Ask whether the sentence compares one thing with another or identifies the highest degree within a group. That meaning helps a child choose taller or tallest before checking the spelling.
Identify the comparison
A comparative can show that one person or thing has more of a quality than another: This tree is taller than that tree. A superlative identifies the highest degree within a group: the tallest tree in the park.
Do not decide only by counting names. Mina is taller than all the other children in her class still uses a comparative. The relationship matters. A highest degree can also be shared when there is a tie.
Choose one comparative or superlative form
Many short adjectives use -er/-est: tall, taller, tallest. Some ending in -y change to -ier/-iest: happy, happier, happiest. Longer adjectives often use more/most, as in more careful and most careful.
Some forms are irregular: good, better, best. Check an unfamiliar form in a dictionary. Do not combine more with taller or most with tallest. The superlative noun phrases in this lesson use the, as in the tallest tree; other determiners can be studied separately.
Worked example: three young trees
The measurements and sentences below are original. Identify which trees each sentence compares.
Name the comparison, then answer
Explain the comparison before selecting a form or correcting the sentence.
Try it yourself
Amy is 130 cm tall, Bo is 135 cm and Cal is 140 cm.
- Bo is ___ (taller / tallest) than Amy.
- Cal is ___ (taller / the tallest) of the three children.
- Correct: Amy is more shorter than Cal.
Show an explained answer
- Taller: Bo is compared with Amy, introduced by than.
- The tallest: Cal has the greatest height in this group of three.
- Amy is shorter than Cal. Shorter is already comparative, so do not add more.
