How Commas Change a Sentence's Meaning
Written by Adi Ackerman, Head Teacher
"How Commas Change a Sentence's Meaning" is written for 7th Grade (Ages 12-13), and it covers Common Core L.7.2. A 6th grader who is already steady on punctuation can use it too, and an older student can use it as a short review.
7th grade grammar worksheet: compare sentence pairs that differ only in commas and pick the meaning each one gives. Answer key included. Part of our nonrestrictive elements punctuation collection. Aligned to Common Core standards.
How do I use this worksheet?
Start with the comma sheet, then use the meaning sheet to show why the commas matter. Ask students to read each pair aloud.
What students will practice
- Students will compare two sentences that differ only in their commas.
- Students will match each sentence to meaning A or meaning B.
- Students will explain how commas change which group a clause describes.
Curriculum Links
Common Core State Standards
Language · 7th Grade
Standard: Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
View all L.7.2 worksheets →Find this in the curriculum
Browse the grade, subject, and topic this belongs to.
FAQ
How do I use this nonrestrictive elements worksheet?
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Start with the comma sheet, then use the meaning sheet to show why the commas matter. Ask students to read each pair aloud.
What does this worksheet teach?
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Compare sentence pairs that differ only in commas and pick the meaning each one gives. Without commas, a clause or phrase narrows the group to certain members; with commas, it adds extra information about the whole group. The directions on the page read: The two sentences in each pair differ only in their commas. Read meanings A and B. Write the letter of the correct meaning on the line before each sentence. An answer key is included.
Can I use this nonrestrictive elements worksheet for homeschool or classroom?
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Yes, both. We made it for 7th 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.
What is a nonessential phrase?
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It is a phrase that adds extra information, so the sentence still makes sense without it. A nonessential phrase is set off with commas. An essential phrase tells which one is meant and takes no commas.
How do commas change the meaning of a sentence?
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Without commas, a clause narrows the group to certain members. With commas, it adds extra information about the whole group. In the pairs of sentences on the sheet, the only difference is the commas.
Do I always add commas around a phrase?
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No. Four sentences on Set Off Nonessential Phrases With Commas have essential phrases and need no commas. Students circle the numbers of those sentences.
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Worksheet Details
| Grade | 7th Grade |
| Subject | Grammar & Writing |
| Topic | Punctuation |
| Standard | L.7.2 |
| Pages | 1 page |
| Difficulty | Medium |
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