Understanding Parentheses and Dashes

Mrs. Banneker explains the use of parentheses and dashes in writing. Parentheses are used to de-emphasize information, while dashes add emphasis. The video covers how to punctuate and capitalize within parentheses, including exceptions for special punctuation. It also discusses using dashes for interruptions, emphasis, and clarity in writing. The video concludes with a reminder to use these punctuation marks sparingly and offers practice exercises.

What is the primary purpose of using parentheses in writing?

• To indicate a pause in speech

• To replace commas in a list

• To de-emphasize or add supplementary information

• To add emphasis to a statement

How do dashes differ from parentheses in terms of emphasis?

• Dashes are used to add emphasis

• Dashes and parentheses are used interchangeably

• Dashes are used to de-emphasize information

• Dashes are used to list items

When using parentheses within a sentence, what is the rule for capitalization?

• Always capitalize the first word

• Never capitalize the first word

• Capitalize only if it's a proper noun

• Capitalize if the parenthetical is a complete sentence

What punctuation is allowed at the end of a parenthetical statement within a sentence?

• Period

• Comma

• Semicolon

• Question mark or exclamation mark

How should a parenthetical statement be punctuated if it stands alone?

• It should be enclosed in quotation marks

• It should start with a capital letter and end with a period

• It should start with a lowercase letter and end with a period

• No punctuation is needed

In what type of writing are parentheses commonly used for references?

• Poetry

• Fiction novels

• Science and math textbooks

• Newspaper articles

What is the primary function of a dash in writing?

• To list items

• To indicate a question

• To mark an interruption in thought or speech

• To replace commas

How is a dash different from a hyphen?

• A dash is used in place of a period

• A dash is longer and used for different purposes

• A dash is shorter than a hyphen

• A dash is used for joining words

When should dashes be used sparingly in writing?

• When emphasizing a point

• When writing dialogue

• When every sentence contains a dash

• When listing items

How can dashes be used similarly to colons?

• To replace commas in a sentence

• To introduce a list of items

• To substitute for 'it is' or 'they are'

• To end a sentence