Mastering Sentence Craft Quick Review
Grade 8 English Language Arts Parallel Structure, Stringy Sentences & Wordy Sentences 30-Minute Review Session
Parallel Structure: Keep It Balanced
Use the same grammatical pattern in lists Wrong: 'I like reading, writing, and to draw' Right: 'I like reading, writing, and drawing' Makes sentences sound smoother and more professional
Fix These Parallel Structure Errors
1. Sarah enjoys swimming, biking, and to run. 2. The lawyer was confident, prepared, and showing enthusiasm. 3. We need to study hard, practice often, and being focused. Work with a partner to rewrite these sentences correctly!
Stringy vs. Clear Sentences
{"left":"Stringy: The defendant walked into the courtroom and he looked nervous and he kept fidgeting with his tie and everyone noticed his behavior and it made them suspicious.\nClear: The defendant walked into the courtroom looking nervous. He kept fidgeting with his tie, and everyone noticed his suspicious behavior.","right":"Wordy: Due to the fact that the evidence was overwhelming in nature, it is my opinion that the jury will reach a verdict.\nConcise: The overwhelming evidence suggests the jury will reach a verdict quickly."}
Quick Check: Which is Better?
A) The witness was scared and she was shaking and she couldn't speak clearly and the judge had to ask her to slow down. B) The scared witness was shaking and couldn't speak clearly. The judge asked her to slow down. Discuss: Why is version B more effective for a courtroom setting?
Your Sentence Craft Toolkit
✓ Check for parallel structure in lists and comparisons ✓ Break up stringy sentences with too many 'ands' ✓ Cut unnecessary words and phrases ✓ Read sentences aloud to test clarity Use these skills in your mock trial presentations!