1. The Four Functions of a Sentence
Declarative sentence: States an idea and ends with a period.
Example: Elfreth’s Alley in Philadelphia is the oldest continuously inhabited street in the country. The street dates back to the 1690’s.
Interrogative sentence: Asks a question and ends with a question mark.
Example: Do you know how many houses are located on Elfreth’s Alley? Are you sure there are thirty-three houses?
Imperative sentence: Gives an order or a direction and ends with either a period or an exclamation mark (ugh).
**Note: Most imperative sentences start with a verb. In the following example the subject is understood to be you.
Example: Let’s tour Philadelphia. Wait for me!
Exclamatory sentence: Conveys strong emotion and ends with an exclamation mark. (Mr. Price Side-note: You are only allowed to use three of these sentences in your life)
Example: All the historic buildings in this city are beautiful!

2. Give it a shot
Identify each sentence as declarative, interrogative, imperative or exclamatory. Then, write the end mark for each.
I can’t believe that Benjamin Franklin was only seventeen years old when he came to Philadelphia
Answer: Exclamatory!
2. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1706
Answer: Declarative.
Did you know that Franklin was primarily self-educated
Answer: Interrogative?
Read The Autobiography to find out more about his early life
Answer: Imperative.
Franklin was one of Philadelphia’s most influential citizens

3. Can you do it?
Follow the direction to write a sentence for each item below.
Write a declarative sentence about a city.
Write an exclamatory sentence about a holiday.
Write an imperative sentence about a school activity.
Write an interrogative sentence about a school subject.
Write an interrogative sentence about a current issue.
Write an exclamatory sentence about a food.
Write a declarative sentence about an animal.
Write a declarative sentence about your hometown.
Write an imperative sentence about a place you would like to visit.
Write an interrogative sentence about an upcoming event.