Fixing Punctuation
Learn
Punctuation marks are like traffic signs for reading. They tell us when to stop, pause, or get excited! Learning to use punctuation correctly will make your writing clear and easy to read.
What is Punctuation?
Punctuation marks are special symbols we use in writing. They help readers understand when sentences start and end, and how to read with feeling.
Important Punctuation Marks
- Period (.) - Ends a statement. "The sky is blue."
- Question Mark (?) - Ends a question. "Is it raining?"
- Exclamation Point (!) - Shows excitement or strong feeling. "Wow, that's amazing!"
- Comma (,) - Shows a pause or separates items. "I like apples, bananas, and grapes."
When to Use Each Punctuation Mark
Period (.)
Use a period at the end of a sentence that tells something or gives information.
Example: I have a pet cat. She likes to play.
Question Mark (?)
Use a question mark at the end of a sentence that asks something.
Example: What is your name? Do you like pizza?
Exclamation Point (!)
Use an exclamation point to show strong feelings like excitement, surprise, or urgency.
Example: Watch out! I won the game! That's incredible!
Test-Taking Tip
On tests, always check if each sentence has the RIGHT ending punctuation. Ask yourself: Is this a statement, a question, or an exclamation?
Examples
Let's practice adding the correct punctuation.
Example 1: Ending a Statement
Sentence: I like to read books
Think: This sentence tells information. It's a statement.
Correct: I like to read books.
Example 2: Ending a Question
Sentence: What time is it
Think: This sentence asks something.
Correct: What time is it?
Example 3: Showing Excitement
Sentence: We won the game
Think: This is exciting news!
Correct: We won the game!
Example 4: Choosing the Right Mark
Sentence: Look out for that car
Think: This is urgent and important - a warning!
Correct: Look out for that car!
Example 5: Using a Comma
Sentence: I packed a sandwich an apple and juice
Think: This lists items. We need commas between them.
Correct: I packed a sandwich, an apple, and juice.
Practice
Add the correct punctuation to each sentence.
1. My favorite color is blue
Show Answer
My favorite color is blue. (Statement - use a period.)
2. Where did you put my book
Show Answer
Where did you put my book? (Question - use a question mark.)
3. Watch out for the bee
Show Answer
Watch out for the bee! (Warning - use an exclamation point.)
4. The dog is sleeping on the couch
Show Answer
The dog is sleeping on the couch. (Statement - use a period.)
5. Can we go to the park today
Show Answer
Can we go to the park today? (Question - use a question mark.)
6. Happy birthday to you
Show Answer
Happy birthday to you! (Excitement - use an exclamation point.)
7. I need to buy milk bread and eggs
Show Answer
I need to buy milk, bread, and eggs. (List - use commas and a period.)
8. How old are you
Show Answer
How old are you? (Question - use a question mark.)
9. I cant believe it
Show Answer
I can't believe it! (Excitement - use an exclamation point. Also, "can't" needs an apostrophe.)
10. The sun is shining today
Show Answer
The sun is shining today. (Statement - use a period.)
Check Your Understanding
Question 1: What punctuation mark ends a question?
Show Answer
A question mark (?) ends a question.
Question 2: When should you use an exclamation point?
Show Answer
Use an exclamation point to show strong feelings like excitement, surprise, or urgency. Examples: "Wow!" "Help!" "That's amazing!"
Question 3: What is wrong with this sentence? "I went to the store."
Show Answer
Nothing is wrong! This sentence correctly uses a period because it's a statement.
Question 4: How do you know if a sentence needs a question mark?
Show Answer
A sentence needs a question mark if it ASKS something. Question words like who, what, where, when, why, and how often start questions. Also look for sentences that can be answered with yes or no.
Next Steps
- Check your writing: Every time you write, make sure each sentence ends with the right punctuation mark.
- Read aloud: When you read a sentence, use your voice to match the punctuation. Pause at periods, raise your voice for questions.
- Keep learning: You have completed the Sentence Fixups unit! Move on to learn about finding evidence and choosing the best answers.