, , , , , , , , “Where does that comma go???” Let’s learn them all! There are many different ways to use a comma! , , , , Let’s learn them all! , , ,

, , , , , , , First of all… “What is a comma?” Definition: Generally used to separate words or groups of words so that the meaning of the sentence is clear. , , , , , Apostrophes are at the top; commas are at the bottom! Apostrophe , , Don’t get a comma confused with an apostrophe!

Rule #1: USE COMMAS FOR ITEMS IN A SERIES Words, Phrases, and Clauses in a series are usually separated by commas to show the reader where one item in the series ends and the next begins. Words in a Series: In the early morning, the lake looked cold, gray, and calm. On the boat, we took extra clothes, fishing poles, and some snacks.

A group of words that does not have a S & V together Phrases in a Series , , Checking his shoelaces fastening his helmet strap and positioning his kneepads Brandon prepared for the skateboarding competition. , What is a phrase again?! Where do the commas go? A group of words that does not have a S & V together

Clauses in a Series The lights dimmed the curtain rose and the play began. , , We didn’t know where we were going how we would get there or when we would arrive. , , Where do the commas go? What is a clause again? Group of words with a S & V. It can stand alone.

, , , Use Commas to Separate 2 or More Adjectives Before a Noun Pomeranians are small energetic dogs. , , These intelligent loyal playful pets always enjoy a challenge.

I voted for Corey and Mona and Ethan in the student council election. NOTE! and or nor *If all of the items in a series are joined by and, or, or nor, do NOT use commas to separate them! Repeated Conjunction I voted for Corey and Mona and Ethan in the student council election. Example

Activity!!! STEPS: Get in groups of 4 (with people beside you). Take out a piece of paper: 1 per group. Write down 1 sentence using words in a series, 1 sentence using phrases in a series, & 1 sentence using clauses in a series with commas used correctly. You have five minutes!

, FANBOYS , So For Yet And Or Nor But Rule # 2: Compound Sentences: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when it joins independent clauses in a compound sentence. , FANBOYS I enjoyed A Christmas Carol but Romeo and Juliet is still my favorite play. So I enjoy plays and movies. For Yet No comma needed b/c there are not 2 independent clauses. And Or , I enjoy going to plays and my sister likes them too. Nor But 2 Indep. Clauses & a Conjunction so we need a comma!

Activity!!! STEPS: Get a Partner Add to your original sheet of paper Write 5 sentences using 1 coord. conj. in each sentence & do NOT use commas. Then write the same 5 sentences using commas. Give to Coach B. when done!

, , Rule #3: Interrupters EXAMPLE: Use commas to set off an expression that interrupts a sentence 2 commas are used with interrupters: 1 goes before the expression, and 1 goes after. EXAMPLE: Elise born in Texas moved to Colorado before coming to Ohio. What’s the interrupter? , , So where do the commas go?

Interrupters Continued… Some interrupting expressions come at the beginning or end of a sentence. In this case, only 1 comma is needed. , Born in Texas Elise moved to Colorado before coming to Ohio. , The applications were mailed three days ago by the way. Where does the comma go?

Nonessential Definition: Nonessential & Essential…there’s a difference A.K.A. Needed & Not Needed Nonessential Definition: A phrase or clause that is not needed in a sentence. Doesn’t take away from the meaning. Example: This small turtle, crossing the street slowly, was in danger.

Essential Definition: NO COMMAS NEEDED! Adds info that makes the N or Prn it identifies more specific. DO NOT SET OFF AN ESSENTIAL PHRASE!!! Example: All farmers growing the new hybrid corn should have a good harvest. We need this info or the sentence changes meaning totally! SO… no commas needed!

Let’s Practice a Few… , , 1. Leonardo Dicaprio the actor has appeared in many films. 2. The composer Mozart wrote 5 short piano pieces when he was 6. Correct! , 3. The card game canasta is descended from mah-jongg an ancient Chinese game.

Use Commas to Set off Words of Direct Address Examples: Mrs. Clarkson, this package is addressed to you. Do you know, Odessa, when the next bus is coming? I’d like to go now, Jeff.

Using a Comma When Speaking to Someone Can Make a Big Difference! For Example… Ahhh! Let’s eat Grandpa! Let’s eat, Grandpa!

, , “Where should the comma go?” Rule # 4: Introductory Words, Phrases, & Clauses Use a comma after certain introductory elements. Focusing on Words 1st: Use a comma to set off a mild exclamation such as: well, oh, or why at the beginning of a sentence. Other words such as yes and no are also set off with commas! “Where should the comma go?” Examples: , Well I think we should ask for help. Yes I understand the problem. ,

Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. Focusing on Introductory Phrases & Clauses Now… Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. If an introductory prep. phrase is long, USE A COMMA! Example: At night in the desert, the temperature falls rapidly.

In the morning, we’ll tour our favorite sites. If an introductory prep. phrase is short, a comma MAY or MAY NOT be used! EXAMPLES: In the morning, we’ll tour our favorite sites. In the morning we’ll tour our favorite sites. Either way works!!!

Commas with Verbal Phrases! Use a comma after a verbal phrase that introduces a sentence! Examples: Signaling the referee for a time out, the coach gathered her players for a pep talk. To keep your bones strong , be sure to eat foods rich in calcium. Gumball Question!: What is a verbal phrase?

HINT! When you’re writing… As a general rule… When you start a sentence with a phrase or a clause, usually you need a comma after it!

RULE # 5:Conventional Situations (Dates, Addresses, Letters) Where should the commas go in the following examples? , January 7 2010 Mike Jones 1456 Palm Lane Lakewood California 87653 ,

Fix any mistakes in the letter! . 1113 Collins St Fort Worth TX 76106 September 16 2010 , , , Dear Aunt Sally What a great time I had at your house last week Your two dogs Buffy and Pepper certainly kept me entertained I’ve really missed taking them for walks and playing fetch When summer begins I could come visit again Anyway thank you very much for inviting me. Sincerely James ! , , . . , . , , Nice Job!

“Now You’re a Comma Pro!!!” “Congratulations!” “Now You’re a Comma Pro!!!”