Skunk turned to Out, saying, “Out, I’m worried about In, _____ be a good

boy, pop out, _____ fetch him in.”

Out popped out, and within two minutes he was back with his brother, In.

“My goodness,” said Mother Skunk, hugging both her boys, “how did you find In

so quickly.

“It was easy to find In,” smiled Out. “I found In ________ In stinked!”

FIGURES OF SPEECH SIMILE - METAPHOR - PERSONIFICATION ALLITERATION - ONOMATOPOEIA THE GILWELL PARK GHOST The children sat around the campfire and watched sparks leap up like Roman

candles bursting into the darkening night of Monday 24th June 2013. Silence

seeped into their skin as Sir took up the microphone and whispered, “They say the

ghost of Gilwell Park is friendly but I’m not so sure.....”

A light breeze that might have wandered in from Epping Forest whispered

through the nearby woods; some of the children shivered as if icy fingers of doubt

were running up and down their spines.

“They say it is the ghost of a woman – a young woman who disappeared

from here – or at least most of her disappeared from here around midnight..... but I

wouldn’t worry too much about it because they say she only returns once a year –

on Midsummer Night.”

Elliot pushed his sizzling sausages that sang and spat in the saucepan aside,

raised his hand and whispered, “But, sir, it’s Midsummer Day, so this must be

Midsummer Night.” Around the fire, a gasp like the bursting of a giant balloon,

broke the silence. Then Elliot asked the question every boy and girl was dying to

ask – “What part of herself is the lady looking for?”

Sir gave him his brass-coffin-plate smile. “You should know that, Elliot.

You’re a Deputy Headboy. And the Ghost of Gilwell Park is looking for a new

head!”

At that moment a ghostly figure, draped in white, stepped out from behind a

tree and stepped towards the children who froze in fright, each one praying the

Ghost of Gilwell Park would select somebody else’s head – not theirs!

But, quick as a flash, Elliot leapt to his feet, grabbed a frying pan, and

clonked the Ghost of Gilwell Park over the head.

Boing!

“Gotcha!” gurgled the children in glee.

It was only when the white sheet was removed that the terrible truth revealed

itself – for the Ghost of Gilwell Park was none other than Mrs ...............................

who was in on the prank with Sir.

(You will be pleased to know that no lasting damage was done to the

teacher, who, however, confiscated Elliot’s sausages and disappeared into her

cabin with them.)

As for the Gilwell Park Ghost – well, she hasn’t made her annual appearance

yet, but you never can tell.

GORGEOUS GRAMMAR - SPAG - PRE-SATS REVIEW - 3 LEVEL 6 1. Rewrite these sentences in the passive voice. (a) They took the children to the theatre by minibus. (b) Mr. Adams is going to be teaching Year 6. (c) The cat chased the mice, caught them and devoured them. (d) They’ve finally deported those terrorists. (e) They didn’t choose me for choir, thank goodness.

2. Underline the irregular plural forms in these sentences,

(a) Thousands of red deer roam the Scottish Highlands.

(b) The women and children were followed by the men into the lifeboats.

(c) Louis and Ewan are fascinated by celestial phenomena.

(d) The hens, ducks and geese made a terrible racket in the farmyard.

(e) The children’s hair was checked for nits and lice. 4. Phrase or Clause - Tick the appropriate box A clause must have a verb in it. A phrase does not have a verb in it.

Phrase Clause Why not wear your lovely new pyjamas? As you’re late, you’ll have a detention. Hail suddenly fell from a clear blue sky. Anyone who’s hungry can have a burger. Although I’m not hungry, I’ll have a snack. A magnificent golden Labrador met us at the school gate.

5. Apostrophes for omission and apostrophes for possession.

omission possession Don’t touch that. It’s not yours; it’s mine. Mother’s Day is always on a Sunday. Who’s taken the last packet of crisps? I’m not sure we’re going to be able to help you. If you hadn’t told me, I wouldn’t have gone. James’s sister is a really pleasant girl. All that glitters isn’t gold. Let’s hurry up and finish the job.

6. Subordinate clauses

Underline the subordinate clauses in these complex sentences. Remember that a subordinate clause must have a verb and that it depends on the main clause to make sense.

(i) If you don’t understand, you must ask for an explanation. (j) Have you met the Smiths who’ve moved into No. 12? (k) As it was warm and sunny, we decided to have a BBQ. (l) Here’s the £5 you lent me on Sunday. (m) Few people understood what he was talking about. (n) While I feed the horses, you can groom the ponies. (o) Having finished my lunch, I had a little siesta. (p) On reaching the station, we sneaked into a 1st class carriage.

7. I or me ?

(a) Between you, ____, and the doorpost, I’m sure he’s crazy. (b) You and _____ make a pretty good team. (c) I’ll go first; you can follow _____ . (d) That’s all ever hear from you: _____, _____, ______! (e) Adam, Tommy and _____ played until it got dark.

