Sixth graders learn to set off extra, nonessential information using commas, dashes, and parentheses — three tools that each add information with a slightly different feel, from smooth to dramatic to quiet.
Students will be able to…
“My dog — a huge, goofy Labrador — loves the park.” Those dashes tuck in extra info. When do you use commas, dashes, or parentheses to do that?
Project each item and have students choose the correct punctuation. The tool explains commas, dashes, and parentheses.
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
“My dog — a goofy Lab — loves the park.” What do those dashes do?
Teacher models.
Class uses Punctuation Check.
Students punctuate.
Students share a sentence.
Aligned to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts.
Use commas, parentheses, and dashes to set off nonrestrictive/parenthetical elements.
Demonstrate command of punctuation.
Vary sentence patterns for meaning and style.
Produce clear and coherent writing.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students set off the same extra information using commas, then dashes, then parentheses, and discuss how the feel changes. A printable punctuation sheet is in the ELA library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.