Coordinating Conjunctions for Kids | FANBOYS (For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So)

Summary

The lesson explains coordinating conjunctions—words that connect two or more words, phrases, or clauses. The seven coordinating conjunctions are remembered with FANBOYS:

• For gives a reason or explanation. Example: Jeff and Sophia waited in line, for they had to buy tickets.

• And joins items, including the final items in a series. Example: Jeff saw a carousel, a monorail, and the Dizzy Drums.

• Nor introduces a second negative idea. Example: Jeff didn’t try the Misfit Bugs, nor did he ride the Buzzing Bees.

• But connects contrasting ideas or shows an exception. Example: Jeff wanted to try the frog hopper, but he was frightened.

• Or presents alternatives or choices. Example: Sophia could choose a moving pony, a stationary pony, or a chariot.

• Yet shows contrast. Example: Jeff was frightened to ride the helicopter, yet he gave it a try.

• So presents a consequence or result. Example: Jeff and Sophia wanted to relax, so they went to the lazy river.

Coordinating conjunctions can connect:

• Nouns: “Jeff and Sophia”
• Verbs: “sliding or splashing”
• Adjectives: “scary yet exciting”
• Phrases: “the tipping bucket and the spray jets”
• Independent clauses: “It was getting late, so they had to return home.”

Choose a conjunction based on the relationship between the ideas being joined, such as addition, choice, contrast, reason, or result.

Speakers and Sources

• Tutoring Hour narrator/instructor presents and explains the lesson.
• Jeff and Sophia are characters featured in the example sentences.