Comma Rules — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
Because the power went out we had to use flashlights during dinner.
Corrected: Because the power went out, we had to use flashlights during dinner.
"Because the power went out" is an introductory dependent clause, so a comma must follow it before the main clause begins.
2. Fix the sentence:
The library was closed so we walked to the bookstore instead.
Corrected: The library was closed, so we walked to the bookstore instead.
This is a compound sentence with two independent clauses joined by "so," a FANBOYS conjunction, so a comma is needed before "so."
3. Fix the sentence:
When the bell rang everyone rushed out the door to the playground.
Corrected: When the bell rang, everyone rushed out the door to the playground.
"When the bell rang" is a dependent clause that opens the sentence, so a comma separates it from the independent clause that follows.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. An introductory clause is a group of words that comes before the main part of a sentence.
An introductory clause appears before the main clause, giving background information like time, reason, or condition before the main idea.
2. A compound sentence joins two independent clauses with a comma and a conjunction.
Each independent clause can stand alone as its own sentence, so the comma plus conjunction signals that two complete ideas are being linked together.
3. Words like "because," "although," and "when" often begin an introductory clause.
Subordinating conjunctions like "because," "although," and "when" start dependent clauses that cannot stand alone, making them introductory clauses when placed first.
4. In the sentence "She ran fast, yet she still missed the bus," the word "yet" is a coordinating conjunction.
"Yet" is one of the seven FANBOYS coordinating conjunctions (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So) used with a comma to join two independent clauses.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Write a sentence that starts with an introductory clause beginning with "Although." Place the comma correctly.
Sample answer: Although it was snowing outside, we still walked to school that morning.
A good answer includes: Although it was snowing outside, we still walked to school that morning.
2. What is the difference between a simple sentence and a compound sentence? How do commas help?
Sample answer: A simple sentence has one independent clause, while a compound sentence has two independent clauses joined by a conjunction. A comma before the conjunction helps the reader see where one idea ends and the next begins.
A good answer includes: A simple sentence has one independent clause, while a compound sentence has two independent clauses joined by a conjunction. A comma before the conjunction helps the reader see where one idea ends and the next begins.