1. Using Commas
Punctuation

2. Begin Your Comma Notes:
Find a blank sheet of paper which you will keep in your notes this week.
Title it “Comma Rules”

3. Commas with conjunctions
FANBOYS
The Rule: IF there are two complete sentences on either side of a conjunction, then you must place a comma in front of the conjunction.
Samples:
Need a comma: The class boarded the bus, and the bus driver gave them instructions.
Don’t need a comma: The class boarded the bus and found seats. (No Comma)

4. Commas with appositives
Rule: Use commas to offset appositives. Hint, you can take an appositive out of a sentence and the sentence still “works.”
Sample:
John, the fastest runner, won the race.
(The appositive is underlined)

5. Commas to offset dialogue
Samples:
“Don’t block the road,” he said.
He said, “Don’t block the road.”

6. Commas to offset introductory phrases
Rule: Place a comma after a phrase that introduces the sentence.
After cleaning out her closet, she decided to reorganize the garage.
(Introductory phrase is underlined)

7. Commas in a series
Rule: use commas to separate a series of three or more words.
Sample:
We painted houses, fences, and garages.

8. Commas to separate adjectives
Rule: Use commas to separate two adjectives that equally describe the same noun.
Sample
The tall, white goose chased the duck.