Conjunction Junction!

Introduction to topic:

While there are several parts of speech, one that is often overlooked is conjunctions. In this unit, middle school students will learn the difference between subordinating and coordinating conjunctions, as well as examples of each type of conjunction.

Includes:

Reviewing material, Discussion Questions, Activities, Videos, and Diagrams

Learning Objectives:

Following this lesson, students should be able to…

1. Explain what a conjunction is
2. Identify the difference between subordinating and coordinating conjunctions
3. Create sentences using both types of conjunctions

What ARE Conjunctions?

It might seem confusing, BUT you’ll get it!

Coordinating Conjunctions:

Definition: Joining words, phrases, or sentences together

*Think FANBOYS*

F- For

A- And

N- Nor

B-But

O- Or

Y- Yet

S- So

Sample Sentence: I love running and hanging out with my family.

Activity: Can you write 3 sentences using a coordinating conjunction?

Subordinating Conjunctions:

Definition: Begin subordinate clause; connects a subordinate clause with a main clause

Examples:

Although, since, if, because, until, when, before, after, etc.

Sentence Example: After I go running, I will hang out with my family.

Activity: Using the main clause “I did bad on my Math quiz”, add a subordinate clause. Remember you need a subordinating conjunction to connect these two clauses

An Iconic Conjunction Video:

*Ask your guardian if they remember this song!*

Conjunction Review Page:

Two Types of Conjunctions:

1. Coordinating- Joining words, phrases, or sentences together

   1. Think FANBOYS!!

2. Subordinating-Begin subordinate clause; connects a subordinate clause with a main clause

   1. Ex. after, which, since, because, etc.

Discussion Questions:

1. Where is the coordinating conjunction in these sentences?

• My sister went to the mall with our mom, so I went on a walk by myself.
• I am allergic to dairy, but I eat it anyway.
• My favorite color is green and Emma’s favorite color is purple.

2. Where is the subordinate clause in these sentences? Identify the subordinate conjunction in the clause.

• Although I like broccoli, I do not like cauliflower.
• I am not going to stay up late on weekdays, until get my grades up.
• My sister tries to read, unless she is busy, everyday.