How to write command sentences - KS1 English

Command sentences

Command sentences tell somebody to do something.

Bring me the ball.

They usually start with an imperative verb, sometimes called a ‘bossy verb’ because it tells someone what to do.

These might be words like ‘sit’, ‘fetch’ or ‘bring’.

Command sentences often end with a full stop, but they can also end with an exclamation mark.

Fetch me the ball!

King Femi learns to give commands with help from his brother, the Duke of Biscuits.

Command sentences tell somebody to do something, or not to do something. They usually follow the same pattern.

Positive command sentences tell you what to do.

Tidy your room.

They begin with a verb. The verb is always an imperative, or ‘bossy’ verb.

Clean your teeth.

Like all sentences, command sentences start with a capital letter.

Command sentences can end with a full stop or an exclamation mark, depending on how they are said.

Sit down!

To change the command into a negative command, put ‘do not’ or ‘don’t’ before the imperative verb.

Do not sit down!

Queen Nia is practising her commands. She tries out some new sentences.

Which one is a command sentence?

a) I am very tired.

b) Fetch my blanket.

c) Can you pass me the crown?

The Duke of Biscuits has written down some commands for the King, but he left out the imperative verbs.

Can you fill them in?

a) _______ quiet!

b) _______ me my cloak.

c) Don’t _______ in the throne room.

Look around your home, school, or playground. See if you can spot any real-life commands with imperative verbs.

You might see them on signs, posters, or labels. Write down three you find.

Some examples might be: