Module I - Grammar

Grammar
module I
The EGUMPP Learning System
Your solution for understanding English grammar
and improving your writing skills.
Grammar
I
Grammar
II III IV
Usage Punctuation and Writing
Capitalization Mechanics
EGUMPP Certification
Safran Publishing Company

1605 Clugston Road
I
York, PA 17404
Electronic Grammar Usage

www.egumpp.com Bob Safran Mechanics Proficiency Program
Module I
GRAMMAR
ii
Copyright 2010 Safran Publishing Company

1605 Clugston Road
York, PA 17404
All Rights Reserved

The text of this publication, or any part thereof, may not
be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording,
storage in an information retrieval system, or otherwise,
without the prior written permission from the publisher.
ISBN: 978-0-9840948-1-3
Printed in the United States of America

20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
3
INTRODUCTION
ABOUT EGUMPP
EGUMPP (Electronic Grammar Usage Mechanics Proficiency Program) is
an interactive learning system that includes four modules. Each module
is designed for you to complete at your own pace.
For Module I - GRAMMAR the learning objectives are to develop an

understanding of 70 grammar terms and to become proficient in identifying
the function of all words, phrases, and clauses in sentences reviewed.
Module I includes 20 lessons and a mastery test.
For Module II - USAGE the learning objectives are to become proficient

in identifying sentences with usage errors and to become proficient in
applying the rules of usage to sentences. The rules pertain to personal
pronoun usage, subject-verb agreement, pronoun-antecedent agreement,
who-whom usage, apostrophe usage, verb usage, and number usage.
Module II includes 7 lessons and a mastery test.
For Module III - PUNCTUATION AND CAPITALIZATION the learning

objectives are to become proficient in punctuating the various types of
elements in sentences that require punctuation, capitalizing words in
sentences that require capitalization, and recognizing punctuation and
capitalization errors in sentences. Module III includes 7 lessons and a
mastery test.
For Module IV - WRITING MECHANICS the learning objectives are

to become proficient in identifying run-on sentences and sentence
fragments and to become proficient in identifying sentences with
misplaced modifiers, unparallel structure, word mistakes, ineffective and
inappropriate words, unnecessary words, wordy elements, and unclear
elements. Module IV includes 8 lessons and a mastery test.
EGUMPP Certification is awarded to individuals who qualify. Final grades

in all four modules determine the level of EGUMPP certification. Basic
Certification is awarded for a 75-80 percent final grade in all four modules,
Advanced Certification is awarded for an 81-90 percent final grade in all
four modules, and Mastery Certification is awarded for a 91-100 percent
final grade in all four modules. An individual's level of certification is
displayed in the EGUMPP student portal.
Introduction
5
COURSEWARE INTRODUCTION
ABOUT MODULE I COURSEWARE

Module I Grammar is the foundation module of the EGUMPP learning
system. The purpose of this module is to provide an understanding of how
the various parts of speech function in a sentence. Once you understand
the concepts and the terminology presented in this module, you will have
the knowledge necessary to interpret and apply the rules pertaining to
usage, punctuation, and writing mechanics explained in Modules II, III,
and IV.
Module I consists of 20 Lessons and a Mastery Test. Each lesson includes

two practice exercises and one graded exercise. All three exercises must
be completed before you can begin the next lesson.
You may return to any previous lesson as often as you wish. You will want
to return to a lesson for review purposes and/or to improve a lesson
grade. The graded exercise in each lesson is called the Practice to Mastery
(PTM). A PTM test may be attempted as many times as necessary until
you achieve your desired lesson grade. After you complete all 20
lessons, you may attempt the Mastery Test; however, once you start the
Mastery Test, you can no longer improve lesson grades.
The time required to complete Module I ranges from 20 to 35 hours. The

amount of time depends on your current knowledge of English grammar
and your ability to grasp new concepts. The most successful individuals
are the ones who take advantage of the audio messages (Explanations,
Examples, and Reminders) in each Tutorial Exercise and the FAQs available
at the bottom of the screen.
Introduction
6
7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
MODULE I LESSON CONTENTS
LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS ........................................... 9-16
LESSON 2: PRONOUN SUBJECTS .................................... 17-24
LESSON 3: MAIN VERBS AND HELPING VERBS ................ 25-34
LESSON 4: TRANSITIVE AND INTRANSITIVE VERBS ......... 35-44
LESSON 5: ADJECTIVES ................................................ 45-52
LESSON 6: ADVERBS .................................................... 53-60
LESSON 7: PREPOSITIONS AND

PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES .............................61-70
LESSON 8: LINKING VERBS ............................................71-80
LESSON 9: INDIRECT OBJECTS .......................................81-88
LESSON 10: APPOSITIVES AND APPOSITIVE PHRASES ........89-96
LESSON 11: PARTICIPLES AND PARTICIPIAL PHRASES ......97-106
LESSON 12: GERUNDS AND GERUND PHRASES .............. 107-116
LESSON 13: INFINITIVES AND INFINITIVE PHRASES....... 117-126
LESSON 14: REVIEW OF VERBALS ................................ 127-130
LESSON 15: COORDINATING AND CORRELATIVE

CONJUNCTIONS ........................................ 131-138
LESSON 16: ADVERB CLAUSES ..................................... 139-146
LESSON 17: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES ................................. 147-156
LESSON 18: NOUN CLAUSES ........................................ 157-168
LESSON 19: REVIEW OF CLAUSES ................................ 169-174
LESSON 20: SENTENCE TYPES ..................................... 175-184
REVIEW: MODULE I TERMS TO LEARN ........................... 185-191
Introduction
LESSON 1
NOUN SUBJECTS
10
LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS

INTRODUCTION
Lesson Objective: To become proficient in identifying noun
subjects.
Overview:
The learning objective for Module I is to acquire an in-depth
understanding of sentence structure. This means being able
to identify how all words function in sentences.
The first word(s) to identify is the subject. The subject is

the part of the sentence about which something is being said.
The subject best answers the question Whom or what are we
talking about? or Who or what is doing something? In most
sentences, the subject comes before the verb.
The subject of the sentence may be a noun. A noun names a

person, place, or thing and provides an answer to a What? Who?
or Whom? question. A noun may be concrete, abstract, or collective.
A concrete noun such as boy, town, or book names an object that
can be perceived by the senses. An abstract noun such as honesty,
decision, or concept names a quality, an idea, a characteristic, or
an emotion. A collective noun such as team, choir, or flock names
a group.
Nouns are common or proper. A common noun such as woman,

city, or automobile does not name a specific person, place, or
thing and is not capitalized. A proper noun such as Betty, Paris, or
Chevrolet names a particular person, place, or thing and is always
capitalized.
When two or more nouns are combined to form a single noun, this
word is called a compound-word noun. Compound-word nouns
include such words as homeowner, post office, or Mr. Jones.
Terms to Learn: subject, noun, concrete noun, abstract noun,

collective noun, common noun, proper noun, compound-word
noun.
Word-function Code: NS
Lesson 1 Noun Subjects

11
LESSON 1: TERMS TO LEARN
1. Subject: The part of a sentence about which something is being

said and best answers the question Whom or what are we talking
about? or Who or what is doing something?
2. Noun: A word that names a person, place, or thing and provides
an answer to a What? Who? or Whom? question.
3. Concrete noun: A noun such as boy, town, or book that names
an object that can be perceived by the senses.
4. Abstract noun: A noun such as honesty, decision, or concept
that names a quality, an idea, a characteristic, or an emotion.
5. Collective noun: A noun such as team, choir, or flock that
names a group.
6. Common noun: A noun such as woman, city, or automobile
that does not name a specific person, place, or thing and is not
capitalized.
7. Proper noun: A noun such as Betty, Paris, or Chevrolet that
names a specific person, place, or thing and is always capitalized.
8. Compound-word noun: Two or more nouns such as homeowner,
post office, or Mr. Jones that are combined to form a single noun.
Lesson 1 Terms to Learn

4
POINTS TO REMEMBER
14

POINT 1
A sentence must always include a subject. The subject is the
part of a sentence about which something is being said and
is commonly referred to as the doer of the sentence. The
subject best answers the question Whom or what are we
talking about? or Who or what is doing something?
Always ask these questions to determine the subject of a
simple sentence.
Examples:
subject
My computer is not working. (What are we talking about?)
subject
Mary is singing softly. (Whom are we talking about?)
or (Who is doing something?)
POINT 2
A subject may be a one-word noun or a compound-word noun.

(A noun names a person, place, or thing.) When two or more
nouns are combined to form a single noun, this word is called a
compound-word noun.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word noun

subject and a compound-word noun subject is NS.
Examples:
NS
The committee is voting now. (Who is doing something?)
NS
Kesha lives in Florida. (Whom are we talking about?)
NS NS NS
The Empire State Building was completed in 1931.
(What are we talking about?)

15

POINT 3
A one-word noun subject or a compound-word noun subject
may be concrete, abstract, or collective.
A concrete (or tangible) noun names an object that can be

perceived by the senses. The words desk, book, and floor
are examples of concrete nouns.
An abstract (or intangible) noun names a quality, an idea,

a characteristic, or an emotion. The words beauty, strength,
love, and courage are examples of abstract nouns.
A collective noun names a group. The words crowd, flock, and

team are examples of collective nouns.
Examples:
(concrete thing )
NS
Most dogs are friendly. (What are we talking about?)
(abstract thing)
NS
Your creativity is needed. (What are we talking about?)
(collective thing)
NS
The team arrived this morning. (Whom are we talking
about?)

16

POINT 4
A one-word noun subject or a compound-word noun subject
may be common or proper.
A common noun names a person, place, or thing in general

capitalization is not used unless the noun appears as the first
word of the sentence.
A proper noun names a particular person, place, or thing. A

proper noun is always capitalized.
Examples:
(common, abstract, thing)
NS
Your idea is excellent. (What are we talking about?)
(proper, concrete, place)
NS
Paris is my favorite city. (What are we talking about?)
(proper, concrete, person)
NS NS
George Washington was our first president. (Whom are we
talking about?)

LESSON 2
PRONOUN SUBJECTS
18
LESSON 2: PRONOUN SUBJECTS

INTRODUCTION
Lesson Objective: To become proficient in identifying
pronoun subjects.
Overview:
A pronoun is a word that takes the place of a noun.
Types of pronouns include personal pronouns, indefinite
pronouns, demonstrative pronouns, and interrogative
pronouns.
Personal pronouns such as I, you, he, she, it, we, and they refer
to one or more persons; indefinite pronouns such as all, anybody,
everybody, and few do not refer to a definite person or thing;
demonstrative pronouns such as this, that, these, and those point
out a specific person or thing; and interrogative pronouns such as
who, which, and what ask a question.
A pronoun may function as the subject of a sentence. A pronoun

subject answers the same questions as a noun subject. These
questions are Whom or what are we talking about? or Who
or what is doing something?
When the pronoun you, I, or we is functioning as a subject,

the pronoun may be implied rather than written. When this
occurs, the subject is called a pronoun understood subject. As
an example, the pronoun you is understood as the subject in
this sentence: Come here immediately!
Terms to Learn: pronoun, personal pronoun, pronoun

understood, indefinite pronoun, demonstrative pronoun,
interrogative pronoun.
Word-function Codes: PNS, PNU
Lesson 2 Pronoun Subjects

19
1. Pronoun: A word that takes the place of a noun.

2. Personal pronoun: A pronoun such as I, you, he, she, it, we,
they, me, him, her, them, or us that refers to one or more
persons.
3. Pronoun understood: The pronoun you, I, or we implied
rather than written as the subject.
4. Indefinite pronoun: A pronoun such as all, anything,
everyone, neither, several, another, both, few, nobody, some,
any, each, many, none, somebody, anybody, either, more, one,
someone, anyone, everybody, most, others, or something that
does not refer to a definite person or thing.
5. Demonstrative pronoun: The use of the word this, that, these,
or those to point out a specific person or thing.
6. Interrogative pronoun: A pronoun such as who, which, or
what that begins a sentence and asks a question.

6
POINTS TO REMEMBER
22

POINT
POINT11
Pronouns are words that take the place of one or more nouns
and may function as subjects. Pronoun subjects, like noun sub-
jects, are identified by asking Whom or what are we talking
about? or Who or what is doing something?
The EGUMPP word-function code for a pronoun subject is PNS.
Examples:
NS PNS
Gene won the race. He won the race.
(Whom are we talking about?)
(The pronoun he takes the place of the noun subject
Gene.)
NS PNS
The milk is sour. This is sour.
(What are we talking about?)
(The pronoun this takes the place of the noun subject
milk.)
POINT 2
A personal pronoun is a pronoun that refers to one or more
persons. Personal pronouns that may function as the subject
(PNS) of a sentence include the following:
I he we
you she they
it
NOTE: The personal pronouns me, him, her, them, and us do

not function as a subject.

