How to Use Conjunctions: Lesson Ten

Part One: What are Conjunctions?

Below is a chart listing the most popular conjunctions. The list also tells you what each of the conjunctions is used for.

CONJUNCTIONS

Part Two: Examples of Conjunctions in Sentences

Okay, but WHEN DO YOU USE CONJUNCTIONS? 

  • Conjunctions are used when you are COMBING two independent clauses.

We have Practice Test that you can use: GED® Reasoning Through Language Arts Practice Tests

Examples of independent clauses:

I like winter.
I enjoy hot tea.
Hot chocolate is my favorite.
Watching the snow fall relaxes me.
I love to wear sweaters.
When the sun is out, we go skiing on the weekends.
During snow storms, I curl up with a book on the couch.
Boots are my favorite accessory.
There are so many outdoor activities to do.

Now we combine these independent clauses in varying ways by using conjunctions.

I like hot tea, BUT hot chocolate is my favorite.
–> “But” is used here to show a contrast between hot chocolate and tea.

When the sun is sun out, we go skiing on the weekends, OR during snow storms, I curl up on the couch.
–>”Or” is used here to show the choices between the two activities.

I love to wear sweaters AND boots are my favorite accessory.
–> “And” is used here to combine the two things.

I like winter, FOR there are so many outdoor activities to do.
–> “For” is used here to explain the reason why the person feels this way.

Watching the snow fall relaxes me, SO during snow storms, I curl up on the couch.
–>”So” is used here to show the effect that snow has on the person.

Learn more about GED Reasoning through Language Arts Guide

Part Three: Practicing Questions

1. Which conjunction would best combine the two ideas:

    • Math problems are hard to study.
    • Maintaining a consistent study schedule help.

A. but
B. for
C. or

Answer:A. but

2. Which conjunction best completes the sentence:

At the beginning of May we celebrate Cinco de Mayo _________ my parents have their anniversary at the end of the month.

A. so
B. and
C. or

Answer: B. and

3. As your child grows, it is helpful to expose them to more time outdoors. The outdoor air is healthy for their bodies, and nature encourages a sense of exploration in a child.

Which of the following changes should be made to the excerpt above?

A. Eliminate the comma after “bodies”
B. Change “and” to “or”
C. Eliminate the comma after “bodies” and put it after “and”

Answer:A. Eliminate the comma after “bodies”