English Grade 12 Punctuation

Paper 1 NSC

5 Functions of a comma

• Separates words in a list

• Indicates the end of a phrase

• additional information

• replaces however/nevertheless

• separates introductory words

3 Functions of a semi-colon

• indicates a long pause

• indicates opposite ideas

• joins two main clauses

3 Functions of a colon

• indicates list, explanation or idea

• introduces quotes

• introduces direct speech

5 Functions of a quotation mark

• Indicates direct speech

• shows quotation/quote

• Title

• excuses slang

• metaphoric language

3 Functions of a hyphen

• Links prefixes

• Differentiates meanings

• pronounciation

4 Functions of a dash

Indicates:

• Pause

• Additional information

• comment

• climax or anti-climax

7 Subordinate conjunctions

• for

• and

• nor

• but

• or

• yet

• so

what is malapropism

• 7 The unintentional use of similar sounding words

• ensure-assure

7 advertising tactics

• visual effects

• language devices

• appeal to emotions and desires

• universal concerns

• statistical claim

• humor

• gimmicks