8. Co-ordinating connective or Subordinating connective?

Hint: A subordinating connective introduces a subordinate clause!

Co-ord. Conn.

Subord. Conn.

We ran all the way and we got there on time.

Although it’s expensive, I decided to buy it.

The bread was stale, so we toasted it.

Please wait here until I get back from the shops.

We waited a whole hour but the bus didn’t arrive.

When it stopped raining, the tennis match was resumed.

Neither Hansel nor Gretel knew the way back home.

Here’s the book ( ) I told you about.

9. Write an example of each type of noun in the space provided.

Common noun

Proper noun

Collective noun

Abstract noun

10. The infinitive form of the verb is the ‘to’ form: to go, to run, to eat, to sleep, to think, etc.

Write the infinitive form of the verbs in the table below.

Verb Infinitive form of the verb sing, sang, sung to went, gone To does, did to am, is, was, were To think, thought to

11. Use the correct preposition to complete these sentences.

(a) I will not put up ________ this kind of behaviour.

(b) Compared ________ you, I’m a genius!

(c) The twins are very different _______ each other.

(d) __________ you and me, I don’t think we should tell him.

(e) Spanish and French are very similar _______ each other.

12. Complete the table by inserting a synonym and an antonym. You may add a prefix to the words given.

Word Synonym Antonym happy argue gigantic victory to begin

13. A semi-colon can be used to link) two main clauses that are related. Insert a semi-colon in the correct place in these sentences. A semi-colon must not be followed by a connective; the semi-colon is the connective.

(a) Keep England clean keep Scotland beautiful. (b) It was the best of times it was the worst of times. (c) Girls are from Venus boys are from Mars that explains a lot! (d) You have eaten all the truffles I hope you choke on them. (e) Few of us understood the question in fact, none of us did. (f) You have done me wrong however, I’m going to forgive you. (g) Use semi-colons sparingly don’t splatter them all over your writing.

14. You may be given a sentence and asked to rewrite it in the impersonal form. This means you must get rid of any reference to a person, including yourself. Rewrite these sentences in the impersonal form. The first one is done for you. It costs me a lot of money to go on holiday. Going on holiday costs a lot of money. It would be very expensive if we took the train. Taking Don’t break the law and get yourself in serious trouble. Breaking It can be dangerous if you only know a little about something. A little 15. There are three ways we can use the colon:

ü to introduce a list ü to introduce an idea ü to introduce a quotation (something someone said)

Complete these sentences by adding something appropriate after the colon.

(a) I have just one thing to say to you, my darling: (b) Four teams made the semi-finals: (c) Read the sign: (d) Johnny suddenly had a wonderful idea: (e) Abby looked up and said: “....................................................”

16. Underline all of the prepositions in these sentences.

Frankly, I don’t care where you put it. Put it on the table, in the desk, in the drawer, under those other books, beside the window. It doesn’t really matter. It’s up to you. Stick it in the garbage amongst the other rubbish if you want. On second thoughts, give it to me. I know what do with it.

17. Adverbs You’ve learned that lots of adverbs finish with –ly, and that’s absolutely true. However, there are hundreds of adverbs that do not finish with –ly. We can divide adverbs into four groups, and here’s how to recognise them. Adverbs of manner tell us how something was done. Adverbs of time tell us when something was done. Adverbs of frequency tell us how often something was done. Adverbs of place tell us where something was done. Put a tick in each row to show the type of adverb.

Manner Time Frequency Place outside

sometimes

today

secretly

carefully

everywhere

now

regularly

daily

He plays well.

18. Write the contraction of each pair of underlined words in these sentences.

(a) I do not understand a word you’re saying. ____________ (b) We had better hurry or we’re going to be late. ____________ (c) If we run all the way, we will not be late. ____________ (d) You must not do that; it’s totally forbidden. ____________ (e) She is showing signs of contractions. ____________ The baby must be on its way! ____________

19. Put a tick in each row to show the type of pronoun highlighted in each sentence. Personal

pronoun Relative pronoun

Possessive pronoun

Are you taking yours with you?

On Mondays we have Drama, which is my favourite lesson.

Louis forgot where he had put his Buchanan’s Russian caramel.

To whom shall I give this toffee?

It’s not mine; it’s yours.

Take the laptop that crashed to the IT department.

20. Main clauses – subordinate clauses. Use your imagination to complete the sentences using either main clauses or subordinating clauses where appropriate 1. Eva refused to eat the tuna salad after her little brother…………………… 2. Whenever Mr. Creton sees Molly, she……………………………………… 3. My dad, who……………………………….., is a lovely person. 4. You won’t be going anywhere until you ……………………………………. 5. Humpty Dumpty, who……………………………, never ………………… 6. The hotel, where we……………………………………, is………………… 7. Whenever I hear that music, I ……………………………………………… 8. Lewis gasped when he opened the door and saw that ………………………. 9. Many of the children cried when Santa Clause………………………………. 10. I understand subordinating clauses now that ………………………………..


