Conjunctions

Conjunctions

Middle School

Today's Lesson

• Introduction to Conjunctions
• Topic overview
• Topic overview

Learning Objectives

• We will be able to identify conjunctions in sentences.
• We will understand how conjunctions connect words, phrases, and clauses.
• We will learn the difference between coordinating and subordinating conjunctions.
• We will see how different conjunctions can change a sentence's meaning.
• We will practice combining simple sentences by using conjunctions.

Introduction to Conjunctions

Have you ever noticed how some sentences can sound short and choppy? This is where conjunctions come in to save the day! Think of conjunctions as the special 'glue' in our language. They are powerful words that connect other words, phrases, and even whole sentences together. Using them helps us build longer, smoother sentences that show how different ideas are related to each other.

Let's Learn with an Example

Let's look at two simple sentences: She loves to read. She loves to draw.

First, I'll identify the two separate ideas. The first is 'she loves to read,' and the second is 'she loves to draw.' Both are things she enjoys.

Next, I need to figure out the relationship between these two ideas. Are they contrasting? Is one the result of the other? In this case, they are two similar, positive things. I'm simply adding one idea to the other.

Because I am adding a similar idea, I know I should use a coordinating conjunction that shows addition. The word 'and' is perfect for this. It's part of the 'FANBOYS' group of conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So).

Now, I'll combine them into one sentence: 'She loves to read, and she loves to draw.' By using the conjunction 'and,' I've created a single, smoother sentence that connects her two hobbies. It sounds much more natural than the two short sentences.

Lets Practice Together

Multiple Choice

Which conjunction best completes the sentence? I wanted to play outside, ___ it was raining.

• but

• and

• so

• or

Lets give it
a Try

Fill in the Blank

Fill in the blank with the correct conjunction. He was tired, ___ he went to bed early.

Multiple Choice

Which sentence correctly uses a conjunction to combine the two ideas? 'She finished her homework. She watched a movie.'

• After she finished her homework, she watched a movie.

• She finished her homework, but she watched a movie.

• She finished her homework, or she watched a movie.

• She finished her homework, so she watched a movie.

Summary

• Conjunctions are glue words that connect words, phrases, and clauses in a sentence.
• They help make your writing and speaking flow smoothly and clearly.
• The FANBOYS are seven coordinating conjunctions that connect two equal ideas.
• Using conjunctions helps you build longer and more interesting sentences.
• Choose the best conjunction to show the relationship between your ideas.