Prepositions and Conjunctions — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
The cat sat under on the mat.
Corrected: The cat sat on the mat.
A single preposition is enough to show place; doubling them creates an ungrammatical, confusing sentence.
2. Fix the sentence:
I want pizza nor pasta tonight.
Corrected: I want pizza or pasta tonight.
'Nor' pairs with 'neither' or negatives; 'or' is the correct coordinating conjunction for a positive choice.
3. Fix the sentence:
Mia read between her book quietly.
Corrected: Mia read her book quietly.
'Between' needs two or more objects; the original sentence uses it incorrectly with a single noun.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The pencil is on the desk where I left it.
'On' shows contact with the top surface of the desk, the natural place a pencil rests.
2. I wanted to play, but it started to rain.
'But' joins two ideas that contrast, showing rain stopped the planned play.
3. The cat hid under the bed when guests arrived.
'Under' tells us the cat was below the bed, a common hiding spot for pets.
4. We can walk or ride the bus to school.
'Or' presents a choice between walking and riding, the typical use for alternatives.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Name three common place prepositions and use one in a sentence.
Sample answer: Three place prepositions are in, on, and under. Example: The book is on the shelf.
Listing prepositions and using one in context shows you can both name and apply them correctly.
2. What does FANBOYS stand for?
Sample answer: FANBOYS stands for For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So, the seven coordinating conjunctions.
Memorizing FANBOYS helps Grade 5 writers join independent clauses correctly with commas.