Grammar and Punctuation Agreement, Semi-Colon, and Comma Usage. By: Colin Henderson, Maria Lusso, Olivia Migliori, and Shannon Hurley

Stated Lesson Objective: Students will be able to integrate correct rules of grammar and punctuation in regards to agreement and semi-colon and comma usage in English Composition.

Agreement Can be described as the relationship between the subject and verb or the pronoun and antecedent in a sentence. Basic rule: If you have a singular subject, you will have a singular verb. If you have a plural subject, you will have a plural verb. Good: I am a potato. Bad: We is potatoes.

Agreement Collective nouns are generally singular. This includes “everyone” and “everybody.” Good: Everybody is bumptious. Bad: Everybody are bumptious. Good: The family has never been very close. Bad: The family have never been very close.

Semi-Colons Connect two related and independent clauses. Add variety to sentence structure. Can be used as a stylistic choice. Good: It was below zero; Squiggly wondered if he would freeze to death. Bad: It was below zero; Squiggly had pizza for dinner.

Semi-Colons Almost never used with coordinating conjunctions. Exception: a list of items used with commas. Example: This week’s winners are Herbie in Des Moines, Iowa; Matt in Irvine, California; and Jan in Seattle, Washington. Often used with conjunctive adverbs such as “therefore” and “however.” Example: Squiggly doesn’t mind doing the extra work; however, he would like to be thanked.

Commas The most versatile and misused punctuation mark in the English language. The Oxford or serial comma may or may not be used, depending upon the stylistic intent of the author. Good: Hank likes chocolate, vanilla, and coconut. Also Good: Hank likes chocolate, vanilla and coconut.

Commas Commas are used between commas if “and” can be put between them. Example: The customer was served the large, succulent steak. Beware of comma splices (connecting two independent clauses with only a comma). Commas are needed to separate nonessential elements from the rest of the sentence. Example: My father, an ex-detective, stayed curious and investigative throughout his retirement.

Practice Activity and Review

Q and A

Citation Grammar Girl’s Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty.