Semicolons, Colons, Dashes, Hyphens

Front

What is a semicolon?

Back

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

Tags

CCSS.L.6.6

Front

When should a semicolon be used?

Back

Use a semicolon to link two independent clauses that are closely related in thought, or to separate items in a list when those items contain commas.

Front

What is a colon?

Back

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

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.4

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

Use a colon to introduce a list, a quote, or to emphasize a point after an independent clause.

Front

What is a dash?

Back

A dash (—) is a punctuation mark used to create a strong break in the structure of a sentence.

Tags

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

When should a dash be used?

Back

Use a dash to set off additional information or to create emphasis, often in place of commas or parentheses.

Tags

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

What is a hyphen?

Back

A hyphen (-) is a punctuation mark used to join words or parts of words.

Tags

CCSS.L.6.6

CCSS.RI.6.4

CCSS.RL.6.4

Front

When should a hyphen be used?

Back

Use a hyphen to connect two or more words that function as a single adjective before a noun, or to separate syllables of a single word.

Tags

CCSS.L.6.2A

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses, while a colon introduces a list or explanation.

Front

Provide an example of a semicolon in a sentence.

Back

I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.