Apostrophes: The Little Marks with Two Big Jobs
What is an apostrophe (‘)?
An apostrophe is a tiny punctuation mark that looks like a comma floating in the air. It’s a versatile tool used in two main ways:
- Possessives: To show that something belongs to someone or something.
- Contractions: To combine two words into one shorter word.
Apostrophes and Possessives
We use apostrophes to show ownership.
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Singular Nouns: Add ‘s to show that the noun owns something.
- Example: The cat’s toy (The toy belongs to the cat)
- Example: Mary’s book (The book belongs to Mary)
- Example: Jess’s car (The car belongs to Jess, even though the name ends in s)
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Plural Nouns Ending in S: Add just an apostrophe after the s to show ownership.
- Example: The dogs’ leashes (The leashes belong to the dogs)
-
Plural Nouns Not Ending in S: Add ‘s
- Example: The children’s toys (The toys belong to the children)
Apostrophes and Contractions
We use apostrophes to create contractions, which are shortened forms of words. The apostrophe replaces the missing letter(s).
- Examples:
- I am = I’m
- He is = He’s
- Do not = Don’t
- They are = They’re
- Cannot = Can’t
Let’s Practice!
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Add the Apostrophes:
- My sisters cat is very playful.
- Its a beautiful day outside.
- Ill see you tomorrow.
- The childrens toys are all over the floor.
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Identify the Type: Tell whether the apostrophe is used for a possessive or a contraction.
- The dog’s tail is wagging. (Possessive)
- We’re going to the park. (Contraction)
- The girls’ dresses are pretty. (Possessive)
- It’s time to go home. (Contraction)
Challenge!
Write a short story about a lost item. Use at least two possessives and two contractions in your story!
