Which Meaning Do the Commas Show?

Do the participial phrase sheet first so students know the terms essential and nonessential. Then use the meaning sheet and have students explain each choice aloud.

Circle the sentence whose commas match each meaning, from restored paintings to Coach Ellis's daughter. Commas around a clause, phrase or name show it only adds extra information. With no commas, those words tell which one or which ones the writer means. The directions on the page read: Read each meaning. Then circle the letter of the sentence whose commas match it. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade punctuation, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

A restrictive, or essential, element tells which person or thing the writer means, so it takes no commas. A nonrestrictive, or nonessential, element only adds extra detail, so commas set it off.

With commas, a phrase describes everyone or everything named. Without them, it narrows the group. The paintings, restored by experts last year, means all of them were restored, while the paintings restored by experts last year means only some.

It is a phrase that begins with a verb form such as trained, hiking or erupting and acts like an adjective. Commas Around Nonrestrictive Participial Phrases asks students to decide whether each one is essential.