Colons · Grade 9
In Grade 9 you learn: a colon to introduce a list and a colon before an explanation.
A colon : introduces something that the first part of the sentence points to: a list, an explanation, or a single word or idea that you want to stand out. The words before a colon must make a complete sentence. You will need three things: a pen, a ruler and a rubber.
Key facts
- A colon introduces a list. The words before it must be a complete sentence: We visited four countries: Egypt, Jordan, Oman and Kenya.
- A colon can introduce an explanation or a reason: the second part explains the first. I couldn't sleep: the dog barked all night.
- After a colon, carry on with a small letter (unless the word is a name or I).
Worked examples
Example 1
Add a colon: The recipe has three ingredients flour, eggs and milk.
Answer: The recipe has three ingredients: flour, eggs and milk.
Example 2
Colon or semicolon? She was delighted ___ she had won first prize.
Answer: :
Example 3
Add a colon to introduce the explanation: The match was called off the pitch was flooded.
Answer: The match was called off: the pitch was flooded.
Example 4
Add a colon: Bring three things a pencil, a ruler and a sharpener.
Answer: Bring three things: a pencil, a ruler and a sharpener.
Example 5
Which sentence uses the colon correctly? We need: eggs, milk and bread. or We need three things: eggs, milk and bread.
Answer: We need three things: eggs, milk and bread.