Commas

Front

What is the primary function of a comma in a sentence?

Back

To indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, or clarify meaning.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

When should a comma be used before a coordinating conjunction?

Back

A comma should be used before a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) when it connects two independent clauses.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Tags

CCSS.L.7.1A

CCSS.L.9-10.1B

Front

Provide an example of a sentence using a comma correctly before a coordinating conjunction.

Back

I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

What is the effect of a comma in the sentence 'Let's eat, grandma!'?

Back

The comma clarifies that the speaker is addressing grandma, rather than suggesting to eat her.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

When should commas be used in a list?

Back

Commas should be used to separate items in a list of three or more items.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.2C

CCSS.L.5.2A

CCSS.L.7.2A

Front

What is the Oxford comma?

Back

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

Tags

CCSS.L.1.2C

CCSS.L.5.2A

CCSS.L.7.2A

Front

Provide an example of a sentence that incorrectly uses a comma.

Back

I like apples, and oranges.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence is a sentence that contains at least two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction.

Tags

CCSS.L.3.1I

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.5.1E

CCSS.L.7.1B

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Front

How do commas help avoid ambiguity in sentences?

Back

Commas clarify the meaning of sentences by indicating pauses and separating elements, which helps prevent misinterpretation.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.5.2B