Parallel Structure Grade 9 Language Arts Event Description notes

Parallel Structure Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance (in a sentence). This can be a word, phrase, or clause. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as “and” or “or.”

Parallel Structure Words and Phrases With -ing form Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and biking. With infinitive form Parallel: Mary likes to hike, to swim, and to ride a bike.

Parallel Structure Mary likes to hike, swim, and ride a bike. Do not mix forms NOT parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bike. Parallel: Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bike.

Parallel Structure NOT parallel: The manager was asked to write her report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed manner. Parallel: The manager was asked to write her report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.

Parallel Structure Clauses A parallel structure that begins with clauses must continue with clauses. NOT parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and to do some warm-ups. Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and that they should do some warm- ups.

Parallel Structure Lists after a colon Be sure to keep all elements in the same form NOT Parallel: The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and looking up irregular verbs. Parallel: The dictionary can be used for these purposes: to find word meanings, pronunciations, correct spellings, and irregular verbs.

Parallel Structure Proofreading Strategies: - skim your paper, pausing at words “and” and “or.” Check for parallelism. - for items in a list, put them in a column to see if they are parallel. - listen to the sound as you read, is there a series or rhythm being repeated? Check for parallelism.

Parallel Structure Fill in the following sentence blanks with words or phrases of your own. Watch for parallelism. Subways are ____, ____, and ____. At those parties, we had lot of fun. We ____, ____, and ____. If you ____ and ____ you will feel healthy. It was a clear May day. In the park, ____, ____, and ____.