Punctuation Review 9-10

Front

What is punctuation?

Back

Punctuation refers to the marks used in writing that help clarify meaning and separate linguistic units. Examples include periods, commas, question marks, and exclamation points.

Front

What is the purpose of a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation that follows an independent clause.

Front

What is the difference between a comma and a semicolon?

Back

A comma separates elements within a sentence, while a semicolon connects two independent clauses that are closely related.

Front

What is an independent clause?

Back

An independent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought.

Front

What is a dependent clause?

Back

A dependent clause is a group of words that contains a subject and a verb but does not express a complete thought and cannot stand alone.

Front

What is the function of quotation marks?

Back

Quotation marks are used to indicate direct speech, quotations, or titles of short works.

Front

What is the rule for using apostrophes?

Back

Apostrophes are used to indicate possession (e.g., Sarah's book) or to form contractions (e.g., can't for cannot).

Front

What is the correct way to punctuate a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence should be punctuated with a comma before the coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so) that connects the two independent clauses.

Front

What is the purpose of parentheses?

Back

Parentheses are used to include additional information or clarifications that are not essential to the main point.