Punctuating Dialogue

Front

What is dialogue punctuation?

Back

Dialogue punctuation refers to the use of specific punctuation marks to indicate spoken words in writing, such as quotation marks, commas, and exclamation points.

Tags

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.5.2D

Front

When do you use quotation marks in dialogue?

Back

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

Tags

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.5.2D

Front

What punctuation mark is used to separate the spoken words from the speaker's tag?

Back

A comma is used to separate the spoken words from the speaker's tag, unless the spoken words end with a question mark or exclamation point.

Tags

CCSS.L.2.2B

CCSS.L.3.2B

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence that ends with a question in dialogue?

Back

If the spoken words are a question, use a question mark inside the quotation marks, followed by the speaker's tag.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.2B

CCSS.L.4.3B

CCSS.L.K.2B

Front

What is the correct way to write: 'I am scared!' I cried?

Back

The correct way is: 'I am scared!' I cried.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.2B

CCSS.L.4.3B

CCSS.L.K.2B

Front

How should you punctuate a sentence that includes a speaker's tag before the dialogue?

Back

You should place a comma before the opening quotation mark, like this: He said, 'Hello!'

Tags

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.5.2D

Front

What is the correct punctuation for this sentence: 'Sara asked do you need help?'

Back

The correct punctuation is: 'Sara asked, “Do you need help?”'

Tags

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.5.2D

Front

What punctuation is used to indicate a pause in dialogue?

Back

A comma is used to indicate a pause in dialogue.

Tags

CCSS.L.4.2C

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

How do you punctuate a sentence that ends with a period in dialogue?

Back

If the spoken words end with a period, place a comma after the closing quotation mark if there is a speaker's tag.

Tags

CCSS.L.1.2B

CCSS.L.5.2

Front

What is the correct way to write: 'Do you need any help?' I asked?

Back

The correct way is: 'Do you need any help?' I asked.

Tags

CCSS.L.3.2C

CCSS.L.4.2B

CCSS.L.6.3A