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They are simple things. The period, or full stop (.) The Question mark (?) And the Exclamation mark (!) 3 small little marks – yet they can completely change the meaning of our sentences. Think about the meaning, and how you would say the following three sentences.
- Shannan is an amazing teacher. Or
- Shannan is an amazing teacher!! Or
- Shannan is an amazing teacher?
Well, personally, I really like Number 2 – Shannan is an amazing teacher!! And why do I like that? Look at all that exclamation! It means good things; it means that students really appreciate my teaching; it means I’m doing a good job!
If my students were asking Question number 3, I would be a little worried about it. It might mean that they don’t know who I am; or it may also mean that they’re questioning my teaching and don’t think I’m a good teacher.
And point number 1 – yes, it means that the statement is true – but it’s just not…exciting! So, when you are writing, whether it be for an in-class task; or writing an email; or writing on facebook, think about your use of punctuation. It will make a difference.
PS. Check out the following YouTube clips. Who ever thought punctuation could be so fun?!