Page 132 - SpringBoard_Writing_Workshop_Grade8_Flipbook

Activities 1.9, 1.12
Lesson: Phrases Learning Target
• Explain the function of phrases in general and their function in specific sentences.
In English, sentences are made of words, phrases, and clauses. A phrase is a word group that does NOT have both a subject and a verb and that functions as a part of speech, such as a noun or modifier (adjective or adverb). There are many different kinds of phrases. Two common kinds are prepositional phrases and appositive phrases.
Prepositional Phrases
A preposition is a word that shows how two or more other words relate to each other. Many prepositions show
relationships involving time or location.
A prepositional phrase includes a preposition, a noun or pronoun that is the object of the preposition, and any modifiers of that object.
Prepositional phrases usually act as adjectives and adverbs. They can make writing more specific and detailed. The house across the lake is empty. [The phrase acts as an adjective telling which one.]
A nugget of gold lay in the creek bed. [The phrase acts as an adjective telling what kind.]
The actor stands below the trap door. [The phrase acts as an adverb telling where.]
We seek those who act with justice. [The phrase acts as an adverb telling how.]
Common Prepositions
about, across, after, at, before, behind, below, from, in, into, like, of, out of, over, to, toward, under, upon, with, without
across the lake
at school
before dawn
below the trap door
from Jorge
in a hurry
of gold
upon a time
with justice
Grammar Activities • Unit 1 5
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