Punctuation: Commas: With Conjunctions, Interjections, Direct Address

Comma Power-Ups: Using Commas for Clarity

Commas are like little pauses in our writing. They help us organize our sentences and show where one thought ends and another begins. Let’s look at three ways to use commas to make our writing super clear:

1. Commas with Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

Think of FANBOYS as a superhero team of conjunctions:

• For
• And
• Nor
• But
• Or
• Yet
• So

When these conjunctions connect two complete sentences (independent clauses), we use a comma before them.

• Example: I like to swim, but my friend prefers to bike.

Important Note: If the two parts are not complete sentences, don’t use a comma.

• Example: I like to swim and bike.

2. Commas with Interjections

Interjections are words that show strong emotion, like “wow,” “ouch,” or “yikes.” When we use an interjection in the middle of a sentence, we put commas around it.

• Examples:
  • Wow, that’s a beautiful dress!
  • The food, unfortunately, was cold.
  • Well, I guess we’ll see.

3. Commas with Direct Address

Direct address is when you’re talking to someone directly, using their name or a title. When you use a name in a sentence, you should use a comma (or two commas if it’s in the middle of the sentence).

• Examples:
  • John, can you please close the door?
  • Excuse me, sir, where is the restroom?
  • I think, Maria, that you are absolutely right.

Let’s Practice!

1. Add the Commas:

   • I went to the store and I bought apples bananas and grapes.
   • Hey can you pass me the salt?
   • The food was delicious but I was too full to eat dessert.
   • I think Mr. Smith that you have a great idea.

2. Correct the Mistakes:

   • The movie was long but, it was interesting.
   • Well I am not sure about that.

Challenge!

Write a short dialogue between two friends. Use at least one comma for each of the three rules we learned today.