(1) Grammar Practice – Subordinate conjunctions and clauses.
Write a (+) sign next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates a subordinate clause.
___ I am finished with my dinner, although I am still hungry.
___ I am finished with my dinner although I am still hungry.
___ Although I am still hungry I am finished with my dinner.
___ Although I am still hungry, I am finished with my dinner.
___ Although, I am still hungry I am finished with my dinner.
___ Because, you asked me for the candy I gave it to you.
___ Because you asked me for the candy I gave it to you.
___ I gave the candy to you because you asked me for it.
___ I gave the candy to you, because you asked me for it.
___ Because you asked me for the candy, I gave it to you.
___ If you finish all your work, you can play video games.
___ You can play video games, if you finish all your work.
___ If you finish all your work you can play video games.
___ You can play video games if you finish all your work.
___ You, can play video games, if you, finish all your work.
Subordinating Conjunctions with Subordinate Clauses (page184)
Conjunctions that introduce a phrase that cannot stand alone (dependent clause)
(AAAWWUBBIS - after, although, as, when, while, until, because, before, if, since)
RULE: When a subordinate clause begins a sentence, it is followed by a comma.
Although Mr. Fisher seemed like a concerned father, he was inattentive to Paul.
After she talked to the principal, Mrs. Fisher worried about the lack of a disaster plan.
Because Paul is serious about soccer, the Seagulls accept him as a teammate.
When anyone touches Paul’s glasses or eyes, he goes berserk.
RULE: When a subordinate clause ends a sentence, it does NOT need a comma.
Mr. Fisher was inattentive to Paul although he seemed like a concerned father.
Mrs. Fisher worried about the lack of a disaster plan after she talked to the principal.
The Seagulls accept Paul has a teammate because he is serious about soccer.
Paul goes berserk when anyone touches his glasses or eyes.
(2) Grammar Practice
Write a (+) sign next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates a subordinate clause.
If it is incorrect, fix the sentence.
___Once you have finished all of your work you may go outside.
___ I fixed the computer so that you can complete your homework.
___Whenever we have a sunny day, I wish I could be outside.
Write a (+) sign next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates an appositive.
If it is incorrect, fix the sentence.
___ My best friend Callie took me along to Dorney Park.
___ Oliver my dog, loves riding in the car.
___ All of my students, even Alex, love to read!!
Write a (+) sign next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates coordinating conjunctions.
If it is incorrect, fix the sentence.
___ Everyone read the directions yet everyone managed to make the same mistake.
___ Susie, and Sally, both joined the track team.
___ You must complete the chart for chunk 6 and you need to read for understanding.
(2A) Grammar Practice
Write a (+) next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates a transition. Fix any that are incorrect.
______ I have a pet cat at home; however, it really belongs to my daughter.
______ I didn’t want the cat nevertheless she talked me into it.
______ Additionally my son would like a bird.
______ Moreover, he feels it is only fair that he gets a pet since his sister has one.
______ Both children do not NEED a pet in addition it’s my house – not there’s.
______ Therefore I am not listening to their complaints.
Write a (+) next to each sentence that correctly uses and punctuates a subordinate clause. Fix any that are
incorrect.
______ When Callie called Lisa, she told her about what happened in math class.
______ Before Lisa could even ask a question Callie hung up the phone.
______ Lisa wondered if Callie’s mom had walked in, because her mom hated
gossip.
______ Lisa would be patient and wait to hear more, although she was very curious.
If the sentence uses a coordinating conjunction, write “Coo” in the blank. If the sentence uses an appositive,
write an “A” in the blank.
______ Randy walked home school but did not want to.
______Charlie, his brother, loved walking home.
______ Randy preferred riding his bike, yet he had decided not to ride it to school.
______ Riding a bike or walking are both decent choices.
______ Riding a bus, filled with loud students, did not appeal to Randy or Charlie.
TRANSITIONS
words or phrases that connect (or show relationships between) ideas, details, or events
When transitions come at the beginning of a sentence, follow it with a comma.
Additionally, I wish you were joining us.
On the other hand, perhaps it will be easier without you.
When you use transitions to connect two complete thoughts (independent clauses), precede the transition with a
semicolon and follow it with a comma. When used in this way they are called conjunctive adverbs
I wish you were joining us; on the other hand, it will be easier without you.
