Sentence Handbook
This handbook is an assignment for ninth grade English class. I am supposed to come up with a creative and fun way to show grammar and punctuation rules. My theme is outdoors and camping, since that is what I enjoy doing.

Commas:

Use a comma before the conjunction that joins the two independent clauses in the compound sentence:

I enjoy camping, and I also enjoy hiking.


Use a comma after relatively lengthy introductory phrases or subordinate clauses:

In order to go camping, I had to raise twenty dollars.

Use commas to separate items in a series:

On the trip I will bring a flashlight, first aid kit, and an axe.

Use commas before none essential items:

My scoutmaster, Julio, made us chop firewood.

Use commas between adjectives that modify the same noun:

My big, heavy pack hurt my back.

Use commas to separate the parts of dates and places:

The trip will be on November 12, 2009 in Plymouth, MA.

Use a comma before a direct quotation:

My dad said, “This trip will be fun”

Use commas before and after words such as however:

I hate hiking in the rain, however, I do not mind camping in it, because you have a tent for shelter.

Semi Colon Rules:

Use a semi colon instead of a comma and conjunction to separate the two independent clauses in a compound sentence:

I like long backpacking trips; I also like long bike trips and long camp-outs.

Use a semi colon before a conjunctive adverb that joins two independent clauses:

I like Boy Scouts; therefore, I will like to hike.

Use semi colons to separate items in a series if they have internal punctuation:

As I hiked I watched the birds, they were walking; sitting flying and dancing; chirping and singing.