Grade 5 English Punctuation – Use Of Comma Notes
English: Punctuation — Use of Comma
These notes explain simple rules about the comma (,) for learners aged about 10 years in Kenya. Read the rule, look at the example, then try the short practice at the end.
,
The comma (,) helps us pause and make meaning clear.
Key rules with simple Kenyan examples
-
1. Use a comma in lists (to separate items).
Example: At the market I bought bananas, maize, and tomatoes.
Tip: Count the items — if there are three or more, use commas. -
2. Use a comma after an introductory word or phrase.
Example: After assembly, we went to class.
Other starters: On Monday, In the morning, Before lunch. -
3. Use a comma to separate two sentences joined by and, but, or, so (if both parts are full sentences).
Example: I finished my homework, and I played with my friends.
If the second part is not a full sentence, you usually do not need the comma: I ate my food and drank water. -
4. Use a comma when you call someone by name (direct address).
Example: James, come and wash your hands. -
5. Use a comma to set off short words like yes, no, well.
Example: No, I have not finished. — Well, let us start now. -
6. Use a comma with direct speech before the quoted words.
Example: The teacher said, "Open your books."
The comma comes before the speech, then quotation marks (or the Kenyan classroom style of quoting).
Also watch out for:
- Do not put a comma where a full stop (.) should be. Commas do not end sentences.
- Use commas to make meanings clear — sometimes leaving them out changes the sense.
Examples with Kenyan life
Market: My mother bought onions, potatoes, and sukuma wiki.
Journey: We travelled to Kisumu, Kenya, last holiday.
Classroom: Teacher said, "Stop talking and listen."
Calling a friend: Aisha, are you ready for the match?
Short practice — add commas where needed
- After school we played football and then went home.
- Mama bought bread milk and eggs.
- Musa come here please.
- Yes I would like some tea.
- The bus arrived and the pupils cheered.
Answers
- After school, we played football and then went home.
- Mama bought bread, milk, and eggs.
- Musa, come here please.
- Yes, I would like some tea.
- The bus arrived, and the pupils cheered.
Quick tip: When in doubt, read the sentence out loud. If you need a short pause, a comma might be needed.
Keep practising with your own sentences from home and school. Happy learning!