I absolutely love blueberry pie; however, I hate cherry pie.
Transition words to use when comparing: also, alike, both , in the same way, likewise, similarly
Transition words to use when contrasting: but, different, however, in contrast, instead, on the other hand,
unlike, yet
Transition words to introduce a new fact or argument: additionally, in addition, moreover
Transition words to introduce a final point: finally, in conclusion, therefore, consequently
Transition words to introduce a counter-argument: nevertheless, regardless (means “in spite of that”)
(3) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence. Use the abbreviations listed below:
A – Appositives
T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
1 ____Until you finish your vegetables, don’t ask me for desert.
2 ____Paul watched his brother play football since there was nothing else to do.
3 ____Phillip and Herman watched the goalie block the ball.
4 ____Just as Mary looked forward to some time off so too did Jerry.
5 ____You can use a pencil or a pen to write the paper.
6 ____Nevertheless, the students have to study for the exam.
7 ____Josie read the entire book without filling out her charts; consequently, she needs to go back and reread.
8 ____My daughter, Christal, has a cat named Luna.
9 ____Gym class is required whether or not you like it.
10____Both Alice and Anne have asked for extra help.
Select the BEST topic sentence.
___Math and Reading are areas of learning that are used throughout a lifetime.
____They are important and you need them all your life in order to keep learning.
____Math and Reading help you understand information that is presented on the internet.
____Math and Reading are areas of learning that you will use your entire life.
(4) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence. Use the abbreviations listed below:
A – Appositives
T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
1._____Not only is reading fun, but it also increases your knowledge!
2._____I greatly admire Scott, for he is my brother.
3._____Furthermore, Scott has always watched out for me.
4._____The Quonset hut, a giant cylinder that seemed to be cut in half and stuck into the ground, housed the
young trees.
5._____Paul joined the Soccer Team when he arrived at Tangerine Middle School.
6._____Luis forgot his money; therefore, he was not able to buy lunch.
Select the BEST thesis statement.
_____I think muck fires are a serious health hazard for people and animals.
_____You need to realize that muck fires pose a serious health hazard to people and animals.
_____Muck fires are a serious health hazard for people and animals.
_____I will demonstrate how muck fires pose a serious health hazard to people and animals.
(5) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence. Use the abbreviations listed below:
A – Appositives
T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
1._____The zombie, a symbol for secrets and deception, continues to follow Paul.
2._____However, Paul is only partially aware of the zombie.
3._____Paul can either ask his parents about his eyesight or continue to experience his flashbacks.
4._____When Paul experiences a flashback, it usually involves Erik.
5._____Erik insists Paul damaged his eyes by staring at the sun, yet Paul does not remember doing this.
6._____Paul continues befriending the Tangerine kids while Joey rejects them.
Select the BEST supporting detail for this topic sentence:
Vandalism is a serious crime with serious consequences.
_____Committing an act of vandalism may result in a fine of up to $500.
_____Vandalism is really bad and damages property.
_____People who commit vandalism are making a choice that could land them in jail.
_____Vandalism needs to be stopped before it starts.
(6) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence. Use the abbreviations listed below:
A – Appositives
T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
1_____Because Paul cannot see properly, he needs to wear special goggles to play soccer.
2_____Both Arthur and Erik are bullies.
3_____Arthur, Erik’s side-kick, does whatever Erik tells him to do.
4_____Paul feels like he belongs at Tangerine; unlike Joey, who decided to leave.
5_____Paul’s soccer team does not win every game although they to defeat each opponent.
6_____Whether Paul makes the goal or Victor isn’t really what’s important.
Select the BEST topic sentence.
_____It does not matter to me that Paul struggles with his eyesight.
_____I think Paul has a hard time because of his eyesight.
_____You need to accept Paul for who he is regardless of his eyesight.
_____Paul encounters many difficulties due to his eyesight.
(7) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence. Use the abbreviations listed below:
A – Appositives
T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
1_____Mom does not seem to understand Paul, and Dad doesn’t seem to care.
2_____Paul and Joey are no longer friends.
3_____So that there is no misunderstanding, I created a paper listing all the due dates.
4_____Consequently, I expect all of your work to be completed on time.