23

POINT 3
A pronoun subject may be a personal pronoun understood. The
personal pronouns you, I, and we are often not written but
understood as the subject of a sentence.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a pronoun subject

understood is PNU.
Examples:
PNU
[You] Go to the store.
(The subject is the pronoun you understood.)
PNU
[I] Thank you for giving me such an opportunity.
(The subject is the pronoun I understood.)
PNU PNU
[I or We] Thank you for your subscription.
(The subject is either the pronoun I or the pronoun
we understood.)
POINT 4
An indefinite pronoun is a pronoun that does not refer to a
definite person, place, or thing. Indefinite pronouns that
may function as the subject (PNS) of the sentence include
the following:
all both few none someone

another each many one something
any either more others
anybody everybody most several
anyone everyone neither some
anything everything nobody somebody

24

POINT
POINT51
A demonstrative pronoun is a pronoun that points out a specific
person, place, or thing. Demonstrative pronouns that may function
as the subject (PNS) of the sentence include the following:
this that these those
POINT 6
An interrogative pronoun is a pronoun that introduces a question.
Interrogative pronouns that may function as the subject (PNS) of
the sentence include the following:
Who...? Which...? What...?

LESSON 3
MAIN VERBS AND
HELPING VERBS
26
LESSON 3: MAIN VERBS AND HELPING VERBS

INTRODUCTION
main verbs and helping verbs.
Overview:
After the subject of a sentence is identified, the next word
to identify is the verb. The verb is the word in a sentence
that is needed along with the subject to make a statement,
ask a question, or give a command. To identify the verb, look
for the word that helps to make a statement.
Words that function as verbs express an action, a state of being,

or a condition; have several forms; and can easily be identified
because one of its forms always begins with the word to. For
example, the word write is a verb because it expresses an action;
has the verb form to write; and has these other verb forms: write,
writes, writing, wrote, and written.
A verb may be one word or more than one word. A main verb is a
one-word verb or the last word of a verb phrase. A verb phrase is
a main verb and all of its helping verbs.
A helping verb (also referred to as an auxiliary verb) usually

precedes a main verb and must be used with certain forms of a
main verb. For example, the verb forms writing and written must
always be preceded by one or more helping verbs when used as
the main verb. The 23 words that can function as helping verbs
are am, are, be, been, being, can, could, did, do, does, had, has,
have, is, may, might, must, shall, should, was, were, will, and
would.
When a main verb does not express an action, it expresses a state

of being or a condition. While there are many verbs that can
express an action and function as a main verb, the only verb to
express a state of being or a condition and function as a main
verb is the verb to be. The eight forms of the verb to be are be,
being, been, am, is, are, was, and were.
Some verbs are unique because they can express either an action
or a condition. They include all forms of the verbs to appear,
to become, to feel, to grow, to keep, to look, to prove, to remain,
to seem, to smell, to sound, to taste, and to turn.
Terms to Learn: verb, main verb, helping verb, verb phrase
Word-function Codes: MV, HV
Lesson 3 Main Verbs and Helping Verbs

27
1. Verb: A word(s) needed along with the subject to make a

statement, ask a question, or give a command.
2. Main verb: A one-word verb or the last word of a verb phrase
that expresses an action, a state of being, or a condition.
3. Helping verb: A verb that usually precedes a main verb
and must be used with certain forms of a main verb.
be am was do have may could must
being is were does has can would shall
been are did had might should will
4. Verb phrase: A main verb and all of its helping verbs.

6
POINTS TO REMEMBER
30

POINT
POINT11
A sentence must always include a verb. The verb helps to
make a statement by expressing an action, a state of being,
or a condition.
Examples of words that express an action and can function as

a main verb include all forms of the verbs to believe, to fly, to
jump, to know, to remember, to run, to sit, to smile, to swim,
and to think.
Examples of words that express a state of being or a condition

and function as a main verb or as a helping verb are the eight
forms of the verb to be. These words are be, being, been, am, is,
are, was, and were.
Examples of words that express an action or a condition and

function as a main verb include all forms of the verbs to appear,
to become, to feel, to grow, to keep, to look, to prove, to remain,
to seem, to smell, to sound, to taste, and to turn.
POINT 2
The verb of a sentence may be one word or two or more words
that comprise a verb phrase. A one-word verb or the last verb
of a verb phrase is the main verb. All other verbs that precede
a main verb are helping verbs.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a main verb is MV, and

the word-function code for a helping verb is HV.
Examples:
NS MV
The fire destroyed the forest. (One-word verb)
NS HV MV
Phillip is going to the library. (Two-word verb phrase)

31

POINT 3
Helping verbs (also referred to as auxiliary verbs) are verbs
that usually precede a main verb and must be used with certain
verb forms. For example, verb forms ending in ing cannot
function properly without a helping verb.
Examples:
NS MV
Incorrect: My brother buying the business.
(Main verb needs helping verb)
NS HV MV
Correct: My brother is buying the business.
NS MV
Incorrect: Linda singing quite well.
NS HV MV
Correct: Linda is singing quite well.
NS MV
Incorrect: Bill written a poem.
NS HV MV
Correct: Bill has written a poem.
POINT 4
There are 23 words frequently used as helping verbs. An easy

way to remember these verbs is to memorize them in this order
by column.


32

POINT 5
Identifying the main verb in a sentence first requires identifying
the subject. The subject is the word(s) in the sentence that best
answers the question Whom or what are we talking about?
or Who or what is doing something? Once the subject is
identified, ask questions about the subject to determine the
main verb.
Example:
NS MV
The accident caused a traffic jam.
Accident is a noun subject. It answers the question

What are we talking about?
Caused is the main verb. It answers a question relating to the

subject such as What did the accident do?

33

POINT 6
While the subject of a sentence usually precedes the main verb
and any helping verbs, in some sentences the subject follows
the verb.
Example:
MV HV NS
Enclosed are the recipes.
Recipes is a noun subject. It answers the question

NOTE: The subject always follows the verb when a sentence starts
with the word here or the word there.
Examples:
MV NS
Here is the problem.
Problem is a noun subject. It answers the question

MV PNS
There were several.
Several is a pronoun subject. It answers the question

Who or what are we talking about?

LESSON 4
TRANSITIVE AND
INTRANSITIVE VERBS
36
LESSON 4: TRANSITIVE AND INTRANSITIVE VERBS

INTRODUCTION
transitive verbs and intransitive verbs.
Overview:
Main verbs may be either transitive or intransitive. A main
verb that is transitive usually expresses an action and is
always followed by a verb complement.
A verb complement completes the meaning begun by the subject and

the verb. A direct object is one type of verb complement. A direct
object is a noun or a pronoun that follows a transitive verb and is the
receiver of the action expressed by the verb. A direct object answers
the question What? or Whom? State the subject and the verb and
ask the questions What? or Whom? to determine if the main verb is
transitive and has a direct object.
When the direct object is a pronoun, it may be a personal pronoun

(me, you, him, her, it, us, or them), an indefinite pronoun, a
demonstrative pronoun, or a reflexive pronoun. A reflexive pronoun
is formed by adding the suffix self to the personal pronoun my,
your, him, her, or it or by adding the suffix selves to the personal
pronoun your, our, or them.
A main verb that is intransitive never has a verb complement.

When you state the subject and the main verb and ask the question
What? or Whom?, there will not be a noun or a pronoun functioning
as a direct object and providing an answer to one of these questions.
Terms to Learn: transitive verb, verb complement, direct object,

reflexive pronoun, intransitive verb
Word-function Codes: MVT, MVI, DO
Lesson 4 Transitive and Intransitive Verbs

37
1. Transitive verb: A main verb that usually expresses an action

and always has a direct object.
2. Verb complement: Another name for a direct object or an
indirect object.
3. Direct object: A verb complement that follows a transitive verb
and answers the question What? or Whom?
4. Reflexive pronoun: A pronoun formed by adding the suffix self
or the suffix selves to the personal pronouns my, your, him, her,
it, our, or them.
5. Intransitive verb: A main verb that never has a complement.

8
POINTS TO REMEMBER
40

POINT 1
The main verb of a sentence may be a transitive verb. A
transitive verb is usually an action verb that always has a
receiver of the action. This receiver of the action will be a
noun or a pronoun called a direct object. Identify the subject
and the verb, and then ask the question What? or Whom?
to determine whether there is a direct object. If there is a
direct object, then the main verb is transitive.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a main verb that is

transitive is MVT.
Example:
doer receiver
NS MVT direct object

Kristen solved the problem.
Kristen is a noun that functions as the subject of the sentence.

Kristen answers the question Who did something?
Solved is an action verb. It expresses the action of Kristen and

answers the question What about Kristen? or What did
Kristen do?
Problem is a noun that functions as the direct object of the

verb. It is the receiver of the expressed action and answers the
question Kristen solved what?

41

POINT 2
The direct object of a transitive verb may be a one-word noun.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word noun direct

object is DO. Always ask What? or Whom? after identifying a
subject and a verb to determine whether there is a direct
object.
Example:
NS MVT DO
The company manufactures toys.
Company is a noun that functions as the subject of the

sentence. Company answers the question Who or what
does something?
Manufactures is an action verb. It expresses the action of

the company and answers the question What about the
company? or What does the company do?
Toys is a noun that functions as the direct object of the

sentence. It is the receiver of the expressed action and
answers the question Company manufactures what?

42

POINT 3
The direct object of a transitive verb may be a compound-word
noun. Compound-word nouns are two or more words that may
be joined as one word, written as two or more separate words,
or hyphenated.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a compound-word noun

direct object is also DO.
Examples:
NS MVT DO DO
John hired a systems analyst.
(John hired what? or whom?)
PNS MVT DO DO DO
Everyone applauded Captain John Smith.
(Everyone applauded whom?)
POINT 4
The direct object of a transitive verb may be a personal
pronoun.
The EGUMPP word-function code for all types of

pronoun direct objects is DO. The personal pronouns
that may function as a direct object include the following:
me him us
you her them
it
Examples:
NS MVT DO
Ira startled me.
(Ira startled whom?)

43

POINT 5
The direct object of a transitive verb may be an indefinite
pronoun.
The EGUMPP word-function code for all types of pronoun

direct objects is DO. The indefinite pronouns that may
function as a direct object include the following:
all both few none someone

another each many one something
any either more others
anybody everybody most several
anyone everyone neither some
anything everything nobody somebody
Example:
PNS MVT DO
She invited everyone.
(She invited whom?)
POINT 6
The direct object of a transitive verb may be a demonstrative

pronoun.
The EGUMPP word-function code for all types of pronoun direct

objects is DO. The demonstrative pronouns that may function
as a direct object include the following:
this that these those
Example:
NS MVT DO
Warren wants this.
(Warren wants what?)

44

POINT 7
The direct object of a transitive verb may be a reflexive
pronoun. A reflexive pronoun is formed by adding self or
selves to a personal pronoun.

direct objects is DO. The reflexive pronouns that may
function as a direct object include the following:
myself ourselves
yourself yourselves
himself, herself, itself themselves
Example:
NS MVT DO
Sarah hurt herself.
(Sarah hurt whom?)
POINT 8
The main verb of a sentence may be an intransitive verb. An
intransitive verb is a verb that never has a direct object. This
means that after you identify the subject and the verb and ask
the question What? or Whom?, there will not be a noun or a
pronoun that follows the verb and functions as the receiver
of its action.

intransitive is MVI.
Examples:
NS MVI
Phyllis fell down.
NS MVI
The cat purred loudly.

LESSON 5
ADJECTIVES
46
LESSON 5: ADJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
adjectives.
Overview:
A modifier is a word(s) that describes or expands the
meaning of another word(s) in a sentence. An adjective is
one type of modifier. Adjectives modify or describe nouns
and pronouns. Words that function as adjectives answer the
question Which one? What kind of? How many? or Whose?
The most frequently used adjectives are the words a, an, and the.
These words are also called articles or noun markers because a
noun will always follow.
Many words that function as nouns become adjectives when an

apostrophe plus s is added to the word. The apostrophe plus s
causes the word to change from naming a person, place, or
thing to showing possession and providing an answer to the
question Whose?
Certain personal pronouns function as adjectives. These personal

pronouns are called possessive pronouns. They are the words my,
your, his, her, its, our, and their.
A sentence may contain compound-word adjectives. A compound-

word adjective consists of two or more words that function as a
single unit and modify the same noun. Some compound-word
adjectives require a hyphen.
Terms to Learn: modifier, adjective, article or noun marker,

possessive pronoun, compound-word adjective,
Word-function Code: AJ
Lesson 5 Adjectives
47
1. Modifier: A word(s) that describes or expands the meaning of

another word(s) in a sentence.
2. Adjective: A word that modifies or describes a noun or a
pronoun and usually answers the question Which one?
What kind of? How many? or Whose?
3. Article or noun marker: Other names for the adjectives a, an,
and the.
4. Possessive pronoun: The personal pronouns (my, your, his,
her, its, our, and their) that function as adjectives.
5. Compound-word adjective: Two or more words that function
as a single unit and modify a noun.

