What is a Verb – Grammar Guide for KS1 & KS2
If you’re learning English grammar in KS1 or KS2, you’ve probably heard the word “verb” a lot. But what is a verb? Let’s break it down in a fun and simple way!
What is a Verb?
A verb is a doing word.
It shows action, movement, or even a state of being.
Example: run, jump, dance, feel, is, was
Without verbs, sentences wouldn’t have any action. Imagine a story where nobody moves, talks, or feels anything… boring, right? What is the Human Skeleton
Verbs in Action
Verbs are everywhere!
Every time you run, eat, think or sleep, a verb is working hard. What is the Water Cycle?
The dog barked loudly.
I feel happy today.
Why Are Verbs Important?
- They tell us what’s happening in a sentence
- They help us make stories exciting
- They improve your writing and speaking skills
If you can use verbs well, you can make your writing pop!
Different Types of Verbs
Action Verbs
These verbs show what someone or something is doing.
She jumps over the puddle.
Being Verbs (like “is”, “are”, “was”)
These show a state of being, not action.
He is tired.
Helping Verbs
They help the main verb in a sentence. Renewable Energy
We are going to the park.
Easy Trick to Spot a Verb
Ask yourself:
“Is something happening?“
If yes, the word showing that action or state is a verb!
Fun Examples to Practise
- The cat slept on the mat.
- We are learning grammar.
- They played football at school.
- Mum is cooking dinner.
Can you spot the verbs? (Hint: Look for the action!)
Common Mistakes Kids Make
- Forgetting helping verbs like “is”, “are”, “was”
- Confusing nouns (things) with verbs (actions)
- Using the wrong verb tense (like saying “runned” instead of “ran”)
But don’t worry — practise makes perfect!
Fun Activities to Master Verbs
- Play “Verb Charades” with friends
- Make a “verb wall” at home with action words
- Write a silly story using 10 different verbs
Learning verbs doesn’t have to be boring — it can be a lot of fun!
Final Words
Verbs are the heartbeat of every sentence. Master them and you’ll make your writing lively, exciting, and powerful! Remember — every sentence needs a little action, and verbs make it happen. Enrol for Online tutoring UK
FAQs – Verbs for KS1 & KS2
Q1: Can a verb be just one word?
A: Yes! Words like run, jump, and think are all verbs by themselves.
Q2: What’s the easiest way to find a verb in a sentence?
A: Look for the action or what someone is doing. If it shows something happening, it’s likely a verb!
Q3: Are “is”, “am”, and “are” verbs too?
A: Absolutely! They are called being verbs and show a state, not an action.
Q4: How many verbs can a sentence have?
A: A sentence can have one or even more!Example: She is running and laughing.