Compound sentence with explanatory statement The Art of styling sentences: Pattern 3

So…What does this all mean? Compound sentence (A sentence with two independent clauses) The first independent clause is a general statement (idea) The second independent clause is a specific statement (example) Colon The : thing Separates the general statement and the specific statement

Ok…but what does that Actually look like? Holidays are great: Every Summer I get to go to the south of France. Independent Clause 1 The General Statement (Idea) Independent Clause 2 The Specific Statement (example) The Colon This type of sentence is useful if you want to gain the audience’s general attention, and then “go on” with the topic.

Examples: Darwin’s Origin of Species forcibly states a harsh truth: only the fittest survive. A lizard never worries about losing its tail: it can always grow another. Don’t forget what the old saying prudently advises: Be careful what you wish for because you may actually get it. Dentists are evil: They like to inflict pain on poor innocent candy-eating children.

Now it is your turn Try to write 3 examples of this pattern. Make a general statement Add the colon Specify the first statement a little further

Some important things to remember A colon signals that something important or explanatory will follow and indicates that the second clause will specifically explain or expand an idea expressed in the first clause. Capitalization of the first word after the colon is a matter of personal taste and style; however, do capitalize the first word when quoting someone. Remember the test for every compound sentence: both clauses must be full statements and capable of standing alone as sentences.

PATTERN 3 MODEL “There are only two kinds of people who are really fascinating: people who know absolutely everything, and people who know absolutely nothing.” ~Oscar Wilde “There are 2 types of people in this world: the ones that can extrapolate from incomplete data…”

Just when you thought it was all over…

Can you spot the difference? PATTERN 3A MODEL Can you spot the difference? Only one man knew the safe’s combination – he was out of town. Eva said nothing could stop her from attending college – she meant it. “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” – Following this commandment might keep teens from gossiping about their peers.

What is the difference between a semicolon, a colon, and a dash? The semicolon is the neutral choice. Use a colon to amplify or illustrate the first clause (general > specific). A dash signals an abrupt change of tone or thought; a dash gives force to an added idea.

Complete the best punctuation (; or :) We do not ride upon the railroad __ it rides upon us. Minds are like parachutes __ they function only when open. Half of all advertising is wasted __ no one knows which half.