English First Additional Language - Term 3 - Week 5

Punctuation marks are important in writing because they help us understand the meaning of sentences. For example, a period (.) tells us that a sentence has ended, while a question mark (?) shows that someone is asking something. Today, we will learn how to use these marks correctly in our writing.

Let's look at this sentence: 'the cat is sleeping' Can you spot the missing punctuation? That's right! It needs a period at the end. So, it should be 'The cat is sleeping.' Notice how we also capitalized the first letter. Let's try another one: 'where is my book' This one needs a question mark because it is asking something. The correct sentence is 'Where is my book?'

In groups, you will receive sentences that are missing punctuation. Your task is to read the sentences aloud and decide together what punctuation is needed. Once you agree, write the corrected sentence on the board. For example, if you have 'I love ice cream' you should write 'I love ice cream.' Make sure to discuss why you chose that punctuation!

Now it's your turn to write! Write three sentences about your favorite animal. Remember to start each sentence with a capital letter and end with the correct punctuation. After you finish, swap your work with a partner and check each other's sentences for correct punctuation and spacing. Discuss any changes that need to be made.

• Period
• Comma
• Question Mark
• Exclamation Mark

Answer: Question Mark

A question mark is used to indicate that a sentence is asking something.

• the dog is barking
• The dog is barking.
• the Dog is barking.
• The dog is barking

Answer: The dog is barking.

The correct sentence starts with a capital letter and ends with a period.

Answer: Exclamation Mark

An exclamation mark shows strong feelings or excitement in a sentence.

• What time is it
• I like to play
• Is it raining
• Where are you

Answer: I like to play

This sentence is a statement and should end with a period.

Answer: I love pizza.

This sentence starts with a capital letter and ends with a period.

• Comma
• Period
• Semicolon
• Colon

Answer: Comma

Commas are used to separate items in a list.

• I am happy.
• Can you help me?
• She likes ice cream.
• They are playing.

Answer: Can you help me?

This sentence is phrased as a question, indicated by the question mark.

Answer: Capital letter