Colons

Colons are used to: a) Introduce a quotation or a list. It is really important to revise the following: equations, graphs, fractions and decimals. b) To add an explanation of what has come before. The garden was infested with ants: big, black and red ones.

An important thing to remember about the colon is that what comes before the colon must be able to make sense on its own for it to be used. The basket contained fish, bread and wine. The basket contained many items: fish, bread and wine. A colon is used in the second example because what comes before it The basket contained many items is a sentence which would make sense on its own. It isn’t used in the first example to introduce the list because The basket contained is not a sentence on its own.

Task 2: Re-write the following sentences into your jotter using a colon in the correct way which introduces a quotation or a list. There are many ways to make money sell your kidney, rob a bank, win the lottery, invent something amazing. In Act 5 Romeo states “I love you, Juliet” Pollution now affects every aspect of our lives food, water, air and even our moments of quiet.

Task 3: Re-write the following sentences into your jotter using a colon in the correct way so that what comes after adds an explanation of what has come before: Football, cricket and tennis. These are my favourite sports. I’m always late for school. Getting up on time is really difficult for me. There’s only one word to describe that. Fabulous.

Task 4: Re-write the following sentences using colons in the correct way. WARNING!! Some sentences will not require colons….! 1.I can see only one thing the old lighthouse. 2.Mankind only has one choice left stop burning fossil fuel. 3.These are my favourite breakfast cereals Rice Krispies, Cornflakes, Coco Pops and Frosties. 4.The pot contained sausage, mushroom and beans. 5.Our quality of life is damaged by polluting rivers, burning fossil fuels and using too much electricity.

6.I like a new house to be all of the following big, clean, spacious and made of brick. 7.I love a huge breakfast ham, mushrooms, eggs and cheese. 8.Our English teacher has a favourite saying “Use the colon correctly and you can conquer the world.” 9.There are many brilliant films being released this summer Terminator:Salvation, Harry Potter 6 and Star Trek. 10.There’s only one way of protecting yourself from the sun don’t go in it.