Repeated Exercises Quotation Marks Exercise (cont.)

Transcription

Punctuation Practice
PowerPoint®
for the
Classroom
Punctuation Practice PowerPoint, © May 2007
by Prestwick House, Inc. All rights reserved.
ISBN 978-1-60843-747-4
Item #: 302473
By Sondra Abel
Termination Marks
Periods, Question Marks, Exclamation Points
Termination Marks
Every sentence must begin with a capital letter and end with a
form of punctuation (i.e., period, question mark, or exclamation
point).
There are three types of sentences:
.
Declarative makes a statement
?
Interrogative asks a question
!
Exclamatory shows strong emotion and/or surprise
and is also used for a command
Termination Marks
Although the words are the same, notice how the
punctuation changes the emotion of the sentence:
Jessica had a baby.
a simple statement
Jessica had a baby?
a question
Jessica had a baby!
a shout of joy or surprise
Periods
Periods
Periods, which are used at the end of declarative sentences,
are the most commonly used termination mark. A declarative
sentence is simply a statement that can illustrate any of the
following:
a fact
Jeannette Rankin was the first woman to be elected to Congress.
a condition
Many endangered species could be saved if we stop destroying their habitats.
a possibility
One day, we will find a cure for AIDS.
Periods
It is important to have periods at the end of sentences to tell where
one thought ends. Look at the following passage and see if you
can tell where the periods belong:
While walking to school yesterday, I noticed an object lying in the street as I
walked closer to it, I could see that it was an injured kitten the animal was
barely moving and had some blood on its fur it might have been struck by a
vehicle since it wasn’t wearing a collar, I decided to take it home my mother
said she would take it to the vet’s office while I was at school
While walking to school yesterday, I noticed an object lying in the street. as I
walked closer to it, I could see that it was an injured kitten. the animal was barely
moving and had some blood on its fur. it might have been struck by a vehicle.
since it wasn’t wearing a collar, I decided to take it home. my mother said she
would take it to the vet’s office while I was at school.
Question Marks
Question Marks
A question mark is used to punctuate an interrogative sentence. An
interrogative sentence asks a direct question. When journalists write,
for example, they often seek to answer the following questions:
W ho?
W here?
W hat?
W hy?
W hen?
H ow?
Question Marks
Here are some examples of direct questions:
What time is the party?
How many people live in China?
Where is the restroom?
Who voted for class president?
Do you think we’ll get enough volunteers?
Question Marks
Sometimes a statement will have interrogative qualities, or sometimes
an indirect question will be asked; in these cases, a period is used.
Pedro asked me whether I had completed the project yet.
(Have you completed the project yet?)
The officer wanted to know why I was speeding.
(Why were you speeding?)
I wasn’t sure if he was telling me the truth.
(Are you telling me the truth?)
I don’t understand why she keeps trying to feed me peas when
she knows I don’t like them
(Why does she keep trying to feed me peas when she knows I don’t like them?)
Question Marks
Read the following sentences and decide whether a period or question
mark belongs at the end of the sentence:
What qualifications do you have for this position
?
The florist wanted to know what type of arrangement we wanted
.
I saw the broken vase and asked the children if they did it
.
Do you know when the Civil War ended
?
How many brothers and sisters do you have
?
The tour guide asked us if we wanted to take a break
.
Exclamation Points
Exclamation Points
Exclamation points are used to punctuate exclamatory sentences.
Exclamatory sentences can:
Show strong emotion and/or surprise
Provide emphasis
Give a direct command (an imperative sentence)
Exclamation Points
Notice that exclamatory sentences are short and effective:
I won the lottery!
Fire!
Leave me alone!
The burglar stole everything!
Exclamation Points
Exclamation points can also be used after a strong interjection. An
interjection is a word that shows surprise, pain, anger, etc. An
interjection can appear alone:
Ouch!
Wow!
Hey!
Exclamation Points
An interjection can also be placed within the sentence. In this case,
the exclamation point might go at the end of the sentence.
Ouch, that really hurt!
I can’t believe all this is happening, wow!
Hey, get back here!
Termination Marks Exercise
Read the following sentences and determine whether a period,
question mark, or exclamation point should be used. Some sentences
require two termination marks.
1. Oh, no I forgot to feed the cat
1. Oh, no! I forgot to feed the cat.
2. Why can’t you get by on your looks alone
2. Why can’t you get by on your looks alone?
3. I knew it Are you going to tell someone
3. I knew it! Are you going to tell someone?
Termination Marks Exercise (cont.)
4. What does “highfalutin” mean
4. What does “highfalutin” mean?
5. She asked me what time we were supposed to be there tonight
5. She asked me what time we were supposed to be there tonight.
6. We won
6. We won!
7. Paul, why do you crush my hopes and dreams
7. Paul, why do you crush my hopes and dreams?
8. The Lord of the Rings is my favorite book series
8. The Lord of the Rings is my favorite book series.
9. Did you see that episode last night It was amazing
9. Did you see that episode last night? It was amazing!
10. When are you going to get there I’m hungry
10. When are you going to get there? I’m hungry.
Uses for Periods
Ellipsis, Abbreviations, Apostrophe,
Hyphen, Quotation Marks, Parentheses,
Dash, Colon, Semicolon, Comma
Periods as Ellipsis
Periods as Ellipsis
An ellipsis is used in the following scenarios:
To show that words, phrases, paragraphs, etc., have been
intentionally omitted from a quoted text
There are three infallible ways of pleasing an author…1, to tell him you have read
one of his books; 2, to tell him you have read all of his books; 3, to ask him to let
you read the manuscript of his forthcoming book…No. 3 carries you clear to his heart.
