Punctuating Dialogue Task Cards

Front

What is the correct punctuation for dialogue when a speaker's tag follows the dialogue?

Back

The correct punctuation is to place a comma inside the quotation marks before the closing quotation mark. For example: "Time for school," Mom called.

Front

How do you punctuate dialogue when it ends with an exclamation mark?

Back

When dialogue ends with an exclamation mark, the exclamation mark is placed inside the quotation marks, followed by the speaker's tag. For example: "I did it!" she exclaimed.

Front

What is the rule for punctuating dialogue when it is a question?

Back

If the dialogue is a question, the question mark goes inside the quotation marks, followed by the speaker's tag. For example: "Are you coming?" he asked.

Front

What punctuation is used to separate dialogue from the speaker's tag?

Back

A comma is used to separate dialogue from the speaker's tag when the dialogue is a statement. For example: "I like your shirt," she complimented.

Front

How should you punctuate dialogue that is interrupted by a speaker's tag?

Back

When dialogue is interrupted by a speaker's tag, use commas to separate the parts. For example: "I want to play outside," I said, "after lunch."

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a dialogue that is a complete sentence followed by a speaker's tag?

Back

The dialogue should end with a comma inside the quotation marks if followed by a speaker's tag. For example: "Good morning," Mom whispered.

Front

What is the purpose of using quotation marks in dialogue?

Back

Quotation marks are used to indicate the exact words spoken by a character.

Front

How do you handle dialogue that spans multiple paragraphs?

Back

Each new paragraph of dialogue should begin with opening quotation marks, but only the first paragraph requires closing quotation marks.

Front

What is a speaker's tag?

Back

A speaker's tag is a phrase that attributes the dialogue to a specific speaker, often including verbs like 'said,' 'asked,' or 'exclaimed.'

Front

What is the difference between a statement and a question in dialogue punctuation?

Back

A statement ends with a period or a comma, while a question ends with a question mark.