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Film Synthesis Research Essay: Comma Usage

Directions:
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Review your paragraphs. Alter four sentences in the following ways:


1. Include one sentence that follows the Introductory Clauses &
Phrases rule from your Commas for Clarity notes.
Make sure this sentence is BOLDED.

RULE: Use a comma to show a pause after a clause or phrase


Examples:
During English class, we revised our essays.
Because I love running, I registered for the marathon.

2. Include one sentence that follow the Parenthetical Phrase rule from
your Commas for Clarity notes.
Make sure this sentence is BOLDED.

RULE: Place commas around an interruption


When writers include an interruption in a sentence, this causes a reader to
pause.
Example:
No interruption: She said that her math teacher was tough.
Interruption: She said that, while nice, her math teacher was tough.

3. Include one sentence that follows the FANBOYS (coordinating


conjunctions) rules.
FANBOYS=for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so
Make sure this sentence is BOLDED.

RULE: When a FANBOYS conjunction combines a complete thought, they


are preceded by a comma.

Examples:

I wanted to go to the movies, but I had too much homework


to do.

She was prepared for the test, so she earned an A.

4. Include one sentence that follows the SWABIs (subordinating


conjunctions) rules.
SWABI=since, when, after, because, if
Make sure this sentence is BOLDED.

RULES: When a subordinating conjunction begins a sentence,


place a comma after the subordinate clause.
Ex: Because the rain stopped, we can go play handball in the
park.

When a subordinating conjunction comes in the middle of a


sentence, do NOT include a comma between clauses.
Ex. John missed the bus because he overslept.

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