English // Grammar & Punctuation

Punctuating Clauses

Use semi-colons, colons, and dashes to mark boundaries between independent clauses, choosing the appropriate punctuation based on the relationship between the clauses

Ages
10 to 11
Type
Method
Builds on
2 topics
Leads to
1 topic
Standards
2 codes

Quick check

When the learner writes two closely related sentences, can they join them with a semi-colon or colon — like "It was late; the streets were empty" — rather than always using a full stop or "and"?

Ask this to see whether the topic is secure.

Topic // Mastery

What mastery looks like

What a learner can do once this topic is secure.
  • Join two related independent clauses using a semi-colon in place of a conjunction
  • Use a colon to introduce an explanation or elaboration of the first clause
  • Replace commas with dashes to create stronger pauses between clauses for emphasis

Topic // Map

Where this fits

What to learn first and what this topic opens up, with the reason for each link. Required links come first.
  • RequiredMust come first
  • HelpfulHelps, but not essential

Before this

2 topics
  • Subordinate clausesRequired

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 6 to 9

    Semi-colons between clauses requires understanding of independent clauses

  • Commas Before Joining WordsHelpful

    Grammar & Punctuation // Ages 9 to 11

    Clause boundary punctuation builds on comma use with conjunctions

You are here

Punctuating Clauses

Ages 10 to 11 // Method

Leads to

1 topic

Topic // Standards

Curriculum standards

Codes for the curriculum statements this topic maps to. Each publisher owns its standard text.
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document
Eng.App2.Y6.Punc.1Eng.UKS2.Write.VGP.2d

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