In SEC 2027 G3 English Language (K300), Paper 1 Section A is a 10-mark editing task. When a verb seems wrong, find the subject it belongs to. A plural noun between the subject and verb can make a singular sentence sound plural.
Try reducing a sentence to the part that carries its main action. In “The box of markers is missing,” the box is missing. The phrase “of markers” describes the box. The subject is singular, so “is” fits.
- Find the verb and ask who or what it describes.
- Bracket the phrase between subject and verb.
- Read the complete sentence again after the correction.
Worked example | A long phrase between subject and verb
Original practice sentence. “The list of activities for the younger pupils are on the noticeboard.” The main statement is about the list. Temporarily remove “of activities for the younger pupils” and read “The list are on the noticeboard.” Change “are” to “is.”
Now compare “The activities on the list are suitable for younger pupils.” Here the subject is “the activities,” and “on the list” describes them. “Are” is correct. The same two nouns appear in both sentences. Their jobs have changed.
When the sentence contains two verbs
Read “The volunteer who checks the tickets waits by the door.” The volunteer checks tickets and waits by the door. Each verb agrees with the singular subject it refers to.
In “The volunteers who check the tickets wait by the door,” both verbs change. The relative clause gives more information about the volunteers, and the main clause tells you where they wait. Check each verb in the clause it belongs to.
The K300 editing section assesses grammar. The syllabus excludes spelling and punctuation errors from this section. During practice, label the error you found before making a correction.
Try three sentences before checking
1. The keys to the equipment cupboard is on the desk. 2. The captain of the two teams have signed the form. 3. The pupils who organise the display meets after lunch.
In 1, change “is” to “are” because the subject is “the keys.” In 2, change “have” to “has” because “the captain” is singular. In 3, keep “organise” and change “meets” to “meet.” The pupils both organise and meet.
For a second round, swap a singular subject for a plural one and ask a study partner what else needs to change. Keep the describing phrase unchanged to make the comparison clear.
Frequently asked questions
Should I always use the noun nearest the verb?
Check which noun or pronoun is the subject of the clause.
Can a sentence with several nouns have a singular subject?
Yes. In “The sound of the drums is loud,” the subject is the sound.
Official information
SEAB’s 2027 SEC G3 English Language syllabus (K300), Paper 1 Section A. Checked 8 November 2026.