Basic Grammar Review

Basic Grammar Review

This review worksheet outlines some of the basic rules of grammar which should be adhered to in writing your discussion posts. Failure to do so will negatively impact your grade. Also keep in mind that texting language is prohibited; when used, a grade of zero (0) will be given.

1. Adjectives/Adverbs—Adjectives modify nouns, and adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, and other adverbs. For example:

The pretty cat quickly climbed onto the ugly couch, and she cried very loudly.

adjective adverb adjective adverb adverb

Although common adverbs like very and too do not, most adverbs end in LY. Please make sure that when you are using a word as an adverb that it is in the correct form. For example:

That is a quick cat. The cat ran quickly across the yard.

This is a different car. This car was made differently from that one.

Also, please be aware that the word “everyday” is an adjective, and that it means “common” or “ordinary.” This is different from “every day,” which is a phrase made up of an adjective and a noun, meaning exactly what it seems to mean—“happens daily.”

This is my everyday house dress. I go to class every day.

2. Apostrophes—Apostrophes are used for a number of things, but most often they are used to do one of the following two things: 1.) to make a contraction or 2.) to show possession. Please make sure that your contractions and possessives have the necessary apostrophes. Also, please be aware that possessive pronouns never have apostrophes in them, and one generally does not make plurals with apostrophes. For example:

Incorrect Plurals Julies cats’ are meowing at the dog’s.

and Possessives: These are her’s.

Correct Possessions: Why are the ladies’ hats so big?

This is my brother’s girlfriend.

Correct Contractions: You aren’t going home right now.

Martin can’t be...