- Excerpt from Pudd’nhead Wilson
The child drew nearer to me, and put his arms around me, as if he wanted to protect
me. This was too much for my enraged master. He caught up and hurled him
across the room. I thought he was dead…I picked up my insensible child, and when
I turned my tormentor was gone…when the brown eyes at last opened, I don’t
know whether I was very happy.
- Excerpt from Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl
Periods as Ellipsis
To show that a list continues
In this case, the use of the ellipsis takes the place of “etc.” and
functions as a termination mark.
The Coca-Cola Company has a trademark license for over forty products sold
worldwide; some of the more familiar products to U.S. consumers are Minute
Maid, Power Ade, Nestea, Dasani…
The preschool children counted aloud together: one, two, three…
Periods as Ellipsis
To show a pause or passing of time
“I know what happened,” Sophia said sternly. But there was no answer.
“You need to tell someone,” she continued. Darrel took a deep breath and
replied, “I know…it all happened so fast…”
After reading magazines for over half an hour, the boredom sunk in. All he
did now was count with the clock—tick…tick…tick…tick. “Felipe,” the
nurse said, “the doctor is ready for you.”
Periods for Abbreviations
Abbreviations are shortened form of words and phrases. Because
they are used to save time and space, they frequently appear in
informal writing.
Addresses
Various elements of an address are abbreviated:
Ave.
Avenue
St.
Street
Ct.
Court
Sq.
Square
Rd.
Road
Divisions of cities and points on a compass are often abbreviated. For example:
N.W.
North West
N.E.
North East
S.W.
South West
S.E.
South East
The names of states can be abbreviated as well. However, in most forms of writing,
you will see the names of states spelled out. Notice that state abbreviations do not
take periods.
MD
Maryland
DE
Delaware
CA
California
AL
Alabama
FL
Florida
Here are a few ways that you may see these abbreviations used together:
101 N. Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.
Washington, DC 20001
6900 N.W. 83rd Pl.
Kansas City, MO 64101
7142 Little Creek Rd., S.E.
Flint, MA 14568
Titles
Commonly used names and titles are often abbreviated.
These designations appear before the name:
Mr.
Mister
Ms.
Pronounced “Miz”
These designations appear after the name:
Sr.
Senior
Jr.
Junior
Mrs.
Missus
Titles, such as those relating to professions, are often abbreviated as well.
Sgt.
Sergeant
Dr.
Doctor
Maj.
Major
Rep.
Republican or Representative
Pres.
President
However, when used in formal writing, titles are often spelled out. If the person’s
name and title is preceded by “the,” the title is spelled out; for example, the
Reverend Jack Rice (not Rev.) and the Honorable Martha Mitchell (not Hon.).
Titles relating to academic degrees are often abbreviated:
B.A.
D.V.M.
Bachelor of Arts
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine
M.B.A. Master of Business Administration
D.D.S.
Doctor of Dental Surgery
M.A.
Master of Arts
Ph. D.
Doctor of Philosophy
If you are going to abbreviate a name or title, and you are unsure of how it should
be done, either spell out the word or consult a reference guide.
Apostrophe
Apostrophe
The apostrophe is used for the following purposes:
Omission of letters
Dialect—indicating that certain letters are not pronounced
Possession
Certain plural forms
Apostrophe
In omission, apostrophes signal that letters or numbers have been deleted:
Aren’t (are not)
Don’t (do not)
Can’t (cannot)
Doesn’t (does not)
Won’t (will not)
It’s (it is)
Class of ’09
I’ll (I will)
We’d (we would)
Should’ve (should have)
He’s (he is)
He’d (he had)
You’re (you are)
Words such as “aren’t,” “don’t, can’t”, etc., are called contractions. Contractions
are generally not used in formal writing.
Apostrophe
Authors can also use apostrophes to omit letters for purpose of style. In this case,
the omitted letters don’t form contractions; rather, they are used for dialect.
runnin’
goin’
gettin’
aroun’
callin’
’em
’Twas
’tis
Apostrophe
Authors sometimes combine contractions with phonetically spelled words to
reinforce the dialect. For example, consider two excerpts from Adventures of
Huckleberry Finn:
“Looky here—mind how you talk to me; I’m a-standing about all I can stood now—so
don’t gimme no sass. I’ve been in town two days, and I hain’t heard nothing but about
you bein’ rich.”
“Well, ’twarn’t no use to ’sturb you, Huck, tell we could do sumfn—but we’s all right
now. I ben a-byin’ pots en pans en vittles, as I got a chanst, en a-patchin’ up de raf’ nights
when—”
Apostrophe
Apostrophes can also be used to show possession (ownership). To show ownership,
add an apostrophe + s at the end.
For singular nouns that don’t already end in an “s”:
It is Jordan’s book.
The dog’s bowl is empty.
When are we going to Grandma’s house again?
For singular nouns that end in an “s”:
John Keats’s grave is in Rome.
Jocelyn Jones’s paper received the highest grade.
Charles Dickens’s best novel, in my opinion, is A Tale of Two Cities.
Apostrophe
For plural nouns that don’t already end in an “s”:
The bookshop has many children’s stories for sale.
WJBZ and other local businesses sponsored the women’s retreat.
Why is there never a line for the men’s bathroom?
For plural nouns that already end in an “s,” simply add the apostrophe:
Our girls’ soccer team won the national championships.
Zookeepers throw pounds of meat into both lions’ dens every day.
The members’ contributions are missing.
Possessive Exercise
Possessive Exercise
Supply the singular and plural possessive for each word.
Word
Singular Possessive
Plural Possessive
fox’s
foxes’
farmer
farmer’s
farmers’
store
store’s
stores’
planet
planet’s
planets’
mouse
mouses’s
mice’s
goddess
goddess’s
goddesses’
fox
Possessive Exercise
Possessive Exercise (cont.)
