Grammar Unit 1: Lesson 5
Appositives
definition
An APPOSITIVE is a noun that is
placed next to another noun to identify
it or add information about it. It is usually
set off by commas.
example
appositive
Miss McElhatten, a teacher, is from
Northwestern Pennsylvania.
commas
Appositive phrases
There are also APPOSITIVE PHRASES.
An APPOSTIVE PHRASE is a group of
words that includes an appositive and other
words that help it.
Mr. Grozanick, a totally awesome
social studies teacher, teaches at
Spring Cove Middle School.
Appositive phrase
Guided practice
Copy the following sentences into your notes.
Underline the appositive or appositive phrases and
add appropriate commas. Last, circle the noun the
appositive identifies.
1. My new puppy a golden retriever is learning to swim.
2. A true sportsman Uncle Bill never keeps the fish he catches.
3. My science teacher Mr. Synder has a pet bearded dragon.
4. Mr. Nevins a math teacher always displays a Christmas tree.
5. Diwali the Hindu New Year is celebrated in October or
November.
Guided practice: Answers
Check your answers.
1. My new puppy, a golden retriever, is learning to swim.
2. A true sportsman, Uncle Bill, never keeps the fish he catches.
3. My science teacher, Mr. Synder, has a pet bearded dragon.
4. Mr. Nevins, a math teacher, always displays a Christmas
tree.
5. Diwali, the Hindu New Year, is celebrated in October or
November.
Testing Your Knowledge
1. What is an appositive?
AN: word or phrase that identifies a noun
2. What punctuation do you use with appositives?
AN: commas