Superlative Grammar

Using the Superlativein English(comparing more than 2 things) : Using the Superlative in English (comparing more than 2 things)


We use the superlative in English when we are comparing more than two people, places, or things. : We use the superlative in English when we are comparing more than two people, places, or things. Here are some examples: When we compare the houses of Janet, Linda, and Tom, Janet’s house is the biggest. Janet’s house is also the most elaborate. Tom’s house is the smallest.


The comparative forms from the previous example are:-the biggest-the smallest-the most elaborate So . . . When do we use “-est” and when do we use “most?” : The comparative forms from the previous example are: -the biggest -the smallest -the most elaborate So . . . When do we use '-est' and when do we use 'most?'


Slide4 : How many syllables are the words: 'big' and 'small?' 1 For 1-syllable adjectives, JUST add 'est' to the end. Example: Tom is the smartest student in the class. **If the 1-syllable adjective has a C-V-C pattern, Double the consonant and add 'est.'  Examples: ECC is the biggest campus in our district. Arizona is one of the hottest states in the U.S.


Slide5 : For adjectives that end with the letter 'y,' DROP the 'y' and add 'iest.' Examples: Adjective = fancy Janet’s house is the fanciest house in our neighborhood. Adjective = pretty Janet’s house is also the prettiest. Adjective = friendly Alison is friendly. Kelly is even friendlier. But Kathryn is the friendliest of the three.


Slide6 : How many syllables is the word: elaborate? 4 (more than 1) For adjectives that are 2 or more syllables, use 'most' + the adjective to make the superlative form. Examples: Adjective = interesting That was the most interesting movie I’ve ever seen. Adjective = comfortable This chair is the most comfortable in the room.


Slide7 : Irregular comparatives: You MUST memorize these! Examples: good = the best far = the farthest (furthest) bad = the worst Adjective = good Sara is a very good student. She usually gets the best grades in the class.


Slide8 : Grammar Rule: Never use both 'MOST' and 'EST!' Incorrect: Lisa’s car is the most biggest. Correct: Lisa’s car is the biggest. Also . . . Don’t forget to use: THE + the superlative form


Slide9 : Using 'the least' Sometimes we can compare several things by using 'the least.' To do this, use the LEAST + adjective When using 'the least,' the adjective DOES NOT CHANGE Examples: When comparing L.A., New York, and Seattle . . . L.A. is the most polluted city. Seattle is the least polluted city.


Slide10 :


Slide11 : There are a few exceptions with superlative grammar . . . These are adjectives that don’t follow the basic rules or that have more than one acceptable form. To learn these, you must memorize them. 'fun' We say: the most fun the funnest 2. 'simple' We say: the most simple OR the simplest 3. 'narrow' We say: the most narrow OR the narrowest 4. 'quiet' We say: the most quiet OR the quietest


Slide12 : Try these examples. Use the superlative form. I think Social Studies is the _________________ (interesting) subject in school. 2. San Diego is one of the _____________ (pretty) cities. 3. A dog is usually the _______________ (friendly) pet. 4. Today was the _____________ (hot) day so far this week. 5. My cousin is the ______________ (rich) relative in our family. He owns a successful business. 6. USE the LEAST: This is the __________________ (expensive) restaurant downtown.


Slide13 : Try these examples. Use the superlative form. I think Social Studies is the _________________ (interesting) subject in school. 2. San Diego is one of the _____________ (pretty) cities. 3. A dog is usually the _______________ (friendly) pet. 4. Today was the _____________ (hot) day so far this week. 5. My cousin is the ______________ (rich) relative in our family. He owns a successful business. 6. USE the LEAST: This is the __________________ (expensive) restaurant downtown.


Slide14 : For Additional Explanation and Practice, go to these websites: 1. Comparative / Superlative Explanation and Quizzes: http://web2.uvcs.uvic.ca/elc/studyzone/330/grammar/regcom.htm 2. Comparatives Challenge Board Game: http://www.quia.com/cb/289015.html These exercises will help you become an expert!