Question 1: Identify all the places where commas are used to separate items or clauses and explain their purpose.

Answer: Commas are used to separate items in a list ('tradition, and simplicity'), to set off non-essential information ('lined with old oak trees'), and to clarify meaning by separating clauses ('Despite the changes over the years, the town retained its charm').

Question 2: How does the comma after 'Sarah' affect the reading of the sentence? Write a brief explanation.

Answer: The comma after 'Sarah' indicates a pause, setting off the introductory phrase and clarifying that she is the subject of the sentence.

Question 3: Identify any non-essential information set off by commas in the passage and discuss how it helps the reader.

Answer: The phrase 'lined with old oak trees' and 'known for their close-knit community' are non-essential information. They add detail and context, enriching the description without disrupting the main ideas.

Question 4: Explain how the commas in the sentence 'Her paintings, vibrant and detailed, captured the essence of everyday life in Maplewood' influence the rhythm and clarity of the sentence.

Answer: The commas set off 'vibrant and detailed', emphasising these adjectives and slowing the reading, which enhances clarity and adds emphasis to her paintings.

Question 5: In your own words, describe how correct comma use can avoid ambiguity in writing.

Answer: Correct comma placement separates ideas and clarifies relationships between parts of a sentence, preventing misreading or ambiguity.

Question 6: Choose the correct option: Which sentence demonstrates proper comma use for clarity? a) The children, playing in the park, loved to collect leaves. b) The children playing in the park loved to, collect leaves. c) The children, playing in the park loved to collect leaves. d) The children playing in the park loved to collect leaves.

Answer: a) The children, playing in the park, loved to collect leaves.

Question 7: Rewrite the following sentence without changing its meaning but ensuring correct comma placement for clarity: 'The artist Sarah painted vibrant scenes from her town.'

Answer: The artist, Sarah, painted vibrant scenes from her town.

Question 8: Create a short paragraph (5-6 sentences) describing your favourite place, using at least three commas correctly to enhance clarity.

Answer:

Question 9: Identify one example of how using a comma can change the meaning or tone of a sentence. Provide the original sentence and a revised version with improved clarity.

Answer: Original: Let's eat grandma. Revised: Let's eat, grandma. The comma clarifies that you are addressing grandma, not suggesting she be eaten.