Colons and Dashes in ACT Grammar

This video tutorial covers the correct usage of colons and dashes in writing. It explains how colons are used to introduce lists, explanations, and quotes, while dashes are used for emphasis. The tutorial includes practice questions similar to those found on the ACT, helping students understand how to apply these punctuation marks correctly. The video emphasizes the importance of using colons and dashes appropriately and provides tips for avoiding common mistakes.

What is a common use of a colon in a sentence?

• To introduce a list or explanation

• To indicate a question

• To separate two independent clauses

• To end a sentence

Which of the following sentences correctly uses a colon?

• I have three pets: a dog, a cat, and a fish.

• I have three pets; a dog, a cat, and a fish.

• I have three pets, a dog, a cat, and a fish.

• I have three pets. A dog, a cat, and a fish.

In the sentence 'Lon knew that if asked Kourtney would join the team,' what punctuation mark should be used?

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Comma

• No punctuation

Why is a semicolon incorrect in the sentence 'Lon knew that if asked Kourtney would join the team'?

• Because it is used for emphasis

• Because it introduces a list

• Because it separates two independent clauses

• Because it separates an independent clause from a dependent clause

What is the primary function of a dash in a sentence?

• To introduce a list

• To separate two independent clauses

• To end a sentence

• To create extra emphasis

Which sentence correctly uses a dash for emphasis?

• I love pizza - especially with extra cheese.

• I love pizza: especially with extra cheese.

• I love pizza, especially with extra cheese.

• I love pizza; especially with extra cheese.

In the sentence 'The people at the outdoor concert - all 200 of them - got soaked in the rain,' what is the purpose of the dashes?

• To introduce a list

• To separate two independent clauses

• To add extra emphasis to the phrase 'all 200 of them'

• To end the sentence

Which of the following is a correct use of double dashes?

• The people at the outdoor concert, all 200 of them - got soaked in the rain.

• The people at the outdoor concert, all 200 of them, got soaked in the rain.

• The people at the outdoor concert - all 200 of them - got soaked in the rain.

• The people at the outdoor concert - all 200 of them, got soaked in the rain.

Why is it incorrect to use a comma and a dash together in a sentence?

• Because it introduces a list

• Because it separates two independent clauses

• Because it is used for emphasis

• Because it creates a grammatical error

What is a pro tip mentioned about using dashes in formal writing?

• Use them frequently for emphasis

• Avoid using them in formal essays

• Replace them with semicolons

• Use them to introduce lists