Eats, Shoots & Leaves: Why, Commas Really Do Make a Difference
#1 in Eats, Shoots & Leaves Series
What’s inside...
A humorous and informative book that explains the importance of proper punctuation, using examples of sentences that are transformed by the addition or removal of commas. The author, Lynne Truss, uses humor and wit to make the case for proper punctuation and highlights the impact it can have on the meaning of a sentence. The book includes examples of real-life sentences that have been improved or ruined by commas, as well as punctuation tips and exercises for readers to practice their skills. Illuminating the comical confusion the lowly comma can cause, this new edition of 'Eats, Shoots & Leaves' uses lively, subversive illustrations to show how misplacing or leaving out a comma can change the meaning of a sentence completely. This picture book is sure to elicit gales of laughter—and better punctuation—from all who read it.
Discussion points
Why do you think punctuation is important in writing?
Can you think of a sentence where changing the punctuation changes the meaning?
How do you feel when you see a sentence with no punctuation marks?
What are some of your favorite punctuation marks to use and why?
How can punctuation help someone understand what you are trying to say?
Tip: Role play these questions
Read parts of the book aloud together, intentionally altering punctuation to showcase different meanings.
Encourage your child to create their own sentences and experiment with different punctuation to observe how it affects the message.
Discuss the humor in misunderstandings caused by misplaced commas, reinforcing understanding through laughter and fun.
Associate punctuation marks with specific emotions or actions to deepen understanding, like imagining a full stop as a red traffic light, signaling a halt in thought.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Punctuation
Explanation: Through humorous examples, the book demonstrates how commas affect the meaning of sentences, highlighting their crucial role in communication.
Real-World Application: Children will learn to pay attention to punctuation in their writing, which will improve their clarity and effectiveness in written communication.
Example Lesson: Attention to Detail
Explanation: By showing different meanings that emerge from misplaced commas, the book teaches readers to observe and manage small details.
Real-World Application: This skill can help children in academic settings and in understanding complex instructions or tasks by focusing on the details.
Example Lesson: Humor in Learning
Explanation: The book uses witty examples to make punctuation lessons engaging, demonstrating that learning can be fun and enjoyable.
Real-World Application: Children can approach educational tasks with a positive attitude, looking for fun and creative ways to engage with learning materials.