Common Core Language Progressive Skills

Students will be able to use punctuation to separate items L.5.2A Students will be able to use punctuation to separate items in a series.

RULE Use commas to separate 3 or more words, phrase, or clauses in a series. EXAMPLE (words in a series) The camp counselor distributed baseballs, bats, volleyballs, and bandages.

We have a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. EXAMPLES (con’t) (phrases in a series) We have a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. (clauses in a series) I know I will pass the test if I take good notes, if I study hard, and if I get a good night’s sleep.

Special Note When the last two items in a series are joined by and, or, or nor, the comma before the conjunction is sometimes omitted. However, for purposes of the ACT, put it in! EXAMPLE: The entertainers sang, danced, and juggled.

We ran and walked and even limped NO! NO! If all the items in a series are joined by and, or, or nor, do not use commas to separate them. EXAMPLE: We ran and walked and even limped to the finish line.

Series continued… Use commas to separate two or more adjectives preceding a noun. EXAMPLE: I’ve had a long, hectic, tiring day. **When the last adjective in a series is thought of as part of the noun, the comma is omitted.

EXAMPLE: I mailed the package at the main post office. (together post and office name a place) TEST 1: Insert the word and between the adjectives in front of the noun. If it makes sense, you can use a comma. TEST 2: Change the order of the adjectives. If the order can be reversed sensibly, you can use a comma.

3. I took a flashlight a sleeping bag and a parka on our camping trip. PRACTICE I 1. When we were little, I had mumps you had measles and he had chickenpox. 2. Coriander saffron and cumin are three spices popular in Mexican cooking. 3. I took a flashlight a sleeping bag and a parka on our camping trip. 4. With a quick powerful leap, the stunt double bounded over the balcony. 5. The proud tired student turned in his research paper.

6. I can travel to school by car by private bus or by subway. PRACTICE II 6. I can travel to school by car by private bus or by subway. 7. We will be looking for eager energetic and cooperative trainees. 8. The newborn baby has tiny delicate perfect hands. 9. The boys girls and their parents applauded enthusiastically. 10.The athletic young man ran six miles along the scenic coast.

HOMEWORK 1. Most good hitters have great eyesight quick reflexes and strong wrists. 2.Regular practice intense concentration and good coaching are all important factors in a player's development. 3. Players must ignore noisy fans bad calls by umpires and insults from the opposing players' bench. 4. Ignoring distractions staying cool and keeping focused are often as important as hitting running or fielding. 5. Enjoying the company of team members being out in the fresh air and getting some exercise are all benefits of playing baseball. 6. The plane entered into a long slow spiral. 7. After eating, he picked up his blue acoustic guitar. 8.The long bizarre story held my attention. 9. I can still recall that long haunting story. 10. Leonard is an understanding generous person.