What are end marks?
End marks are punctuation marks used at the end of a sentence. They tell the reader how the sentence should sound and what kind of sentence it is.
- I like to read.
- Do you like to read?
- Look at that!
Every sentence must end with an end mark. A sentence is not complete without one.
The period (.)
A period is used at the end of a telling sentence. A telling sentence gives information or tells about something.
- The dog is sleeping.
- I have a red backpack.
- We go to school every day.
If the sentence is calm and tells something, it usually ends with a period.
The question mark (?)
A question mark is used at the end of an asking sentence. An asking sentence asks a question.
- What is your name?
- Do you want to play?
- Where is my book?
If the sentence can be answered, it should end with a question mark.
The exclamation mark (!)
An exclamation mark is used at the end of a sentence that shows strong feeling or excitement.
- That was fun!
- Wow, look at that!
- Stop!
Do not use exclamation marks too often. Save them for strong feelings.
Choosing the correct end mark
To choose the correct end mark, think about what the sentence is doing: telling, asking, or showing strong feeling.
- I see a bird. (telling)
- Can you see the bird? (asking)
- I see a huge bird! (strong feeling)
Read the sentence out loud. How it sounds can help you choose the correct end mark.