1. Grammar of the Week Semicolons & Colons

2. Semicolon Rule: Use a semicolon (;) to join two independent clauses that are closely related. –The rain stopped; the sun came out. –His voice was too soft; we couldn’t hear him. Warning: Do not place and, but, or or after a semicolon. –Incorrect: This scarf is pretty; and I might buy it for my sister. –Correct: This scarf is pretty; I might buy it for my sister.

3. Semicolon Caution: If a word such as therefore or however appears after a semicolon, place a comma after it. –You may go out to play; however, you must wear a jacket.

4. Colon Rule 1: Use a colon after the greeting of a business letter. Gentlemen: Dear Ms. Garcia: Rule 2:Use a colon in writing the time. 9:00 A.M. 11:23 P.M.

5. Rule 3: Use a colon to set off lists. Groceries: Milk Bread Cookies The following people must attend: Val, Sue, and Ty Rule 4: Use a colon between the chapter and verse(s) in the Bible. John 3:16 Genesis 7: 1-11

6. Rule 5: Use a colon after divisions of topics in a writing. Commas: Rule 1: Rule 2:

7. Practice 1.Marge emptied the trash Jim set the table. 2.It’s now 530 P.M. 3.We need the following items sugar, milk, and eggs. 4.Dear Sir 5.Rule A Do not pick any flowers.