Worksheet Colons, semi-colons, brackets and

2.3d dashes
Remember that often:
• a colon signals to the reader: and I’m going to tell you why
• a semi-colon signals to the reader: and I’m going to tell you a little bit more
about that
• brackets signal to the reader: don’t forget that
• a dash signals to the reader: know what I mean?

Task 1 Choose a character: politician, comedian, charity worker or TV presenter.

Decide on the type of punctuation you think would convey their role and
personality. For example:

I am a politician and I am going to tell you exactly why I believe I am right so I

will be using the colon.

Next choose an issue of importance to your character – global warming, rights for
young people, improved transport systems or the rise of celebrities.

• My chosen character: ........................................................................................

• Punctuation to suit this character: ......................................................................

• My chosen issue/topic: .......................................................................................

Write a short speech using punctuation to help to convey your meanings:

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Task 2 When you have finished writing your speech, work with a partner to evaluate the
impact of the punctuation – has it emphasised the character of your speaker?

Task 3 Now choose a different character or a different issue to demonstrate how that
particular person might use punctuation to have an effect on an audience.
Key technical skills
Chapter 2

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