Semicolon/ Colon practice

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

A semicolon (;) is a punctuation mark used to connect closely related ideas or to separate items in a complex list.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

A colon (:) is a punctuation mark used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation.

Front

When should you use a semicolon instead of a period?

Back

Use a semicolon to connect two independent clauses that are closely related in thought.

Front

When should you use a colon?

Back

Use a colon before a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'I have apples oranges and bananas.'

Back

I have apples, oranges, and bananas.

Front

Correct the sentence: 'I need to buy milk eggs and bread.'

Back

I need to buy milk, eggs, and bread.

Front

Identify the error: 'I have a dog; a cat; and a rabbit.'

Back

Incorrect use of semicolons; should use commas instead.

Front

Identify the error: 'She has three hobbies: painting, dancing, and reading.'

Back

Correct; the colon is used properly.

Front

What is the purpose of using a semicolon in a list?

Back

A semicolon can be used in a list when the items in the list contain commas, to avoid confusion.

Front

Example of a correct use of a colon:

Back

There are three things I love: chocolate, ice cream, and cookies.