How does this improve writing?

The show-then-name pattern: concrete evidence first, abstract label second. Writers who know their nouns' kinds control when readers see and when they conclude.

What comes after sorting?

Production: writing one sentence pairing a concrete noun with the abstract noun it demonstrates. The sort is the map; that sentence is the trip.

5th grade abstract and concrete nouns

5th grade abstract and concrete nouns worksheets

Fifth graders use the distinction as a writing tool: concrete nouns to show, abstract nouns to name what was shown.

Free printable PDF worksheet, aligned to Common Core L.3.1.c.

Each print is a different sheet with its own answer key. You don't need to sign up.

The kind of words you'll sort

Write each word from the bank in the correct column.

mailboxpeacehopefriendshipthunderladdertrustbackpack

Columns: concrete (see or touch it) and abstract (an idea or feeling). "ladder" belongs under concrete (see or touch it); "peace" belongs under abstract (an idea or feeling).

Every print pulls a new set of words at this level, so a make-up test or a second sibling gets a different mix.

What's on a 5th grade sheet

5th grade sheets draw from 36 words, 14 to a page. 3rd to 5th grade print from the same 36 words. The teaching notes below are written for this grade.

Some of the words:

shovelsidewalkicicleluckfreedomkindnessfearpridehumorcuriosity

Sorting. Write each word from the bank in the correct column. 14 words per page.

Every version prints on US Letter or A4, with its answer key on the last page.

How to teach this

Connect to writing: strong paragraphs EARN their abstract nouns with concrete ones. 'Courage' lands because the sentence before it showed a shaking hand on a rope. Ask your child to pair one abstract noun with the concrete evidence for it.

Watch for: Concrete does not mean solid: thunder, fog, and a smell are concrete because a sense can catch them. The test is perceivable, not touchable. Abstract nouns are still fully nouns: they take articles and verbs like any other (the courage, her patience grew). Being invisible does not demote them.

Common questions about 5th grade abstract and concrete nouns

How does this improve writing?: The show-then-name pattern: concrete evidence first, abstract label second. Writers who know their nouns' kinds control when readers see and when they conclude.
What comes after sorting?: Production: writing one sentence pairing a concrete noun with the abstract noun it demonstrates. The sort is the map; that sentence is the trip.

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Aligned to Common Core L.3.1.c. Reviewed by the One more sheet team. Content version 241, updated August 2026.

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