The Use of Apostrophes

The Use of Apostrophes

Apostrophes are a punctuation mark (') that is used used to indicate either possession or a contraction.

How do you use apostrophes to show possession?

To show possession while using apostrophes, add an apostrophe between your word, and an 's'.

For example:

That is Harry's book.

Someone's drink bottle has been left on my desk.

What do you do when the word that will show ownership, finishes with an 's'?

When a word, ends with an s, and you want to use an apostrophe to show ownership, you don't add another 's', you simply add an apostrophe to the existing 's'. This rules also applies if the word that will indicate ownership, is plural.

For example:

James' desk is right next to the teacher, because he talks too much.

The students' work was amazing!

Multiple Choice

One of my students work is just amazing!

Where should the apostrophe go in the word, 'students'?

• Student's

• Students'

Multiple Choice

Alexs books make his bag very heavy. Sometimes, he has to bring another bag just to fit them all!

Where does the apostrophe go in the word 'Alexs'?

• Alexs'

• Alex's

Multiple Choice

Carlos work is singificantly under the standard. The teaching team does not know what to do!

Where does the apostrophe go in the word 'Carlos'?

• Carlos'

• Carlos's

Open Ended

Write three sentences that use at least one apostrophised word: