Grammar Hey, it ain’t so bad!

Colons! A colon is used after an independent clause to let your reader know that a series of words, phrases or clauses will follow. Ex: The baseball team’s success stemmed from four things: consistent hitting, solid pitching, good fielding and excellent teamwork. Purple = Independent Clause

Colons cont. A colon is used to separate TWO independent clauses, particularly when the second independent clause is closely related to the first. Ex. Religion and politics can be sensitive subjects: many people hold opinionated views and are easily offended by other peoples’ remarks.

Colons cont. A colon can be used AFTER an independent clause to place emphasis on an idea that follows. Ex. The oblivious teen didn’t notice who was driving right behind him: a police officer.

Colons cont. A colon can introduce a quotation after an independent clause. Ex. In his book, Language is Sermonic, rhetorician Richard Weaver described how language may influence us: Sophistications of theory cannot obscure the truth that there are but three ways for language to affect us. It can move us toward what is good; it can move us toward what Is evil; or it can, in hypothetical third place, fail to move us at all. (60)

Okay, Let’s practice! Exercise 1: A colon is used to separate TWO independent clauses, particularly when the second independent clause is closely related to the first. Place the colon where it belongs in the sentences below. Example: I am going to Cozumel, Mexico for spring break there had better be no rain or clouds. Answer: I am going to Cozumel, Mexico for spring break: there had better be no rain or clouds.

Okay, Let’s practice! Exercise 2: Answer the following grammar questions True or False. Example: When a colon is used to introduce a long quote, it does not have to follow an independent clause. Answer: FALSE! Colons must follow an independent clause when they introduce a long quotation.

Semi colons Use a semicolon in place of a period to separate two sentences where the conjunction has been left out. Ex: Call me tomorrow and I will give you my answer then. Call me tomorrow; I will give you my answer then. I have paid my dues; therefore, I expect all the privileges listed in the contract.

Semi Colons cont. It is preferable to use a semicolon before introductory words such as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., or for instance when they introduce a complete sentence. It is also preferable to use a comma after the introductory word Ex:You will want to bring many backpacking items; for example, sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing will make the trip better. As we discussed, you will bring two items; i.e., a sleeping bag and a tent are not optional.

Semi Colon cont Use either a semicolon or a comma before introductory words such as namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., or for instance when they introduce a list following a complete sentence. Use a comma after the introductory word. Ex:You will want to bring many backpacking items; for example, sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing. You will want to bring many backpacking items, for example, sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing.

Use the semicolon to separate units of a series when one or more of the units contain commas. Example: This conference has people who have come from Boise, Idaho; Los Angeles, California; and Nashville, Tennessee.

Use the semicolon between two sentences joined by a coordinating conjunction when one or more commas appear in the first sentence. Examples: When I finish here, I will be glad to help you; and that is a promise I will keep. If she can, she will attempt that feat; and if her husband is able, he will be there to see her.

Commas! Tip 1: Dependent clauses at the BEGINNING of the sentences should be set off with a comma. Because I eat ketchup everyday, I bought stock in Heinz. If my teachers don’t give me any homework over break, I will promise to work extra hard in April.

Commas Cont. Tip 2: If you have a dependent clause at the END of a sentence, you do not use a comma to set it off from the rest of the sentence. I will work very hard in April because my teachers are giving me a break in March. I don’t know if I would listen to her advice.

Commas Cont. Tip 3: When you have two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction, you need to put a comma BEFORE the coordinating conjunction. Peter is either going to the movies tonight or he is going to attend the school play. Sarah would like to meet with her biological mother but she doesn’t know how to find her. Or

Commas Cont. Tip 4: A comma splice is a common writing error that occurs when two independent clauses separated by only a comma. Change the comma to a semicolon or an end mark to correct this error. Comma Splice: My mom drives me crazy, she calls 10 times a day. Correction: My mom drives me crazy; she calls 10 times a day.