Sentence Sleuth Answer Key
Teacher Answer Key ELA • Sentence Structure & Clauses
Total Value: 12 Points (4 pts / item)
Complete Sentence vs. Fragment
Diagnostic Key, Marking Guide & Sample Rewrites
Marking Legend:
Subject Circle Verb Box Predicate Underline Subordinate Marker
1
Since you did so well on the quiz.
complete sentence FRAGMENT
If a fragment, what is missing?
subject predicate COMPLETE THOUGHT
Acceptable Complete Sentence Rewrites (add independent clause):
Ex A: “Since you did so well on the quiz, you may choose a book from the prize box.”
Ex B: “The teacher excused homework since you did so well on the quiz.”
Diagnostic Insight: This is a dependent (subordinate) clause. Students frequently misclassify this as complete because it contains both a subject (you) and verb (did). The subordinating conjunction “Since” leaves the thought unfinished.
2
Covered in dust and spider webs. (No Subject • Participial Phrase Only)
complete sentence FRAGMENT
If a fragment, what is missing?
SUBJECT & PREDICATE (Award credit for Subject, Predicate, or both)
Acceptable Complete Sentence Rewrites (add subject and linking/action verb):
Ex A: “The antique wooden trunk in the attic was covered in dust and spider webs.”
Ex B: “Covered in dust and spider webs, the abandoned motorcycle sat quietly in the barn.”
Diagnostic Insight: Students often mistake the participle “Covered” for the main verb. Explain that here it acts as an adjective/verbal describing an unknown noun. It lacks both a subject and a finite main verb (e.g., “was covered”).
3
When you are late to class.
complete sentence FRAGMENT
If a fragment, what is missing?
subject predicate COMPLETE THOUGHT
Acceptable Complete Sentence Rewrites (add independent clause):
Ex A: “When you are late to class, you miss the daily morning warm-up activity.”
Ex B: “Please quietly sign the tardy roster when you are late to class.”
Diagnostic Insight: Another adverbial dependent clause introduced by the subordinating conjunction “When”. Remind students to test with the “Standalone Test”: If you say this aloud and walk away, does the listener know the whole story?
1. Decision (1 pt) Correctly selects fragment
2. Markings (1 pt) Subject, verb & predicate noted
3. Identification (1 pt) Pinpoints missing element
4. Rewrite (1 pt) Capitalized & punctuated clause
Scoring: 4 Criteria × 3 Exercises = 12 Total Points Possible Tip: Commas are required when dependent clauses precede independent clauses (Ex: “Since..., [comma]...”).
