Common and proper nouns worksheets

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A common noun names any one (city, girl, day). A proper noun names a specific one and starts with a capital (Chicago, Maya, Monday).

Three grades, each its own sheet. Print one here, or open a grade for examples and teaching notes.

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  1. 1st grade

    Examples and teaching notes

    Some nouns name any old thing (dog, park); proper nouns name one special one (Rex, Utah) and wear a capital letter to show it. First graders sort simple words into the two piles.

  2. 2nd grade Core grade

    Examples and teaching notes

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

    A common noun names any person, place, or thing: girl, city, dog. A proper noun names one specific one and always starts with a capital letter: Maya, Chicago, Rex. Second graders sort words into the two groups.

  3. 3rd grade

    Examples and teaching notes

    Common nouns name a general kind (river, holiday, teacher); proper nouns name a specific one and are capitalized (Lake Michigan, Thanksgiving). Third graders sort trickier pairs and explain why each word does or doesn't get a capital.

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