5th Grade Comma Rules (ONLS)

Front

What is a comma?

Back

A comma is a punctuation mark used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence or to separate items in a list.

Front

When should you use a comma before a conjunction?

Back

You should use a comma before a conjunction (like 'and', 'but', 'or') when it connects two independent clauses.

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

The Oxford comma is the final comma in a list of items, placed before 'and' or 'or'. It helps clarify the separation of items.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'I like apples, oranges and bananas.'

Back

Yes, but it is clearer with an Oxford comma: 'I like apples, oranges, and bananas.'

Front

When do you use a comma in direct address?

Back

Use a comma to separate the name of the person being addressed from the rest of the sentence, e.g., 'Can you help me, Sarah?'.

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a conjunction, often requiring a comma before the conjunction.

Front

Is this sentence correct? 'The dog barked, and the cat ran away.'

Back

Yes, the comma is correctly placed before the conjunction 'and'.

Front

When should you not use a comma?

Back

Do not use a comma when connecting two items in a simple list, e.g., 'I like apples and oranges.'

Front

Where should a comma be placed in this sentence? 'In July we will go on vacation.'

Back

A comma should be placed after 'July': 'In July, we will go on vacation.'

Front

What is the rule for commas in a series?

Back

In a series of three or more items, use commas to separate each item, and an optional Oxford comma before the last item.