Introductory Phrases

Comma Rule: Introductory Phrases

Comma's with Introductory Phrases and Clauses

• Use a comma to show a pause after a clause or phrase.

• When clauses and phrases start sentences, they often require a reader to pause before moving on

Sometimes a comma is necessary after an introductory phrase.

Other times, the comma is optional, and there are also times when a comma should not be used.

It is important to note that a comma should always be used if the sentence could be misinterpreted otherwise.

Multiple Choice

Where does the comma go?

On the tall and slanted roof the cat sat silently watching.

• tall,

• cat,

• silently,

• roof,

Introductory Phrase

• very short (less than four words), the comma is usually optional. But if the phrase is longer than four words, use a comma.

Short prepositional phrase:

Before the movie let’s get some popcorn.

Before the movie, let’s get some popcorn.

Multiple Choice

Where does the comma go?

Across the lake a light flashed on the dock.

• lake,

• flashed,

• light,

• on,

• isn’t necessary but simply adds information to the sentence

• Bonus Info

Non Restrictive

• is necessary to the meaning of the sentence.

Restrictive

Appositive Phrases

The award-winning teacher Mrs. Becky Armstrong was honored at graduation for her impact on students’ lives.

Restrictive

Kate, a happy child, loves to dance

Non Restrictive

Multiple Choice

Where does the comma go?

Over the course of the semester the class will study fossils.

• course,

• semester,

• class,

• study,

Multiple Choice

Where does the comma go?

If we barbecue the neighbor's dog barks.

• If,

• we,

• barbecue,

• dog,

Multiple Choice

Where does the comma go?

Before you iron the dog should be let out.

• iron,

• dog,

• let,

• Before,

Poll

Choose the sentence where the commas is place correctly.

• Jennefer hid her lucky marbles, in the bushes.

• Because he enjoys music, Sean bought tickets to the orchestra.

Poll

Choose the sentence where the commas is placed correctly.

• After a long discussion, the knitting club finally planned the bake sale.

• Magnus enjoys,running at top speed.