5
POINTS TO REMEMBER
50
POINT 1
An adjective modifies or describes a noun or a pronoun. (The
word modifies means to limit or to make more definite.) An
adjective answers the question Which one? What kind of?
How many? or Whose?
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word adjective

is AJ.
Examples:
AJ
Housewares are on this floor. (Which floor?)
AJ
Soft wood burns fast. (What kind of wood?)
AJ
Several students went home. (How many students?)
AJ
Susans watch stopped working. (Whose watch?)
POINT 2
The three most frequently used adjectives are a, an, and the.
They are also called articles or noun markers because a noun
will closely follow.
Example:
AJ AJ AJ AJ AJ
a computer an electronic computer the large box
Lesson 5 Adjectives
51
POINT 3
Words that indicate possession and provide an answer to the
question Whose? are always adjectives. These include words
that change from nouns to adjectives by adding an apostrophe
plus s to the noun such as the word Freds and the possessive
pronouns my, your, his, her, its, our, and their.
Examples:
AJ AJ
Freds friend borrowed my car.
(Whose friend? Whose car?)
AJ AJ
Barbs speech amused our class.
(Whose speech? Whose class?)
AJ AJ
Our supervisors submitted their reports.
(Whose supervisors? Whose reports?)
POINT 4
The words this, that, these, and those are adjectives when they
answer the question Which one?
Examples:
AJ
This book is mine. (Which book?)
AJ
I want that picture. (Which picture?)
AJ
These answers are incorrect. (Which answers?)
AJ
Throw those papers away. (Which papers?)
NOTE: The words this, that, these, and those can also function as
demonstrative pronouns as presented in Lesson 2.
Lesson 5 Adjectives
52
POINT 5
A compound-word adjective consists of two or more words
that function as a single unit and modify the same noun.
(Some compound-word adjectives may require a hyphen.)
The EGUMPP word-function code for a compound-word

adjective is also AJ.
Examples:
The following sentences include compound-word adjectives

modifying a noun:
AJ AJ
I enjoy data processing subjects.
AJ AJ
Tara is a high school student.
AJ AJ
The company is buying a 12-story building.
AJ AJ
The left-handed pitcher won.
The following sentences include a series of one-word adjectives

modifying a noun:
AJ AJ AJ
The large brown jug was broken.
AJ AJ AJ
Tim bought two small antique lamps.
Lesson 5 Adjectives
LESSON 6
ADVERBS
54
LESSON 6: ADVERBS
INTRODUCTION
adverbs.
Overview:
An adverb is a modifier. Adverbs describe or expand the
meaning of verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs.
Words that function as adverbs answer the question When?

Where? How? or To what extent?
Terms to Learn: adverb
Word-function Code: AV
Lesson 6 Adverbs
55
1. Adverb: A word(s) that modifies or describes a verb, an

adjective, or another adverb and usually answers the question
When? Where? How? or To what extent?

5
POINTS TO REMEMBER
58
LESSON 6: ADVERBS
POINT 1
An adverb modifies or describes a verb, an adjective, or
another adverb. (The word modifies means to limit or to
make more definite.) An adverb answers the question When?
Where? How? or To what extent?
The EGUMPP word-function code for an adverb is AV.
POINT 2
An adverb that modifies a verb may precede the verb, follow
the verb, or interrupt the parts of a verb phrase. Adverbs that
modify a verb will usually answer the question When? Where?
How? or To what extent?
Examples:
The following sentences include adverbs that modify or

describe verbs:
NS MVI AV
Frank left immediately. (When?)
NS MVI AV
Bob fell down. (Where?)
NS MVI AV
Lori sang softly. (How?)
PNS AV MVI
She rarely visits. (To what extent?)
PNS HV AV MVT AJ DO
We could hardly hear the speaker. (To what extent?)
Lesson 6 Adverbs
59
LESSON 6: ADVERBS
POINT 3
An adverb that modifies an adjective precedes the adjective
and usually answers the question How? or To what extent?
The words very and too as well as words ending in ly frequently
function as adverbs that modify adjectives.
Examples:
The following sentences include adverbs that modify or describe

adjectives:
AJ AV AJ NS MVI
A very large branch fell.
(Very tells how large.)
PNS MVT AV AJ DO
It costs too much money.
(Too tells how much.)
NS MVT AJ AV AJ DO
Ruth gave an extremely concise presentation.
(Extremely tells how concise.)
POINT 4
An adverb that modifies another adverb precedes that adverb
and usually answers the question How? or To what extent?
Examples:
The following sentences include adverbs that modify or describe

other adverbs:
NS MVT AJ DO AV AV
Roy gave his answer almost immediately.
(Immediately tells when; almost tells how soon.)
NS MVI AV AV
Sally left very early.
(Early tells when; very tells how early.)
Lesson 6 Adverbs
60
LESSON 6: ADVERBS
POINT 5
When a word such as home or yesterday or a string of words
such as last night, next week or this morning answers the
question When? or Where? in a sentence, consider all of
these words as adverbs.
NOTE: A string of words such as last night, next week, or this

morning is often called an adverb phrase.
Examples:
NS MVI AV AV AV
Cory arrived home last night.
(Home tells where; last night tells when.)
NS MVI AV
George arrived yesterday.
(Yesterday tells when.)
Lesson 6 Adverbs
LESSON 7
PREPOSITIONS AND
PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES
62
LESSON 7: PREPOSITIONS AND PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES

INTRODUCTION
prepositions and prepositional phrases.
Overview:
A preposition is a word such as at, during, of, on, through,
or to that joins and shows the relationship of a noun or a
pronoun to another word in a sentence. A compound-word
preposition consists of two or more words that function as a single
preposition.
A noun or a pronoun that follows a preposition is called the object

of the preposition. The object of a preposition may be a one-word
noun, a compound-word noun, or a pronoun. The object of a prep-
osition usually answers the question Whom? or What?
A phrase is a group of related words that never includes a subject

and a verb and functions as a verb, an adjective, an adverb, or a
noun. A prepositional phrase is the combination of a preposition
and its object plus any modifiers. A prepositional phrase can
modify a noun, a pronoun, a verb, an adjective, or an adverb.
A prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or a pronoun is called

an adjective prepositional phrase. A prepositional phrase that
modifies a verb, an adjective, or an adverb is called an adverb
prepositional phrase.
Terms to Learn: preposition, compound-word preposition, object

of preposition, phrase, prepositional phrase, adjective prepositional
phrase, adverb prepositional phrase
Word-function Codes: PR, OP
Lesson 7 Prepositions and Prepositional Phrases

63
1. Preposition: A word such as at, during, of, on, through, or to

that joins and shows the relationship of a noun or a pronoun to
another word in a sentence.
2. Compound-word preposition: Two or more words such as
according to, by means of, in place of, or instead of that function
as a single preposition.
3. Object of preposition: A noun or a pronoun that follows a
preposition and usually answers the question Whom? or What?
4. Phrase: A group of related words that never includes a subject
and a verb and functions as a verb, an adjective, an adverb, or
a noun.
5. Prepositional phrase: A preposition plus its object and any
modifiers.
6. Adjective prepositional phrase: A prepositional phrase that
modifies a noun or a pronoun and usually answers the question
Which one? or What kind of?
7. Adverb prepositional phrase: A prepositional phrase that
modifies a verb, an adjective, or an adverb and usually answers
the question When? Where? Why? or How?

7
POINTS TO REMEMBER
66

POINT 1
A preposition is a word that joins and shows the relationship
of a noun or a pronoun to some other word in the sentence.
A preposition must be followed by a noun or a pronoun to form
a prepositional phrase. This noun or pronoun that follows the
preposition is called the object of the preposition.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word preposition

is PR, and the word-function code for a one-word noun
object of preposition is OP.
Example:
AJ NS MVI PR AJ OP
The boy fell down the steps.
(Down the steps is a prepositional phrase. The word down

is a preposition, and the word steps is the noun object of this
preposition. The object of the preposition may have adjective
modifiers. In this sentence the adjective the modifies the
word steps.)
POINT 2
Single words commonly used as prepositions (PR) include the

following:
aboard behind during onto to

about below except opposite toward
above beneath for out towards
across beside from outside under
after besides in over underneath
against between inside past until
along beyond into pending up
among but (except) like per upon
around by near regarding with
as concerning of since within
at considering off through without
before down on throughout

67

POINT 3
A compound-word preposition consists of two or more words
that function as a single preposition.

preposition is PR. Words used as compound-word prepositions
include the following:
according to due to instead of pertaining to
as part of in addition to next to other than
aside from in front of on account of
because of in place of out of
by means of in spite of owing to
Example:
PNS MVI PR PR PR AJ OP
He parked in front of the bank.
POINT 4
The object of a preposition may be a one-word noun,

a compound-word noun, or a pronoun (OP).
Examples:
PNS MVI PR AJ OP
They walked to the mall.
(One-word noun object of preposition)
AJ NS HV MVI PR OP OP
The meal was prepared by Chef John.
(Compound-word noun object of preposition)
MVT AJ DO PR OP
Give the keys to me.
(Pronoun object of preposition)

68

POINT 5
A prepositional phrase may function as an adjective and modify
or describe a noun or a pronoun. This type of prepositional
phrase is an adjective prepositional phrase. An adjective
prepositional phrase usually answers the question Which
one? or What kind of?
Examples:
AJ NS PR AJ OP MVI AV
The man with the cane fell down. (Which man?)
NS MVT DO PR OP
Jerry enjoys books about dinosaurs. (What kind of books?)

69

POINT 6
A prepositional phrase may function as an adverb and modify
or describe a verb, an adjective, or another adverb. This type
of prepositional phrase is an adverb prepositional phrase. An
adverb prepositional phrase usually answers the question
When? Where? Why? or How?
Examples:
NS MVI PR AJ OP
John jogs in the morning. (When?)
NS MVI PR AJ OP
Frank walked to the store. (Where?)
NS MVI PR AJ OP
James fought for his rights. (Why?)
AJ NS MVI PR AJ OP
The man spoke with a vengeance. (How?)

70

POINT 7
An easy way to identify most prepositional phrases is by
remembering this expression: Prepositional phrases often
tell where a mouse can run or where a cloud can float.
Examples:
A mouse can run up the wall, under the table, or into the
hole.
A cloud can float over the mountain or through the air.
Attempt to tell where a mouse can run or where a cloud can

float using this partial list of prepositions:
aboard before during on towards

about behind opposite onto under
above below for out underneath
across beneath from outside until
after beside in over up
against besides inside past upon
along between into through with
among beyond like throughout within
around by near to without
at down off toward

LESSON 8
LINKING VERBS
72
LESSON 8: LINKING VERBS

INTRODUCTION

linking verbs and subject complements (predicate
nominatives and predicate adjectives).
Overview:
A linking verb is a main verb that expresses a state of being
or a condition and is followed by a noun, a pronoun, or an
adjective that refers to the subject. This noun, pronoun, or
adjective that renames or describes the subject and the verb is
called a subject complement. If the subject complement is a noun
or a pronoun, it is called a predicate nominative. If the subject
complement is an adjective, it is called a predicate adjective.
A predicate nominative answers the question Who? or What? A

predicate adjective usually answers the question What? What
Kind? or How? State the subject and the verb and ask these
questions to help determine if the main verb is a linking verb
followed by a predicate nominative or a predicate adjective.
The verb to be expresses a state of being or a condition. The eight

forms of the verb to be are be, being, been, am, is, are, was, and
were. All eight forms of the verb to be may function as linking
verbs. When these verbs are not expressing a state of being and
functioning as linking verbs, they will be functioning as helping
verbs or intransitive main verbs.
Some verbs may express a condition or an action. All forms of

the verbs to appear, to become, to feel, to grow, to keep, to look,
to prove, to remain, to seem, to smell, to sound, to taste, and
to turn are examples of such verbs. When these verbs do not
express a condition and function as linking verbs, they express an
action and function as transitive or intransitive verbs.
Terms to Learn: linking verb, subject complement, predicate

nominative, predicate adjective
Word-function Codes: MVL, SC
Lesson 8 Linking Verbs

73
1. Linking verb: A main verb that expresses a state of being or a

condition and is always followed by a predicate nominative or a
predicate adjective.
2. Subject complement: A noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that
follows a linking verb and renames or describes the subject.
3. Predicate nominative: A noun or pronoun subject complement
that follows a linking verb and renames the subject.
4. Predicate adjective: An adjective subject complement that
follows a linking verb and describes the subject.

5
POINTS TO REMEMBER
76

POINT 1
A linking verb is a main verb that expresses a state of being
or a condition and links a noun, a pronoun, or an adjective to
the subject. This noun, pronoun, or adjective completes the
thought begun by the subject and verb.

linking is MVL.
Examples:
NS MVL complement
Katie is my friend. (friend Katie)
The main verb is expresses a state of being and links or refers

the noun complement friend to the subject Katie.
NS MVL complement
The flower is beautiful. (beautiful flower)
POINT 2
The main verb is expresses a state of being and links or refers
the adjective complement beautiful to the subject flower.
NS MVL complement
This pillow feels soft. (soft pillow)
The main verb feels expresses a condition and links or refers

the adjective complement soft to the subject pillow.

