English // Grammar & Punctuation

Commas After Introductory Elements

Use a comma to separate an introductory element from the rest of the sentence, including introductory words, phrases, and clauses

Ages
10 to 11
Type
Method
Builds on
2 topics
Leads to
0 topics
Standards
1 code

Quick check

When the learner begins a sentence with a phrase or clause — like "Despite the rain," or "If you look closely," — do they put a comma after that opening part before the main sentence begins?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Place commas after introductory adverbs such as 'However' or 'Therefore' at the start of sentences
  • Use commas after introductory prepositional phrases like 'In the morning' or 'After the game'
  • Punctuate introductory dependent clauses correctly such as 'When the bell rang, we left'

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

2 topics
  • Fronted Adverbials and CommasRequired

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 8 to 9

    Introductory element commas build on fronted adverbials

  • Commas in listsHelpful

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 6 to 11

    Introductory-element comma use builds on broader comma awareness from list punctuation

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Commas After Introductory Elements

Ages 10 to 11 // Method

Leads to

0 topics

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Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects
L.5.2b

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