Grammar Point for November 27 Setences
Monday, November 19, 2012
This week's grammar point is Parallel Constructions Using Clauses. The following is quoted from the best online source for writing tips-- in Ms. Rich's opinion-- Purdue University's Online Writing Lab, OWL:
"Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as 'and' or 'or.' [For this week, we will practice parallel clauses.]
A parallel structure that begins with clauses must keep on with clauses. Changing to another pattern or changing the voice of the verb (from active to passive or vice versa) will break the parallelism.
Example
- Not Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and to do some warm-up exercises before the game.
- Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much, and that they should do some warm-up exercises before the game. OR
- Parallel: The coach told the players that they should get a lot of sleep, not eat too much, and do some warm-up exercises before the game."
For further examples, please visit: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/623/1/
All of this week's sentences should include parallel clauses.