All we need … dedicated teachers

Analyze the question The sentence is: "All we need __ dedicated teachers." We must choose the verb that agrees with the subject.

Explain the concept When "all" means "the only thing(s)" and is followed by a relative clause ("we need"), the verb often agrees with what "all" refers to. Here, "All we need" is a phrase meaning "the only thing we need." Grammatically, "all" in this sense is treated as singular, so the standard exam answer is is. The present tense is also needed, because "we need" is in the present tense. That rules out "was" and "were."

Step-by-step solution

1. Find the subject: "All (that) we need" is the subject phrase. "We need" is just a clause describing "all."
2. Check the tense: "need" is present tense, so the verb should be present. This eliminates B (was) and D (were), which are past tense.
3. Choose between "are" and "is": "All" here works as a singular notion ("the only thing"), so we use the singular verb is.
4. Read it back: "All we need is dedicated teachers." This is the form generally accepted as correct in exams.

Note: Some speakers say "All we need are dedicated teachers" because "teachers" is plural.

Answer: C. is

Tip: When you see "All + subject + verb" meaning "the only thing," treat "all" as singular and use is. Also, always check the tense of the clause first, because it can eliminate two options quickly.