Here is a complete, ready-to-use module on conjunctions for learners (ideal for ESL, elementary, or grammar review). It includes learning objectives, explanations, examples, practice exercises, and an answer key.

Module: Conjunctions – Connecting Words in English

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Define conjunctions and explain their purpose.
• Identify three types: coordinating, subordinating, and correlative conjunctions.
• Use conjunctions to combine sentences correctly.
• Avoid common errors (e.g., comma splices, run-on sentences).

Part 1: What is a Conjunction?

A conjunction is a word that joins two words, phrases, or clauses together.
Think of it as glue for sentences.

Example:

• Without conjunction: I like tea. I like coffee.
• With conjunction: I like tea and coffee.

Part 2: Coordinating Conjunctions (FANBOYS)

These join equal parts (word + word, phrase + phrase, clause + clause).

Examples:

1. She studied hard, so she passed the exam. (clause + clause)
2. He is smart but lazy. (adjective + adjective)
3. You can have coffee or tea. (noun + noun)

Comma rule: When joining two full sentences (independent clauses), put a comma before the FANBOYS conjunction.
✅ I wanted to go, but I was too tired.
❌ I wanted to go but I was too tired. (no comma – acceptable in short sentences but less formal)

Part 3: Subordinating Conjunctions

These join an independent clause (complete sentence) with a dependent clause (incomplete thought). The dependent clause cannot stand alone.

Common subordinating conjunctions:
after, although, as, because, before, if, once, since, though, unless, until, when, whenever, where, wherever, while

Examples:

1. I stayed inside because it was raining.
2. Although she was tired, she finished her work.
3. Call me when you arrive.

Punctuation note: If the dependent clause comes first, use a comma after it. If the independent clause comes first, no comma is needed.
✅ Because it was raining, I stayed inside.
✅ I stayed inside because it was raining.

Part 4: Correlative Conjunctions

These work in pairs to join equal grammatical structures.

Important: The two parts must be parallel (same grammatical form).
✅ He likes both hiking and swimming. (gerund + gerund)
❌ He likes both hiking and to swim.

Part 5: Common Errors & How to Fix Them

Practice Exercises

Exercise 1: Choose the correct conjunction.

1. I wanted to stay longer, _ I had to leave. (so / but)
2. She will not come _ you invite her. (unless / or)
3. He is intelligent hardworking. (either…or / both…and)
4. We took an umbrella _ it was raining. (for / yet)
5. _ he was late, he didn’t rush. (Although / Because)

Exercise 2: Combine the sentences using a conjunction from the box.

and, but, because, so, although

1. She was hungry. She made a sandwich.
2. He studied all night. He failed the test.
3. I love pizza. I am lactose intolerant.
4. They arrived early. They wanted good seats.
5. It was cold. She didn’t wear a coat.

Exercise 3: Fix the errors in these sentences.

1. I like apples, bananas are my favorite.
2. Neither the teacher or the students were ready.
3. He not only plays guitar also writes songs.
4. Because she was ill she stayed home.
5. Either you leave now nor I will call security.

Exercise 4: Write 3 original sentences.

1. Use a coordinating conjunction.
2. Use a subordinating conjunction.
3. Use a correlative conjunction pair.

Answer Key

Exercise 1:

1. but
2. unless
3. both…and
4. for
5. Although

Exercise 2 (possible answers):

1. She was hungry, so she made a sandwich.
2. He studied all night, but he failed the test.
3. I love pizza, but I am lactose intolerant.
4. They arrived early because they wanted good seats.
5. Although it was cold, she didn’t wear a coat.

Exercise 3:

1. I like apples, but bananas are my favorite. (or use a period)
2. Neither the teacher nor the students were ready.
3. He not only plays guitar but also writes songs.
4. Because she was ill, she stayed home. (add comma)
5. Either you leave now or I will call security.

Exercise 4 – Sample answers:

1. I wanted to buy the shoes, but they were too expensive.
2. When the movie ended, we went out for dinner.
3. Neither the manager nor the assistant knew the answer.

Module Summary

✅ Remember: Conjunctions make your writing smoother, clearer, and more sophisticated.

Let me know if you’d like this module as a printable PDF, a quiz, or adapted for a specific grade level (e.g., Grade 3 vs. adult learners).