Sentences Using "I" or "Me"

When to Use "I" or "Me"

Both "I" and "Me" are pronouns used to talk about yourself, but they have different jobs in a sentence. Think of it like a game of tag: one is the player doing the action, and the other is the one receiving it!

1. Using "I" (The Doer) We use "I" when you are the person doing the action. You are the star of the sentence!

• Where it goes: Usually at the beginning of a sentence.
• Example: I like to paint.
• Example: I am going to the store.

The "Pals" Rule When you are talking about yourself and a friend, the other person's name always comes first.

• Correct: Sam and I played ball.
• Incorrect: Sam and I played ball.

2. Using "Me" (The Receiver) We use "Me" when something is happening to you, or you are at the end of the action.

• Where it goes: Usually near the end of a sentence.
• Example: Dad helped me.
• Example: She gave the book to me.

The Secret "Drop It" Test If you aren't sure whether to use "I" or "Me" when talking about yourself and a friend, try dropping the friend's name and see if the sentence still sounds right.

The Sentence: "Dad took Ben and (I or me) to the park."

1. Take out "Ben and."
2. Try: "Dad took I to the park." (Does that sound right? No!)
3. Try: "Dad took me to the park." (Yes!)
4. The Answer: "Dad took Ben and me to the park."

Another Sentence: "Ben and (I or me) went to the park."

1. Take out "Ben and."
2. Try: "Me went to the park." (Oops! Sounds silly.)
3. Try: "I went to the park." (Yes!)
4. The Answer: "Ben and I went to the park."

Lesson Summary

• Use "I" when you are the one doing the action (I jump).
• Use "Me" when the action is for you (Give it to me).
• Use the "Drop It" Test to check yourself!