Standard: 7.L.2a – Use a comma to separate coordinate adjectives (e.g., It was a fascinating, enjoyable movie but not He wore an old[,] green shirt).
Grade level: Grade 7
Subject: English Language Arts
Domain: Language
Teacher Overview
This standard focuses on the correct use of commas to separate coordinate adjectives, which is essential for clear and effective writing. It helps students understand how punctuation can change the meaning of a sentence and enhances their ability to write descriptively. Before tackling this standard, students should be comfortable identifying adjectives and understanding their basic function in a sentence. They should also have experience using commas in simpler contexts.
Mastering this standard will enable students to use punctuation more effectively in complex sentences, improving their overall writing skills and preparing them for advanced writing tasks.
Common Misconception 1
A common misconception is that all adjectives in a series require commas. This is incorrect because only coordinate adjectives, which can be joined by ‘and’ without changing the meaning, need commas.
Intervention 1
To address this misconception, use sentence exercises where students test if adjectives are coordinate by inserting ‘and’ between them. If the sentence still makes sense, a comma is needed.
Common Misconception 2
Another misconception is that commas between coordinate adjectives are optional. This is incorrect as omitting commas can lead to confusion and misinterpretation of the sentence.
Intervention 2
To remediate this, provide students with practice sentences and highlight how commas change the meaning and clarity of the sentence. Use peer review to reinforce learning.
Prerequisite Knowledge
Students should have a basic understanding of adjectives and their role in a sentence, as well as familiarity with the use of commas in lists and compound sentences.
Subsequent Knowledge
After mastering this standard, students will be able to apply their understanding of punctuation to more complex sentence structures, enhancing their overall writing clarity and coherence.
Instructional Activities
- Practice worksheets with sentences requiring comma placement between coordinate adjectives.
- Group activities where students create descriptive sentences and peer review for correct comma usage.
- Interactive games focused on identifying and punctuating coordinate adjectives.
- Writing assignments that emphasize descriptive language and proper punctuation.
- Editing exercises where students correct comma usage in provided paragraphs.