Word
Singular Possessive
Plural Possessive
Williams
Williams’s
Williamses’
embassy
embassy’s
embassies’
sheep
sheep’s
sheep’s
lady
lady’s
ladies’
gentleman’s
gentlemen’s
gentleman
Apostrophe
An apostrophe + s is also used when discussing plurals:
For numbers:
The saleswoman said they were out of size 10’s.
The skater practiced doing figure 8’s.
For letters:
Mind your p’s and q’s.
Cross your t’s and dot your i’s.
For words:
Your paper didn’t have any however’s or other contrasting words in it.
Her speech had too many like’s, but’s, and um’s to be effective.
Apostrophe
Do NOT use apostrophes when discussing years. For example:
The Vietnam War was fought during the 1960s and 1970s.
Apostrophe Exercise
Apostrophe Exercise
Read the following sentences and add an apostrophe or apostrophe + s
where needed.
1. I don’t think my sisters house has been cleaned since the 80s, which is when
she bought it.
1. I don’t think my sister’s house has been cleaned since the ’80s, which is when
she bought it.
2. When dat tornado comes a-tearin through here, youre gonna be runnin
for dem hills.
2. When dat tornado comes a-tearin’ through here, you’re gonna be runnin’
for dem hills.
Apostrophe Exercise
Apostrophe Exercise (cont.)
3. The following will be on Wednesdays test: John Adams impact on the U.S.,
Abigail Adams political views, and reasons why the colonies wanted
independence from Britain.
3. The following will be on Wednesday’s test: John Adams’s impact on the U.S.,
Abigail Adams’s political views, and reasons why the colonies wanted
independence from Britain.
4. The three teams uniforms all looked the same.
4. The three teams’ uniforms all looked the same.
Apostrophe Exercise
5. I fell asleep during Isaiahs presentation and missed the rest of Mondays
lecture.
5. I fell asleep during Isaiah’s presentation and missed the rest of Monday’s
lecture.
6. Two weeks vacation isnt enough time away from work.
6. Two week’s vacation isn’t enough time away from work.
7. When Brandys mom saw a lunch on the counter, she brought the food to school
so Brandy wouldnt go hungry.
7. When Brandy’s mom saw a lunch on the counter, she brought the food to school
so Brandy wouldn’t go hungry.
Apostrophe Exercise
8. It was only a couple years ago, during the early 2000s, when you couldnt
say things like that on TV.
8. It was only a couple years ago, during the early 2000s, when you couldn’t
say things like that on TV.
9. Ill never finish my sculpture at the rate Im working. Plus, Im out of clay
and need to borrow someone kiln.
9. I’ll never finish my sculpture at the rate I’m working. Plus, I’m out of clay
and need to borrow someone’s kiln.
10. Codys dogs bark all night, and its impossible to get any sleep.
10. Cody’s dogs bark all night, and it’s impossible to get any sleep.
Hyphen
Hyphen
Hyphens can be used to create compound words—two or more words
with a distinct meaning that are joined to create one word. Use a
hyphen in the following cases:
Place a hyphen between two or more words that are acting
together as one adjective to modify a noun or pronoun
ill-tempered
least-known
pear-shaped
first-class
Hyphen
Hyphens are not used to join adverbs or words that end in ly.
A closely watched race
A surprisingly good movie
A readily available source
Usually, adjectives that go before a noun are hyphenated, but not if
they go after the noun.
yogurt-covered pretzel
pretzels are yogurt covered
Hyphen
Compound nouns
sister-in-law
great-uncle
fellow-citizen
Prefixes
Place a hyphen between a prefix and a capitalized word.
anti-Semitic
off-Broadway
post-Industrial Revolution
pre-Columbus
Hyphen
The following prefixes are usually hyphenated:
co-, pre-, mid-, de-, non-, anti-, semi-, ex-, self-
co-dependent
semi-sweet
ex-wife
self-respect
Place a hyphen between a single capital letter to join it to a noun
C-sharp
T-square
V-neck
X-ray
Hyphen
Numbers from 21 to 99 that are spelled out
eighty-six
twenty-seven
thirty-four
Fractions
three-fourths
one-third
five-eighths
ten-thousandths
Hyphen
Place a hyphen between a number and its unit of measure
a 2-week vacation
a forty-hour work week
a 12-yard loss
a nine-inch nail
To prevent confusion
recreation (entertainment)
vs.
re-creation (create again)
reform (change)
vs.
re-form (make again)
Hyphen
Suspended hyphens
nineteenth- and twentieth-century writers
three- and four-year olds
for- and non-profit associations
There are many exceptions and other possibilities for using hyphens.
In addition, some publications have their own rules about hyphens.
Therefore, always consult a dictionary or style manual if you are in
doubt.
Hyphen Exercise
Hyphen Exercise
Read the following phrases and decide whether the words should be
hyphenated or not.
1. Jose´ wrote a well organized paper.
2. The university built a state of the art gymnasium.
3. Before dinner last night, I went for a three mile run.
4. Dig an eight inch hole for that plant.
5. A seven year old boy painted that picture.
well-organized
state-of-the-art
three-mile
eight-inch
seven-year-old
Hyphen Exercise
Hyphen Exercise (cont.)
6. Return the books in a timely fashion, please.
7. Forty six albums were sold yesterday.
8. We ate ants and crickets that were chocolate covered.
9. That recipe calls for three cups of nuts.
10. I need you to co sign the loan, or I won’t be approved.
correct
forty-six
correct
correct
co-sign
Quotation Marks
Quotation Marks
Quotations marks are placed around the words that someone has
written or said.
Quotes used in dialogue
When someone is speaking, quotation marks appear around his or
her words only. Notice that words such as asked, replied, exclaimed,
said, etc., do not appear inside the quotation marks. When speakers
change, start a new paragraph.
“What time will you be home tonight?” Elizabeth asked.
“Well,” Michael said, “I have a meeting this evening that could run late. I should
be home by nine.”
