Comma Rules How and when to use a

Comma Rules How and when to use a comma.

Directions � Read through the 4 comma rules. � Copy the practice sentences into your packet and add the necessary commas based off the rule. � Pick ONE comma rule and find a real world example from a magazine.

Comma Rule #1 Rule: Use a comma before the conjunction to separate two main or independent clauses in a compound sentence. Use the comma before a conjunction ONLY when there are complete sentences on both sides of the conjunction. Compound sentence: consists of two or more main or independent clauses that are joined by a coordinating conjunction such as and, but, nor, for, so, or yet. Example: Children have learned many things by age five, but they still may need help getting dressed. Practice: Read the sentences. Rewrite each sentence adding commas where they are needed. 1. Emma wanted a cat and dog but her mother is allergic to them. 2. We needed to earn some money for the back sale so we had a bake sale.

Comma Rule #2 Rule: Use commas to separate adjectives of equal rank. *If the word and can be placed between the adjectives without changing the meaning, the adjectives are of equal rank. *If the order of the adjectives can be changed and still make sense, they are of equal rank. Example: Bianca made a simple, polite request. Practice: Read the sentences. Rewrite each sentence adding commas where they are needed. 1. A rude angry customer complained to the manager. 2. That cheese has a strong unpleasant odor.

Comma Rule #3 Rule: Use a comma after most introductory words, phrases, or dependent clauses. Example (Introductory Word): Well, I certainly wasn’t prepared for that. Example (Introductory Phrase): In the morning, the highway to the city is jammed with cars. Example (Introductory Adverbial Clause): Although it was early, my sister was dressed and waiting for the bus. Practice: Read the sentences. Rewrite each sentence adding commas where they are needed. 1. Before you go talk to Mr. Cortez. 2. If we do not sell enough tickets we may have to cancel the show 3. No that’s not what I meant.

Comma Rule #4 Rule: Use commas to set off a direct quotation from the rest of a sentence. Example: Naomi said, “Please wait for me. ” “I will, ” Rosa answered, “if you walk faster. ” Practice: Read the sentences. Rewrite each sentence adding commas where they are needed. 1. He said “We had fifteen inches of snow in five hours. ” 2. “On Thursday” she said “I will paint the house. ”

Real World �Now pick ONE of the four comma rules and find a real world example from a magazine. �Flip through the magazine to the correct use of the comma for that ONE rule and write the sentence on your packet.