KISS Level 3.2.2 - "So" and "For"
as Conjunctions
Except for statistical
studies, where it may be of major importance, this topic is just a matter
of definitions. The problem is that some grammarians consider “so” and
“for” to be coordinating conjunctions, whereas others consider them to
be subordinating conjunctions. The KISS approach to this problem is explained
in the instructional material. Justification for that approach is provided
in “Some Theoretical Observations.”
By the time that students get to this level,
the KISS "so"/"for" distinction should be very easy to master.
Suggested Directions for Analytical Exercises
1. Place parentheses ( ) around each prepositional phrase.
2. Underline verbs twice, their subjects once, and label complements
(“PA,” “PN,” “IO,” or “DO”).
3. Place brackets [ ] around each subordinate clause. If the clause
functions as a noun, label its function. If it functions as an adjective
or adverb, draw an arrow from the opening bracket to the word that the
clause modifies.
4. Place a vertical line after each main clause.
Probable Time Required:
Students who are very comfortable with the analysis of clauses should need
no more than two exercises that focus on this question. However, because
not all texts use these two conjunctions, you might want to do a “review”
exercise or two once a year.
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