Jurnal Pendidikan Multidisipliner

Volume 7 Nomor 7, Juli 2024
ISSN: 27342488

JOURNAL ENTRY: UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF SUBJECT
COMPLEMENTS IN ENGLISH GRAMMAR
Viola Sasti Bizora. L.Tobing1, Junita Siska Nauli Saragih2, Arta Jesika Rajagukguk3
Email: violasasti@gmail.com1, saragihjunita549@gmail.com2, artajesika49@gmail.com3

Universitas HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar
ABSTRACT
This journal entry aims to provide an in-depth analysis of subject complements in English grammar,
focusing on their syntax, types, roles, and implications for sentence structure and meaning. By
exploring the syntax associated with subject compleplements, this study enhances the understanding
of their pivotal role in English syntax. Subject complements are fundamental to the structure and
clarity of English sentences, playing a crucial role in describing or renaming the subject following
linking verbs. This study aims to explore the different types of subject complements, namely
predicative adjectives and predicate nominatives, and their functional roles within sentences.
Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research includes a comprehensive literature review, corpus
analysis, surveys, questionnaires, and an experimental study to evaluate the effectiveness of various
instructional strategies. The corpus analysis reveals the prevalence and contextual usage of subject
complements across different genres, while survey results highlight common challenges faced by
learners in identifying and using these grammatical elements. The experimental study demonstrates
that targeted instructional approaches significantly improve learners’ understanding and application
of subject complements. The findings underscore the importance of effective grammar instruction that
incorporates contextual examples and interactive activities. This research contributes to the
development of pedagogical strategies aimed at enhancing English grammar proficiency, thereby
supporting learners in achieving greater fluency and accuracy in their use of the English language.
Keywords: Subject Complements, Predicate Nominatives, Predicative Adjectives, Linking Verbs,
English Grammar, Corpus Analysis, Grammar Instruction, Language Acquisition, Sentence Structure,
Educational Strategies.

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INTRODUCTION
The subject complement is a fundamental component of English grammar, essential for
constructing clear and informative sentences. Its role is to provide additional information
about the subject of the sentence, typically following a linking verb. This journal entry aims
to explore the definition, types, and functions of subject complements, highlighting their
importance in English syntax.
Subject complements play a pivotal role in the structure and clarity of English
grammar. They are essential components that follow linking verbs, providing necessary
information about the subject of the sentence. Unlike objects, which receive the action of the
verb, subject complements describe or rename the subject, thereby enriching the meaning and
coherence of sentences.
Understanding subject complements is crucial for both native speakers and learners of
English. These grammatical elements help to create sentences that are not only grammatically
correct but also more expressive and nuanced. In educational settings, a firm grasp of subject
complements enhances students’ writing and speaking skills, allowing for more sophisticated
and varied sentence constructions.
This journal aims to explore the different types of subject complements—predicative
adjectives and predicate nominatives—and their functions within sentences. By delving into
their roles, usage, and common pitfalls, this study seeks to provide a comprehensive
understanding of subject complements. The research will also examine their significance in
effective communication, emphasizing how they contribute to the richness and precision of
the English language. Through this exploration, we hope to underscore the importance of
mastering subject complements for achieving fluency and eloquence in English grammar.
METHOD
This study on understanding the role of subject complements in English grammar
utilizes a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research
methodologies to provide a comprehensive analysis of the topic.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
The results of this study on the role of subject complements in English grammar are
presented in three main sections: the findings from the corpus analysis, the survey and
questionnaire data, and the experimental study outcomes.
1. Corpus Analysis
The corpus analysis revealed several key insights into the usage of subject
complements across different genres of English:
a. Frequency and Distribution: Subject complements were found to be prevalent in both
written and spoken English, though their frequency varied by genre. Academic writing
and journalism showed a higher frequency of predicate nominatives, while
conversational English exhibited more predicative adjectives.
b. Types of Subject Complements: Predicate nominatives were more commonly used in
formal and expository texts, serving to rename or define the subject with precision.
Predicative adjectives were more frequently found in informal contexts, adding
descriptive qualities to the subject.
c. Contextual Usage: Subject complements were often used to provide additional
information about the subject, enhancing the clarity and richness of the sentences. They
frequently appeared after linking verbs such as "is," "seem," "become," and "appear."
2. Surveys and Questionnaires
The surveys and questionnaires provided valuable insights into the understanding and
perceptions of subject complements among English learners and native speakers:
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a. Knowledge and Awareness: A significant portion of respondents demonstrated a basic
understanding of subject complements, recognizing their role in sentences. However,
many participants struggled with identifying different types of subject complements and
distinguishing them from objects.
b. Common Challenges: The most common difficulties reported were related to identifying
linking verbs and differentiating between predicative adjectives and predicate
nominatives. Respondents also mentioned confusion when subject complements
involved more complex structures or less common linking verbs.
c. Instructional Preferences: Participants expressed a preference for interactive and contextbased learning approaches. Many suggested that examples from real-life contexts and
practical exercises would be more effective in improving their understanding of subject
complements.
3. Experimental Study
The experimental study aimed to assess the effectiveness of targeted instructional
approaches for teaching subject complements. The key findings are as follows:
a. Pre-test and Post-test Performance: Participants in the experimental group, who received
targeted instruction on subject complements, showed significant improvement in their
post-test scores compared to the control group. The improvement was most notable in
correctly identifying and using predicative adjectives and predicate nominatives.
b. Instructional Effectiveness: The interactive lessons and practice exercises were found to
be highly effective in enhancing participants' understanding and usage of subject
complements. The experimental group reported increased confidence in their ability to
identify and use subject complements correctly.
c. Qualitative Feedback: Participants provided positive feedback on the instructional
methods, highlighting the usefulness of contextual examples and interactive activities.
They also noted that the targeted instruction helped clarify common misconceptions and
provided a clearer understanding of the role of subject complements in sentences.
Summary of Findings:
The results of this study underscore the importance of subject complements in English
grammar and the challenges learners face in mastering them. The corpus analysis highlighted
the prevalence and contextual usage of subject complements, while the surveys and
questionnaires identified key areas of difficulty and instructional preferences. The
experimental study demonstrated the effectiveness of targeted instructional approaches in
improving learners' understanding and usage of subject complements.
These findings suggest that a comprehensive approach to teaching subject
complements, incorporating contextual examples, interactive activities, and targeted
instruction, can significantly enhance learners' grammatical proficiency. The study provides a
foundation for developing effective pedagogical strategies and resources to support the
teaching and learning of subject complements in English grammar.
CONCLUSION
This study has provided a comprehensive analysis of the role and significance of
subject complements in English grammar. Through a mixed-methods approach,
encompassing corpus analysis, surveys, questionnaires, and an experimental study, we have
gained valuable insights into the usage, understanding, and instructional strategies related to
subject complements.
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