Punctuation: Exclamation Points

Exclamation Points: The Power of Excitement!

What is an exclamation point (!)?

An exclamation point is a punctuation mark that looks like a straight line with a dot underneath. It’s used to show strong feelings or emotions.

When do we use exclamation points?

1. Exclamations: We use exclamation points at the end of a sentence that shows strong emotion.

   • Examples:
     • Wow! That’s amazing!
     • Ouch! That hurt!
     • Hooray! We won!

2. Strong Commands: We use exclamation points at the end of a sentence that gives a strong command.

   • Examples:
     • Stop!
     • Be careful!
     • Listen to me!

3. Interjections: We use exclamation points after interjections (words that express sudden feelings).

   • Examples:
     • Oh no! I lost my keys!
     • Yikes! That spider is huge!
     • Hey! Watch out!

Important Things to Remember:

• Use exclamation points sparingly. Too many can make your writing seem overexcited or dramatic.
• Don’t put a space before the exclamation point.
• Don’t use exclamation points in formal writing, like essays or business letters.

Let’s Practice!

1. Add the Exclamation Points: Put exclamation points where they belong in these sentences.

   • That’s fantastic news
   • Stop running in the hallway
   • Watch out for that car
   • Wow you look beautiful today
   • Oh no I forgot my homework

2. Change to Exclamations: Change the following sentences into exclamations.

   • I’m so happy. (I’m so happy!)
   • The food is delicious. (The food is delicious!)
   • Don’t touch that. (Don’t touch that!)

Challenge!

Write a short conversation between two friends who are excited about an upcoming concert. Use at least three exclamation points in your dialogue.