Utilizing Punctuation

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is centered on the exploration of punctuation’s role in writing through consulting established English usage references. It asks students to investigate the effects of specific punctuation marks—namely the em dash, ellipsis, and exclamation point—by referencing texts such as “Fowler’s Dictionary of Modern English Usage” and “A Dictionary of Modern English Usage”. The students must identify the impact each of these punctuation marks can have on their writing and then reflect on how they can apply these techniques to achieve a desired effect in their own work.

The aim of the worksheet is to teach students about the nuanced effects of punctuation on the readability and emphasis in their writing. By researching authoritative sources, students learn how punctuation can be used to add clarity, create suspense, indicate a pause, or convey strong emotions. This task encourages students to think critically about the stylistic and rhetorical choices they make in their writing. Ultimately, it guides them to apply this knowledge to enhance their own writing style and effectiveness.