Commas with Introductory Clauses

Read a student’s opinion about board games. The paragraph is missing commas. Choose the three introductory clauses that should be followed by commas.

Since my friends enjoy having fun we often play games when we get together. I am a huge fan of board games. If I am given my choice I will always choose word games. I love them because they force me to think. I once scored nearly 100 points on a single word. When the person before me spelled the word fin I added i-s-h-i-n-g to his word, and my 9-letter word with a triple word score put me right into the lead.

• Since my friends enjoy having fun

• If I am given my choice

• I am a huge fan

• When the person before me spelled the word fin

• I love them

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma as an introductory element.

• Somehow Jack Will got that I had smiled at him.

• I wished she wouldn't talk to me like I was a baby in front of other people.

• While she was talking, I noticed Julian staring at me out of the corner of his eye.

• They think I don't know they're staring, but I can tell from the way their heads are tilted.

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma with introductory elements.

• Auggie's three good friends were Christopher, Zack, and Alex.

• The farting nurse asked, "What kind of doctor are you?"

• When Christopher moved away three years ago, I was really bummed.

• Next week I start fifth grade.

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a common as an introductory element.

• When we took the tour, do you know what they had in their science lab?

• Can you at least meet Mr. Tushman before you make up your mind?

• Hi Mr. Tushman. I see you're running a little BEHIND today!

• "He's the principal of my new school," I answered.

Choose the sentence that DOES NOT correctly uses a comma as an introductory element.

• When we were little, we used to have playdates all the time.

• If we bump into each other on the street, they're still nice to me, though.

• Mom's regular doctor wasn't on duty that night, so she got stuck with a cranky kid doctor.

• When I came out of mom's stomach, she said the whole room got very quiet.

Fix the sentence
It was in the Tribune's June, 5 2003, edition.

• It was in the Tribune's June 5, 2003, edition.

• The sentence is punctuated correctly

• It was in the Tribune's June, 5, 2003, edition.

• It was in the Tribune's June, 5 2003, edition. 

Which comma rule applies to the sentence below: While the dog ran in circles, the cat watched amused.

• Commas to separate adjectives

• Commas for items in a series

• Commas for introductory phrase

• Commas to set off appositives

Choose the sentence that correctly uses a comma with an introductory clause.

• A) After the rain stopped we went outside to play.

• B) Before the movie started, we bought some popcorn.

• C) Although it was late we decided to go for a walk.

• D) If you want to succeed you must work hard.

Identify the sentence that does NOT use a comma correctly with an introductory clause.

• A) Because it was raining, we stayed indoors.

• B) When the bell rang, the students left the classroom.

• C) Since you asked nicely I will help you.

• D) If you finish your homework, you can watch TV.

Which sentence uses a comma correctly with an introductory clause?

• A) While I was reading the book I fell asleep.

• B) As soon as the sun set, the temperature dropped.

• C) If you are ready we can start the meeting.

• D) Although he was tired he continued to work.