Commas

Separating Independent Clauses What is an independent clause? It is a group of words with a subject and predicate that makes sense by itself. Examples: Polar bears are at risk due to melting glaciers and sea ice. Scientists labeled recent temperature increases as abnormal. Subordinating conjunctions Difference from a dependent clause: When temperatures in the Arctic increase Because sea ice melts sooner than before

What is a compound sentence? It is made of two closely related independent clauses. The two clauses can be joined by a comma and a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or). They can also be joined by a semicolon (;). Examples: Not all dry regions are deserts, but all dry regions are fragile ecosystems. Areas with fewer plants cannot sustain existing animal populations; these populations disappear.