Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The ability to construct grammatically correct sentences is fundamental to effective communication. This question assesses a candidate’s grasp of basic English grammar, specifically the correct usage of tenses and subject-verb agreement. The sentence provided, “The workmen (repair) the road near our house,” requires correction to reflect an action in progress. Understanding the nuances of the present continuous tense is crucial for accurately conveying ongoing activities.
The correct sentence is: The workmen are repairing the road near our house.
Explanation of the Correction
The original sentence lacked the auxiliary verb ‘are’ which is essential for forming the present continuous tense. The present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are happening now, at the moment of speaking, or around this time. Here’s a breakdown:
- Subject: The workmen (plural)
- Auxiliary Verb: are (required for plural subjects in the present continuous)
- Main Verb: repairing (present participle of ‘repair’)
- Object: the road
- Adverbial Phrase: near our house
Tense Identification
The corrected sentence is in the Present Continuous Tense. This tense is formed using the auxiliary verb ‘to be’ (am, is, are) + the present participle (verb + -ing). It indicates an action that is currently in progress.
Subject-Verb Agreement
Subject-verb agreement is a crucial aspect of English grammar. Since the subject ‘workmen’ is plural, the auxiliary verb must also be plural, hence ‘are’ is used instead of ‘is’. Incorrect subject-verb agreement can lead to confusion and miscommunication.
Further Examples
- I am reading a book.
- She is writing a letter.
- They are playing football.
Common Errors to Avoid
A common error is omitting the auxiliary verb or using the incorrect form of ‘to be’. Another error is using the base form of the verb instead of the present participle (e.g., “The workmen repair the road…” – this would indicate a habitual action, not one happening now).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the corrected sentence, “The workmen are repairing the road near our house,” accurately employs the present continuous tense and demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement. This simple exercise highlights the importance of mastering fundamental grammatical principles for clear and effective written communication. A strong command of English grammar is essential for success in the UPSC examination and beyond.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.