“Where does that comma go???”,,,,,,,, There are many different ways to use a comma! Let’s learn them all!

First of all… “What is a comma?” Definition Definition: Generally used to separate words or groups of words so that the meaning of the sentence is clear. Don’t get a comma confused with an apostrophe! Apostrophes are at the top; commas are at the bottom! Apostrophe,,,,,,,

In the early morning, the lake looked cold, gray, and calm. Words in a Series Words in a Series: On the boat, we took extra clothes, fishing poles, and some snacks. Words, Phrases, and Clauses in a series are usually separated by commas to show the reader where one item in the series ends and the next begins. Rule #1: USE COMMAS FOR ITEMS IN A SERIES

Phrases in a Series Checking his shoelaces fastening his helmet strap and positioning his kneepads Brandon prepared for the skateboarding competition. What is a phrase again?! A group of words that does not have a S & V together,,, Where do the commas go?

Clauses in a Series The lights dimmed the curtain rose and the play began. We didn’t know where we were going how we would get there or when we would arrive. What is a clause again? Group of words with a S & V. It can stand alone.,,,, Where do the commas go?

Use Commas to Separate 2 or More Adjectives Before a Noun Pomeranians are small energetic dogs., These intelligent loyal playful pets always enjoy a challenge. always enjoy a challenge.,,

NOTE! Repeated Conjunction *If all of the items in a series are joined by and, or, or nor, do NOT use commas to separate them! I voted for Corey and Mona and Ethan in the student council election. Example andandandandororornornornor

Let’s Practice! 1.The delicate colorful wings of the hummingbird vibrate as many as two hundred times each second. Place commas where needed! 2. The cool soft wind blew across the forest. 3. Last week I read the novel The Lucky Stone the short story Flowers for Algernon and the poem Legacy II. 4. I want to visit Thailand Nepal China and Japan. 5. I sanded the the boards Jennifer primed them and Paul painted them.,,,,,,,,, Items in a Series!

Rule # 2: Compound Sentences: Use a comma before a coordinating conjunction when it joins independent clauses in a compound sentence. FANBOYS For And NorBut Or Yet So I enjoyed A Christmas Carol but Romeo and Juliet is still my favorite play., I enjoy plays and movies. No comma needed b/c there are not 2 independent clauses. I enjoy going to plays and my sister likes them too. 2 Indep. Clauses & a Conjunction so we need a comma!,

Rule #3: Interrupters Use commas to set off an expression that interrupts a sentence 2 commas are used with interrupters: 1 goes before the expression, and 1 goes after. EXAMPLE: Elise born in Texas moved to Colorado before coming to Ohio.,, What’s the interrupter? So where do the commas go?

Interrupters Continued… Born in Texas Elise moved to Colorado before coming to Ohio. Some interrupting expressions come at the beginning or end of a sentence. In this case, only 1 comma is needed. The applications were mailed three days ago by the way.,, Where does the comma go?

Nonessential & Essential…there’s a difference A.K.A. Needed & Not Needed Nonessential Definition: Example: This small turtle, crossing the street slowly, was in danger. A phrase or clause that is not needed in a sentence. Doesn’t take away from the meaning.

Essential Definition: Adds info that makes the N or Prn it identifies more specific. DO NOT SET OFF AN ESSENTIAL PHRASE!!! NO COMMAS NEEDED! Example: All farmers growing the new hybrid corn should have a good harvest. We need this info or the sentence changes meaning totally! SO… no commas needed!

Let’s Practice a Few… 1. Leonardo Dicaprio the actor has appeared in many films. 2. The composer Mozart wrote 5 short piano pieces when he was The card game canasta is descended from mah-jongg an ancient Chinese game.,,, Correct!

Use Commas to Set off Words of Direct Address Examples: Mrs. Clarkson, this package is addressed to you. Do you know, Odessa, when the next bus is coming? I’d like to go now, Jeff.

Using a Comma When Speaking to Someone Can Make a Big Difference! (LOL!!!) For Example… Let’s eat Grandpa! Let’s eat, Grandpa! Ahhh!

Rule # 4: Introductory Words, Phrases, & Clauses Use a comma after certain introductory elements. Focusing on Words 1 st : Use a comma to set off a mild exclamation such as: well, oh, or why at the beginning of a sentence. Other words such as yes and no are also set off with commas! Examples: 1.Well I think we should ask for help. 2.Yes I understand the problem. “Where should the comma go?”,,

Focusing on Introductory Phrases & Clauses Now… Use a comma after an introductory phrase or clause. If an introductory prep. phrase is long, USE A COMMA! Example: At night in the desert, the temperature falls rapidly.

If an introductory prep. phrase is short, a comma MAY or MAY NOT be used! EXAMPLES: In the morning, we’ll tour our favorite sites. In the morning we’ll tour our favorite sites. Either way works!!!

Commas with Verbal Phrases! Use a comma after a verbal phrase that introduces a sentence! Examples: Signaling the referee for a time out, the coach gathered her players for a pep talk. To keep your bones strong, be sure to eat foods rich in calcium. Gumball Question!: What is a verbal phrase?

HINT! As a general rule… When you start a sentence with a phrase or a clause, usually you need a comma after it! When you’re writing…

RULE # 5:Conventional Situations (Dates, Addresses, Letters) 1. Dates & Addresses Where should the commas go in the following examples? January Mike Jones 1456 Palm Lane Lakewood California 87653,,

“Congratulations!” “ Now You’re a Comma Pro!!!”