There were 5th graders vs There was 5th graders

The correct phrase is "there were 5th graders." The verb "were" agrees with the plural noun "5th graders." The phrase "there was 5th graders" is incorrect because the singular verb "was" does not match the plural noun.

Last updated: March 11, 2024 • 754 views

This phrase is correct. The verb "were" agrees with the plural noun "5th graders."

"There were 5th graders"

Use this phrase when referring to a group of 5th graders in the past.

Examples:

There were 5th graders at the school play.
Last year, there were 5th graders in my class.
During the field trip, there were 5th graders from different schools.
There were 5th graders participating in the science fair.
In the competition, there were 5th graders showcasing their talents.

Show examples from the web [+]

Nov 30, 2009 ... There were 5th graders AND high school seniors in the auditorium! Well, the folks at Milwaukee Public Schools have written a blog post about ...
Nov 30, 2009 ... There were 5th graders AND high school seniors in the auditorium! Well, the folks at Milwaukee Public Schools have written a blog post about ...
Mar 12, 2014 ... Last year there were 5th graders who had their scripts memorized. No way are we going to be outdone by fifth graders!” I mean, come on.

Alternatives:

There were students in the 5th grade.
5th graders were present.
The 5th grade class had students.
Students in the 5th grade were there.
The 5th graders attended the event.

This phrase is incorrect. The singular verb "was" does not match the plural noun "5th graders."

"There was 5th graders "

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There were 5th graders vs There was 5th graders