Advanced English Grammar:
Conjunctions - Practicum Module
### Introduction
Conjunctions are words that link or connect other words, phrases, clauses, or sentences.
They play a significant role in the structure of sentences and contribute to the clarity and
flow of ideas. In this module, we will explore different types of conjunctions, how they
function in sentences, and practical exercises to solidify your understanding.
### Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, you should be able to:
1. Identify and correctly use coordinating, subordinating, and correlative conjunctions.
2. Understand the grammatical structure of sentences using conjunctions.
3. Combine independent and dependent clauses using appropriate conjunctions.
4. Recognize and avoid common errors when using conjunctions.
### Types of Conjunctions
1. Coordinating Conjunctions
- Definition: These conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses of equal importance or
rank.
- Common Coordinating Conjunctions: For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So (FANBOYS).
- Examples:
- I wanted to go to the movies, but I was too tired.
- He didn't study, so he failed the test.
2. Subordinating Conjunctions
- Definition: These conjunctions connect a dependent clause to an independent clause. The
dependent clause cannot stand alone and needs the independent clause to form a complete
thought.
- Common Subordinating Conjunctions: Although, Because, Since, If, When, While, Unless,
Until, Before, After, etc.
- Examples:
- Although it was raining, she went for a walk.
- He didn't go to work because he was sick.
3. Correlative Conjunctions
- Definition: These conjunctions are used in pairs to join elements of equal importance.
- Common Correlative Conjunctions: Either...or, Neither...nor, Not only...but also,
Both...and, Whether...or.
- Examples:
- Either you can stay here, or you can go home.
- She is not only a great singer, but also an excellent dancer.
### Conjunctions in Complex Sentences
In complex sentences, conjunctions help in joining independent and dependent clauses.
Here are some tips on using conjunctions in complex sentences:
- Independent Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Dependent Clause
- Example: I will go to the park if it stops raining.
- Dependent Clause + Subordinating Conjunction + Independent Clause
- Example: When it stops raining, I will go to the park.
### Exercise 1: Identifying Conjunctions
Read the following sentences and identify the conjunction used. Underline the conjunctions
in each sentence.
1. She didn't like the movie, but she watched it until the end.
2. He decided to stay home because it was too late.
3. Neither Tom nor Jerry attended the meeting.
4. Although I studied hard, I didn't pass the exam.
5. We can go to the park or we can go to the beach.
### Exercise 2: Correct the Errors
There are errors in the use of conjunctions in the following sentences. Correct them.
1. He wanted to go swimming, and because the weather was hot.
2. I will go to the gym neither tomorrow nor the day after.
3. She loves chocolate, but also she enjoys vanilla ice cream.
4. You need to study hard so you can pass the test, or you will fail.
5. Although I was tired, but I finished my homework.
### Exercise 3: Combining Sentences
Combine the following pairs of sentences using appropriate conjunctions (FANBOYS,
subordinating, or correlative conjunctions).
1. I wanted to go for a walk. It was raining.
2. She studied for the test. She felt confident.
3. He finished his homework. He went to bed early.
4. I am going to the store. I will buy some snacks.
5. You can take the bus. You can walk.
### Additional Exercises
Exercise 4: Fill in the Blanks
Fill in the blanks with the correct conjunction from the options provided.
1. I wanted to go for a jog, ______ it started to rain. (because / but / so)
2. You can either have tea ______ coffee. (and / or / but)
3. We were waiting for the bus, ______ it never arrived. (but / although / because)
4. I will buy a new phone ______ I get my paycheck. (after / unless / before)
5. ______ he studied hard, he failed the exam. (Because / Although / If)
Exercise 5: Match the Sentences with the Correct Conjunction
Match each pair of sentences with the conjunction that best fits.
1. He was hungry. ____________ he didn't have time to eat. (a) But (b) So (c) Although)
2. I will call you. ____________ I finish my work. (a) When (b) Or (c) Because)
3. We can go to the cinema. ____________ we can stay home and watch a movie. (a) And (b) But
(c) Either)
4. He loves playing soccer. ____________ he is not very good at it. (a) But (b) So (c) And)
5. She went to the store. ____________ she needed some milk. (a) Because (b) Although (c) If)
