Structure: Punctuation Marks SS2 English Studies Lesson Note

Punctuation marks are the marks or signs inserted in a piece of writing to mark off words or groups of words. The use of punctuation marks makes for an effective presentation of ideas.

1. Comma (, )

The comma is used:

– To mark off words in a list. Example: She gave us two pencils, four rulers and pens. 

– To mark off phrases or clauses; Example: Having seen her son, she felt relieved. 

– To mark off non-defining relative clauses; Example: Mr. Kargbo, who happens to be a lawyer, is aware of our situation.

– To mark off main clauses linked by a conjunction such as and, or, but, as, for. Example: They have been complaining about their flight since five years ago, but unfortunately, the management has not paid any attention 

– In direct speech, to separate the speech (in quotes) from non-speech. Example:    She said, “Run as fast as you can” 

2. Semi – Colon (; ): 

A semicolon is used:

– To separate two main clauses, especially those not linked by a conjunction. Example:    She looks awful; she needs a shower. 

– In place of a comma, to separate parts of a sentence which already contains a comma; Example: He made up his mind to take the bull by the horns; he would purge the country, no matter the cost.

3. Question Mark ( ? )

A question mark is used: 

– To mark the end of a direct question; Example: Have you had lunch? 

– To express doubt. Example: He was in Toronto? 

– At the end of a question tag. Example: Bisi left late, didn’t she?  

4. Colon (: ): 

A colon is used:

– To introduce a list Example:    These are the items they are asking for: a bicycle, two goats and four gallons of palm oil. 

– To introduce a phrase or clause which supplies additional information about the main clause. Example: He could not leave her despite her misbehaviour: he lacked the courage. 

ASSIGNMENT 

Punctuate the following passage: 

She was waiting for us small dowdy dirty in sharp contrast to the sham grandeur of the car but unprepossessing as she looked the burgeo was wise in the ways of the unforgiving world of water she was a proper sea – boat not a floating motel.