Quotation Marks
Using quotes from print
When quoting an author’s work, be sure to put quotation marks
around his or her words to separate them from your own.
Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice begins with the following quote: “It is a
truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good
fortune must be in want of a wife.”
In a conference today held on Capitol Hill, Dr. Steinman said, “We are
currently exploring the ways in which global warming is harming the
environment. At this time we know that numerous pollutants are
contributing to the problem, but we cannot pinpoint an absolute cause.”
Quotation Marks
Using partial quotes
Quotation marks should appear only around the speaker’s or author’s
exact words. If you are going to paraphrase someone, but still uses
some of his or her words, put quotations around the direct quotations.
In Pride and Prejudice, Austen claims it is a “universally acknowledged”
truth that all single, rich men are searching for wives.
When discussing the issue of global warming, Dr. Steinman felt that
“numerous pollutants” were “contributing to the problem,” but no single
culprit could be blamed.
Quotation Marks
General rules about quotes:
Commas and periods go inside quotation marks.
Semicolons and colons go outside of quotation marks.
Question marks, exclamation points, and dashes go outside the quotation marks,
unless they are a part of the actual quote.
For example:
Who said, “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind”?
Emanuel asked, “Are we going to the play?”
Did Emanuel ask, “Are we going to the play”?
Quotation Marks Exercise
Read the following sentences and decide where the quotation marks
should be placed.
1. What is meant by the term sacrosanct?
1. What is meant by the term “sacrosanct”?
2. Picasso said, The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.
2. Picasso said, “The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.”
3. Mom, she yelled, can I go to the movies?”
3. “Mom,” she yelled, “can I go to the movies?”
Quotation Marks Exercise (cont.)
4. When you asked me, Can I go, and I said, No, I meant it, her mom replied.
4. “When you asked me, ‘Can I go,’ and I said, ‘No,’ I meant it,” her mom replied.
5. Ramon compared the cake to cardboard and said it was dried out and tasteless.
5. Ramon compared the cake to cardboard and said it was “dried out” and
“tasteless.”
6. Did Jeanette ask, Is the world round?
6. Did Jeanette ask, “Is the world round”?
7. Felix isn’t here today, Roxanna said. He said his throat was on fire.
7. “Felix isn’t here today,” Roxanna said. “He said his throat was ‘on fire.’”
8. Dr. Phillip said, The galaxy that is farthest away from Earth is more than
15 billion light years away; however, this is untrue.
8. Dr. Phillip said, “The galaxy that is farthest away from Earth is more than
15 billion light years away”; however, this is untrue.
Parentheses
Parentheses
Parentheses are interrupters that are used to separate minor or
explanatory information from the rest of a sentence. The most
common types of information inside parentheses are:
Dates
Artie Shaw (May 23, 1910 - December 30, 2004) was a famous jazz clarinetist
and big band leader.
The La Leche League (founded in 1958) was formed to promote the many
health and emotional benefits of breastfeeding.
After Richard Nixon resigned his presidency (1974), Vice President Gerald
Ford became the 38th President.
Parentheses
Sources/Reference
That article discussed the many ways in which people could help impoverished
people living Third World countries (Global Community magazine).
The pie chart (see page 8) shows the percentage of corporate spending on
client gifts; notice the increase compared to last year’s numbers (see page 3).
“The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or
abridged by the United States or by any State on account of race, color, or
previous condition of servitude” (Amendment 15 of the Constitution).
Parentheses
Other related information
Mickey Mouse (perhaps Disney’s most popular character) appeared in over
120 cartoons.
Since the police had no suspect and little evidence (most of it was circumstantial),
they were worried about the investigation.
Although Jasmine didn’t like playing golf (she didn’t have the patience for
the sport), she enjoyed driving the cart and spending time with her dad.
Parentheses
Number or letters
The candidate promised to (1) reduce taxes, (2) improve public education,
(3) start a recycling program, (4) increase aid for needy families.
Make a note of the following information that will appear on the test:
(a) names if important figures, (b) dates of all major battles, (c) causes of the
war, and (d) how the outcome affected different members of society.
Parentheses
When you read a sentence that contains parentheses, the sentence
should still make sense on its own if you omit the parenthetical
information.
Parenthetical information can be separated by commas, dashes, or
parentheses; the choice depends on preference and how closely related
the parenthetical information is to the main idea.
Sentences can also be rewritten to omit the parentheses altogether.
Dash
Dash
The dash is an emphatic mark that has several uses:
To separate a phrase or clause from the rest of the sentence
The Marianas Trench—a split in the Pacific Ocean basin—is over 31,000 feet
deep.
Getting a good job, owning her own home, being independent—these are
the reasons she went to college.
To act as a termination mark for an unfinished sentence
The lawyer rose to his feet and asked, “Your Honor, may I—”
“You may take your seat,” said the judge.
Dash
To act as a termination mark for an unfinished sentence
The lawyer rose to his feet and asked, “Your Honor, may I—”
“You may take your seat,” said the judge.
Dash
To show a break, shift, or interruption in thought
Two guys walk into a bar—wait, I’ve already told you this one.
How many times must I tell you to stop—look at me—playing ball in the house?
Note that the dash is a dramatic mark and should be used only when
necessary. Do not use it with other punctuation (e.g., comma + dash,
dash + exclamation point, etc.).
Dash vs. Parentheses Exercise
Insert either dashes or parentheses in the appropriate places.
1. I would love to go on a trip this summer, but since I already used a lot of my
vacation time all eight days of it I can’t go.
vacation time—all eight days of it—I can’t go.
2. Boris Yeltsin former President of Russia died on April 23, 2007.
2. Boris Yeltsin (former President of Russia) died on April 23, 2007.
Dash vs. Parentheses Exercise (cont.)
3. Astra Zeneca a leading pharmaceutical company purchased a biotechnology
company.
