English Language Arts
Grade 7
15 min
Fill in the missing correlative conjunction
Fill in the missing correlative conjunction
Tutorial Preview
1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Identify common pairs of correlative conjunctions (e.g., both/and, either/or, neither/nor, not only/but also, whether/or).
Explain the function of correlative conjunctions in connecting grammatically equal elements.
Correctly fill in the missing part of a correlative conjunction pair in a given sentence.
Ensure parallel structure when using correlative conjunctions to connect words, phrases, or clauses.
Apply knowledge of correlative conjunctions to improve sentence clarity and flow in their own writing.
Distinguish between correct and incorrect usage of correlative conjunctions in sentences.
Ever notice how some words just *love* to stick together, like best friends completing each other's sentences? 👯♀️
In this lesson, you'll discover speci...
2
Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
ConjunctionA word that joins words, phrases, or clauses together in a sentence.The dog *and* the cat played together.
Correlative ConjunctionsPairs of conjunctions that work together to connect grammatically equal elements in a sentence.*Both* the book *and* the movie were exciting.
Parallel StructureThe repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence. When using correlative conjunctions, the elements they connect must be grammatically similar (e.g., noun with noun, verb with verb, phrase with phrase).She *not only* sings *but also* dances. (verb with verb)
Subject-Verb AgreementThe grammatical rule that the verb in a sentence must match its subject in number (singular or plural). With *either/or* and *neither/nor*, the verb agrees with the subject closest...
3
Key Rules & Conventions
Always Use in Pairs
Correlative conjunctions always come in specific pairs and must be used together to connect ideas.
These conjunctions are like two halves of a whole; they lose their meaning and function if separated. You cannot use just one part of the pair.
Maintain Parallel Structure
The grammatical structure of the words, phrases, or clauses following the first conjunction must match the grammatical structure of the words, phrases, or clauses following the second conjunction.
This rule ensures balance and clarity in your sentences, making them easier to read and understand. If you connect a noun with a verb, it breaks parallel structure.
Subject-Verb Agreement with Either/Or and Neither/Nor
When using *either/or* or *neither/nor* to connect two subjects, the ver...
5 more steps in this tutorial
Sign up free to access the complete tutorial with worked examples and practice.
Sign Up Free to ContinueSample Practice Questions
Challenging
Choose the pair of words that correctly completes the sentence, paying close attention to subject-verb agreement: Neither the map _____ the compasses _____ working correctly.
A.nor / is
B.or / are
C.nor / are
D.or / is
Challenging
Which option correctly fills the blank and maintains the parallel structure of the infinitive phrases? To succeed, you must not only _____ hard but also _____ for help when you need it.
A.working / asking
B.work / ask
C.to work / to ask
D.work / to ask
Challenging
Analyze the sentence's meaning to choose the best correlative conjunction pair: The evidence was _____ clear _____ direct, leaving no room for doubt.
A.either / or
B.neither / nor
C.whether / or
D.both / and
Want to practice and check your answers?
Sign up to access all questions with instant feedback, explanations, and progress tracking.
Start Practicing Free