Run-on Sentences and Fragments - 5th Grade Grammar
Introduction
Imagine reading a story that feels like it's never-ending or one that leaves you hanging mid-thought. These are the pitfalls of run-on sentences and sentence fragments. Understanding and mastering these elements is crucial for 5th graders to enhance their writing clarity and coherence. Whether you're a student aiming to improve your grammar skills or a teacher seeking to make grammar lessons more engaging, this blog post is for you. In "Run-on Sentences and Fragments - 5th Grade Grammar," we'll explore how to identify, correct, and avoid these common errors. Ready to transform your writing? Let’s dive in!
Run-on Sentences and Fragments
What is a sentence fragment?
A sentence fragment is a group of words that does not express a complete thought.
Went to the park. (missing a subject)
Kayla is getting better, but she. (missing a predicate)
Looked out the window (missing a subject)
One of my sisters (missing a predicate)
What is a run-on sentence?
A run-on sentence joins together two or more sentences incorrectly.
Diego wanted to see the movie it was playing down the street.
The official waves the flag the race begins!
The driver pushes the gas pedal the car zooms forward.
She speeds around the curve she doesn’t lose control.
The other racers chase her their cars can’t catch up.
How to correct a sentence fragment?
Correct a sentence fragment by adding a subject, a predicate, or both.
Went to the park. (fragment)
We went to the park.
Kayla is getting better, but she. (fragment)
Kayla is getting better, but she needs more practice.
How to correct a run-on sentence?
You can correct a run-on sentence by rewriting it as two separate sentences or as one compound or complex sentence.
Diego will see the movie it is playing down the street. (run-on)
Diego will see the movie. It is playing down the street. (two separate sentences)
Diego will see the movie, and it is playing down the street. (compound sentence)
Diego will see the movie because it is playing down the street. (complex sentence)
Correcting Run-on Sentences
You can correct a run-on sentence or comma splice by rewriting it as two separate sentences using periods or as either a compound or complex sentence. You can also use a semicolon to connect the sentences.
The ship left at dawn it sailed to the east. (run-on sentence)
The ship left at dawn. It sailed to the east. (separate sentences)
The voyage would be long there was plenty of food. (run-on sentence)
The voyage would be long, but there was plenty of food. (compound sentence)
We spotted a storm ahead we tried to sail around it. (run-on sentence)
When we spotted a storm ahead, we tried to sail around it. (complex sentence)
The blossoms looked beautiful, they were in full bloom. (comma splice)
The blossoms looked beautiful; they were in full bloom.
How to use a comma in a compound sentence?
Use a comma before a conjunction to separate two independent clauses in compound sentences.
We found calm seas, and we had clear sailing all the way home.
How to use a comma in a complex sentence?
In complex sentences that begin with dependent clauses, add a comma after the last word of the dependent clause.
After the rain stopped, I saw a rainbow in the sky.
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Run-on Sentences and Fragments Activity
Conclusion
Mastering the art of avoiding run-on sentences and sentence fragments is essential for clear and effective writing. By understanding how to identify and correct these common errors, you'll greatly improve your writing skills. Keep practicing with the examples and activities provided, and revisit this guide whenever you need a refresher. Remember, the key to mastering grammar lies in consistent practice and attention to detail. Happy writing, and may your sentences always be complete and well-structured!