77

POINT 2
The verb to be expresses a state of being or a condition. The
eight forms of the verb to be are be, being, been, am, is, are,
was, and were. All eight forms of the verb to be may function
as linking verbs. The verbs be, am, is, are, was, and were can
also function as helping verbs.
Example of the verb am expressing a state of being and

functioning as a linking verb:
PNS MVL complement

I am happy.
Example of the verb am functioning as a helping verb:
PNS HV MVI AV
I am going home.
Some verbs may express a condition or an action. All forms of

the verbs to appear, to become, to feel, to grow, to keep, to
look, to prove, to remain, to seem, to smell, to sound, to taste,
and to turn are examples of such verbs. When these verbs do
not express a condition and function as linking verbs, they
express an action and function as transitive verbs.
Example of the verb tasted expressing a condition and

functioning as a linking verb:
AJ NS MVL complement
The soup tasted delicious.
Example of the verb tasted expressing an action and functioning

as a transitive verb:
PNS MVT AJ DO
She tasted the soup.

78

POINT 3
A noun or a pronoun that follows a linking verb and renames
the subject is a type of subject complement called a predicate
nominative. A predicate nominative is identical in meaning to the
subject. Always ask Who? or What? after identifying a subject
and a state-of-being verb to help determine if there is a predicate
nominative subject complement.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word noun,

a compound-word noun, or a pronoun predicate
nominative subject complement is SC.
Example:
NS MVL SC
George is the president of the organization.
(president George)
The main verb is expresses a state POINT

of being2and links or
refers the noun president to the subject George. The noun
president renames the subject George. This makes the word
president a predicate nominative subject complement.
The predicate nominative president answers the question

George is who or what?

79

POINT 4
An adjective that follows a linking verb and describes the
subject is a second type of subject complement called a
predicate adjective. A predicate adjective describes or
explains the subject. Always ask What? What Kind? or
How? after identifying a subject and a state-of-being verb
to help determine if there is a predicate adjective subject
complement.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a predicate adjective

subject complement is SC.
Examples:
NS MVL SC
The grapes were sour. (sour grapes)
The main verb were expresses a state of being and links or

refers the adjective sour to the subject grapes. The adjective
sour describes the subject grapes. This makes the word sour
a predicate adjective subject complement.
The predicate adjective sour answers the question: Grapes

are what? what kind? or how?
NS MVL SC
Carol looked tired. (tired Carol)
The main verb looked expresses a condition and links or refers

the adjective tired to the subject Carol. The adjective tired
describes the subject Carol. This makes the word tired a
predicate adjective subject complement.
The predicate adjective tired describes the subject Carol.

Carol looked how?
NOTE: The question How? in the example above provides the

answer for a subject complement. Do not confuse the question
How? used here with the question How? associated with identifying
an adverb as presented in the sentence below.
Example:
AJ AJ NS MVI AV PR AJ OP
The young couple walked slowly through the park.
(Walked how?)

80

POINT 5
Some linking verbs require helping verbs.
Example:
NS NS HV MVL SC
Mr. Smith has been my boss for ten years.
The verb phrase has been expresses a state of being and links
or refers the predicate nominative boss to the compound-word
subject Mr. Smith.
NS HV MVL SC
The weather has remained ideal for weeks.
The verb phrase has remained expresses a condition and links

or refers the adjective ideal to the subject weather.

LESSON 9
INDIRECT OBJECTS
82
LESSON 9: INDIRECT OBJECTS

INTRODUCTION
indirect objects.
Overview:
An indirect object, like a direct object, is a type of verb
complement. An indirect object is a noun or a pronoun that
always precedes a direct object and usually answers the question
To whom? For whom? To what? or For what?
Term to Learn: indirect object
Word-function Codes: IO
Lesson 9 Indirect Objects

83
1. Indirect object: A verb complement that follows a transitive

verb, precedes a direct object, and usually answers the question
To whom? For whom? To what? or For what?

3
POINTS TO REMEMBER
86

POINT 1
A transitive verb must have a direct object; it may also have
an indirect object. An indirect object always precedes a direct
object. Indirect objects can usually be identified by asking the
question To whom? For whom? To what? or For what?
after identifying the subject, the main verb, and the direct
object.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word noun

indirect object is IO.
Example:
AJ NS MVT IO AJ DO
The instructor gave John the answer.
Instructor is a noun that functions as the subject of the

sentence. Instructor answers the question Who is doing
something?
Gave is the main verb transitive that expresses an action.
Answer is a noun that functions as the direct object of the

verb gave and answers the question Instructor gave what?
John is a noun that functions as the indirect object of the

sentence. It precedes the direct object and answers the
question Instructor gave the answer to whom?

87

POINT 2
The indirect object of a transitive verb may be a compound-
word noun. Compound-word nouns are two or more words that
may be joined as one word, written as two or more separate
words, or hyphenated.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a compound-word noun

indirect object is also IO.
Example:
PNS MVT AJ IO IO AJ DO
He offered his Uncle John a job.
Uncle John is a compound-word noun that functions as the

indirect object of the verb. It precedes the direct object
job and answers the question He offered a job to whom?
POINT 3
An indirect object may be a personal pronoun, a reflexive
pronoun, or an indefinite pronoun.

indirect objects is also IO.
Examples:
NS MVT IO AJ DO
Gary sent him the instructions.
(Gary sent instructions to whom?)
PNS MVT IO AJ DO
She gave herself a complement.
(She gave a complement to whom?)
AJ NS MVT IO AJ DO
The boss gave everyone a raise.
(Boss gave a raise to whom?)

LESSON 10
APPOSITIVES AND
APPOSITIVE PHRASES
90
LESSON 10: APPOSITIVES AND APPOSITIVE PHRASES

INTRODUCTION
appositives and appositive phrases.
Overview:
An appositive is a noun or a pronoun that immediately
follows another noun or pronoun for the purpose of
further identifying, clarifying, or explaining the first
noun or pronoun. An appositive may follow a subject, a
direct object, an indirect object, a predicate nominative, or
an object of a preposition.
Once you learn to identify appositives, you will have learned to

identify six functions of nouns and pronouns. An easy way to
remember all six functions is to memorize the acronym PAIDSO.
P = predicate nominative
A = appositive
I = indirect object
D = direct object
S = subject
O = object of preposition
Terms to Learn: appositive, appositive phrase, PAIDSO
Word-function Code: AP
Lesson 10 Appositives and Appositive Phrases

91
1. Appositive: A noun or a pronoun that immediately follows

another noun or pronoun for the purpose of further identifying,
clarifying, or explaining the first noun or pronoun.
2. Appositive phrase: An appositive and all of its modifiers.
3. PAIDSO: Acronym for the six common uses of a noun.
Predicate Nominative Indirect Object Subject
Appositive Direct Object Object of Preposition

3
POINTS TO REMEMBER
94

POINT 1
An appositive is a one-word noun, a compound-word noun, or a
pronoun that immediately follows another noun or pronoun. The
purpose of the appositive is to further identify, clarify, or explain
the preceding noun or pronoun.
An appositive may follow the subject, direct object, indirect

object, predicate nominative, or an object of a preposition.
The EGUMPP word-function code for an appositive is AP.
Examples:
AJ NS AP MVI AV AV
Your brother Edward called this morning.
AJ NS MVT AJ DO AJ AP AP AP
Our school sponsors one club, the Community Service Club.
PNS MVT IO AJ AP AJ DO
I gave George, the painter, your keys.
AJ NS MVL SC SC AJ AJ AP
The winner is Mary Jones, our star athlete.
MVI PR OP AJ AJ AP
Vote for me, the best candidate.

95

POINT 2
An appositive phrase is a group of words that includes the
appositive and all of its modifiers. An appositive phrase is
always considered as a single unit when applying rules of
punctuation.
Example:
(appositive phrase)
AJ AJ NS HV MVI PR OP OP AJ AJ AJ AP
The special award was presented to Mr. Koser, our high school principal.
POINT 3
The six frequent functions of a noun and a pronoun form the

acronym PAIDSO.
P = predicate nominative
A = appositive
I = indirect object
D = direct object
S = subject
O = object of preposition

LESSON 11
PARTICIPLES AND
PARTICIPIAL PHRASES
98
LESSON 11: PARTICIPLES AND PARTICIPIAL PHRASES

INTRODUCTION
participles and participial phrases.
Overview:
A word that can function as a main verb in a sentence can
also function as other parts of speech. When any form of a
verb is functioning as another part of speech, it is called a
verbal. A verbal is a verb form that is functioning as a noun, an
adjective, or an adverb in a sentence.
A verbal retains the qualities of a verb. This means that a verbal

may have a complement and/or modifiers. A verbal complement
is a noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that follows a verbal and
completes its meaning. A verbal phrase is a verbal and its
complement(s) and/or modifier(s).
One type of verbal is a participle. A participle is a verbal that

functions as an adjective and usually ends with ing, ed, or en.
Verb forms that function as participles usually answer the
question Which one? or What kind of?
A participle retains the qualities of a verb. A participle verbal

complement is a noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that follows
a participle and completes its meaning. A participial phrase is a
group of words containing a participle with a complement(s)
and/or modifier(s).
Terms to Learn: verbal, verbal complement, verbal phrase,

participle, participial phrase
Word-function Codes: PAR, VC
Lesson 11 Participles and Participial Phrases

99
1. Verbal: A verb form that functions as a noun, an adjective, or

an adverb in a sentence.
2. Verbal complement: A noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that
follows a verbal and completes its meaning.
3. Verbal phrase: A group of words considered as a single unit
that includes a verbal and its complement(s) and/or modifier(s).
4. Participle: A verbal that functions as an adjective and usually
ends with ing, ed, or en.
5. Participial phrase: A participle plus its complement(s) and/or
modifier(s).

4
POINTS TO REMEMBER
102

POINT 1
A participle is a verbal (verb form) that functions as an
adjective and usually ends with ing, ed, or en. A participle
may preceed or follow the noun it modifies.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a participle is PAR.
Examples of the same word functioning as a verb and as a

participle:
(As a verb) (As a participle)
(action) (describing)
AJ NS HV MVI AJ PAR NS MVT AJ DO

The baby was screaming. The screaming baby wanted his bottle.
PNS MVT AJ DO AJ PAR NS MVI PR AJ OP

He typed the document. The typed document is on the table.
PNS HV MVT AJ DO AJ PAR NS HV MVI

She has written a contract. Her written contract was accepted.

103

POINT 2
Since a participle is a verb form, it maintains the qualities of
a verb. This means that participles that are action words may
be followed by a noun or a pronoun verbal complement, and
participles that are state-of-being or condition words may be
followed by a noun or an adjective verbal complement. Always
ask What? Whom? or How? after identifying a participle
to determine whether a participle verbal complement follows.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a participle verbal

complement is VC.
Examples:
AJ NS PAR VC MVL AJ SC
The hostess seating people is my friend. (Seating whom?)
PAR VC NS MVT AJ DO
Feeling tired, Lewis took a nap. (Feeling how?)

answer for a participle verbal complement. Do not confuse the
question How? used here with the question How? associated with
identifying an adverb as presented in the sentence below.
Example:
(Walked how?)

104

POINT 3
A participial phrase is a group of words that contains a participle
plus its complement(s) and/or modifier(s). The participle introduces
the participial phrase, and the entire phrase functions as an
adjective modifying a noun or a pronoun in a sentence. A
participial phrase is always considered as a single unit when
applying rules of punctuation. A participial phrase may precede
or follow the word it modifies.
Examples:
(participial phrase)
AJ NS PAR AJ VC MVI PR AJ OP
The man holding the sign asked for your name.
This participial phrase includes the participle holding, the

participle verbal complement sign, and the adjective the.
The participial phrase modifies the noun subject man.
PAR PR OP AJ NS HV AV MVI
Destroyed by fire, the school was never rebuilt.
The participial phrase includes the participle destroyed and the

prepositional phrase by fire. The participial phrase modifies the
noun subject school.

105

POINT 4
A participle, like a main verb, may include a helping verb(s).
When this occurs, consider all words as the participle.
Example:
PAR PAR AJ VC PR AJ AV AJ OP
Having completed a medley of his most popular songs,
AJ NS MVI AV
the singer went backstage.
The participial phrase includes the participle having completed,

the participle verbal complement medley, the adjective a, and
the prepositional phrase of his most popular songs. The
participial phrase modifies the noun subject singer.

