Using Semicolons
We will proofread sentences
for the correct use of
semicolons.
proofread= look over, edit
Prepronounce, Choral PS 2x
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.
APK- Today we will proofread for semicolons that connect
independent clauses
;
The semicolon signals a pause in
a sentence.
Definition: Semicolons separate
complete thoughts and
items within a sentence.
Concept
Choral read
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.
Concept *S underline notes
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;. it may
be
poisonous.
Everyone
stay together.
A
period
is clauses
used since
two related.
clauses A
These
two
are the
closely
are
not closely
related.
semicolon
can be
used to join them.
When is a semicolon used?
P/S: “A semicolon is used…”
R-A-J: Which is an example of correct semicolon usage?
WB
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.
RAJ
How did you know? PS x2
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
Saturday morning
morning at
at 730.
7:30.IfIfyou
you
can,
can, bring
bring the
the following
following:hoe,
hoe,
shovel,
shovel, weed-puller,
weed-puller, and
and gloves.
gloves.
It is also tested on the CST.
CFU: Why is learning about semicolons important?
PS Volunteers
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.
I do: How did I determine where the semicolon goes? PS 2x
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.
We do: How did we proofread for semicolons?
P/S 2x
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.
You do: How did you determine where the semicolon went?
P/S 2x
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.
Variation 2
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 fact,
fact, most of my clothes are
I like cotton; in
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
besides
however
consequently indeed
instead
meanwhile
moreover
nevertheless
otherwise
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.
Choral read S circle
Semicolons between independent clauses
Transitional expressions
Common Transitional Expressions
as a result
in addition
for example for instance
in conclusion in other words
in fact
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.
Choral read S circle
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.
Variation 2 : I do
How did I know where to place the semicolon?
How did I proofread for the semicolon? PS x2
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
We do: WB Word before ; word after
How did we proofread for semicolons? PS x2
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.
You do: WB Word before ; word after
How did we proofread for semicolons? PS x2
; 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? WB
How would you proofread for semicolons
in the following sentences? WB
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? Volunteer?
Independent Practice
Warriner’s Handbook page 279-280
#1-10