Identify common and proper nouns

Key Notes:

Definition of Nouns

  • Nouns are words that name people, places, things, or ideas.
  • They are an essential part of sentences because they often serve as the subject or object.

What are Common Nouns?

  • Common nouns refer to general, non-specific items, people, or places.
  • They are not capitalized unless they start a sentence.
  • Examples: “dog,” “city,” “car,” “teacher.”

What are Proper Nouns?

  • Proper nouns refer to specific names of people, places, or things.
  • They always start with a capital letter.
  • Examples: “Sarah,” “New York,” “Toyota,” “Mr. Smith.”

Identifying Common Nouns

  • Look for words that name general categories or types.
  • Ask if the noun can refer to any member of a group or category.
  • Examples in sentences:
    • “The dog barked loudly.”
    • “He went to the park.”

Identifying Proper Nouns

  • Look for names of specific entities.
  • These nouns are often unique and not shared with others.
  • Examples in sentences:
    • “My friend Emily is coming over.”
    • “They live in Paris.”

Capitalization Rules

  • Proper nouns always need a capital letter, no matter where they appear in a sentence.
  • Common nouns do not need capitalization unless they start a sentence.

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