Using Semicolons 2 rules

Using Semicolons 2 rules

An independent clause (or main clause) has a subject and a verb and expresses a complete thought. An independent clause can stand by itself as a sentence. Subject Verb The dolphins play in the ocean. WB Subject Verb These animals are intelligent.

; The semicolon signals a pause in a sentence. Definition: Semicolons separate complete thoughts and items within a sentence.

Rule 1: Definition: Semicolons separate complete thoughts and items within a sentence. Only use a semicolon between independent clauses IF the independent clauses are not joined by and, but, for, nor, or, so, or yet (FANBOYS) are closely related in meaning Independent clause Independent clause The clouds are moving in; let s head home.

A semicolon is used between independent clauses that are closely related without using,fanboys. Non-example Do not touch that tree frog; everyone stay together. These two clauses aren t closely related. Example Do not touch that tree frog; frog. it may be Everyone poisonous. stay together. A These period two is clauses used since are the closely two related. clauses A are semicolon not closely can be related. used to join them.

Which is an example of correct semicolon usage? 1. Jamie; was on time Carrie was late. 2. Some reptiles like a dry climate; others prefer a wet climate. 3. My parents anniversary is next week; and we are throwing a party for them.

Why are semicolons important? Like other punctuation marks, semicolons are important because they help make writing clear. The letter below is hard to read because it is missing semicolons and colons. Dear Garden Club Members: It s that time of year again; our vegetable garden awaits. Please show up at the site this Saturday morning at 730. 7:30. If If you you can, can, bring the following: hoe, hoe, shovel, shovel, weed-puller, and gloves.

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. 1. Jamie was on time ; Carrie was late. These clauses are closely related. They can be joined by a semicolon.

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. Some reptiles like a dry climate ; others prefer a wet climate.

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. My parents anniversary is next week ; we are throwing a party for them.

Semicolons between independent clauses Additional Practice Proofread for semicolons where they are needed in the following sentences. 1. Bring a sweater it will be cold tonight. 2. Your grades have improved you will easily pass the course. 3. His mother is a doctor his father owns a computer store. 4. Suki finished her homework then she went to Dana s house.

Rule 2: Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb. Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by a conjunctive adverb or a transitional expression. Kim loaded the camera incorrectly; therefore, the film was ruined., in I like cotton; in fact, most of my clothes are fact, made of cotton. Notice that the conjunctive adverb and the transitional expression are followed by commas.

Semicolons between independent clauses Conjunctive adverbs Common Conjunctive Adverbs accordingly furthermore instead nevertheless besides however meanwhile otherwise consequently indeed moreover therefore A conjunctive adverb shows how ideas relate to each other. It expresses a relationship between two independent clauses and is followed by a comma.

Semicolons between independent clauses Transitional expressions Common Transitional Expressions as a result for example for instance in fact in addition in conclusion in other words that is A transitional expression shows how ideas fit together. It makes a connection between the ideas in two independent clauses and is followed by a comma.

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. Janet brought the paint ; as a result, she started working before we did.

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. We planned to go to Miami canceled. ; however, our flight was

1. Identify the two related independent clauses in each sentence. 2. Make sure sentences are not combined with,fanboys 3. Add the semicolon between the independent clauses. Kevin will play the bass drum in the concert addition,he will play the symbols. ; in

Semicolons between independent clauses More Practice In the following sentences, add semicolons or replace commas with semicolons where needed. If a sentence is already correct, label it C. 1. My dog can do many tricks for example, he can roll over and crawl on his belly. 2. The best defensive players are Carlos, Will, and Fred, however, Matt and Jamal are great on defense. 3. I have to study tonight; otherwise, I would go with you. 4. I ve decided not to take French, instead, I plan to take Spanish.

Closure When do we use a semicolon? How would you proofread for semicolons in the following sentences? Todd s report is about Arizona mine is about Utah. I have to study tonight otherwise, I would go with you. Tell me one thing you learned today?