Common and Proper Noun Worksheets

Distinguishing between common and proper nouns can be confusing at first; therefore, starting off with basic differences between the two parts of speech is crucial to a discussion of the material. Afterwards, using worksheets will help to further the basic understanding and components learned in the preliminary lessons.

Common vs. Proper Nouns

All nouns are either a person, place, or thing. However, common nouns are more general. Examples of common nouns include:

• dog
• city
• car
• amusement park
• sister
• holiday
• bag
• perfume

Proper nouns refer more specific people, places, and things. They are generally always capitalized. Examples of proper nouns that correspond to the common nouns above are:

• Rover
• New York City
• Dodge Caravan
• Disney World
• Julie
• Christmas
• Coach
• Curve

Common and Proper Noun Worksheets

Teachers can use worksheets that focus on common nouns and worksheets that focus on proper nouns. However, finding worksheets that combine both will reinforce the idea that they are both parts of the noun family, but do have important differences.

• Determination of noun type - After looking at a variety of words, students are required to decide which are common nouns and which are proper nouns.
• Crayon activity - Students underline common nouns with a blue crayon, and proper nouns with a red crayon. Although appropriate for other levels, younger students will particularly enjoy being able to use an art utensil.
• Capitalization - Better geared for students at an intermediate or advanced level of common and proper noun usage, this worksheet has proper nouns with incorrect capitalization. Students must correct the problems.
• Common vs. Proper - For further practice, students underline proper nouns and circle common nouns.
• Write Your Own - Like the examples of proper and noun commons listed above, this worksheet provides a common noun and asks students to write their own proper noun.

Teaching Common and Proper Nouns

Be patient when you are using these common and proper noun worksheets. Learning the difference can take awhile. Although they are different, and people see both types on an almost daily basis, it still can be hard to differentiate because they are both still nouns.

Think about writing a menu. Most people know that the word "food" is a common noun and is not capitalized. However, individuals frequently become confused when they are talking about specific types of food, and determing whether those words are common or proper nouns can be difficult.