ESSAY WRITING 101— COMMA RULE #3 COMMAS AFTER TRANSITIONS ELA 7

Commas After Transitions RULE:  When you begin a sentence with a transition, you have to place a comma after the transition. PURPOSE-to help your readers understand your writing better by putting in appropriate pauses. TRANSITIONS:  First, second, third, firstly, secondly, thirdly, first of all, second of all, additionally, in addition, also, however, for example, etc…

The paragraph below on how to make a PBJ sandwich models these commas with transitions: First, you need to make sure your counter top or cutting board is clean. Then, go to the pantry to get two pieces of bread and the peanut butter. Next, stop at the fridge to get the jelly. Place the two pieces of bread on the counter. Using a butter knife, spread the peanut butter on one piece of bread. Then, spread jelly on the other piece of bread. Finally, slap the two pieces of bread together and take a big bite. Don’t forget to clean up!

Hmm…why is there a random green comma in there? First, you need to make sure your counter top or cutting board is clean. Then, go to the pantry to get two pieces of bread and the peanut butter. Next, stop at the fridge to get the jelly. Place the two pieces of bread on the counter. Using a butter knife, spread the peanut butter on one piece of bread. Then, spread jelly on the other piece of bread. Finally, slap the two pieces of bread together and take a big bite. Don’t forget to clean up!

 Well, that comma is in the right place, but it introduces a new rule… Rule #4, commas after introductory phrases! We’ll get to that in a little while. ?

Where do the commas go in these sentences? Directions:  Copy the sentences on your own piece of loose leaf paper.  As you write, insert commas where they are needed.  Finally, highlight the commas. 1) I hate going shopping. However I love to people-watch at the mall. 2) First take out your supplies for a supply check. Next begin the warm-up activity. 3) I really need to run. Additionally I should do a few crunches.

Check out the commas in RED. 1) I hate going shopping. However, I love to people-watch at the mall. 2) First, take out your supplies for a supply check. Next, begin the warm-up activity. 3) I really need to run. Additionally, I should do a few crunches.

Make a sentence of your own.  On a piece of loose leaf paper, write at least one sentence with a transition and a comma.  You may have a “set-up” sentence before your transition sentence if you would like. Example of a Set-up: I like jet skiing. However, I hate to water ski.  You may also use your transition packet if you would like.  Remember to highlight your commas!