3. AstraZeneca (a leading pharmaceutical company) purchased a biotechnology
company.
4. The Miller family put an ad for a babysitter mature and reliable in the local
newspaper.
4. The Miller family put an ad for a babysitter—mature and reliable—in the
local newspaper.
Colon
Colon
The colon is mainly used to show a reader that what follows the colon
is meant to clarify, prove, or explain something that was stated
previously. The information preceding the colon must be an
independent clause (a complete sentence) in which a period could be
used.
The executive had a busy week: he met with six new clients, wrote three proposals,
traveled to four states, and fired an employee.
The first part of the sentence is an independent clause that could end with a
period. Notice that information that follows the clause (meeting with clients,
writing proposals, etc.) illustrates the ways in which the executive was busy.
Colon
The colon can also be used to highlight a particular piece of
information or to provide a list
After choosing the items you wish to purchase, fill out the order form and send a
check or money order to the following address: 197 Tetley Tea Rd., Boston, 02283.
The following students are running for student council: Patrick O’ Brien, Emily
Johnbull, Jaime Cartman, and Larry Williams.
Colon
The colon can also be used to separate pieces of information, such
as hour from minutes (9:15 p.m.) or chapters and verses in books
(Ruth 1:17).
It is also used to introduce a long quotation. Look at this example.
The author offered one piece of advice: Never believe what an agent tells you
because that individual certainly has personal interests in the forefront of his or her
own mind, while your interests are decidedly in the proper presentation of your
labors.
Colon
For general guidelines, do NOT place a colon between a verb or a
preposition and its object.
We bought: eggs, bread, and milk.
The trip took us to: Italy, France, and parts of Scandinavia.
Colon
Do NOT place a colon after the following words:
of
such as
that
Semicolon
Semicolon
The semicolon is primarily used to join two complete sentences or
independent clauses into a single sentence.
He built wings of feather and wax; he flew toward the heavens.
Whenever a semicolon is present, it should be possible to separate the
sentence by using either a termination mark (period, question mark,
exclamation point) or a conjunction preceded by a comma.
He built wings of feather and wax. He flew toward the heavens.
He built wings of feather and wax, and he flew toward the heavens.
Semicolon
A semicolon is usually needed when any of the following are used
within a sentence.
however
consequently
therefore
nevertheless
hence
meanwhile
thus
in fact
Semicolon
However, the clause before the semicolon must always be
independent, and a comma follows the introductory word or phrase.
I already told you my decision; in fact, this the conversation is over.
Habitat for Humanity built six houses in that city last week; nevertheless, more
families are still without shelter.
Staff members planned for a sold-out concert last Saturday; however, they
hadn’t expected the riot that broke out.
The port-a-potty was out of toilet paper, had puddles on the floor, was filled
with trash, and smelled like rotten meat; hence, it was repulsive.
Colon vs. Semicolon Exercise
For each sentence, insert a colon or semicolon in the appropriate place.
1. When the clock strikes 500, I’m going home.
1. When the clock strikes 5:00, I’m going home.
2. I think you should give me a raise for the following reasons I am never late, I
have worked here for three years, and my sales increase at least 25% every month.
2. I think you should give me a raise for the following reasons: I am never
late, I have worked here for three years, and my sales increase at least 25% every
month.
Colon vs. Semicolon Exercise (cont.)
3. “It was the season of Light it was the season of Darkness.”
3. “It was the season of Light; it was the season of Darkness.”
4. This will be a difficult test if you don’t study, you will fail.
4. This will be a difficult test; if you don’t study, you will fail.
5. Choose one of the following colors purple, green, red, or black.
5. Choose one of the following colors: purple, green, red, or black.
6. There are many benefits to this new program however, I don’t think we
should implement it.
6. There are many benefits to this new program; however, I don’t think we
should implement it.
7. Three female professors were nominated Kathleen Turkel, women’s
studies Magdalena Brown, psychology and Marischa Futz, anthropology.
7. Three female professors were nominated: Kathleen Turkel, women’s
studies; Magdalena Brown, psychology; and Marischa Futz, anthropology.
8. Mail your résumé, three references, and a cover letter to the following
address 89 Pump Circle, Los Angeles CA, 90033.
8. Mail your résumé, three references, and a cover letter to the following
address: 89 Pump Circle, Los Angeles CA, 90033.
9. I told her I wanted my hair cut like the model in the magazine it looks
terrible now.
9. I told her I wanted my hair cut like the model in the magazine; it looks
terrible now.
10. That child never listens to me in fact, I think she ignores me on purpose.
10. That child never listens to me; in fact, I think she ignores me on purpose.
Comma
Comma
Commas are the most widely used punctuation mark and have the
most rules. A comma shows a brief pause and is basically used to
introduce or separate words and/or phrases.
Use a comma to separate words or phrases in a series
There are people in this world who don’t have clean water, food, or medical care.
I have several ideas for a Halloween costume this year: Medusa, Rosie the Riveter,
Cleopatra, or Pocahontas.
Mario popped a piece of gum into his mouth, chewed until it was soft and sticky,
and then blew a bubble the size of his head.
Comma
When a series is long and contains other punctuation marks,
a semicolon can be used to separate the items and add clarity
The recipe called for a variety of vegetables: peppers, both red and yellow; an
eggplant, large and firm; shiitake and portabella mushrooms; and artichokes.
Here are some reasons to join organization: free food; socialization (new members
are joining every week); exercise and fresh air (many activities are outdoors); and
it’s also an opportunity to give back to the community, especially to those who are
in need.
Comma
Use a comma after an introduction that comes before the main
clause
Introductory clauses or phrases usually begin with after, before,
although, as, because, if, since, when, while.
Afterwards, we went to the movies.
When you are finished using the restroom, please wash your hands.
Because he was at home, Terrance read the book.
Since last Tuesday the pharmacy has been closed.
