Definition: An end mark is a punctuation mark used at the end of a sentence to show that the sentence is finished. There are three end marks: the period, the question mark, and the exclamation mark.
- Hint:
- You may want to review sentence types in Module 10, Lesson 7: Kinds of Sentences/Sentence Purposes.
Periods
Periods are used to end many types of sentences:
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Declarative sentences
The sun is shining this morning.
I want to go to the beach.
I can't find my keys. -
Polite or less emphatic imperative sentences
Look under your chair.
Please be on time. -
Indirect questions
The teacher asked Michael why he was late.
Mom asked if you remembered to buy milk.
Question Marks
Question marks are used after interrogative sentences (direct questions). There are several types of interrogative sentences:
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Basic questions
Have you seen my other shoe?
Where have you been? -
Question fragments
I didn't eat the rest of the pizza, did you?
You are late. Why? -
Imperative sentences phrased like questions
Would you please hand me that book?
Will you all please have a seat?
Exclamation Marks (also called Exclamation Points)
Exclamation marks are used to end several types of emphatic expressions:
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Basic exclamatory sentences
I can't believe you won!
It's raining again! -
Strong interjections
Wow! That's a lot of money!
Whew! That was a close call. -
Powerful imperative sentences
Watch out!
Be quiet! -
Exclamations phrased as questions
What a beautiful home you have!
How wonderful!