Select a simple passage from a reading assignment to initially focus on. Use the selection as an example so you can talk about sentence construction.
Write the sentence on the chalkboard. Diagram each part of speech clearly, including subject and predicate for this first instance. Use the basic T shape to diagram the sentence, placing the subject on the left and the verb on the right.
Explain how the predicate acts in conjunction with the subject. Note the difference between direct and indirect objects and their relation to the verb.
Add a second sentence that's more difficult. Use a more extensive chart to diagram the second sentence. Talk about articles, possessives and general modifiers (adverbs, adjectives and prepositional phrases). Attach each one using a small line coming off the modified word below the subject, verb and indirect/direct object in the upper part of the diagram.
Give the students a sentence to practice diagramming on their own. Allow them 5 to 10 minutes to complete the assignment.
Discuss the sentence's structure with the class. Have a few students come up to the board and write down what they think is correct. Explain where they are right or wrong and put the accurate diagram up for them to see.