While I was eating, the dog begged for my food.
Whenever you are at someone else’s house, mind your manners.
Comma
Introductory words such as yes, however, therefore, consequently,
nevertheless, meanwhile, in fact, and well should be followed by a
comma
Yes, I will help you with your home repairs.
However, I think we should hire a professional.
In fact, I know someone who does great work for a cheap price.
Meanwhile, we’ll do the easy work.
Comma
Use a comma to separate one or more independent clauses from
the rest of the sentence (An independent clause has a subject and
a verb and can stand on its own as a complete sentence.)
I didn’t want to go to the movies on Saturday, but she insisted.
Independent clause
When I came home from school, the door was locked. Independent clause
He didn’t want to write the paper, yet he didn’t want to fail.
Independent clause
Comma
A pair of commas should be used around nonessential words,
clauses, or phrases. A good way to spot nonessential information
is to ask yourself this question: When I read the sentence without
the phrase, does the sentence still mean the same? If the answer
is yes, the phrase is nonessential.
The puppy was, of course, not yet housebroken.
It’s up to Corey, the team captain, to win the game now.
The toy, which he gave me for my birthday, is now broken.
My mom and dad, who are both stuck at work, won’t be home until later
this evening.
Every time I try to help her, the girl over there in the red dress, she argues with me.
Comma
Use commas to separate addresses, geographic names, dates,
titles, and time
My new address is 57 Front Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
I have never been to Miami, Florida, but I would like to visit some day.
The committee held a meeting on March 17, 2004, to decide whether the
president should be fired.
Although I slept until 11 a.m., I was still tired.
Trisha Zankman, M.D., and Jasper Singh, D.D.S., will speak at the lecture.
Comma
Use commas to separate dialogue and quoted material
“Oliver,” Marcel asked, “have you seen Lucas?”
“I don’t think so,” he said.
“Maybe he left early,” Peyton said with hesitation.
Sally Kotch wrote, “Great opportunities to help others seldom come, but small
ones surround us every day.”
Use commas to prevent confusion or misreading
To Aiden, Marina seemed like the perfect person to ask to the dance.
This July, the March of Dimes will be hosting a walk.
Comma Exercise
Comma Exercise
Use a comma where necessary.
1. In fact I called her yesterday.
1. In fact, I called her yesterday.
2. Although the food was good I wouldn’t go back there again.
2. Although the food was good, I wouldn’t go back there again.
3. Every April the AMYC features a Tupperware party.
3. Every April, the AMYC features a Tupperware party.
Comma Exercise
Comma Exercise (cont.)
4. I have three tests an oral presentation and a ten-page paper due next week.
4. I have three tests, an oral presentation, and a ten-page paper due next week.
5. “It’s snowing” Thomas said. “We could make snow angels go sledding or
have a snowball fight.”
5. “It’s snowing,” Thomas said. “We could make snow angels, go sledding, or
6. I get restless on Friday afternoons don’t you?
6. I get restless on Friday afternoons, don’t you?
Comma Exercise
7. The fluorescent lights which beat down constantly are giving me a headache.
7. The fluorescent lights, which beat down constantly, are giving me a headache.
8. When I asked her where my food was she told me it would be another ten
minutes.
8. When I asked her where my food was, she told me it would be another ten
minutes.
9. In the winter I love skiing snowboarding and sledding.
9. In the winter, I love skiing, snowboarding, and sledding.
Comma Exercise
10. Our manager Mr. Faustus often changes his mind.
10. Our manager, Mr. Faustus, often changes his mind.
11. To get a good seat at the theater you better come early.
11. To get a good seat at the theater, you better come early.
12. My parents will be out of town for several days and they want me to watch
the house while they are gone.
12. My parents will be out of town for several days, and they want me to watch
Cumulative Exercises
Read the following excerpts and fill in the appropriate punctuation.
Some blanks require more than one punctuation mark. If more than
one answer is possible, be sure that you can support your choice.
The Invisible Man (Question)
__ Can I take your hat and coat __ sir __ she said __ and give them a good dry in
the kitchen __
__ No __ he said without turning __
She was not sure she had heard him and was about to repeat her question.
He turned his head and looked at her over his shoulder. __ I prefer to keep them
on __ he said with emphasis __ and she noticed that he wore big blue spectacles
with sidelights __ and he had a bushy side-whisker over his coat-collar that
completely his his cheeks and face __
__Very well __ sir __ she said __ As you like __ In a bit __ the room will be
warmer __
Cumulative Exercises (cont.)
The Invisible Man (Answer)
“Can I take your hat and coat, sir?” she said, “and give them a good dry in
the kitchen?
“No,” he said without turning.
He turned his head and looked at her over his shoulder. “I prefer to keep them on,”
he said with emphasis, and she noticed that he wore big blue spectacles with
sidelights, and he had a bushy side-whisker over his coat-collar that completely
his his cheeks and face.
“Very well, sir,” she said. “As you like. In a bit, the room will be warmer.”
