Using Parentheses for Parenthetical Elements

Like commas and dashes, parentheses can be used to set off nonrestrictive elements from the rest of a sentence. Authors use parentheses when the nonessential information is less related to the main sentence, or when it represents an abrupt change in thought. In this one-page worksheet designed for a sixth-grade grammar curriculum, students will insert parentheses around the parenthetical element that should be set off from the rest of the sentence.