Revision for Close Reading Punctuation Punctuation helps us

Revision for Close Reading

Punctuation Ø Punctuation helps us to understand the meaning Ø If a question asks you about punctuation, do not simply write down which punctuation marks are used. Ø Say how it helps us to understand the meaning

A Colon Ø A colon is used to introduce l l l a list a development of the point made before the colon a further explanation of the statement before the colon When we see a colon it points us forward: we know that the writer will go on to give us more information which will illustrate, develop or clarify her/his point. Find an example or a colon from the passage you are studying and say how it is used.

A semi-colon for lists Ø A semi- colon separates items in a list when the items are more than one or two words Ø It helps us to understand a list by keeping the items apart Ø Remember that a list will help us to gain an impression of the extent or quantity.

A semi-colon for closely linked ideas Ø A semi- colon can be used in place of a full stop when the two sentences are closely linked in thought. Ø I took the book back to the shop; there were some pages missing.

Hyphens Don’t confuse hyphens with the single dash Ø A hyphen joins two or more words together e. g. weight – lifting, part- time Ø Sometimes writers join words together to create a humorous effect Ø You know my water-proof, rust-resistant, shockabsorbing , top–of–the-range-all-singing-and dancing mobile phone? I just lost it! Ø

Three dots Ellipsis A row of three dots ( an ellipsis) may be used to indicate In the middle of a sentence Ø an interruption Ø to show that something has been missed out Ø to provide a pause Ø to introduce a surprise At the end of a sentence: Ø To leave the reader in suspense Ø To leave the reader to work out what might happen next Ø To suggest that things continue on Ø

Linking sentence Ø Quote the part of the sentence which connects to the previous ideas. Ø Explain how it does – you may use a quotation here Ø Quote the part of the sentence which connects to the new ideas following Ø Explain how it does – you may use a quotation here

A two-part question worth four marks For example: How do the structure and word choice of lines 75 – 80 show the writer’s change of attitude ? 4 marks Divide up your answer with headings and bullet points Structure • • …………. Word Choice …………….

The evaluation question Ø Read carefully to see what you are being asked about l l Writer’s ideas Writer’s attitude Writer’s style A combination of these You will need evidence - quotations from the passage to support what you say. Ø Use quotations from more than one part of the passage. Ø You may use points from previous answers. Ø Use the number of marks as a guide to how much you should write. Ø