Introduction to Punctuation / The End Marks

Introduction to Punctuation / The End Marks (17:00)

Mastering punctuation requires both understanding and finesse. In this program, Mama Napoli, a crossing guard, and other savvy English authorities open a dialogue on punctuation and then skip to the end—of the sentence, that is. The use of the period in commands, in declarative sentences, and with abbreviations; the question mark in interrogative sentences and to show disbelief or sarcasm; and the exclamation point for emphasis are all discussed in detail. (17 minutes)

What is Punctuation? (02:44)
Punctuation is the system of marks, such as periods, commas, and apostrophes that accompany words in sentences and paragraphs. Punctuation makes things clear for the reader.

End Marks: Period (04:08)
The period is used to punctuate a command or statement. It can abbreviate a long word or phrase into a shorter form, as long as a standard abbreviation is used.

End Marks: Question Mark (02:52)
Interrogative sentences ask a question and end with a question mark. Used to end a statement it shows disbelief or sarcasm. Question marks may be used to emphasize items in a list.

End Marks: Exclamation Point (02:57)
The exclamation point is a stylistic mark that is used to show excitement, rage or other strong emotion. Choose expressive and precise words to help prevent over-using exclamation points.

Review of End Marks (01:20)
Periods end statements and commands and shorten long words. Question marks end interrogative sentences and highlight items in a list. Exclamation points show extreme emotion.