Comma Splices and Sentence Structure

The video tutorial explains the importance of using complete sentences for clarity and professionalism in writing. It introduces the concept of comma splices, a type of run-on sentence, and provides three methods to correct them: using a period, a conjunction, or a semicolon. The tutorial includes examples and practice exercises to help learners identify and fix comma splices in their writing, ultimately improving their writing skills.

What is the primary purpose of using complete sentences in writing?

• To make writing more complex

• To ensure clarity and professionalism

• To increase word count

• To confuse the reader

What is an independent clause?

• A sentence fragment

• A dependent clause

• A group of words with a subject and verb that expresses a complete thought

• A group of words that cannot stand alone

What is a comma splice?

• A sentence with too many commas

• A dependent clause joined with a comma

• Two independent clauses joined with only a comma

• A sentence with no commas

Which of the following is NOT a method to fix a comma splice?

• Removing the subject

• Changing the comma to a period

• Adding a conjunction

• Using a semicolon

When is it appropriate to use a semicolon to fix a comma splice?

• When the clauses are closely related

• When the clauses are unrelated

• When the sentence is too long

• When there is no conjunction available

In the example 'The dog barked, the trick-or-treaters arrived,' how can you correct the comma splice?

• Add a conjunction like 'and'

• Remove the comma

• Use a semicolon

• Add a period

What should you first look for when identifying comma splices in a paragraph?

• The length of the sentences

• The number of commas

• Whether commas separate independent clauses

• The number of words

Which sentence contains a comma splice?

• Lycopene is beneficial because it contains antioxidants.

• Lycopene is beneficial; it contains antioxidants.

• Lycopene is beneficial, it contains antioxidants.

• Lycopene is beneficial. It contains antioxidants.

How can you revise the sentence 'Tomatoes are heart healthy, they increase good cholesterol'?

• Tomatoes are heart healthy, because they increase good cholesterol.

• Tomatoes are heart healthy; they increase good cholesterol.

• All of the above

• Tomatoes are heart healthy. They increase good cholesterol.

What is the final step in editing your writing for comma splices?

• Adding more commas

• Rewriting the entire paragraph

• Re-reading drafts and correcting any comma splices

• Removing all conjunctions