LESSON 12
GERUNDS AND
GERUND PHRASES
108
LESSON 12: GERUNDS AND GERUND PHRASES

INTRODUCTION
gerunds and gerund phrases.
Overview:
A gerund is a verbal that functions as a noun and always
ends with ing. Like nouns, a gerund may function as a subject,
a direct object, an indirect object, a subject complement, or an
object of a preposition. A gerund may also follow another noun as
an appositive to a subject, a direct object, an indirect object, a
subject complement, or an object of a preposition.
A gerund retains the qualities of a verb. This means that, like a

main verb in a sentence, a gerund may have a complement with
adjective modifiers and/or adverb modifiers. This noun, pronoun,
or adjective that follows a gerund and completes its meaning is
called a gerund verbal complement. A gerund phrase is a gerund
plus its complement(s) and/or modifier(s).
Terms to Learn: gerund, gerund phrase
Word-function Codes: GS, GDO, GIO, GSC, GOP, GAP
Lesson 12 Gerunds and Gerund Phrases

109
1. Gerund: A verbal that functions as a noun and always ends

with ing.
2. Gerund phrase: A gerund plus its complement(s) and/or
modifier(s).

4
POINTS TO REMEMBER
112

POINT 1
A gerund is a verbal (verb form) that functions as a noun and
always ends with ing. Gerunds may function as a subject (GS),
a direct object (GDO), an indirect object (GIO), a subject
complement (GSC), an object of a preposition (GOP), or
an appositive (GAP).
Example of the word hiking functioning as a main verb:
PNS HV MVI PR AJ OP
He is hiking up the mountain.
(Main verb)
Examples of the word hiking functioning as a gerund:
GS MVL AJ AJ SC
Hiking is his favorite sport.
(Gerund subject)
PNS MVT GDO

He enjoys hiking.
(Gerund direct object)
PNS MVT GIO AJ DO PR AJ OP

He gave hiking the credit for his stamina.
(Gerund indirect object)
AJ AJ NS MVL GSC
His favorite sport is hiking.
(Gerund subject complement)
PNS MVL SC PR GOP

He is addicted to hiking.
(Gerund object of preposition)
AJ AJ NS GAP MVT DO
His favorite sport, hiking, requires endurance.
(Gerund appositive)

113

POINT 2
Since a gerund is a verb form, it maintains the qualities of a
verb. This means that gerunds that are action words may be
followed by a noun or a pronoun gerund verbal complement,
and gerunds that are state-of-being or condition words may be
followed by a noun or an adjective gerund verbal complement.
Always ask What? Whom? or How? after identifying a gerund
to determine whether a gerund verbal complement follows.
The EGUMPP word-function code for all types of verbal

complements including gerund verbal complements is VC.
Examples:
GS AJ VC HV AV MVL AJ SC
Requiring a membership will not be a problem.
(Requiring what?)
AJ AJ NS NS MVL GSC VC
The worst side effect is feeling exhausted.
(Feeling how?)
NOTE: The question How? in the second example above provides

the answer for the gerund verbal complement. Do not confuse the
Example:
(Walked how?)

114

POINT 3
A gerund phrase is a group of words that contains a gerund plus
its complement(s) and/or modifier(s). The gerund introduces the
gerund phrase; and the entire phrase functions as a subject, a
direct object, an indirect object, a subject complement, an object
of a preposition, or an appositive.
Examples of a gerund phrase functioning as six different types

of nouns:
(subject)
GS AJ VC MVL AJ AJ SC PR OP
Riding a bike is an excellent form of exercise.
(direct object)
PR OP NS MVT GDO AJ VC
At noon Jalisa started riding her bike.
(indirect object)
NS MVT GIO AJ VC AV AV AJ DO PR AJ OP
Max gave riding his bike each day the credit for his stamina.
(subject complement)
AJ AJ NS PR OP MVL GSC AJ VC
An excellent form of exercise is riding a bike.
(object of preposition)
NS MVT AJ AJ DO PR GOP AJ VC
Chris starts his morning routine by riding his bike.
(appositive)
NS MVT AJ AJ DO GAP AJ VC
Bella enjoys her daily exercise, riding her bike.

115

POINT 4
A gerund or gerund phrase may function as an appositive to a
subject, a direct object, an indirect object, a subject complement,
or an object of a preposition.
Use the code GAP for all gerunds functioning as appositives.
Examples of gerund phrases functioning as appositives:
(gerund as an appositive to subject)
AJ AJ NS GAP AJ VC HV MVL AV
His new hobby, collecting antique spoons, has been quite
SC
profitable.
(gerund as an appositive to direct object)
AV MVT AJ AJ DO GAP AJ VC
Please begin your new project, revising this handbook.
(gerund as an appositive to object of preposition)
PNS MVL SC PR AJ AJ OP GAP VC

He was pleased with his new task, tutoring students.

LESSON 13
INFINITIVES AND
INFINITIVE PHRASES
118
LESSON 13: INFINITIVES AND INFINITIVE PHRASES

INTRODUCTION
infinitives and infinitive phrases.
Overview:
An infinitive is a verbal that functions as a noun, an adjective,
or an adverb and is usually introduced by the word to.
Infinitives retain the qualities of a verb. This means that, like a
main verb in a sentence, an infinitive may have a complement
with adjective modifiers and/or adverb modifiers.
An infinitive verbal complement is a noun, a pronoun, or an

adjective that follows an infinitive and completes its meaning.
An infinitive phrase is an infinitive plus its complement(s)
and/or modifier(s).
Terms to Learn: infinitive, infinitive phrase
Word-function Codes: IS, IDO, ISC, IAJ, IAV
Lesson 13 Infinitives and Infinitive Phrases

119
1. Infinitive: A verbal that functions as a noun, an adjective, or

an adverb and is usually introduced by the word to.
2. Infinitive phrase: An infinitive plus its complement(s) and/
or modifier(s).

4
POINTS TO REMEMBER
122

POINT 1
An infinitive is a verbal (verb form) that is usually introduced
by the word to and can function as a nouna subject (IS),
a direct object (IDO), or a subject complement (ISC). An
infinitive can also function as an adjective (IAJ) or as an
adverb (IAV).
Examples of infinitives that function as nouns:
IS IS MVL AJ SC
To win is my goal. (Subject)
(What is my goal?)
PNS MVT IDO IDO

I like to swim. (Direct object)
(I like what?)
AJ NS MVL ISC ISC

My goal is to win. (Subject Complement)
(My goal is what?)
Examples of infinitives that function as adjectives:
PNS MVT DO IAJ IAJ

He has cars to sell. (Adjective)
(What kind of cars?)
NS MVL AJ SC IAJ IAJ

Mike is the person to contact. (Adjective)
(Which person?)
Examples of infinitives that function as adverbs:
AJ NS MVL AV SC IAV IAV

The door was not easy to open. (Adverb)
(How easy was it?)
PNS MVL IAV IAV

She came to forgive. (Adverb)
(Why did she come?)

123

POINT 2
Since an infinitive is a verb form, it maintains the qualities of a
verb. This means that infinitives that are action words may be
followed by a noun or a pronoun infinitive verbal complement,
and infinitives that are state-of-being or condition words may be
followed by a noun or adjective infinitive verbal complement.
Always ask What? Whom? or How? after identifying an infinitive
to determine whether an infinitive verbal complement follows.
The EGUMPP word-function code for all types of verbal

complements including infinitive verbal complements
is VC.
Examples:
PNS HV MVT IDO IDO VC

I will need to borrow money. (To borrow what?)
IAV IAV VC PNS HV MVT IO AJ DO

To be fair, you should pay me five dollars. (To be how?)

answer for an infinitive verbal complement. Do not confuse the
Example:
(Walked how?)

124

POINT 3
An infinitive phrase is a group of words that contains an
infinitive plus its complement(s) and/or modifier(s). The
infinitive introduces the infinitive phrase, and the entire phrase
functions as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb in a sentence.
Examples of infinitive phrases that function as nouns:
(subject)
IS IS PR AJ OP MVL SC
To wait for the train is boring.
(direct object)
PNS MVT IDO IDO PR AJ OP

Nobody wanted to go to the fair.
(subject complement)
AJ NS MVL ISC ISC AJ VC

Her goal was to win the trophy.
Example of an infinitive phrase that functions as an adjective:
(adjective)
PNS AV MVT DO IAJ IAJ AJ VC

He still has time to reconsider his position. (How much time?)
Example of an infinitive phrase that functions as an adverb:
(adverb)
PNS MVI IAV IAV AJ VC

I came to collect the reward. (Why did I come?)
NOTE: The sign of the infinitive to is sometimes omitted.
Example:
(direct object)
AJ AJ NS MVT IDO AJ VC
Your generous contribution helped start the foundation.

125

POINT 4
Do not confuse infinitives and infinitive phrases with prepositional
phrases that begin with the word to. A verb follows the word to
in an infinitive. There is no verb immediately following the word
to in a prepositional phrase.
Infinitives/infinitive phrases Prepositional phrases

(Verb after to) (No verb at all)
to achieve to Lancaster
to climb the mountain to the store
to invest to the movies
to move soon to her automobile
to play to the mall
to receive a bonus to his sister
to talk to our house
to vote for him to their friends
to walk to the company

LESSON 14
REVIEW OF VERBALS
128
LESSON 14: REVIEW OF VERBALS

INTRODUCTION
Lesson Objective: To become proficient in identifying all
three types of verbal phrases.
Overview:
This lesson has been included to provide additional
practice in identifying participles, gerunds, and infinitives
in sentences. Remember, a participle is a verbal that functions
as an adjective and usually ends with ing, ed, or en; a gerund
is a verbal that functions as a noun and always ends with ing;
and an infinitive is a verbal that functions as a noun, an
adjective, or an adverb and is usually introduced by the word to.
The three Points to Remember of this lesson provide helpful

information for remembering what a verbal is and how a verbal
functions in a sentence.
Terms to Learn: no new terms
Word-function Codes: no new codes
Lesson 14 Review of Verbals

3
POINTS TO REMEMBER
130
LESSON 14: REVIEW OF VERBALS

POINT 1
When you look at the word verbal, you see that it includes the
word verb. This should remind you that a verbal is a verb form
that functions as other parts of speecha noun, an adjective,
or an adverb.
POINT 2
An easy way to remember the three types of verbals is to

memorize the acronym PIG with these thoughts in mind:
Participle The letter a in the word participle is to remind

you that a participle functions as an adjective.
Infinitive The preposition in of the word infinitive is to

remind you that an infinitive always begins with
the word to.
Gerund The letter n in the word gerund is to remind you

that a gerund is a noun.
POINT 3
If an action verb ends in ing and is preceded by a helping

verb, the verb is always a main verb and never a gerund
or a participle.
Examples:
(main verb)
AJ NS AJ AP HV MVI PR OP
Our neighbors, the Carsons, are moving to Denver.
(participle)
AJ NS PAR PR OP MVL AJ SC
The neighbors moving to Denver are the Carsons.
(gerund)
GS PR OP HV MVL AJ SC PR AJ OP
Moving to Denver will be an adventure for the Carsons.
Lesson 14 Review of Verbals

LESSON 15
COORDINATING AND
CORRELATIVE CONJUNCTIONS
132
LESSON 15: COORDINATING AND

INTRODUCTION

coordinating conjunctions and correlative conjunctions.
Overview:
A conjunction is a word(s) in a sentence that joins other
words or groups of words. A coordinating conjunction connects
words, phrases, or clauses of equal status. The seven most
frequently used coordinating conjunctions are for, and, nor, but,
or, yet, and so. An easy way to remember these seven coordinating
conjunctions is to memorize the acronym FANBOYSthe first letter
of each of the seven coordinating conjunctions listed above.
A correlative conjunction is one of four word pairs used to connect

words, phrases, or clauses of equal status. The four word pairs are
either/or, neither/nor, both/and, and not only/but also.
A third type of conjunction is a subordinating conjunction. This

type of conjunction will be presented in Lesson 16.
Terms to Learn: coordinating conjunction, FANBOYS,

correlative conjunction
Word-function Codes: CC, CORC
Lesson 15 Coordinating and Correlative Conjunctions

133
1. Coordinating conjunction: A word such as for, and, nor, but,

or, yet, or so used to connect words, phrases, or clauses of
equal status.
2. FANBOYS: An acronym for seven frequently used coordinating
conjunctions.
For But
And Or
Nor Yet
So
3. Correlative conjunction: One of four word pairs (either/or,
neither/nor, both/and, not only/but also) used to connect words,
phrases, or clauses of equal status.

3
POINTS TO REMEMBER
136

POINT 1
Coordinating conjunctions are words that connect words or
groups of words of equal status such as two or more subjects,
verbs, direct objects, predicate nominatives, adjectives,
adverbs, or prepositional phrases.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a coordinating

conjunction is CC.
Examples:
NS CC NS
John or Mary will win the race.
(The word or connects two subjects.)
MVI CC MVI
The children clapped and danced to the music.
(The word and connects two verbs.)
DO CC DO
I like salt and pepper on my baked potato.
(The word and connects two direct objects.)
SC CC SC
He is honest and dependable.
(The word and connects two predicate adjectives.)
PR AJ OP CC PR AJ OP
Mary practiced the piano in the morning and in the evening.
(The word and connects two prepositional phrases.)

