English First Additional Language - Term 4 - Week 10

A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. Every sentence begins with a capital letter and ends with a punctuation mark, such as a period, question mark, or exclamation mark. Proper punctuation helps readers understand the meaning of the sentence. For example, 'The dog barks.' is a complete sentence, while 'the dog barks' is not because it lacks a capital letter at the beginning and a period at the end.

Let's look at some examples. Correct: 'I love reading books.' Incorrect: 'i love reading books' (missing capital letter). Correct: 'Are you coming to the party?' Incorrect: 'Are you coming to the party' (missing question mark). Notice how punctuation changes the meaning and clarity of sentences.

Now, let's practice together. I will say a sentence, and you will help me write it correctly. For example, I say, 'the cat sleeps on the mat'. What do we need to change? Yes! We need a capital letter at the beginning and a period at the end. So, it becomes 'The cat sleeps on the mat.' Let's try another one: 'where is my book'. What punctuation do we need? Correct! It should be 'Where is my book?'

Now it's your turn to write! I want you to write five sentences about your favorite animal. Remember to start each sentence with a capital letter and end with the correct punctuation. After you finish writing, read your sentences to a partner and check if they have the correct punctuation and spacing.

• lowercase letter
• capital letter
• number
• symbol

Answer: capital letter

Every sentence must start with a capital letter to indicate the beginning of a new thought.

• the sun is shining
• The sun is shining.
• the Sun is shining.
• The sun is shining

Answer: The sun is shining.

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

Answer: Question mark

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

• I like ice cream
• I like ice cream.
• I like ice cream!
• I like ice cream?

Answer: I like ice cream

The sentence is missing a punctuation mark at the end.

Answer: Responses will vary.

Students should provide a complete sentence that includes proper punctuation.

• phrase
• sentence
• clause
• paragraph

Answer: sentence

A sentence is defined as a complete thought expressed in words.

• period
• comma
• exclamation mark
• question mark

Answer: exclamation mark

An exclamation mark is used at the end of a sentence to express strong feelings or excitement.