Mastering Dashes: Em-Dashes and En-Dashes
A Grade 9 ELA worksheet focusing on the correct usage of em-dashes and en-dashes in sentences.
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Mastering Dashes: Em-Dashes and En-Dashes
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Read each question carefully and follow the instructions. This worksheet focuses on the correct usage of em-dashes (—) and en-dashes (–).
Dashes are versatile punctuation marks that can add clarity, emphasis, or a break in thought to your writing. There are two main types of dashes: the em-dash (—) and the en-dash (–).
Em-Dash (—): Used to indicate a sudden break in thought, to set off an appositive that contains commas, or to create emphasis. It is typically typed as two hyphens without spaces in between (e.g., --).
En-Dash (–): Shorter than an em-dash, it is used to indicate a range (e.g., dates, pages, numbers) or a connection between two things. It is typically typed as a single hyphen (e.g., -) by some word processors, but it is distinct from a hyphen.
1. Which sentence correctly uses an em-dash to indicate a sudden break in thought?
The weather was beautiful – perfect for a picnic.
My dog – a golden retriever – loves to swim.
I packed everything I needed – snacks, drinks, and a blanket.
She suddenly stopped talking—she had forgotten her lines.
2. In which sentence is the em-dash used correctly to set off an appositive that contains commas?
My favorite fruits – apples, bananas, and oranges – are healthy.
The book—a classic of American literature, widely praised by critics—is a must-read.
She likes to travel—especially to Europe, Asia, and Africa.
He finally arrived—late as usual.
Instructions: Fill in the blank with either an em-dash (—) or an en-dash (–) to complete the sentence correctly.
3. The debate will take place from 7 9 p.m.
4. My grandmother’s recipes the ones with chocolate—are always the best.
5. The New York London flight was delayed.
6. I can’t believe it I forgot my homework!
Instructions: Determine if the following statements about dashes are true or false.
7. An en-dash is primarily used to indicate a sudden break in thought.
True
False
8. An em-dash is longer than an en-dash.
True
False
9. Explain the primary difference between an em-dash and an en-dash, and provide an example sentence for each.
10. Write a short paragraph (3-5 sentences) about your favorite hobby or a recent event. In your paragraph, you must correctly use at least one em-dash and one en-dash. Underline the dashes you use.
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