5_____Follow along in your book, Tangerine, as I read aloud.
6_____Not only did you spill your soup, but you also dumped your plate on the floor.
Select the BEST thesis statement.
_____We believe learning about conjunctions and transitions is really difficult.
_____You need to learn about conjunctions and transitions so you can have sentence variety.
_____Learning about conjunctions and transitions is difficult, but it provides sentence variety.
_____You need to learn about conjunctions and transitions, which is difficult, but it gives you sentence variety.
(8) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence – underline appositives and
subordinate clauses, shade over lightly in pencil any conjunctions and transitions. The sentence may or
may not need some editing. If necessary, put the correct punctuation in the sentence without
rewording anything.
A – Appositives T – transitions
SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions
Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
____When she slammed the door the picture frame fell off the wall.
____She turned back to look at the damage however she kept right on going.
____The Tangerine soccer players accept Paul because he is a talented player.
____Not only is the weather getting warmer but the days are also getting longer.
Select the BEST supporting detail for this topic sentence:
There are many steps involved when building a tree house.
_____It can be a lot of fun.
_____Gathering the appropriate supplies is the first step.
_____A hammer, a saw, some nails, a ladder, and some planks of wood are some things needed to begin.
_____Gathering the supplies I need is important: a hammer, saw, nails, ladder, and wooden planks.
(9) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence – underline appositives, subordinate clauses,
any conjunctions, and transitions. The sentence may or may not need some editing. If necessary, put the correct
punctuation in the sentence without rewording anything.
A – Appositives T – transitions SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions
Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
____Either the grass can be cut today or it can be cut tomorrow.
____If you do the work today you will have a day with no chores tomorrow.
____ Charlie your brother will do different chores.
____Charlie can help with the weeds and Fred can deal with washing the car.
Given the topic – families working together - select the BEST thesis statement.
_____You need to help out in your family.
____I think it’s important that families work together to take care of their homes.
____Working together is important.
____Families are most effective when working together.
(10) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence – underline appositives, subordinate clauses,
any conjunctions, and transitions. The sentence may or may not need some editing. If necessary, put the correct
punctuation in the sentence without rewording anything.
A – Appositives T – transitions SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions
Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
____Speaking and writing well is important because it reflects your abilities.
____If you write well you may be able to write an essay to get a scholarship.
____ Writing is important yet speaking can be just as important.
____A good speaker one who knows the difference between the use of the words good and
well is the one an employer wants representing their company.
Given the topic – Paul’s mom made bad choices for him - select the BEST thesis statement.
_____Mom’s choices changed Paul’s life.
_____You need to focus on Mom’s choices to understand why Paul acts the way he does.
_____Mom made choices that I think were bad for Paul.
_____Mom’s choices had a negative impact on Paul.
(11) Grammar Practice - Identify what is being used in each sentence – underline appositives, subordinate clauses,
any conjunctions, and transitions. The sentence may or may not need some editing. If necessary, put the correct
punctuation in the sentence without rewording anything.
A – Appositives T – transitions SB – Subordinate conjunctions in a subordinate clauses
Coo – Coordinating Conjunctions
Cor – Correlative Conjunctions
____If a healthy lifestyle is the ultimate goal then eating a balanced diet is important.
____A proper diet includes both fruits and vegetables.
____In addition exercising several times a week is important.
____Remember diet food choices not calorie counting along with exercise leads to a healthy
life.
After reading the sentences above, which of the sentences below would make the BEST topic sentence?
_____A healthy lifestyle includes a variety of things such as choosing the right foods.
_____A healthy lifestyle includes regular exercise.
_____Living a healthy lifestyle includes a combination of proper food choices and regular exercise.
_____Living a healthy lifestyle means making proper food choices.
(12) Grammar - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses, then add
appropriate punctuation.
Outdoor School is a great experience for the
students at Strayer Middle School however some
children do not take advantage of the opportunity. A
few of the many exciting adventures that await kids
include boating, tie-dye, and lacrosse so missing out on
these activities is a shame. In addition kids get to spend
time with their friends outside of school instead of
having to be in a classroom. Furthermore they might
get to try something they have never done before. Kids
always have a memorable experience whether the sun
shines brightly each day or the rain pours down like
buckets. Nevertheless there are usually students who
choose not to be a part of Outdoor School. If students
do not attend the outdoor experience they are still
expected to report to school each day. They will have
regular classes and they will need to complete the work
given to them. In addition homework, like RELA or
math, may be assigned. Therefore choosing to be a part
of Outdoor School appears to be the better of two
options.
