1. Grammar Notes

2. A group of words that looks like a sentence but is not
Because the boy was sad
Since I went to school
Sentence fragment

3. Main/Independent clause
A group of words that can stand alone as a sentence
Main/Independent clause

4. Subordinate/Dependent clause
A group of words that depends upon an independent clause to become a complete sentence
Subordinate/Dependent clause

5. Coordinating conjunctions
Words that connect independent clauses
FANBOYS: For And Nor But Or Yet So
Coordinating conjunctions

6. When a dependent clause is at the beginning of the sentence, it must have a comma.
While I ate spaghetti, my sister played the violin.
Comma Rule 1

7. When combining two independent clauses with FANBOYS, you must have a comma.
I went to school, and it was the best day ever.
Comma Rule 2

8. When listing multiple items or concepts, you must separate them with commas.
I love soccer, coffee, books, and running.
In 2016, I renovated my house, trained for a 10K, and visited 2 countries.
Comma Rule 3

9. Appositives (a word or phrase that describes something) must be separated with commas.
My teacher, Ms. Crowder, loves to read.
Ms. Crowder, my English teacher has a Master’s degree.
I parked my car, a 2008 Ford truck.
Comma Rule 4

10. When directly speaking to someone, you must separate his/her name with a comma.
John, please pick up the paper from the floor.
I want to know the answer to number 23, Bo.
Comma Rule 5