Commas with Introductory and non-restrictive elements Alexis, Nolan, and Megan

Commas with Introductory Elements Definition: Any phrase or clause that comes before the main clause of the sentence. Introductory elements prepare readers for the what the sentence is about. Examples: “Ironically, Danielle has no realization that she is so highly admired.” Explanation: You place the comma after the introductory phrase “ironically” because it is an adverb that depends on the independent clause.

Restrictive elements Definition (restrictive): A restrictive element limits the meaning of the word it alters. It is essential for understanding the sentence. Therefore, it is not set off by commas. Example : “Food which is high in calories often tastes very good.” Explanation: This sentence is not correct because if you were to write “Food, which is high in calories, often tastes very good,” this would be implying that all food often tastes good.

Non-restrictive Definition (non-restrictive): An element that describes or adds additional information to the noun or pronoun whose meaning is already defined. It contains information that is not essential to the main point of the sentence. Therefore, a non-restrictive element is set off by a comma. Example: “Ice cream, which is not included in my diet, is a food I try to avoid.” Explanation: A non-restrictive element is more specific in topic versus a restrictive element.

Introductory Example According to theory there is not a certain hierarchy in which each need has to be fulfilled (Maslow 204). Where to place the comma According to the theory there is not a certain hierarchy, in which each need has to be fulfilled (Maslow 204). According to the theory, there is not a certain hierarchy in which each need has to be fulfilled (Maslow 204).

Restrictive Example A person may suspect that due to the fact that they are being paid attention to they will feel positive affection from the group of people they are with at that time ultimately leading up to feeling wanted. Where to put the comma A person may suspect that due to the fact that they are being paid attention to, they will feel positive affection from the group of people they are with at that time, ultimately, leading up to feeling wanted No comma needed.

Non-Restrictive Example High school sports can take over a student’s life and the student will believe that sports come first before school work and some schools even agree with that which causes academic decline. Where to put the comma? High school sports, can take over a student’s life and the student will believe that sports come first before school work, and some schools even agree with that which causes academic decline. High school sports can take over a student’s life and the student will believe that sports come first before school work, and some schools even agree with that, which causes academic decline.

What we have learned Restrictive elements are essential to the sentence as opposed to non- restrictive elements. Introductory words and phrases should be able to function at the beginning and/or end of a sentence. Sentences can begin with one or more introductory elements- clauses, phrases, or single words that lead into the main body of the sentence. “However, she was not happy with the outcome of her final grade.”

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