ABSOLUTE PHRASES What is an absolute phrase n

ABSOLUTE PHRASES

What is an absolute phrase? n It is a group of words consisting of a noun or pronoun AND a participle!! n There can be other words (modifiers) in the sentence.

Why do we use absolute phrases? n Absolute phrases are valuable because they provide layers of detail in our sentences.

If an absolute phrase is in a sentence, can it be removed and the sentence still make sense? n YES!!! n An absolute phrase adds detail to a sentence, but it is not necessary information for the sentence to make sense.

Do I need to use a comma with absolute phrases? YES!!!! n They are ALWAYS set off from the rest of the sentence with a comma or pair of commas. n Sometimes they are set off with dashes (but not often). n

Can absolute phrase come anywhere in a sentence? YES! n Absolute phrases can be at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence. n We will be working on all three of these the next three weeks! n

Can you show me some examples of Absolute Phrases? n I SURE CAN!! Noun n Participle Ex. Their minds whirling from the avalanche of information provided by Mrs. Welty, the students left the classroom in a daze. n The italicized part still makes sense on its own.

Lets look at some more examples!!! n His head pounding, his hands shaking, the young man knelt and proposed marriage to his girlfriend. n What are the two nouns? l n Head and Hands What are the two participles? l Pounding and shaking

One More…. . n Knees knocking, palms sweating, the child crept down the dark hall to investigate the noise. n What are the absolute phrases? l Knees knocking & Palms sweating

YOUR TURN!!! n Work with your seat buddy to: Write a sentence about sports. l You must start your sentence with at least two absolute phrases!!! l