137

POINT 2
There are seven words frequently used as coordinating
conjunctions (CC). They are and, but, for, nor, or, so,
and yet.
An easy way to remember these seven coordinating

conjunctions is to memorize the acronym FANBOYS.
F = for
A = and
N = nor
B = but
O = or
Y = yet
S = so

138

POINT 3
Correlative conjunctions are word pairs that show a relationship
of one thought to another. The four correlative conjunctions are
either/or, neither/nor, both/and, and not only/but also.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a correlative conjunction

is CORC.
Examples:
CORC DO CORC DO
You may use either a pencil or a pen for the test.
(The words either and or connect two direct objects.)
CORC NS CORC NS
Neither Bill nor Nancy knew the answer.
(The words neither and nor connect two subjects.)
CORC DO CORC DO
He wanted both his lawyer and his accountant.
(The words both and and connect two direct objects.)
CORC CORC MVT CORC CORC MVT

She not only lifts weights but also does aerobics.
(The words not only and but also connect two verbs.)

LESSON 16
ADVERB CLAUSES
140
LESSON 16: ADVERB CLAUSES

INTRODUCTION
independent clauses and adverb clauses in complex
sentences.
Overview:
In Lessons 1-15 all sentences were simple sentences. A
simple sentence has one independent clause. A clause is
a group of related words that includes a subject and a verb and
expresses either a complete thought or an incomplete thought.
An independent clause is a group of related words that includes
a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
A second type of clause is called a dependent clausealso referred

to as a subordinate clause. A dependent clause is a group of
related words that includes a subject and a verb but does not
express a complete thought because the dependent clause is
introduced by a subordinatoran introductory word, either
expressed or implied, that makes the clause dependent on other
words in the sentence. A sentence with one independent clause
and one or more dependent clauses is called a complex sentence.
Since a dependent clause is not a complete thought and cannot

stand alone as a sentence, it functions as either an adverb, an
adjective, or a noun. In this lesson, you will learn to identify
dependent clauses that function as adverbswhich are called
adverb clauses.
An adverb clause begins with a subordinator called a subordinating

conjunction and usually answers the question When? Where?
Why? How? To what extent? or Under what conditions? A
subordinating conjunction is a word such as after, although, as,
because, before, if, once, since, than, that, though, unless, until,
when, whenever, where, whether, or while that begins a dependent
clause and makes the dependent clause express an incomplete
thought. All sentences in this lesson will be complex sentences
that have one independent clause and one dependent clause that
is functioning as an adverb.
Terms to Learn: simple sentence, clause, independent clause,

dependent (subordinate) clause, subordinator, subordinating
conjunction, compound-word subordinating conjunction, adverb
clause, complex sentence
Word-function Codes: SUBC
Clause-identification Codes: IDC, AVC

Lesson 16 Adverb Clauses
141
1. Simple sentence: A sentence that has one independent clause.

2. Clause: A group of related words that includes a subject and a
verb and expresses either a complete thought or an incomplete
thought.
3. Independent clause: A group of related words that includes a
subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.
4. Dependent (subordinate) clause: A group of related words
that includes a subject and a verb but does not express a
complete thought.
5. Subordinator: An introductory word(s) such as a subordinating
conjunction or a relative pronoun that makes a group of words
with a subject and a verb a dependent clause.
6. Subordinating conjunction: A word such as after, although,
as, because, before, if, once, since, than, that, though, unless,
until, when, whenever, where, whether, or while that begins a
dependent clause and makes the dependent clause express an
incomplete thought.
7. Compound-word subordinating conjunction: Two or more
words such as as if, as long as, as soon as, as though, in order
that, in which, provided that, or so that that function as a
subordinating conjunction.
8. Adverb clause: A dependent clause that begins with a
subordinating conjunction, modifies a verb, an adjective, or
an adverb, and usually answers the question When? Where?
Why? How? To what extent? or Under what condition?
9. Complex sentence: A sentence that has one independent
clause and one or more dependent clauses.

4
POINTS TO REMEMBER
144

POINT 1
A clause is a group of related words that always includes a
subject and a verb and expresses either a complete thought
or an incomplete thought. The two types of clauses are
independent clauses and dependent clauses. An independent
clause is a group of related words with a subject and a verb
that expresses a complete thought. A dependent clause
(also referred to as a subordinate clause) is a group of
related words with a subject and a verb that expresses
an incomplete thought.
Examples:
Independent clauses Dependent clauses

(Complete thought) (Incomplete thought)
I am tired. because I am tired
Bill went home. when Bill went home
He left the room. after he left the room
NOTE: An independent clause is a complete thought and can

stand alone as a simple sentence as expressed in the examples
above. A dependent clause is an incomplete thought because the
introductory wordthe subordinatorhas made the group of
words dependent on more information. A dependent clause is
never a sentence; it always functions as an adverb clause, an
adjective clause, or a noun clause.

145

POINT 2
An adverb clause is a dependent clause that modifies a verb,
an adjective, or an adverb. An adverb clause usually answers
the question When? Where? Why? How? To what extent?
or Under what condition?
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for each word of an
adverb clause is AVC, and the clause-identification code
for each word of an independent clause is IDC.
Examples of adverb clauses modifying a verb:
PNS MVT DO SUBC PNS MVL SC

He entered college when he was sixteen.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(When did he enter college?)
PNS MVI AV SUBC AV MVI AJ NS

She jogs only where there is a track.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(Where does she jog?)
PNS MVI SUBC PNS MVL SC

We stopped because we were tired.
IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(Why did we stop?)
NS MVI SUBC SUBC PNS HV MVI

Paul looked as though he might faint.
IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(How did Paul look?)
Example of an adverb clause modifying an adjective:
NS MVL SC SUBC PNS HV MVI

Fran is positive that she will win.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(The adverb clause modifies the predicate adjective positive

and answers the question Positive to what extent?)
Example of an adverb clause modifying an adverb:
PNS MVI AV SUBC PNS MVI

They played better than we played.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC
(The adverb clause modifies the adverb better and

answers the question How much better?)
146

POINT 3
An adverb clause always begins with a subordinator called a
subordinating conjunction. A subordinator is an introductory
word that makes a group of words with a subject and a verb a
dependent clause.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a subordinating conjunction

is SUBC. Words that may function as a subordinating conjunction
after if though where

although once unless wherever
as since until whether
because than when while
before that whenever
Example:
SUBC NS MVI PR OP OP PNS MVT IDO IDO PR AJ OP

After Bill graduates from high school, he plans to enlist in the navy.
AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
(The adverb clause answers when Bill plans to enlist.)
POINT 4
A compound-word subordinating conjunction consists of two

or more words that function as a single unit.

subordinating conjunction is also SUBC. Words that may
function as a compound-word subordinating conjunction
as if as though even though in order that provided that

as long as even after even when in that so that
as soon as even if for as much as in which
Example:
PNS HV MVT AJ AJ DO SUBC SUBC SUBC PNS MVT DO

We will send your new order as soon as we receive payment.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC
(The adverb clause answers the question When will the

order be sent?)

LESSON 17
ADJECTIVE CLAUSES
148
LESSON 17: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES

INTRODUCTION
independent clauses and adjective clauses in complex
sentences.
Overview:
You have learned to identify one-word adjectives, compound-word
adjectives, adjective prepositional phrases, and participles/participial
phrases. In this lesson you will learn to identify dependent
clauses that function as adjectives. These dependent clauses
are called adjective clauses.
Adjective clauses begin with a subordinator called a relative

pronoun, but they may begin with a subordinating conjunction.
A relative pronoun is a word such as that, what, whatever, which,
who, whoever, whom, whomever, or whose that serves as a
subordinator of a dependent clause and also functions as a
pronoun or an adjective within that clause. An adjective clause
usually answers the question Which one? What kind of? or
Whose?
Examples:
(Adjective)
Your catalog has arrived.
(Whose catalog?)
(Adjective prepositional phrase)

Your catalog from Home Depot has arrived.
(Which catalog?)
(Participial phrase)
Your catalog sent last month has arrived.
(Which catalog?)
(Adjective clause)
Your catalog that was lost has arrived.
(Which catalog?)
Terms to Learn: adjective clause, relative pronoun
Word-function Codes: RPS, RPDO, RPAJ
Clause-identification Code: AJC
Lesson 17 Adjective Clauses

149
1. Adjective clause: A dependent clause that usually begins with

a relative pronoun, modifies a noun or a pronoun, and usually
answers the question Which one? What kind of? or Whose?
2. Relative pronoun: A word such as that, what, whatever, which,
pronoun or an adjective within that clause.

6
POINTS TO REMEMBER
152

POINT 1
An adjective clause is a dependent clause that modifies a noun
or a pronoun. Adjective clauses usually answer the question
Which one? What kind of? or Whose?
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for each word of an

adjective clause is AJC.
Examples:
AJ NS RPS HV MVI PR AJ OP MVL SC

The report that was prepared by your staff is incorrect.
IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC AJC AJC IDC IDC
(The adjective clause that was prepared by your staff

answers the question Which report?)
NS MVL SC RPS MVT AJ DO

Podiatrists are doctors who examine your feet.
IDC IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC
(The adjective clause who examine your feet answers the

question What kind of doctors?)

153

POINT 2
An adjective clause always begins with a subordinator called a
relative pronoun. A relative pronoun performs three functions in
the sentence: (1) it introduces the adjective clause, (2) it
shows a relationship between the adjective clause and another
noun or clause in the sentence, and (3) it usually functions as a
subject, a direct object, or an adjective within the adjective
clause. Words that may function as a relative pronoun include
the following:
that which whom

who whose
NOTE: These words may also function as other parts of speech in

a sentence.
POINT 3
A relative pronoun may function as the subject of an adjective

clause. Words that may function as a relative pronoun subject
are that, which, and who.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a relative pronoun

subject is RPS.
Example:
AJ NS RPS HV AV MVI HV HV MVI PR OP

The computer that was not working has been sent for repair.
IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
(The adjective clause that was not working modifies the

noun computer and answers the question Which computer?
The relative pronoun that introduces the adjective clause
and functions as a relative pronoun subject within the
adjective clause.)

154

POINT 4
A relative pronoun may function as the direct object of the
verb in the adjective clause. When this occurs, the noun or
pronoun that follows the relative pronoun is the subject of the
adjective clause. Words that may function as a relative pronoun
direct object are that, which, and whom.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a relative pronoun direct

object is RPDO.
Examples:
AJ NS RPDO PNS MVT MVT AJ DO

The document that you prepared has several mistakes.
IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC IDC IDC IDC
(The adjective clause that you prepared modifies the

noun document and answers the question Which
document? The relative pronoun that introduces the
adjective clause and functions as the direct object of
the verb within the adjective clause. The word that
answers You prepared what?)
NS NS MVL AJ SC RPDO PNS HV MVT

Mr. Harding is an employee whom we can trust.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC
(The adjective clause whom we can trust modifies the

noun employee and answers the question What kind of
employee? The relative pronoun whom introduces the
adjective clause and functions as the direct object of the
verb within the adjective clause. The word whom
answers We can trust whom?)

155

POINT 5
The word whose may function as a relative pronoun. When this
word functions as a relative pronoun, it introduces the adjective
clause and functions as an adjective within the adjective clause.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a relative pronoun

adjective is RPAJ.
Example:
AJ NS RPAJ NS HV MVI MVI PR AJ OP

The girl whose car was stolen lives on my street.
IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC IDC IDC IDC IDC
(The adjective clause whose car was stolen modifies

the noun girl and answers the question Which girl? The
relative pronoun whose introduces the adjective clause
and functions as an adjective that modifies the word car
within the adjective clause.)
POINT 6
The word that may function as an introductory subordinator
that does not appear in the sentence but is implied.
Example:
PNS MVL AJ SC PNS MVT IDO IDO

This is the land I want to buy. (that I want to buy)
IDC IDC IDC IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC
(The adjective clause I want to buy modifies the

noun land and answers the question Which land? The
introductory subordinator is the word that implied.)

LESSON 18
NOUN CLAUSES
158
LESSON 18: NOUN CLAUSES

INTRODUCTION
independent clauses and noun clauses in complex
sentences.
Overview:
You have learned to identify subjects, predicate nominatives, direct
objects, indirect objects, and objects of prepositions that were
one-word nouns, compound-word nouns, pronouns, gerunds/
gerund phrases, and infinitives/infinitive phrases. Now you will
learn to identify subjects, predicative nominatives, direct
objects, indirect objects, and objects of prepositions that
are dependent clauses. These dependent clauses are called
noun clauses.
A noun clause is a dependent clause that begins with a relative

pronoun or a subordinating conjunction and functions as a noun. A
noun clause may function as a subject, a predicate nominative, a
direct object, an indirect object, or an object of a preposition. In
this lesson all sentences will be complex sentences that have one
independent clause and one noun clause.
Term to Learn: noun clause
Word-function Code: RPSC
Clause-identification Codes: NCS, NCSC, NCDO, NCIO, NCOP
Lesson 18 Noun Clauses

159
1. Noun clause: A dependent clause that begins with a relative

pronoun or a subordinating conjunction and functions as a noun.

