Comprehensive Grammar Activity (Coursework Sample)

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13 December 2014
Comprehensive grammar activity
1. FRAGMENT
Sentence fragments in the grammar corridors are among the commonest mistakes one can find. Essentially, this type is characterized by broken structure and meaning in that it cannot stand independently. Lacking a proper subject and verb association, sentence fragments fail to meet the standards of a complete sentence which are constituted by a complete and meaningful statement. An example of a sentence fragment follows below:
Fox News, during the last American general elections
Whereas the sentence above gives us the subject (Fox) and setting and time (Last general elections), it fails to meet the relationship that we talked about earlier. In that case, we need to introduce a link between the two thoughts. The final sentence will be as such:
Fox News was ranked among the top networks during the last American general elections.
The sentence above is complete; subject, verb and place.
Be that as it may, stylistic fragments can be used in creative writing, which is less restrictive as is formal writing.
2. RUN-ON –
Also known as fused sentences, run-ons are typified by putting two complete sentences together without a break or punctuation. An example of a run-on- is:
My favorite movies are documentaries they are very educative.
The sentence above should be broken into two by using a comma, conjunction (coordinating) or period. For instance, the sentence could read:
My favorite movies are documentaries for they are very educative
My favorite movies are documentaries; they are very educative
My favorite movies are documentaries. They are very educative.
3. COMMA SPLICE
As with the above grammatical errors, comma splice come about by treating two independent clauses as one sentence as opposed to breaking them into two. Correcting comma splices can be done by a comma, period or conjunction.
Example: My friends come to my place every Saturday morning, we then go for swimming together.
Correction: My friends come to my place every Saturday morning; we then go for swimming together. My friends come to my place every Saturday morning. We then go for swimming together.
4. SEMI-COLON
This mark is used to clarify meaning by indicating separation of words into similar sentences and clauses and phrases. Importantly, they are used to give breaks to rather long sentences. In its replacement, a period or comma can be used instead.
Example: James is a music producer; but writing songs is one of his fortes.
The semi-colon here has been used to show a symbiotic relationship between the dependent and independent clause.
5. THESIS STRUCTURE AND PLACEMENT
A thesis statement is basically a hypothetical statement used to form the basis of an argument essay. In that sense, it facilitates the direction and structure the essay takes sequentially proceeding from one point to another. Mostly, a thesis statement should take up the opening portions of the essay although it ought to be introduced in a captivating manner to capture the attention of the readers. Its placement should come just after the first or second paragraph to set premise for the organization of the rest of the write-up. For more seasoned writers, a delayed pronunciation/placement of the thesis statement can keep the readers to the end.
6. WHAT TO AVOID IN A THESIS
Following the introduction of what a thesis is and how its structure and placement should be, there are few principles that should be considered in keeping with the avoidance of errors. To begin with, your thesis should not be too general; it should be spot on as far as being specific goes.
Example: This essay is about the effects of the First World War.
A few concerns could be raised here. For instance, what will be discussed about the First World War? Is it the political, social or economic effects?
That aside, a thesis should not be a fact but rather present an argument/standing point(s).
Example: This paper will delve into the ways in which the internet has facilitated doing business online and interacting with people across the globe through the various social media platforms.
Depending with who your audience constitutes, it is highly recommended to present the ideas in the paper in a natural way and avoid using first person language such as: I.
7. COMMA RULES (LIST AND GIVE EXAMPLE OF EACH RULE APPLIED)
Arguably, these are the most used punctuation marks with the exception of periods of course. That being the case, there are few rule of thumbs applied in their usage. They are:
Tenet 1. To break up a list of items.
Example: Elizabeth is known for her wits, skills and personality....