Worksheet: Identifying the Correct Usage of Pauses in Sentences
Instructions:
Pauses are important when we speak because they help others understand us better. Pauses can
show that a thought is complete, separate ideas, or add emphasis to a word or phrase. Read the
sentences below. Add a slash ( / ) where you think there should be a pause.
Part 1: Add the Pause
1. I want to go to the park / after I finish my homework.
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2. The cake was delicious / but I couldn’t eat more.
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3. Can you please / pass the salt?
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4. When we got home / the dog was asleep.
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5. We should try to help others / when we can.
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6. My favorite colors are blue ,/ green / and yellow.
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7. She said / she would come / but I don’t see her yet.
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8. If you want / I can show you / how to solve the puzzle.
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Instructions:
Now, practice saying the sentences aloud. Use a pause where you placed the slash ( / ). Try to notice
how the pause makes the sentence clearer or more interesting.
Part 2: Choose the Correct Sentence
Instructions:
For each pair of sentences, circle the one where the pause is used correctly.
1.
a) I went to the store / and bought some apples.
b) I went to / the store and bought some apples.
2.
a) The cat was sleeping on / the couch.
b) The cat / was sleeping on the couch.
3.
a) Please bring your homework / to class tomorrow.
b) Please bring / your homework to class tomorrow.
4.
a) After dinner / we can watch a movie.
b) After / dinner we can watch a movie.
5.
a) My friend / is coming over later.
b) My / friend is coming over later.
