ZZ.2 Form and use pronoun-verb contractions

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What is a contraction?

A contraction is a short way to say two words. The words are joined together, and an apostrophe (’) takes the place of one or more missing letters.

Examples:

do not → don’t
it is → it’s
I am → I’m

Note

Contractions make speaking and writing sound more natural.

What are pronoun-verb contractions?

Pronoun-verb contractions are contractions made by joining a pronoun and a verb. A pronoun takes the place of a noun, and the verb tells what is happening.

Examples:

I am → I’m
you are → you’re
he is → he’s

Note

The apostrophe shows where letters are missing.

How apostrophes work in contractions

In a contraction, the apostrophe replaces the letter or letters that are taken out when the words are joined.

Examples:

she is → she’s (the i is missing)
we are → we’re (the a is missing)
they are → they’re (the a is missing)

Note

Every contraction must have an apostrophe.

Common pronoun-verb contractions

These pronoun-verb contractions are used often in first-grade reading and writing.

Contraction List:

I am → I’m
you are → you’re
he is → he’s
she is → she’s
it is → it’s
we are → we’re
they are → they’re

Note

Practice reading contractions so you can recognize them quickly.

Using pronoun-verb contractions in sentences

Use pronoun-verb contractions when you want your sentences to sound smooth and natural.

Examples:

I am happy. → I’m happy.
She is my friend. → She’s my friend.
They are ready. → They’re ready.

Note

Read your sentence aloud to see if a contraction sounds right.

When not to use contractions

Sometimes, writers use the full words instead of contractions, especially in very formal writing.

Examples:

I am ready. (formal)
I’m ready. (everyday writing and speaking)

Note

At your grade level, contractions are correct and encouraged in most writing.

Go to the practice →

Common Core alignment: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.1.1.B – Use common contractions.

Notes for teachers

This free lesson is aligned with CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.1.1.B. Use it for whole-class instruction, independent practice, or homework.

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