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (A) (Question)
They very soon came upon a Gryphon lying fast asleep in the sun. __ If you don’t
know what a Gryphon is __ look at the picture __ “Up, lazy thing __ said the
queen, “and take this young lady to see the Mock Turtle and hear his story. I must
go back and see after some executions I have ordered __ and she walked off __
leaving Alice alone with the Gryphon __
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (A) (Answer)
They very soon came upon a Gryphon lying fast asleep in the sun. (If you don’t
know what a Gryphon is, look at the picture.) “Up, lazy thing!” said the queen,
“and take this young lady to see the Mock Turtle and hear his story. I must
go back and see after some executions I have ordered,” and she walked off,
leaving Alice alone with the Gryphon.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (B) (Question)
Alice was very glad to find her in such a pleasant temper __ and she thought to
herself that perhaps it was only the pepper that had made her so savage when they
met in the kitchen __ When I’m a Dutchess __ she said to herself __ not in a very
hopeful tone though __, “I won’t have any pepper in my kitchen at all __ Soup
does very well without __ Maybe it __ s always pepper that makes people hot __
tempered, __ she went on, very __
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (B) (Answer)
Alice was very glad to find her in such a pleasant temper, and she thought to
met in the kitchen. “When I’m a Dutchess,” she said to herself (not in a very
hopeful tone though), “I won’t have any pepper in my kitchen at all. Soup does
very well without. Maybe it’s always pepper that makes people hot-tempered,”
she went on, very…
The Awakening (A) (Question)
Mrs __ Pontellier was always very generous with the contents of such a box __ she
was quite used to receiving them when away from home __ The pâté and fruit were
brought to the dining-room __ the bonbons were passed around __ And the
ladies __ selecting with dainty and discriminating fingers and a little greedily __ all
declared that Mr __ Pontellier was the best husband in the world. Mrs __ Pontellier
was forced to admit that she knew of none better __
The Awakening (A) (Answer)
Mrs. Pontellier was always very generous with the contents of such a box; she
was quite used to receiving them when away from home. The pâté and fruit were
brought to the dining-room; the bonbons were passed around. And the ladies,
selecting with dainty and discriminating fingers and a little greedily, all declared
that Mr. Pontellier was the best husband in the world. Mrs. Pontellier was forced
to admit that she knew of none better.
The Awakening (B) (Question)
__ This seems to me perfectly preposterous and uncalled for. I don’t like it. I don’t
understand your motive for silence and mystery __ never saying a word to me
about it this morning __ He remained silent, not offering to defend himself. He only
said __ after a moment __
__ Don __ t part from me in any ill humor. I never knew you to be out of patience
with me before __
__ I don __t want to part in any ill humor __ she said __ But can __ t you
understand __ I __ ve grown used to seeing you __ to having you with me all the
time __ and your action seems unfriendly __ even unkind. You don __ t even offer
an excuse for it. Why __ I was planning to be together __ thinking of how pleasant
it would be to see you in the city next winter __
__ So was I __ he blurted __ Perhaps that __ s the __ He stood up suddenly and
held out his hand __ Good-by __ my dear Mrs __ Pontellier __ good-by. You
won __ t __ I hope you won __ t completely forget me __
The Awakening (B) (Answer)
“This seems to me perfectly preposterous and uncalled for. I don’t like it. I don’t
understand your motive for silence and mystery, never saying a word to me about
it this morning.” He remained silent, not offering to defend himself. He only said,
after a moment:
“Don’t part from me in any ill humor. I never knew you to be out of patience
with me before.”
“I don’t want to part in any ill humor,” she said. But can’t you understand? I’ve
grown used to seeing you, to having you with me all the time, and your action
seems unfriendly, even unkind. You don’t even offer an excuse for it. Why, I was
planning to be together, thinking of how pleasant it would be to see you in the city
next winter.”
“So was I,” he blurted. “Perhaps that’s the—” He stood up suddenly and held out
his hand. “Good-by, my dear Mrs. Pontellier, good-by. You won’t—I hope you
won’t completely forget me.
Repeated Exercises
Note: These are blank versions of previous
exercises that have been repeated for your
convenience. They can be printed out and
used as worksheets or mini-quizzes.
Repeated Exercises
Period vs. Question Mark
Read the following sentences and decide whether a period or question
mark belongs at the end of the sentence:
1. What qualifications do you have for this position
2. The florist wanted to know what type of arrangement we wanted
3. I saw the broken vase and asked the children if they did it
4. Do you know when the Civil War ended
5. How many brothers and sisters do you have
6. The tour guide asked us if we wanted to take a break
Repeated Exercises
Read the following sentences and determine whether a period,
question mark, or exclamation point should be used. Some sentences
require two termination marks.
1. Oh, no I forgot to feed the cat
2. Why can’t you get by on your looks alone
3. I knew it Are you going to tell someone
4. What does “highfalutin” mean
5. She asked me what time we were supposed to be there tonight
Repeated Exercises
6. We won
7. Paul, why do you crush my hopes and dreams
8. The Lord of the Rings is my favorite book series
9. Did you see that episode last night It was amazing
10. When are you going to get there I’m hungry
Repeated Exercises
Possessive Exercise
Supply the singular and plural possessive for each word.
fox
goddess
farmer
store
Williams
embassy
gentleman
planet
sheep
mouse
lady
Repeated Exercises
Apostrophe Exercise
Read the following sentences and add an apostrophe or apostrophe + s
where needed.
1. I don’t think my sisters house has been cleaned since the 80s, which is when
she bought it.
2. When dat tornado comes a-tearin through here, youre gonna be runnin for dem
hills.
3. The following will be on Wednesdays test; John Adams impact on the U.S.,
Abigail Adams political views, and reasons why the colonies wanted independence
from Britain.
4. The three teams uniforms all looked the same.
5. I fell asleep during Isaiahs presentation and missed the rest of Mondays lecture.
Repeated Exercises
6. Two weeks vacation isnt enough time away from work.
7. When Brandys mom saw a lunch on the counter, she brought the food to school
so Brandy wouldnt go hungry.
8. It was only a couple years ago, during the early 2000s, when you couldn’t say
things like that on TV.
9. Ill never finish my sculpture at the rate Im working. Plus, Im out of clay and need
to borrow someone kiln.
10. Codys dogs bark all night, and its impossible to get any sleep.
Repeated Exercises
Hyphen Exercise
Read the following phrases and decide whether the words should be
hyphenated or not.
1. Jose´ wrote a well organized paper.
2. The university built a state of the art gymnasium.
3. Before dinner last night, I went for a three mile run.
4. Dig an eight inch hole for that plant.
5. A seven year old boy painted that picture.
Repeated Exercises
Hyphen Exercise (cont.)
