Project Assignment
Goal
In Chapter 4, you studied the parts of speech, types of punctuation, and sentence development. You will demonstrate your knowledge by annotating specific components of grammar and mechanics in a short essay.
Directions
Part 1
Actively read the essay "My Adventures in Italy," provided in the Materials section.
Part 2
Use a word processing program or writing tools to annotate the essay according to the following directions. Note that there may be more than one correct answer. When you are finished, you should have at least twelve annotations.
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Use a solid underline _ to mark a sentence that uses commas to form a list.
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Use a dashed underline ﹍ to mark a compound sentence that uses a coordinating conjunction.
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Use a dotted underline to mark a prepositional phrase functioning as an adjective.
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Use a zig-zag ∿ underline to mark a subordinating clause.
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Use a cloud to outline an adverb that modifies an adjective.
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Use a rectangle ▭ to mark a compound subject.
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Use a circle ○ to mark a singular, first-person pronoun.
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Use an oval ⬯ to mark a relative pronoun.
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Use an equals sign = to mark a singular, present-tense linking verb.
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Use a triangle △ to mark an irregular action verb.
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Use a dashed circle ◌ to mark a past participle with a helping verb.
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Use a diamond ◇ to mark a dash that links two words or word parts.
Materials
Word processing program or paper and writing tool
"My Adventures in Italy" essay:
My Adventures in Italy
I have visited places like Florida, Texas, Hawaii, and Tennessee. However, until recently, I had not been out of the United States. This past summer, I had the opportunity to go to Italy. There were many exciting places to see. My favorite parts of the Italian adventure were the Colosseum, the island of Murano, and the food.
The Colosseum was interesting in many ways. For one, it was huge. Pictures make the Colosseum look smaller than it really is. The structure has served as a model for modern football stadiums because it is elliptical and multistoried. The Colosseum and modern stadiums are both used for live theatrical entertainment; however, in ancient Rome the contest was between the gladiator, or fighter, and a wild animal or another gladiator. I also learned that the "games" were rigged. If the emperor wanted the gladiator to lose, the animals would not be fed so they would be hungry. If the emperor wanted the gladiator to win, the animals would be fed and sedated. The floor also had sand on top of it to hide trap doors, which the animals could jump through.
My next favorite place was the island of Murano, which is off the coast of Venice and is known for glassmaking. The glass came in many colors, shapes, and sizes. For example, there were glass grapes the size of small beads, but there was also a glass horse the size of a full-grown mustang. My mom and I bought souvenirs. I chose a blue unicorn with gold feet and a gold horn. Mom brought back a pair of small, cube-shaped earrings. They are very shiny and create rainbows when light shines through them.
Another big reason I wanted to go to Italy was because of the food. I have always liked Italian food. My expectations were exceeded, especially when it came to pizza. Pizza is an extremely popular dish in Italy. One person eats a whole pizza, unlike in the United States. In addition to the pizza, I also enjoyed the pasta. The pasta is homemade. The sauces are made from fresh vegetables and herbs. After every delicious meal came an even better desert. Gelato, Italian ice cream, is amazing. There are many flavors, such as pistachio, caramel, and coffee, which was my favorite. Italian food is the best food I have ever eaten.
Italy is an incredibly fun place to visit. I saw many ancient buildings and tasted amazing food. I strongly recommend going to Italy for a vacation. I would not mind going back. Until then, arrivederci, which is "goodbye" in Italian.