Semi-colons: silver ants
The Grammar Bit!
Read the three scintillating sentences opposite. You’ll notice that each sentence consists of two main clauses that have been joined by a semi-colon (;) instead of a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet and so). A semi-colon is used when the statement made in the second clause is closely linked to the first, but relies on the reader to decide the nature of this link.
Remember – a main clause (sometimes called an independent clause) usually contains a subject and a verb and must make sense on its own.
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Now use the Time to Talk ‘Detective Partnered Talk’ prompt below to identify how each of the sentences could be rewritten using a coordinating conjunction instead of a semi-colon. Discuss which version, you think is the most effective.
– Detective Partnered Talk (Click 🗣️)
Scintillating Sentences
1) The blistering sun was proving deadly; the silver ants made a quick retreat.
2) Silver ants scavenge on those that have frazzled in the midday heat; they have no need to hunt other insects.
3) The silver ants were able to move across the desert at lightning speed; long legs were the key to their rapid locomotion.
4)They forage for food in extreme conditions; they return to their nests almost immediately.
Did you know?
Ants don’t have ears. Instead, they ‘hear’ by feeling vibrations in the ground through their feet.
