Lesson12 minbeginner
Grammar Bootcamp: The Module Map
The grammar topics that most affect CELPIP scores, and a fast self-correction checklist.
You'll be able to: Know which grammar areas to study and how to self-check before submitting.
Grammar modules that move scores
| Module | Focus | Why |
|---|
| Sentence structure | Simple, compound, complex, compound-complex | Variety raises your band; all-simple sentences cap it. |
| Subject–verb agreement | each/everyone, either/or, neither/nor | A frequent, easily-fixed error. |
| Verb tense | Consistency across the response | Timeline jumps confuse the reader. |
| Punctuation | Commas, semicolons, run-ons, fragments | Affects clarity and readability. |
| Connectors | Subordinating conjunctions vs conjunctive adverbs | Wrong punctuation around these is very common. |
Fast correction checklist
- Does every sentence have a subject and a verb?
- Does each verb agree with its subject?
- Is the tense consistent throughout?
- Any run-on sentences or fragments?
- Are transitions used naturally, with correct punctuation?
- Is the tone right for the task (formal vs informal)?
Next:Grammar: Four Sentence TypesGrammar: Connectors (Conjunctions vs Conjunctive Adverbs)
Lesson15 minbeginner
Grammar: Four Sentence Types
Build simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences — the variety that lifts your band.
You'll be able to: Combine clauses correctly to add range and rhythm to your writing and speaking.
The four types
| Type | How | Example |
|---|
| Compound | Two independent clauses joined by a FANBOYS conjunction or semicolon | I enjoy reading, and I write in my journal. |
| Complex | One independent + one dependent clause (because, although, since, when…) | Because it's sunny, I go to the park. |
| Compound-complex | Two independent clauses + at least one dependent clause | I enjoy reading because it helps me relax, and I write in my journal. |
Punctuation rules
- Compound with FANBOYS: comma before the conjunction — "She loves to cook, but she rarely bakes."
- Compound with a semicolon: "I enjoy reading; I write in my journal."
- Complex, dependent clause first: use a comma — "Although she loves to cook, she rarely bakes."
- Complex, independent clause first: no comma — "She rarely bakes although she loves to cook."
Why it matters for CELPIP
Alternating between sentence types is one of the clearest signals of a higher band. Aim to use at least one complex and one compound sentence in every paragraph.
Next:Grammar: Connectors (Conjunctions vs Conjunctive Adverbs)Task 1 Pre-Submit Checklist
Lesson14 minintermediate
Grammar: Connectors (Conjunctions vs Conjunctive Adverbs)
When to use because/although vs however/therefore — and the punctuation that goes with each.
You'll be able to: Connect ideas smoothly and punctuate transitions correctly.
Subordinating conjunctions (join dependent to independent)
| Relationship | Words |
|---|
| Cause / reason | because, since, as |
| Time | when, while, before, after, until, once |
| Condition | if, unless, provided that, as long as |
| Contrast | although, though, even though, whereas |
| Purpose / result | so that, in order that, so…that |
Conjunctive adverbs (join two independent clauses)
| Relationship | Words |
|---|
| Addition | also, furthermore, moreover, in addition |
| Contrast | however, nevertheless, on the other hand, conversely |
| Cause / effect | therefore, consequently, thus, hence |
| Time / sequence | meanwhile, subsequently, then, afterward |
| Emphasis | indeed, in fact, certainly |
The key test + punctuation
- Does one clause depend on the other? → subordinating conjunction.
- Are both clauses complete sentences joined by a transition? → conjunctive adverb.
- Subordinating, dependent clause first: use a comma — "Because it was raining, we stayed inside."
- Conjunctive adverb: semicolon before, comma after — "It was raining; therefore, we stayed inside."
Next:Grammar: Four Sentence Types
