Action verbs show what someone or something is *doing*, like run, jump, or eat. Linking verbs connect the subject to a description or an identity, like *is*, *am*, *are*, or *seem*. Knowing the difference helps kids build stronger sentences and understand how words work together.
Many young learners mix these up because both types of verbs appear in sentences, but they have very different jobs. Understanding the core function of each verb type is key to writing clearly and correctly, which can be tricky without clear examples.
"Helping kids spot the difference between action verbs and linking verbs starts with focusing on what the verb *does* in the sentence: does it show movement, or does it describe?" says a LearnLink tutor.
👉 You can gently support your child’s progress by starting with a free lesson on LearnLink.
To master verbs, children first need to understand that words have different roles. Some words describe things, some name things, and some show what is happening. Verbs are the 'doing' or 'being' words in a sentence.
What's the Difference Between Action Verbs and Linking Verbs?
Action verbs tell us about an action. This action can be something you can see, like running or singing. It can also be something you cannot see, like thinking or wishing. Think of action verbs as showing movement or activity.
Linking verbs do not show action. Instead, they connect the subject of a sentence to more information about the subject. This information usually describes the subject or tells us what it is. Common linking verbs include forms of 'to be' (is, am, are, was, were) and verbs like *seem*, *feel*, or *look* (when used to describe).
Learning to tell these apart is important for clear communication. It helps children build more complex sentences and improve their writing. It also forms a strong base for understanding other grammar concepts.
Core Explanation: Action vs. Linking Verbs
Let's look at the main features of action verbs and linking verbs. This will help you understand their different jobs in a sentence.
| Verb Type | Rule & Role | Example Sentences |
|---|---|---|
| Action Verbs | Show an action performed by the subject. They tell us *what the subject does*. The action can be physical or mental. Structure: Subject + Action Verb (+ Object) | The cat ran quickly. (Physical action) She thought about her friends. (Mental action) We played games every day. |
| Linking Verbs | Connect the subject to a word that identifies or describes it. They tell us *what the subject is* or *seems like*. Structure: Subject + Linking Verb + Complement (noun or adjective) | My sister is a doctor. (Identifies the subject) The cake smelled delicious. (Describes the subject) He seems tired today. |
Common Mistakes with Action and Linking Verbs
It’s easy to get confused, especially with verbs that can be both action and linking depending on how they are used. Here are some common mistakes and how to fix them.
| ❌ Incorrect | ✅ Correct |
|---|---|
| The flower smelled sweet perfume. | The flower smelled sweet. (Linking verb: describes the flower) |
| She looks the ball. | She looks at the ball. (Action verb: 'looks at') She looks happy. (Linking verb: describes her) |
| They were running fastly. | They were running fast. (Action verb 'running', 'were' is a helping verb not a linking verb here.) |
| He feels the cold wind strong. | He feels the strong cold wind. (Action verb: 'feels the wind') He feels strong. (Linking verb: describes him) |
✍️ Task: Read each sentence. Underline the verb and write 'Action' or 'Linking' next to it.
1. The dog barked loudly. ______
2. My brother is tall. ______
3. She sang a beautiful song. ______
4. The soup tastes salty. ______
5. We played outside. ______
💬 Task: Look at the image of the playground. Write 3-4 sentences describing what the children are doing or how they appear. Try to use both action and linking verbs.
1. The boy ______ a red ball. (Action)
2. The girl ______ happy. (Linking)
3. Two friends ______ together. (Action)
4. The sky ______ blue. (Linking)
✏️ Task: Write two sentences using an action verb and two sentences using a linking verb. Then, combine one action verb sentence and one linking verb sentence into a longer, more detailed sentence.
1. (Action verb) My friend ______ a new book.
2. (Linking verb) She ______ very smart.
3. (Action verb) The birds ______ in the sky.
4. (Linking verb) Their feathers ______ colorful.
5. Combine two of your sentences: ______
Step-by-Step Learning Progression for Verbs
Teaching verbs effectively means guiding children through a clear path, from simple understanding to confident use. Here's a proven method:
1. Input (Ages 4-6, 7-10, 11-15): Start by showing and telling. For young kids, use simple movements: 'I run,' 'You jump.' For older kids, give clear definitions and examples of action vs. linking verbs. Use pictures and storybooks to point out verbs. For instance, in 'The dog *chased* the ball,' *chased* is an action. In 'The dog *is* happy,' *is* links the dog to 'happy'.
2. Controlled Practice (Ages 7-10, 11-15): Give sentences with blanks for kids to fill in with either an action or a linking verb. Provide a word bank for younger learners. For example, 'The cat ______ (sleeps/is) on the mat.' Ask them to identify the verb type after they choose. This ensures they apply the rule directly.
3. Semi-Controlled Practice (Ages 7-10, 11-15): Use pictures or short paragraphs. Ask kids to identify all the action verbs and then all the linking verbs. Or, give them a subject and ask them to write a sentence using an action verb, then another using a linking verb. For example, for 'sun,' they could write 'The sun *shines* brightly' (action) and 'The sun *is* hot' (linking).
4. Free Production (Ages 11-15): Encourage children to write their own short stories or descriptions. Their task is to include at least three action verbs and three linking verbs. After they write, have them highlight or circle the verbs and identify their type. This helps them use the verbs naturally in their own words.
5. Feedback (All Ages): Always give positive and constructive feedback. Point out correct usage first. Then, gently correct mistakes by explaining *why* a verb is action or linking in that specific sentence. For example, 'You said 'The music sounds loud,' which is great, 'sounds' is a linking verb here because it describes the music.'
Conclusion
Understanding action verbs and linking verbs is a key step in mastering English grammar. Action verbs show doing, while linking verbs show being or describing. By using simple examples, consistent practice, and age-appropriate activities, children from 4 to 15 can learn to use these verbs correctly and confidently. Keep practicing, and you'll see a big difference in how your sentences are built. LearnLink supports young learners in building strong grammar foundations.
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