(13) Grammar Practice - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses,
then add appropriate punctuation.
When I glanced in the direction of the
intersection I saw the car come flying around the
corner. It really took me by surprise because the
person driving the car was my mother. The car a
bright yellow Ford Focus looked like a flash of
lightning. Either something was terribly wrong or
Mom had just lost it! After thinking about the
situation I decided to dial 911. I wondered if I
would turn out to be a hero on the other hand I
wondered if I would end up grounded.
I wish now I had never dialed 911 however the
deed was done! Mom had been trying to drive and
text at the same time. She had misjudged her speed
when turning the corner and instead of hitting the
breaks she had hit the gas. A police officer
happened to have been nearby when I made the
call. Consequently she was given a ticket. Although
I had been trying to do the right thing and save
Mom’s life she was very angry with me. As a
result I am grounded!
(14) Grammar Practice - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses,
then add appropriate punctuation.
The class stared blankly at the teacher as she
gave the directions for the activity. Because
they loved to read they did not mind working
on the project. However Sara was the
exception to the rule. Nothing was good
enough for her and she let everyone know it.
Not only was Sara willing to speak up but she
was also willing to take a chance. The project a
power point presentation lacked pizzazz! Sara
wanted to do something more creative
whenever the opportunity presented itself.
Therefore she floated the idea of creating a
video time capsule. The teacher was impressed
with Sara’s idea and encouraged her to tackle
the project. When the rest of the class heard
this idea many believed it would be too much
work nevertheless Sara decided to do the
project her way!
(15) Grammar Practice - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses,
then add appropriate punctuation.
Most people would enjoy the thought of a
vacation. Because I have to go with the
ENTIRE family I know it will be absolutely
awful. My brother an annoying little monster
will stick to me like glue. My parents think
he’s just the cutest thing. Ugh! They will ooh
ahh and cheer for everything he says and does.
All of their attention will be focused on him
and no one will notice me on the other hand if
they are focused on him they won’t be hovering
over me all the time.
Wait a minute! I didn’t think about it like
that before. If my parents’ attention is on the
little brat they will leave me alone. Mom won’t
be nagging me to improve my attitude and Dad
won’t be trying to act like he’s my buddy. As
long as the little brat is distracted by my
parents’ attention there is hope this vacation
won’t be so bad after all.
(16) Grammar Practice - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses,
then add appropriate punctuation.
When my little sister developed a fear of
spiders my parents decided to take action.
They made studying spiders a family project.
My parents believed foolishly, I might add that
learning more about spiders would dispel her
fear. They couldn’t have been more wrong!
The whole house awoke to her screams as she
experienced a nightmare involving spiders.
After the nightmare experience my parents
continued to insist they could cure her of her
fears. They decided a friendly spider was what
they needed therefore they began reading the
book Charlotte’s Web to her at bedtime. Well
they were wrong again! We were all awoken
again to the sound of screaming.
As time passed my parents gave up their
plan to rid my sister of her fear of spiders and
our family project came to an end. Fortunately
the nightmares also stopped pretty quickly after
ending the project.
(17) Grammar Practice - Underline appositives, transitions, any conjunctions, and subordinate clauses,
then add appropriate punctuation.
Sally always loved taking on new challenges
even when they were a tad bit odd. When
presented with the challenge of holding her
breath underwater for four minutes she eagerly
agreed to try her best. Meanwhile Mark the
bully who created the challenge was telling
everyone to come watch Sally fail. Sally
treated this whole experience as a new goal to
be achieved so she began practicing the act of
holding her breath. Mark had given her three
weeks to prepare.
At first Sally couldn’t hold her breath for
more than one minute. As time went on she
was able to last longer and longer. On the day
of the challenge with all her friends and
enemies watching Sally went under the water.
The clock ticked away ominously! Everyone
waited. Finally Sally burst from the water. She
had lasted four minutes and one second
consequently Mark’s plan to make a fool of her
was a failure.