Commas
Commas are often introduced much earlier than fourth grade, but fourth grade tends to be the grade where it is expected to be mastered. We learn about using them before dialogue (I said, “Don’t forget to use commas to separate clauses!”), when using adverbs to introduce a sentence (like finally or on the other hand), in dates and numbers, and to separate items in a series, like this one.
This last one is the one that has provoked some controversy. It is sometimes referred to as the Oxford Comma, and I like it. I teach it. Every year, I get some pushback from students, and even other educators, who say that it is no longer necessary. I don’t care. I am probably passionate about using it because it’s what I learned in school some time during the middle ages.
Today I came across an article (https://thewritelife.com/is-the-oxford-comma-necessary/ by Kelly Gurnett) that gave me a name – a “diehard Oxford comma loyalist.” I like this, too. I know I am not a grammar perfectionist. I often make grammatical mistakes, usually caught by my waiting-to-pounce-on-every-mistake fourth-graders, but I will always use, and teach, the Oxford comma. What are your thoughts?
I like your post about commas. I think this will help me in the future. I hope you feel better!
I also like the Oxford Comma. I learned about it on Ted Ed. https://youtu.be/ptM7FzyjtRk
TedEd is a great resource!
I really like your post about commas. I really hope you feel better. If I don’t get to see you this year I will visit you next year.
Thanks, Rush! I’ll be in tomorrow, but if I don’t see you, have a great summer! Please stop by next year. I especially have a hard time with the first day. So many new faces! It’s great when past students stop by on their way to their new classes. It makes me feel much better to see familiar faces!
oops sorry! this is what i was trying to say
this is a really interesting topic.
Hi Mrs Assatly,
I agree about how in forth grade you start to master commas,but you do learn it in lower grades. I like you you had a link.
-Emma
Dear Mrs. Assatly,
I remember when you taught me all about commas. I also think that it’s important to learn commas.
-Lilly
Hi Mrs. Assatly! Great post! I agree with you that commas are very important. I used to be so bad in grammar, but I have gotten better over the years.I like the Oxford comma as well! Well then, I hope you feel better! Bye!
https://thewritelife.com/is-the-oxford-comma-necessary/ said the “S” word
I didn’t see it, Pedro. Can you show me where tomorrow?
What is TedEd? Is it some sort of educational site?
Check it out, Carly!
http://ed.ted.com/
Dear ms. Assatly
To tell the truth I hate commas, but the Oxford comma sounds intresting
Use an editing checklist, Leo, and the spelling and grammar tools when doing digital work.
I don’t like commas that much because I ALWAYS forget to put them in my work!
That’s why using an editing checklist is so valuable! Give it a try, James!
Dear Mrs.Assatly,
I think the oxford commas are also important.
I use them a lot.😀
I always think I do it wrong when I see someone
who doesn’t use it!😀😀😀
I hope you feel better,
Jen💖
Hi Mrs Assatly,
I agree about how in forth grade you start to master commas, but you do learn it in lower grades. I think I am starting to master them. I like you you had a link.
-Emma
Hi Mrs. Assatly
Commas are very important. I think I am starting to master them this year. I also make a lot of grammatical mistakes, but my brothers correct me.
Elizabeth, use a writing or editing checklist to help you find mistakes!