How to Identify and Fix Run-On Sentences

Khan Academy

This educational video provides a clear and humorous guide to understanding and correcting run-on sentences and comma splices, two common grammatical errors. Through the use of a digital blackboard, the narrators, David and Rosie, visually break down the structure of these errors, defining them as issues arising from joining independent clauses incorrectly. They offer concrete analogies, such as the "runaway train" for run-ons and the nautical origin of "splicing," to help students conceptualize why these sentence structures are problematic. The video covers key grammatical themes including independent clauses, punctuation (specifically commas and semicolons), and coordinating conjunctions. It demonstrates two primary methods for fixing these errors: using a semicolon to separate related independent clauses, or using a comma followed by a conjunction (like "and"). The lesson distinguishes between a true run-on (no punctuation) and a comma splice (insufficient punctuation), clarifying a nuance that often confuses students. For educators, this video serves as an engaging tool to teach sentence mechanics and editing skills. The approachable tone, featuring a funny example about a fictional pony movie franchise, makes dry grammar concepts memorable. It is highly applicable for English Language Arts classrooms during writing workshops or grammar units, providing students with actionable strategies to improve the flow and accuracy of their writing.