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Read the pairs of sentences below. Do they say the same thing? What is different?

Pair 1

• We get frustrated when we don't get what we want.
• When we don't get what we want, we get frustrated.

Pair 2

• We feel useless sometimes when we think that others don't respect or care for us.
• When we think that others don't respect or care for us, we feel useless sometimes.

The sentences in each pair say about the same thing. However, the second sentence in each pair has a comma. When you start a sentence with a word like "when," use a comma.

Read aloud each sentence in the pair. Notice how your voice goes up when you see a comma. It goes down when you see a period. Use that as a guide for using commas in this exercise.

Other comma words like "when" are listed below:

• because
• if (even if)
• although (though, even though)
• since (as)
• after/before

You don't use a comma if the word is in the last part of the sentence. You use a comma if you start the sentence with those words.

Rewrite the sentences below (in the boxes) by starting with one of the comma words. Example:

• Jeffrey still smokes although he wants to quit.
• Although he wants to quit, Jeffrey still smokes.

1.  I feel tired after I work all day.

2.  Leaf colors really change when fall comes in Colorado.

3.  Kate really laughs when you tickle her.

4.  Getting a GED really helps if you want to keep a job.

5.  Donna stays in school because she loves to learn.

Complete the sentences below. Pay close attention to the punctuation.

1.  My parents got angry when  

2.  When someone criticizes me  

3.  I get upset if  

4.  When     gets tired  

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