Writing with Appositives
• An appositive is a noun that further describes a
preceding noun :
Before: The beaver swims and builds dams.
After: The beaver, a semi-aquatic rodent, swims
and builds dams.
• How are commas used with appositives?
To create a more vibrant, clear sentence…
• Add more detail to your
appositive, creating an
appositive phrase:
The beaver, a semi-aquatic
rodent applauded for its
engineering feats, swims and
builds dams.
From Night, by Elie Wiesel:
• Suddenly the gate opened, and
Stern, a former tradesman who
had become a policeman, came
in and took my father aside.
Despite the gathering dusk, I saw
my father turn pale.
Student examples:
 Ramadan, a time of fasting, began when Shabanu visited
the village of Mehrapur.
 Summer days without my best friend, a champion lawn
bowler, are miserable.
 I think adopting a cat, a warm fluffy ball of fur, would
complete our home.
• Write three sentences with appositives that begin with
your name. Here are some examples:
Mrs. Nelson, a seventh grade teacher, works on
weekends to improve her students’ learning.
Mrs. Nelson, a friend to all children, has three fabulous
sons of her own.
Mrs. Nelson, an avid runner, wishes she could catch up
to Mrs. Jez.
*Don’t forget commas!
You’re the Subject With Appositives
Add Appositives to These
Sentences
• Washington State, _____________________________, borders Oregon,
Idaho, and Canada.
• Broccoli, _____________________________, provides nutrients that
build strong bones.
• Her little brother, __________________________, annoys me when I
visit.
Your turn:
 Look at the following photograph
 Determine the first noun you will use
 Think of a second noun or noun phrase to enhance the first
one
 Complete your vivid sentence
 Use commas correctly
 Share
Instructor: Insert your photo here
http://www.flickr.com/photos/saintseminole/
 Determine the first noun you will use
 Think of a second noun or noun phrase to
enhance the first one
 Complete your vivid sentence
 Use commas correctly