Context
Verbal agreement is a key topic in Portuguese grammar that defines how the verb relates to the subject of a sentence. Through this concept, it is possible to see how the verb adjusts in number (singular or plural) and person (first, second, or third) to agree with the subject. The general rule is quite simple: the verb must agree in number and person with its subject.
However, it is important to consider special cases of verbal agreement, which include situations where the subject is compound, expressions that indicate quantity, subjects placed after the verb, among others. These cases challenge the general rule and require a deeper understanding of the correct use of the verb in the Portuguese language.
Finally, we reinforce the importance of understanding this topic not only for compliance with grammatical rules in tests and exams but also for the construction of coherent and understandable texts. Verbal agreement directly influences the clarity of communication and is a fundamental resource for those who wish to express themselves properly in the Portuguese language.
Speaking of practical applications, verbal agreement is essential in any situation involving textual production, from writing a formal email to preparing a report or writing an academic article. In addition, mastering verbal agreement is highly valued in public exams, tests such as ENEM and university entrance exams, and also in job interviews, where proficiency in the use of the Portuguese language can be a differential.
To delve deeper into the subject, we suggest the following sources:
- CUNHA, Celso; CINTRA, Lindley. Nova Gramática do Português Contemporâneo. 6th Edition, Lexikon, 2017.
- Verbal Agreement - Brasil Escola
- Verbal Agreement - Mundo Educação
Practical Activity
Activity Title: "Verbal Agreement in Action"
Project Objective:
The objective of this project is to apply and deepen students' knowledge of verbal agreement through the creation of a digital comic story. Students must demonstrate the correct use of verbal agreement according to the standard of the Portuguese language, both in normal and special cases.
Detailed Project Description:
Groups will create a digital comic story that addresses various situations where verbal agreement is noticeable. The story should be contextualized in real-life situations to promote the practical application of the studied concept. In addition, the situations should challenge students to apply both the general rule of verbal agreement and its special cases.
Required Materials:
- Computers with internet access.
- Digital platform for creating comic stories (Canva, Storyboard That, Pixton, etc.).
- Reference material for verbal agreement (grammar books, Portuguese teaching websites, etc.).
Detailed Step-by-Step for Activity Execution:
- Form groups of 3 to 5 students.
- Research the general rule of verbal agreement and its special cases using the indicated reference materials.
- Choose a digital platform to create your comic story.
- Create a story that includes dialogues and situations that require the use of different verbal agreement norms.
- Ensure that each dialogue balloon or description correctly uses verbal agreement, both in the general rule and in special cases.
- Review your comic story to ensure correct verbal agreement and story quality.
- Prepare a presentation for the class explaining the decisions made regarding verbal agreement in your comic story.
- Present your comic story and the verbal agreement logic employed to the class and the teacher.
- Finally, write a report of up to five pages, following the structure: Introduction, Development, Conclusion, and Bibliography, with the following description:
- Introduction: Provide context on the topic of verbal agreement and its relevance, the project's purpose, and real-world application.
- Development: Explain the theory of verbal agreement, the methodology used for creating the story, the decisions made regarding verbal agreement, and the results obtained.
- Conclusion: Review the main points of the activity, lessons learned, challenges encountered, and how you solved or overcame these challenges.
- Bibliography: List all reference sources used during the work.
The project, including the comic story and the report, must be submitted within one month. Remember: the quality and correct application of verbal agreement rules in the story and the report's quality are of utmost importance.