Colons

A colon is a punctuation mark consisting of two equally sized dots centered on the same vertical line.

How can colons be used?

• Introducing a list
  Example: I need the following items from the grocery store: butter, sugar, and flour.
• Introducing a single item
  Example: I know exactly what made the sound: my cat.
• Introducing an explanation
  Example: Please do not come over for dinner: I am not feeling well.
• Introducing speech
  Example: She asked for help loudly over the speaker: “Is there a doctor on the plane?”
• Between independent clauses when the second sentence explains, illustrates, paraphrases, or expands on the first sentence.
  Example: The family planted the tree: it was a beautiful new addition to the yard.

Let’s practice! Correct the following and write what type of example it is:

1. My friend shouted at me from across the parking lot “Don’t forget about our volleyball game tomorrow!”
   Type: ____________

 

2. I need to pass the following classes to become a registered nurse Pathophysiology, Critical Care, and Pharmacology.
   Type: ____________

 

3. Mark’s new bike was a very smooth ride he never felt and bumps on the road.
   Type: ____________

 

4. The mixing of the rain and the sun can create a beautiful phenomenon a rainbow.
   Type: ____________

 

5. Lisa skipped her presentation day she was too nervous to speak in front of the class.
   Type: ____________