Using Commas in a Series: Punctuation and Parallel Structure

This video tutorial teaches the use of commas in a series and the importance of parallel structure in writing. It provides examples and exercises to help students identify and correct errors in their drafts. The lesson emphasizes the need for consistency in grammatical units within lists and offers practice opportunities to reinforce learning.

Why is it important to use commas in a series?

• To separate items clearly

• To make the sentence longer

• To add more words

• To confuse the reader

What is parallel structure in writing?

• Using different grammatical units

• Using the same type of grammatical unit

• Avoiding punctuation

• Writing in different languages

In the sentence 'Bob loves surfing, grilling, and fishing,' what type of grammatical unit is used?

• Adjectives

• Nouns

• Gerunds

• Adverbs

Which of the following sentences is correctly punctuated?

• We decided to work on the deck, the yard and the kitchen.

• We decided to work on the deck, the yard, and the kitchen.

• We decided to work on the deck the yard and the kitchen.

• We decided to work on the deck, the yard, the kitchen.

Identify the error in the sentence: 'We sanded the wood, applied the stain, and replacing the broken step.'

• Extra word

• No error

• Missing comma

• Mismatch in verb tense

Which sentence has correct parallel structure?

• She likes reading, to swim, and biking.

• She likes reading, swimming, and biking.

• She likes to read, swimming, and to bike.

• She likes to read, swim, and biking.

What should be done to the verb 'update' in the sentence: 'We are welcoming, painting, and update the room'?

• Leave it as 'update'

• Change it to 'updating'

• Change it to 'updates'

• Change it to 'updated'