9
POINTS TO REMEMBER
162

POINT 1
A noun clause is a dependent clause that functions as a noun
in a sentence. A noun clause may function as a subject, a
predicate nominative, a direct object, an indirect object, or an
object of a preposition in an independent clause. Since a noun
clause functions as part of an independent clause, it is not only
a dependent clause but also part of the independent clause.
Examples:
(noun clause subject) HV MVT DO

Whoever broke the window must repair it.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCS NCS NCS NCS
(The noun clause Whoever broke the window functions

as the subject of the verb phrase must repair and is
needed to complete the thought; therefore, it is also a
part of the independent clause.)
AJ AJ NS MVT (noun clause direct object)

The fire inspector explained why the smoke detector did not activate.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO
(The noun clause why the smoke detector did not

activate functions as the direct object of the main verb
explained and answers the question The inspector
explained what? The noun clause is needed to complete
the thought; therefore, it is also a part of the independent
clause.)

163

POINT 2
A noun clause is always introduced by a subordinator. The
subordinator may be a relative pronoun. A relative pronoun
that introduces a noun clause will function as a subject (RPS),
a direct object (RPDO), or a subject complement (RPSC) within
the noun clause. Words that may function as a relative pronoun
for a noun clause include the following:
what who whom that

whatever whoever whomever
Example of a relative pronoun functioning as a subject within the

noun clause:
RPS MVT AJ AJ DO HV MVT AJ DO

Whoever donates the most money will receive special recognition.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCS NCS NCS NCS NCS
Example of a relative pronoun functioning as a direct object

within the noun clause:
RPDO PNS MVT HV MVL SC

Whomever you appoint should feel honored.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCS NCS NCS
Example of a relative pronoun functioning as a predicate

nominative within the noun clause:
PNS HV AV MVT RPSC AJ NS MVL

We do not know who the guest is.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO

164

POINT 3
The subordinator for a noun clause may be a subordinating
conjunction. Words such as how, that, where, whether,
when, or why may function as a subordinating conjunction
to introduce a noun clause.
The EGUMPP word-function code for a subordinating

conjunction is SUBC.
Examples:
SUBC PNS HV MVT AJ DO HV HV MVI AV

Where we will hold the ceremony will be determined later.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCS NCS NCS NCS NCS NCS
(The noun clause Where we will hold the ceremony

functions as the subject of the verb phrase will be
determined. The single purpose of the subordinating
conjunction where is to introduce the dependent clause.)
AJ NS MVT SUBC PNS HV AV MVI PR AJ OP

Our athletes know that they will not qualify for this event.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO
(The noun clause that they will not qualify for this event
functions as the direct object of the main verb know. The
single purpose of the subordinating conjunction that is to
introduce the dependent clause.)

165

POINT 4
A subordinator that begins a noun clause may not always be
expressed. The word that is an example of a subordinator that
may not be expressed but implied.
Example:
PNS MVT AJ NS MVL SC

I believe your answer is wrong. (that your answer is wrong)
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO
POINT 5
A noun clause may function as a subject.
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for all words that

comprise a noun clause that functions as a subject is NCS.
Example of a noun clause subject:
RPS MVI AV MVL AJ SC

What happened today was a surprise.
NCS NCS NCS
(The noun clause what happened today functions as the

subject of the main verb was.)

166

POINT 6
A noun clause may function as a subject complement.

comprise a noun clause that functions as a subject
complement is NCSC.
Example of a noun clause subject complement:
AJ NS HV MVL RPS MVT AJ AJ DO

The winner will be whoever places the most calls.
NCSC NCSC NCSC NCSC NCSC
(The noun clause whoever places the most calls functions as

the subject complement following the verb phrase will be.)
POINT 7
A noun clause may function as a direct object.

comprise a noun clause that functions as a direct object
is NCDO.
Example of a noun clause direct object:
PNS MVT SUBC AJ NS HV MVT AJ DO

I believe that my brother will win the election.
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO
(The noun clause that my brother will win the election

functions as the direct object of the main verb believe.)

167

POINT 8
A noun clause may function as an indirect object.
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for all words that comprise

a noun clause that functions as an indirect object is NCIO.
Example of a noun clause indirect object:
PNS MVT RPS MVI DO

We give whoever calls directions.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCIO NCIO
(The noun clause whoever calls functions as the indirect

object.)
POINT 9
A noun clause may function as an object of a preposition.

comprise a noun clause that functions as an object of
preposition is NCOP.
Example of a noun clause object of a preposition:
AJ NS NS HV MVT AJ DO PR RPS MVL AJ AJ SC

The disc jockey will give the prize to whoever is the next caller.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
NCOP NCOP NCOP NCOP NCOP
(The noun clause whoever is the next caller functions as

the object of the preposition to. The relative pronoun
whoever introduces the dependent clause and functions
as the subject of that clause.)

LESSON 19
REVIEW OF CLAUSES
170
LESSON 19: REVIEW OF CLAUSES

INTRODUCTION
independent clauses and dependent clauses (adverb,
adjective, and noun clauses) in complex sentences.
Overview:
This lesson has been included to enhance your understanding
of independent clauses and dependent clauses. The seven
Points to Remember of this lesson provide a summary of the
general information you need to understand.
Terms to Learn: no new terms
Word-function Codes: no new codes
Lesson 19 Review of Clauses

7
POINTS TO REMEMBER
172

POINT 1
A clause is a group of related words that includes a subject
and a verb and expresses either a complete thought or an
incomplete thought.
POINT 2
The two types of clauses are independent clauses and

dependent clauses.
POINT 3
An independent clause (IDC) is a group of related words that

includes a subject and a verb and expresses a complete
thought. An independent clause may stand alone as a simple
sentence.
POINT 4
A dependent clause (also referred to as a subordinate clause) is

a group of related words that includes a subject and a verb but
does not express a complete thought. A dependent clause
begins with a subordinatora relative pronoun or a subordinating
conjunction that makes the clause dependent on other words in
the sentence. The subordinator is usually expressed but may be
implied.
POINT 5
An adverb clause (AVC) is a dependent clause that modifies a

verb, an adjective, or an adverb. An adverb clause begins with
a subordinating conjunction and usually answers the question
When? Where? Why? How? To what extent? or Under
what conditions?

173

POINT 6
An adjective clause (AJC) is a dependent clause that modifies
a noun or a pronoun. An adjective clause begins with a relative
pronoun that is usually expressed but may be implied and
usually answers the question Which one? What kind of?
or Whose?
POINT 7
A noun clause is a dependent clause that functions as a noun

within an independent clause and is needed to complete the
meaning of the independent clause. A noun clause always
begins with a relative pronoun or a subordinating conjunction
that is usually expressed but may be implied. A noun clause
may be a subject (NCS), a subject complement (NCSC), a
direct object (NCDO), an indirect object (NCIO), or an object
of a preposition (NCOP).

LESSON 20
SENTENCE TYPES
176
LESSON 20: SENTENCE TYPES

INTRODUCTION
Lesson Objective: To become proficient in identifying the
four different types of sentences.
Overview:
A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete
thought and always begins with the first word capitalized
and ends with a punctuation mark. To express a complete
thought, a group of words must always include a subject and
a verb.
The structure of a sentence varies and may be any of the

following: (1) a one-word verb command with the subject you
understood, (2) one independent clause containing several words
with or without phrases, (3) one independent clause and one or
more dependent clauses with or without phrases, (4) two or more
independent clauses with or without phrases, or (5) two or more
independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses with or
without phrases.
The four types of sentences are simple sentences,

compound sentences, complex sentences, and compound-
complex sentences. A simple sentence has one independent
clause; a compound sentence has two or more independent
clauses; a complex sentence has one independent clause and one
or more dependent clauses; and a compound-complex sentence
has two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent
clauses.
Terms to Learn: compound sentence, compound-complex

sentence
Clause-identification Code: IDC2
Sentence-identification Codes: S, CD, CX, CDCX
Lesson 20 Types of Sentences

177
1. Compound sentence: A sentence that has two or more

independent clauses.
2. Compound-complex sentence: A sentence that has two or
more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.

6
POINTS TO REMEMBER
180

POINT 1
A sentence must have one or more independent clauses. The
first word is always capitalized, and the sentence must end with
a punctuation mark. A sentence may be a one-word verb
command with the subject you understood or a large number
of words that include several phrases and clauses.
POINT 2
A sentence is classified according to the number and types of

clauses it contains. There are four types of sentences: simple,
compound, complex, and compound-complex.
POINT 3
A simple sentence has one independent clause.
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for an independent

clause is IDC, and the sentence-identification code for a
simple sentence is S.
Examples:
AV MVT DO
Please call us.
IDC IDC IDC
AJ NS PR OP HV MVI AV
The price of computers is decreasing steadily.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC

181

POINT 4
A compound sentence has two or more independent clauses.
A comma and a coordinating conjunction often join two
independent clauses, but a semicolon in place of the comma
and the coordinating conjunction may also join the two clauses.
The EGUMPP clause-identification code for a second independent

clause within a sentence is IDC2, and the sentence-identification
code for a compound sentence is CD.
Example of two independent clauses in a compound sentence

joined by a comma and a coordinating conjunction:
AJ NS PR OP HV MVI AV CC AJ NS
The price of computers is decreasing steadily, and more people
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC2 IDC2
HV MVT DO
are buying them.
IDC2 IDC2 IDC2
Example of two independent clauses in a compound sentence

joined by a semicolon:
AJ NS PR OP HV MVI AV AJ NS
The price of computers is decreasing steadily; more people
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC2 IDC2
HV MVT DO
are buying them.
IDC2 IDC2 IDC2
NOTE: A coordinating conjunction that joins two independent

clauses is not technically considered as a part of either independent
clause within a compound sentence. Do NOT code a coordinating
conjunction that joins two independent clauses.

182

POINT 5
A complex sentence has one independent clause and one or
more dependent clauses.
The EGUMPP sentence-identification code for a complex

sentence is CX.
Example of a complex sentence with an adverb clause:
AV MVT DO SUBC PNS MVI PR OP

Please call us when you arrive in town.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC AVC AVC
Example of a complex sentence with an adjective clause:
NS RPS HV MVI PR OP HV HV MVI

Computers, which are decreasing in price, are being purchased
IDC AJC AJC AJC AJC AJC IDC IDC IDC
PR OP
by everyone.
IDC IDC
Example of a complex sentence with an adverb clause and a noun

clause functioning as a direct object:
SUBC PNS MVI PNS MVT SUBC PNS HV MVI

When he returns, I think that you should apologize.
AVC AVC AVC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC
DO DO DO DO

183

POINT 6
A compound-complex sentence has two or more independent
clauses and one or more dependent clauses.
The EGUMPP sentence-identification code for a compound-

complex sentence is CDCX.
Example of a compound-complex sentence with two independent

clauses and one adverb clause:
AV MVT DO SUBC PNS MVI CC HV AV MVT IDO IDO VC VC

Please call us when you arrive, and do not forget to call Uncle Rod.
IDC IDC IDC AVC AVC AVC IDC2 IDC2 IDC2 IDC2 IDC2 IDC2 IDC2
Example of a compound-complex sentence with two independent

clauses and one noun clause functioning as a direct object:
PNS MVT SUBC PNS MVI AV CC PNS MVT AJ DO

I thought that you were away, so I cancelled our reservations.
IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC IDC2 IDC2 IDC2 IDC2
NCDO NCDO NCDO NCDO

MODULE I
TERMS TO LEARN
186
MODULE I: TERMS TO LEARN
1. Abstract noun: A noun such as honesty, decision, or concept

that names a quality, an idea, a characteristic, or an emotion.
(Lesson 1)
2. Adjective: A word that modifies or describes a noun or a

pronoun and usually answers the question Which one?
What kind of? How many? or Whose? (Lesson 5)
3. Adjective clause: A dependent clause that begins with a
relative pronoun, modifies a noun or a pronoun, and usually
answers the question Which one? What kind of? or Whose?
(Lesson 17)
4. Adjective prepositional phrase: A prepositional phrase that

modifies a noun or a pronoun and usually answers the question
Which one? or What kind of? (Lesson 7)
5. Adverb: A word(s) that modifies or describes a verb, an
adjective, or another adverb and usually answers the question
When? Where? How? or To what extent? (Lesson 6)
6. Adverb clause: A dependent clause that begins with a
subordinating conjunction, modifies a verb, an adjective, or
an adverb, and usually answers the question When? Where?
Why? How? To what extent? or Under what condition? (Lesson 16)
7. Adverb prepositional phrase: A prepositional phrase that
modifies a verb, an adjective, or an adverb and usually answers
the question When? Where? Why? or How? (Lesson 7)
8. Appositive: A noun or a pronoun that immediately follows
another noun or pronoun for the purpose of further identifying,
clarifying, or explaining the first noun or pronoun. (Lesson 10)
9. Appositive phrase: An appositive and all of its modifiers.
(Lesson 10)
10. Article or noun marker: Other names for the adjectives a,

an, and the. (Lesson 5)
11. Clause: A group of related words that includes a subject and a
verb and expresses either a complete thought or an incomplete
thought. (Lesson 16)
12. Collective noun: A noun such as team, choir, or flock that
names a group. (Lesson 1)
Module I Terms to Learn

