Using the comma rules in non-finite complex sentences
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use a comma to demarcate a main clause from a non-finite clause in a non-finite complex sentence.
Key learning points
- A non-finite clause joined to a main clause forms a non-finite complex sentence.
- The non-finite clause denotes ongoing action that relates to the subject of the main clause.
- The action of the non-finite clause occurs simultaneously to the action of the main clause.
- The non-finite clause can come first in the complex sentence followed by the main clause or vice versa.
- A comma is always used to demarcate the non-finite clause from the main clause despite its position in the sentence.
Keywords
Non-finite clause - a type of subordinate clause that can start with a verb in the progressive tense
Progressive tense - a tense that denotes ongoing action
Comma - a punctuation mark used to demarcate the non-finite clause from the main clause in a non-finite complex sentence
Main clause - a group of words that contains a verb and makes complete sense
Non-finite complex sentence - a sentence formed of a main clause and a non-finite subordinate clause
Common misconception
Pupils may not include the subject of the non-finite clause at the start of the main clause.
Explain that the person doing the non-finite clause must be mentioned at the start of the main clause.
Teacher tip
Encourage pupils to interrogate their non-finite complex sentences - could the actions be done simultaneously? Is the person mentioned after the comma the one doing the non-finite clause?
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following are found in a non-finite complex sentence?
Q2.Which of the following contain a non-finite (-ing) clause?
Q3.Which of these non-finite complex sentences are correctly formed?
Q4.Match the type of complex sentence to the type of word it might require.
subordinating conjunction
relative pronoun
progressive tense verb with -ing suffix
Q5.Match the main clauses to the non-finite (-ing) clauses that could follow them.
, searching for interesting shells.
, hoping to use the football pitch.
, seeing that we were eager to finish the story.
Q6.Which main clause would best complete this non-finite complex sentence? 'Diving into the water, __________.'
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which of the following will we always find in a non-finite (-ing) complex sentence?
Q2.Match the type of complex sentence to the word that might start its subordinate clause.
rushing
when
who
Q3.Match each type of complex sentence to an example.
The hill, which was very steep, was over 700m high.
When we got to the top of the hill, we rested a while.
Laying on the ground, we tried to catch our breath.
Q4.Which of the following is true of a non-finite (-ing) complex sentence?
Q5.Tick all the non-finite (-ing) complex sentences that have the correct commas.
Q6.Tick all the non-finite (-ing) complex sentences that have the correct commas used for all purposes.
To help you plan your 5 English lesson on: Using the comma rules in non-finite complex sentences, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 5 English lesson on: Using the comma rules in non-finite complex sentences, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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