Grammar for writing: using semicolons to link main clauses
Grammar for writing: using semicolons to link main clauses
Slide deck
Download slide deck
Lesson details
Key learning points
- In this lesson, we will revise the use of semicolons and explore how they can help to improve the clarity and cohesion of our writing.
Licence
This content is made available by Oak National Academy Limited and its partners and licensed under Oak’s terms & conditions (Collection 1), except where otherwise stated.
Video
Share with pupils
Loading...
10 Questions
Q1.
What should all sentences start with?
direct object
preposition
subject
Q2.
What is the subject of a sentence?
the action being completed
the main character
who or what the action is done to
Q3.
Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "It is never too late to master your grammar."
complex
compound
Q4.
Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Because it improves the clarity and quality of your writing, you should use a variety of sentence structures where you can."
compound
simple
Q5.
Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Deliberate practice and recall of core knowledge will help you to write more accurately so you should make a start now!"
complex
simple
Q6.
Is this sentence compound, complex or simple? "Your writing communicates your opinions and ideas; your thoughts matter."
complex
simple
Q7.
Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contain more than one main clause and they are joined by a conjunction (or semicolon)"
complex sentence
fragment
simple sentence
Q8.
Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contains one main clause"
complex sentence
compound sentence
fragment
Q9.
Which key word(s) match the following definition: "contains at least one subordinate clause"
compound sentence
fragment
simple sentence
Q10.
Which key word(s) match the following definition: "doesn't contain a main clause and can't stand alone as a complete thought"
complex sentence
compound sentence
simple sentence
5 Questions
Q1.
What is a main clause?
a clause that doesn't make sense on its own
Q2.
What is a subordinate clause?
a clause that makes sense on its own
Q3.
Which of the statements below is true?
You always need a capital letter after a semicolon.
You need a capital letter after a semicolon if it is the start of a new clause.
You should never use a capital letter after a semicolon.
Q4.
Which statements are true?
You do not need a capital letter after a semicolon unless the first word is a proper noun (the name of a person or place).
You should use a semicolon to separate a subordinate clause from a main clause.
Q5.
Which of these sentences use semicolons correctly?
Hard work has many benefits; one of which is success.
Summer is my favourite time of year; The weather is (mostly) glorious!