What are Contractions?

• Definition: Contractions are shortened forms of words or combinations of words. They combine two words into one by replacing some letters with an apostrophe (’).
• Purpose: Contractions are often used in informal writing and speech to make communication quicker and more fluid.

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Pronoun-Verb Contractions

Pronoun-verb contractions specifically combine a pronoun with a verb. Here are some common examples:

• I am → I’m
• Example: “I’m going to the park.”
• You are → You’re
• Example: “You’re my best friend.”
• He is → He’s
• Example: “He’s playing soccer.”
• She is → She’s
• Example: “She’s reading a book.”
• It is → It’s
• Example: “It’s a sunny day.”
• We are → We’re
• Example: “We’re having fun.”
• They are → They’re
• Example: “They’re coming over later.”
• Will not → Won’t
• Example: “I won’t be able to attend the meeting.”
• Cannot → Can’t
• Example: “You can’t go outside without a coat.”

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How to Use Pronoun-Verb Contractions

• Choose the Right Pair: Identify the pronoun and the verb that can be contracted.
• Use an Apostrophe: Replace the missing letters with an apostrophe.
• Context Matters: Use contractions mainly in informal writing, conversations, or friendly texts, but avoid them in formal writing.

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Practice Examples

Students can practice by converting the following sentences to include contractions:

• “She is my sister.” → “She’s my sister.”
• “We are going to the store.” → “We’re going to the store.”
• “I am excited about the trip.” → “I’m excited about the trip.”
• “They are playing outside.” → “They’re playing outside.”
• “You are my favorite teacher.” → “You’re my favorite teacher.”

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using contractions in formal writing: It’s best to avoid contractions in essays or formal letters.
• Confusing similar contractions: For example, confusing “its” (possessive) with “it’s” (it is).

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let’s practice!