Grammar Focus: Conjunctions: and, or, but, so, because

Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses.

• and — adds information: I like apples and bananas.
• or — shows a choice: Do you want tea or coffee?
• but — shows contrast: I like to swim, but I don't like to run.
• so — shows a result: It was raining, so I took an umbrella.
• because — gives a reason: I am happy because it is my birthday.