187
13. Common noun: A noun such as woman, city, or automobile

that does not name a specific person, place, or thing and is
not capitalized. (Lesson 1)
14. Complex sentence: A sentence that has one independent
clause and one or more dependent clauses. (Lesson 16)
15. Compound sentence: A sentence that has two or more
independent clauses. (Lesson 20)
16. Compound-complex sentence: A sentence that has two
or more independent clauses and one or more dependent
clauses. (Lesson 20)
17. Compound-word adjective: Two or more words that function
as a single unit and modify a noun. (Lesson 5)
18. Compound-word noun: Two or more nouns such as homeowner,
post office, or Mr. Jones that are combined to form a single noun.
(Lesson 1)
19. Compound-word preposition: Two or more words such as

according to, by means of, in place of, or instead of that function
as a single preposition. (Lesson 7)
20. Compound-word subordinating conjunction: Two or more
words such as as if, as long as, as soon as, as though, in order
that, in which, provided that, or so that that function as a
subordinating conjunction. (Lesson 16)
21. Concrete noun: A noun such as boy, town, or book that names
an object that can be perceived by the senses. (Lesson 1)
22. Coordinating conjunction: A word such as for, and, nor, but,
or, yet, or so used to connect words, phrases, or clauses of
equal status. (Lesson 15)
23. Correlative conjunction: One of four word pairs (either/or,
neither/nor, both/and, not only/but also) used to connect words,
phrases, or clauses of equal status. (Lesson 15)
24. Demonstrative pronoun: The use of the word this, that, these,
or those to point out a specific person or thing. (Lesson 2)
25. Dependent (subordinate) clause: A group of related words
that includes a subject and a verb but does not express a
complete thought. (Lesson 16)

188
26. Direct object: A verb complement that follows a transitive verb

and answers the question What? or Whom? (Lesson 4)
27. FANBOYS: An acronym for seven frequently used coordinating
conjunctions. (Lesson 15)
For But
And Or
Nor Yet
So
28. Gerund: A verbal that functions as a noun and always ends
with ing. (Lesson 12)
29. Gerund phrase: A gerund plus its complement(s) and/or
modifier(s). (Lesson 12)
30. Helping verb: A verb that usually precedes the main verb
and must be included with certain forms of a main verb. (Lesson 3)
31. Indefinite pronoun: A pronoun such as all, anything,
everyone, neither, several, another, both, few, nobody, some,
any, each, many, none, somebody, anybody, either, more, one,
someone, anyone, everybody, most, others, or something that
does not refer to a definite person or thing. (Lesson 2)
32. Independent clause: A group of related words that includes a
subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. (Lesson 16)
33. Indirect object: A verb complement that follows a transitive
verb, precedes a direct object, and usually answers the question
To whom? For whom? To what? or For what? (Lesson 9)
34. Infinitive: A verbal that functions as a noun, an adjective, or an
adverb and is usually introduced by the word to. (Lesson 13)
35. Infinitive phrase: An infinitive plus its complement(s) and/
or modifier(s). (Lesson 13)
36. Interrogative pronoun: A pronoun such as who, which, or
what that begins a sentence and asks a question. (Lesson 2)
37. Intransitive verb: A main verb that never has a complement.
(Lesson 4)

189
38. Linking verb: A main verb that expresses a state of being or a

condition and is always followed by a predicate nominative or a
predicate adjective. (Lesson 8)
39. Main verb: A one-word verb or the last word of a verb phrase
that expresses an action, a state of being, or a condition. (Lesson 3)
40. Modifier: A word(s) that describes or expands the meaning of
another word(s) in a sentence. (Lesson 5)
41. Noun: A word that names a person, place, or thing and provides
an answer to a What? Who? or Whom? question. (Lesson 1)
42. Noun clause: A dependent clause that begins with a relative
pronoun or a subordinating conjunction and functions as a noun.
(Lesson 18)
43. Object of preposition: A noun or a pronoun that follows a

preposition and usually answers the question Whom? or What?
(Lesson 7)
44. PAIDSO: Acronym for the six common uses of a noun. (Lesson 10)
Predicate Nominative Indirect Object Subject

Appositive Direct Object Object of Preposition
45. Participle: A verbal that functions as an adjective and usually
ends with ing, ed, or en. (Lesson 11)
46. Participial phrase: A participle plus its complement(s) and/or
modifier(s). (Lesson 11)
47. Personal pronoun: A pronoun such as I, you, he, she, it, we,
they, me, him, her, them, and us that refers to one or more
persons. (Lesson 2)
48. Phrase: A group of related words that never includes a subject
and a verb and functions as a verb, an adjective, an adverb, or
a noun. (Lesson 7)
49. Possessive pronoun: The personal pronouns (my, your, his,
her, its, our, and their) that function as adjectives. (Lesson 5)
50. Predicate adjective: An adjective subject complement that
follows a linking verb and describes the subject. (Lesson 8)
51. Predicate nominative: A noun or pronoun subject complement
that follows a linking verb and renames the subject. (Lesson 8)

190
52. Preposition: A word such as at, during, of, on, through, or to

that joins and shows the relationship of a noun or a pronoun to
another word in a sentence. (Lesson 7)
53. Prepositional phrase: A preposition plus its object and any
modifiers. (Lesson 7)
54. Pronoun: A word that takes the place of a noun. (Lesson 2)
55. Pronoun understood: The pronoun you, I, or we implied

rather than written as the subject. (Lesson 2)
56. Proper noun: A noun such as Betty, Paris, or Chevrolet
that names a specific person, place, or thing and is always
capitalized. (Lesson 1)
57. Reflexive pronoun: A pronoun formed by adding the suffix self
or the suffix selves to the personal pronouns my, your, him, her,
it, our, or them. (Lesson 4)
58. Relative pronoun: A word such as that, what, whatever, which,
pronoun or an adjective within that clause. (Lesson 17)
59. Simple sentence: A sentence that has one independent
clause. (Lesson 16)
60. Subject: The part of a sentence about which something is being
said and best answers the question Whom or what are we
talking about? or Who or what is doing something? (Lesson 1)
61. Subject complement: A noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that
follows a linking verb and renames or describes the subject.
(Lesson 8)
62. Subordinating conjunction: A word such as after, although,

as, because, before, if, once, since, than, that, though, unless,
until, when, whenever, where, whether, or while that begins a
dependent clause and makes the dependent clause express an
incomplete thought. (Lesson 16)
63. Subordinator: An introductory word(s) such as a subordinating
conjunction or a relative pronoun that makes a group of words
with a subject and a verb a dependent clause. (Lesson 16)

191
64. Transitive verb: A main verb that usually expresses an action

and always has a direct object. (Lesson 4)
65. Verb: A word(s) needed along with the subject to make a
statement, ask a question, or give a command. (Lesson 3)
66. Verb complement: Another name for a direct object or an
indirect object. (Lesson 4)
67. Verb phrase: A main verb and all of its helping verbs. (Lesson 3)
68. Verbal: A verb form that functions as a noun, an adjective, or

an adverb in a sentence. (Lesson 11)
69. Verbal complement: A noun, a pronoun, or an adjective that
follows a verbal and completes its meaning. (Lesson 11)
70. Verbal phrase: A group of words considered as a single unit
that includes a verbal and its complement(s) and/or modifier(s).
(Lesson 11)

EGUMPP CODES
WORD-FUNCTION CODES CLAUSE-IDENTIFICATION CODES
CODE TRANSLATION CODE TRANSLATION
NS Noun Subject IDC Independent Clause

PNS Pronoun Subject AVC Adverb Clause
PNU Pronoun Subject Understood AJC Adjective Clause
GS Gerund Subject NCS Noun Clause Subject
IS Infinitive Subject NCSC Noun Clause Subject Complement
RPS Relative Pronoun Subject NCDO Noun Clause Direct Object
MV Main Verb NCIO Noun Clause Indirect Object
HV Helping Verb NCOP Noun Clause Object of Preposition
MVT Main Verb Transitive IDC2 Independent Clause (second)
MVI Main Verb Intransitive
MVL Main Verb Linking SENTENCE-IDENTIFICATION CODES
DO Direct Object
GDO Gerund Direct Object S Simple Sentence
IDO Infinitive Direct Object CD Compound Sentence
RPDO Relative Pronoun Direct Object CX Complex Sentence
AJ Adjective CDCX Compound-complex Sentence
PAR Participle
IAJ Infinitive Adjective
RPAJ Relative Pronoun Adjective
AV Adverb
IAV Infinitive Adverb
PR Preposition
OP Object of Preposition
GOP Gerund Object of Preposition
SC Subject Complement
GSC Gerund Subject Complement
ISC Infinitive Subject Complement
RPSC Relative Pronoun Subject Complement
IO Indirect Object
GIO Gerund Indirect Object
AP Appositive
GAP Gerund Appositive
VC Verbal Complement
SUBC Subordinating Conjunction
CC Coordinating Conjunction
CORC Correlative Conjunction
Grammar
module I
The EGUMPP Learning System
Your solution for understanding English grammar
and improving your writing skills.
Grammar
I
Grammar
II III IV
Usage Punctuation and Writing
Capitalization Mechanics
EGUMPP Certification
Safran Publishing Company

1605 Clugston Road
I
York, PA 17404
Electronic Grammar Usage

www.egumpp.com Bob Safran Mechanics Proficiency Program

Module I - Grammar

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Module I - Grammar

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Module I - Grammar

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Grammar

Safran Publishing Company

Electronic Grammar Usage

Copyright 2010 Safran Publishing Company

All Rights Reserved

Printed in the United States of America

For Module I - GRAMMAR the learning objectives are to develop an

For Module II - USAGE the learning objectives are to become proficient

For Module III - PUNCTUATION AND CAPITALIZATION the learning

For Module IV - WRITING MECHANICS the learning objectives are

EGUMPP Certification is awarded to individuals who qualify. Final grades

ABOUT MODULE I COURSEWARE

Module I consists of 20 Lessons and a Mastery Test. Each lesson includes

The time required to complete Module I ranges from 20 to 35 hours. The

LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS ........................................... 9-16

LESSON 2: PRONOUN SUBJECTS .................................... 17-24

LESSON 3: MAIN VERBS AND HELPING VERBS ................ 25-34

LESSON 4: TRANSITIVE AND INTRANSITIVE VERBS ......... 35-44

LESSON 5: ADJECTIVES ................................................ 45-52

LESSON 6: ADVERBS .................................................... 53-60

LESSON 7: PREPOSITIONS AND

LESSON 8: LINKING VERBS ............................................71-80

LESSON 9: INDIRECT OBJECTS .......................................81-88

LESSON 10: APPOSITIVES AND APPOSITIVE PHRASES ........89-96

LESSON 11: PARTICIPLES AND PARTICIPIAL PHRASES ......97-106

LESSON 12: GERUNDS AND GERUND PHRASES .............. 107-116

LESSON 13: INFINITIVES AND INFINITIVE PHRASES....... 117-126

LESSON 14: REVIEW OF VERBALS ................................ 127-130

LESSON 15: COORDINATING AND CORRELATIVE

LESSON 16: ADVERB CLAUSES ..................................... 139-146

LESSON 17: ADJECTIVE CLAUSES ................................. 147-156

LESSON 18: NOUN CLAUSES ........................................ 157-168

LESSON 19: REVIEW OF CLAUSES ................................ 169-174

LESSON 20: SENTENCE TYPES ..................................... 175-184

REVIEW: MODULE I TERMS TO LEARN ........................... 185-191

LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS

The first word(s) to identify is the subject. The subject is

The subject of the sentence may be a noun. A noun names a

Nouns are common or proper. A common noun such as woman,

Terms to Learn: subject, noun, concrete noun, abstract noun,

Lesson 1 Noun Subjects

LESSON 1: TERMS TO LEARN

1. Subject: The part of a sentence about which something is being

Lesson 1 Terms to Learn

LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS

A subject may be a one-word noun or a compound-word noun.

The EGUMPP word-function code for a one-word noun

Lesson 1 Noun Subjects

LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS

A concrete (or tangible) noun names an object that can be

An abstract (or intangible) noun names a quality, an idea,

A collective noun names a group. The words crowd, flock, and

Lesson 1 Noun Subjects

LESSON 1: NOUN SUBJECTS

A common noun names a person, place, or thing in general

A proper noun names a particular person, place, or thing. A

(common, abstract, thing)

(proper, concrete, place)

(proper, concrete, person)

Lesson 1 Noun Subjects