Students master two often-misused punctuation marks — the semicolon (which joins related complete sentences) and the colon (which introduces a list or explanation) — adding precision and sophistication to their writing.
Students will be able to…
The semicolon and colon look similar but do very different jobs — and misusing them is a giveaway. When does each one belong?
Project each item and have students choose the correct punctuation. The tool explains exactly when a semicolon or colon belongs.
Tap any phase to open the teacher moves and student actions.
Semicolon or colon — do you know which goes where?
Teacher models.
Class uses Punctuate It.
Students punctuate.
Students share a sentence.
Aligned to the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts (Grades 9–10).
Demonstrate command of the conventions of capitalization, punctuation, and spelling.
Use a semicolon to link two closely related independent clauses.
Use a colon to introduce a list or quotation.
Apply knowledge of language conventions when writing.
Preview the three formative checks. Tap “Sample answer” to see what mastery looks like — hide them before you print for students.
Have students use a colon to set up a dramatic single word or idea (“There was only one thing left to do: run.”) and explain the effect. A printable punctuation sheet is in the ELA library.
Tap a card to flip it, then rate whether you knew it. Built from this lesson’s vocabulary.
A quick self-check with instant feedback, drawn from this lesson’s key terms.
A print-and-go review sheet with a built-in answer key. Tap “Show answer key” to reveal answers, or print the clean version for students.