Using Colons and Semicolons

Which punctuation mark is typically used to introduce a list?

• Comma

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Dash

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

In the sentence "I need three items: milk, bread, and eggs," what purpose does the colon serve?

• To separate independent clauses

• To introduce a quotation

• To introduce a list

• To indicate a pause

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

When items in a list contain commas, which punctuation mark should be used to separate the items?

• Comma

• Semicolon

• Period

• Dash

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

• I love reading: especially mystery novels.

• The weather was perfect; we decided to go hiking.

• She bought: apples, oranges, and bananas.

• He was tired, so he went to bed.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

What is one primary function of a colon?

• To connect independent clauses

• To indicate a brief pause

• To introduce a further explanation

• To show possession

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

In which situation would you use a semicolon instead of a comma?

• Between items in a simple list

• Before a quotation

• To separate closely related independent clauses

• To introduce a list

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

The sentence "The team visited three cities: New York, New York; San Francisco, California; and Miami, Florida" uses both colons and semicolons because:

• The cities are in different states

• The list items contain commas

• It's a complex sentence

• It's a formal document

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

Which sentence demonstrates incorrect use of a colon?

• The recipe calls for: eggs, milk, and flour.

• I have one goal: to graduate with honors.

• She said: "We need to leave now."

• The results were clear: we had succeeded.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B

A semicolon is most appropriate when:

• Introducing a list of items

• Connecting two related independent clauses

• Starting a quotation

• Showing possession

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2A

Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

• I have three favorite foods, pizza, pasta, and ice cream.

• Remember this: always proofread your work.

• She was tired, she went to bed.

• The movie started: when we arrived.

Tags

CCSS.L.9-10.2B