1. Correct the underlined error in these sentences.

10. Yesterday I eat my lunch at two o’clock. 11. We are in France this time tomorrow. 12. How long was I telling you to sit still?

2. Use a PREFIX to make these sentences make sense.

10. That’s not allowed. In fact, it’s legal. 11. The doctor told me to inhale all the breath out of my lungs. 12. I’m not being rude, but that’s sense.


7. Help _____ move these books, please. 8. Amy, Eva and _____ are going to the cinema tonight. 9. Don’t tell anyone. It’s surprise. It’s just between you and _____.


10. If I were you, I _________ go near that dog. 11. You will come to my party, _______ you? 12. The train ________ arrived yet, I’m afraid.


10. ‘Oliver Twist’ was written by Charles Dickens. 11. Who’ll buy my lovely apples, oranges and pears. 12. Anger was written all over her face. 5 I’ve never seen such a fine collection of stamps.

6. Spell the word the pupil intended to use!

6. I’m not eating that burger. It’s got horse meet in it! 7. We herd wild buffaloes stampeding across the prairie. 8. You’re absolutely write! 9. Sally bought a pear of Armani jeans. 10. Stop it! You’re not aloud to do that.

7. Change these sentences from ACTIVE to PASSIVE Example: The cat ate the mouse. (active) The mouse was eaten by the cat. (passive)

10. Suarez bit Ivanovich on the arm. 11. The children buried the mice in the garden. 12. Who is going to answer the next question correctly?

8. Name the prepositions in these sentences.

4. Please put the parcel in the cupboard or on the table. 5. Did anyone see the monkeys swinging through the trees? 6. I’d like to thank everyone for their help.


9. Cautiously, Sherlock Holmes examined the body. 10. Suzie plays the piano very well. 11. My cat can run as fast as a cheetah! 12. You’ve been working hard all morning. 13. The river wound its way slowly down to the sea.

10. Reminder! Use a comma where it helps your reader to understand what you’re writing about. Now add commas to these sentences. (a) Our cats are called Fizzy Funky Fifi and Fred. (b) Come here Ben. (c) William usually called the Conqueror won the Battle of Hastings. (d) Eva said “I think it’s going to be hot this afternoon.” (e) “I hope you’re right” said Amy. (f) If at first you don’t succeed try try again. 11. Place the inverted commas – the direct speech marks – to show the actual words the speaker said. Add any necessary punctuation.

(f) The Red Queen shouted Off with their heads! (g) That’s a bit harsh said Alice. (h) Mind your own business the Red Queen shrieked. (i) Alice stuck out her tongue and said I will not! (j) Off with her head, too! shrieked the Red Queen.

12. What are the subordinate clauses in these sentences?

(a) Haggis, when it is prepared properly, is very tasty.

(b) Adam, who is the son of John and Sally, has passed his driving test.

(c) I was born in Edinburgh, which is the capital city of Scotland.

(d) Scrooge was a cruel cold-hearted miser before the ghosts visited him.

(e) Having finished the mini-marathon, I was ready for a hot bath.

`Remember: a subordinate clause must have a verb in it, and it cannot stand on its own.

13. Replace the underlined words with personal pronouns. Then first one is done for you.

(e) Ben is over there. Give the book to Ben. He is over there. Give it to him.

(f) The girls gave apples to Miss Smith. _____ gave _____ to _____.

(g) My brother and I both like Heavy Metal music. _____ both like _____.

(h) Actually, the pupils quite enjoy grammar. Actually, ______ quite enjoy ____.

14. Complete these sentences with there, they’re or their. (a) Tell the children to put _______ jackets over ________.

(b) Are you looking for the cakes? ________ over _______.

(c) Were ________ many people at the game? Yes. ________ were.

15. Supply the missing connectives for this little story.

During the Maths class, the teacher noticed that Tyler, ______ was sitting near the back, didn’t seem to be paying much attention. The class was studying number sequences ______ they found quite easy to understand. __________ Miss raised her voice loudly, Tyler didn’t seem to hear her. Finally, the teacher walked up to Tyler _____ said, “Tyler! Please complete this sequence. 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 – 7 – 8 – 9 – 10.....” Tyler looked up, smiled and grinned: “That’s an easy one. 7 – 8- 9- 10 – Jack – Queen – King – Ace!” You will not be surprised _______ I tell you that Miss confiscated Tyler’s playing cards for the rest of the day!

Let’s eat Granpa

Let’s eat, Granpa

Documents

THE TEN-MINUTE TEST - GRAMMAR AND PUNCTUATION TEST 1 … · Write down all the adverbs in the sentence below. ... 3 Write the correct form of the underlined verb in the sentence below