INTRODUCTORY WORDS AND PHRASES Haven’t we met somewhere before….?

Introductory Words & Phrases Simply words and phrases that begin a sentence. Lots of argument over the need for a comma after.

Personally, I think using a comma makes sentences easier to understand They signal a separation or pause between parts. It sounds better to put a comma after an adverb that comes at the beginning of a sentence if that adverb has to do with time. It also helps clarify a sentence if you put a comma after an introductory prepositional phrase.

Let’s look at some examples… This is a good time to practice your Cornell Notes ---

Adverb (one-word adverbs) You see this a lot. An adverb indicates WHEN the action took place. Put a comma after it if you hear a pause when the sentence is spoken aloud. Ex- Meanwhile, my stomach growled. I blamed it on the dog.

Adverbial Clauses (Subordinate) You need a comma after an adverbial clause that introduces a sentence. After I get something to eat, I will feed the dog.

Participial Phrases A comma is needed after a participial phrase that comes at the beginning of a sentence. Ex- Walking down Blue Street, I decided to try some sushi.

Prepositional Phrases Not everyone agrees you need a comma after prepositional phrases. I say it NEEDS A COMMA if it refers to TIME. Ex- In about two hours, I had eaten an ocean of sushi.

More on Prepositional Phrases…. A comma IS needed after two or more prepositional phrases that follow each other at the beginning of a sentence. Ex- At the end of the meal, the hungry dog tried to eat my inori zushi. Ex- In one hour in the MPR, we will have pizza.

WORDS – Especially ‘yes’ and ‘no’ This is another example that you will see over and over again. Ex- Yes, it is necessary to have a comma after introductory words. Ex- Yes, we have no bananas today.

What have you learned about Introductory Words and Phrases? 1) Adverb (one-word adverbs) : Tell when or there is a pause when spoken aloud. 2) Adverbial Clauses( subordinate) : Introduces a sentence. 3) Participial Phrase 4) Prepositional Phrase: Especially if it refers to time. 5) After two or more prepositional phrases that follow each other at the beginning of a sentence. 6) After words such as ‘yes’ and ‘no’.