Commas for Nonrestrictive or Nonessential Clauses

1. Commas for Non-restrictive clauses
(nonessential clause)
• A non-restrictive clause is not needed to
identify the word or phrase it modifies.
• It just adds additional information; it is not
essential to the meaning of the sentence.
• Example: Fred, who often cheats, is just
harming himself.
• Hint: If you identify a specific person or
thing then the following information will be
nonessential.

2. Grammar Practice 9-17-14 #3
• I went to London with John Baker who
lives next door.
• My father who likes to watch football never
misses a game.
• Ray Lewis the Ravens’ linebacker is one
tough guy.
• Alice my sister loves ice cream.

3. • William Carlos Williams the poet was also
a farmer.
• In spring when the water is high the lake
surges over the rocks.
• Mary’s mother who is active in community
affairs is chair of the school committee.
• My grandparents who have poor eyesight
and cannot enjoy TV listen to the radio
every night.