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Compound sentence with explanatory statement. The Art of styling sentences: Pattern 3. So…What does this all mean?. Compound sentence (A sentence with two independent clauses) The first independent clause is a general statement (idea)
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Compound sentence with explanatory statement The Art of styling sentences: Pattern 3
So…What does this all mean? • Compound sentence • (A sentence with two independent clauses) • The first independent clause is a general statement (idea) • The second independent clause is a specific statement (example) • Colon • The : thing • Separates the general statement and the specific statement
Ok…but what does that Actually look like? Holidays are great: Every Summer I get to go to the south of France. Independent Clause 1 The General Statement (Idea) Independent Clause 2 The Specific Statement (example) The Colon This type of sentence is useful if you want to gain the audience’s general attention, and then “go on” with the topic.
Examples: • Darwin’s Origin of Species forcibly states a harsh truth: only the fittest survive. • A lizard never worries about losing its tail: it can always grow another. • Don’t forget what the old saying prudently advises: Be careful what you wish for because you may actually get it. • Dentists are evil: They like to inflict pain on poor innocent candy-eating children.
Now it is your turn Try to write 3 examples of this pattern. • Make a general statement • Add the colon • Specify the first statement a little further
Some important things to remember • A colonsignals that something important or explanatory will follow and indicates that the second clause will specifically explain or expand an idea expressed in the first clause. • Capitalization of the first word after the colon is a matter of personal taste and style; however, do capitalize the first word when quoting someone. • Remember the test for every compound sentence: both clauses must be full statements and capable of standing alone as sentences.
PATTERN 3 MODEL “There are only two kinds of people who are really fascinating: people who know absolutely everything, and people who know absolutely nothing.” ~Oscar Wilde “There are 2 types of people in this world: the ones that can extrapolate from incomplete data…”
PATTERN 3A MODEL Can you spot the difference? • Only one man knew the safe’s combination – he was out of town. • Eva said nothing could stop her from attending college – she meant it. • “You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor” – Following this commandment might keep teens from gossiping about their peers.
What is the difference between a semicolon, a colon, and a dash? • The semicolon is the neutral choice. • Use a colon to amplify or illustrate the first clause (general > specific). • A dash signals an abrupt change of tone or thought; a dashgives force to an added idea.
Complete the best punctuation (; or :) • We do not ride upon the railroad __ it rides upon us. • Minds are like parachutes __ they function only when open. • Half of all advertising is wasted __ no one knows which half.