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

2. , , , , , , , 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!

3. 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.

4. 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

5. 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.

6. , , , 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.

7. 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

8. 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!

9. , 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!

10. 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!

11. , , 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?

12. 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?

13. 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.

14. 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!

15. 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.

16. 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.

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

18. , , “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. ,

19. 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.

20. 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!!!

21. 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?

22. 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!

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

24. Fix any mistakes in the letter!.
1113 Collins St
Fort Worth TX
September , , ,
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!

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