Identify coordinating conjunctions
key notes:
1. What are Coordinating Conjunctions?
- Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance in a sentence. They help to combine ideas and make sentences clearer.
2. Common Coordinating Conjunctions
The most common coordinating conjunctions can be remembered using the acronym FANBOYS:
| Conjunction | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| F – For | Indicates reason | I stayed home, for it was raining. |
| A – And | Adds information | I like pizza and ice cream. |
| N – Nor | Used to negate two things | I don’t like broccoli, nor do I like spinach. |
| B – But | Shows contrast | I want to play outside, but it’s too hot. |
| O – Or | Offers a choice | Would you like tea or coffee? |
| Y – Yet | Introduces a contrast | It was raining, yet we went for a walk. |
| S – So | Indicates a result | She studied hard, so she passed the test. |
3. How to Use Coordinating Conjunctions
- Join similar ideas: Use coordinating conjunctions to connect similar ideas or thoughts in a sentence. Examples:
- “I like to swim and bike.”
- “He is tired, but he will finish his homework.”
- Use commas: When connecting two independent clauses with a coordinating conjunction, use a comma before the conjunction. Examples:
- “I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.”
4. Important Notes:
- Remember FANBOYS: Use the acronym to help you remember the coordinating conjunctions.
- Practice: Try writing sentences using different coordinating conjunctions to see how they connect ideas.
Practice Examples:
- Identify the conjunction: “I want to play soccer, but it is too cold.”
- Conjunction: but
- Fill in the blank: “Would you like chocolate _ vanilla ice cream?”
- Correct Answer: or
- Choose the correct conjunction: “I enjoy reading _ I don’t have much time.”
- Correct Answer: but
let’s practice!