6. Return the books in a timely fashion, please.
7. Forty six albums were sold yesterday.
8. We ate ants and crickets that were chocolate covered.
9. That recipe calls for three cups of nuts.
10. I need you to co sign the loan or I won’t be approved.
Repeated Exercises
Read the following sentences and decide where the quotation marks
should be placed.
1. What is meant by the term sacrosanct?
2. Picasso said, The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.
3. Mom, she yelled, can I go to the movies?”
4. When you asked me, Can I go, and I said, No, I meant it, her mom replied.
Repeated Exercises
5. Ramon compared the cake to cardboard and said it was dried out and tasteless.
6. Did Jeanette ask, Is the world round?
7. Felix isn’t here today, Roxanna said. He said his throat was on fire.
8. Dr. Phillip said, The galaxy that is farthest away from Earth is more than 15
billion light years away; however, this is untrue.
Repeated Exercises
Insert either dashes or parentheses in the appropriate places.
vacation time all eight days of it I can’t go.
2. Boris Yeltsin former President of Russia died on April 23, 2007.
3. AstraZeneca a leading pharmaceutical company purchased a biotechnology
company.
4. The Miller family put an ad for a babysitter mature and reliable in the local
newspaper.
Repeated Exercises
For each sentence, insert a colon or semicolon in the appropriate place.
1. When the clock strikes 500, I’m going home.
2. I think you should give me a raise for the following reasons I am never late, I
have worked here for three years, and my sales increase at least 25% every month.
3. “It was the season of Light it was the season of Darkness.”
4. This will be a difficult test if you don’t study, you will fail.
5. Choose one of the following colors purple, green, red, or black.
Repeated Exercises
6. There are many benefits to this new program however, I don’t think we should
implement it.
7. Three female professors were nominated Kathleen Turkel, women’s studies
Magdalena Brown, psychology and Marischa Futz, anthropology.
8. Mail your résumé, three references, and a cover letter to the following address
89 Pump Circle, Los Angeles CA, 90033.
9. I told her I wanted my hair cut like the model in the magazine it looks terrible
now.
10. That child never listens to me in fact, I think she ignores me on purpose.
Repeated Exercises
Comma Exercise
Use a comma where necessary.
1. In fact I called her yesterday.
2. Although the food was good I wouldn’t go back there again.
3. Every April the AMYC features a Tupperware party.
4. I have three tests an oral presentation and a ten-page paper due next week.
5. “It’s snowing” Thomas said. “We could make snow angels go sledding or
Repeated Exercises
6. I get restless on Friday afternoons don’t you?
7. The fluorescent lights which beat down constantly are giving me a headache.
8. When I asked her where my food was she told me it would be another ten
minutes.
9. In the winter I love skiing snowboarding and sledding.
10. Our manager Mr. Faustus often changes his mind.
Repeated Exercises
11. To get a good seat at the theater you better come early.
12. My parents will be out of town for several days and they want me to watch
Repeated Exercises
Read the following excerpts and fill in the appropriate punctuation.
Some blanks require more than one punctuation mark. If more than
one answer is possible, be sure that you can support your choice.
The Invisible Man (Question)
__ Can I take your hat and coat __ sir __ she said __ and give them a good dry in
the kitchen __
__ No __ he said without turning __
He turned his head and looked at her over his shoulder. __ I prefer to keep them
on __ he said with emphasis __ and she noticed that he wore big blue spectacles
with sidelights __ and he had a bushy side-whisker over his coat-collar that
completely his his cheeks and face __
__Very well __ sir __ she said __ As you like __ In a bit __ the room will be
warmer __
Repeated Exercises
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (A) (Question)
They very soon came upon a Gryphon lying fast asleep in the sun. __ If you don’t
know what a Gryphon is __ look at the picture __ “Up, lazy thing __ said the
queen, “and take this young lady to see the Mock Turtle and hear his story. I must
go back and see after some executions I have ordered __ and she walked off __
leaving Alice alone with the Gryphon __
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland (B) (Question)
Alice was very glad to find her in such a pleasant temper __ and she thought to
met in the kitchen __ When I’m a Dutchess __ she said to herself __ not in a very
hopeful tone though __, “I won’t have any pepper in my kitchen at all __ Soup
does very well without __ Maybe it __ s always pepper that makes people hot __
tempered, __ she went on, very __
Repeated Exercises
The Awakening (A) (Question)
Mrs __ Pontellier was always very generous with the contents of such a box __ she
was quite used to receiving them when away from home __ The pâté and fruit were
brought to the dining-room __ the bonbons were passed around __ And the
ladies __ selecting with dainty and discriminating fingers and a little greedily __ all
declared that Mr __ Pontellier was the best husband in the world. Mrs __ Pontellier
was forced to admit that she knew of none better __
Repeated Exercises
The Awakening (B) (Question)
__ This seems to me perfectly preposterous and uncalled for. I don’t like it. I don’t
understand your motive for silence and mystery __ never saying a word to me
about it this morning __ He remained silent, not offering to defend himself. He only
said __ after a moment __
__ Don __ t part from me in any ill humor. I never knew you to be out of patience
with me before __
__ I don __t want to part in any ill humor __ she said __ But can __ t you
understand __ I __ ve grown used to seeing you __ to having you with me all the
time __ and your action seems unfriendly __ even unkind. You don __ t even offer
an excuse for it. Why __ I was planning to be together __ thinking of how pleasant
it would be to see you in the city next winter __
__ So was I __ he blurted __ Perhaps that __ s the __ He stood up suddenly and
held out his hand __ Good-by __ my dear Mrs __ Pontellier __ good-by. You
won __ t __ I hope you won __ t completely forget me __

Repeated Exercises Quotation Marks Exercise (cont.)

Transcription

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