Speech second: inverted commas and punctuation rules
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can accurately punctuate a speech second sentence.
Key learning points
- Direct speech is the term used for a character speaking out loud in a text.
- A speech second sentence begins with the reporting clause followed by a character's spoken words.
- The reporting clause comes before the speech to show who said the speech and how.
- The speech sentence spoken by a character must start with a capital letter.
Keywords
Direct speech - the term used for a character speaking out loud in a text
Speech second sentence - a sentence that includes direct speech second after the reporting clause
Inverted commas - a pair of punctuation marks that signal direct speech to the reader
Reporting clause - a clause that tells the reader who said the speech sentence and how
Speech first sentence - a sentence that includes direct speech first before the reporting clause
Common misconception
Pupils may omit the comma after the reporting clause, or they may use a comma to end the sentence.
Reinforce the point that commas are never used to close a sentence, even in speech second sentences.
Teacher tip
Display the graphic representations of speech first and speech second sentences in the classroom so that pupils can refer to them when writing and editing.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is missing from the following speech first sentence? "he did it before I did!" exclaimed Jun in frustration.
Q2.What is the purpose of the reporting clause in this sentence? "This is appalling behaviour!" bellowed Mr Clarke angrily.
Q3.Which punctuation mark is most appropriate for the gap in this sentence? "I need a volunteer to help me water these plants__________" said Miss Ofoedu with a smile.
Q4.Which option correctly punctuates this idea for a speech first sentence? can I help you Aisha asked nervously
Q5.Match the direct speech to the most appropriate reporting clause.
asked Andeep kindly.
Alex shouted in anger.
offered Sam with a smile.
Q6.Match the punctuation mark to the way it is used at the end of direct speech.
used at the end of a question
used to show strong emotions
not used in a speech first sentence
used when there is no strong emotion
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Where is the reporting clause found in a speech second sentence?
Q2.What punctuation is missing in this sentence? Jacob sighed angrily "You said that last time!"
Q3.What punctuation is missing in this sentence? The elderly man grumbled, "I can't walk that fast anymore"
Q4.What error has been made in this speech second sentence? Mr Clarke demanded angrily, "who did this?"
Q5.Which of the following answers may be included in a reporting clause?
Q6.Which version of the sentence below is punctuated correctly as a speech second sentence?
To help you plan your 4 English lesson on: Speech second: inverted commas and punctuation rules, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 English lesson on: Speech second: inverted commas and punctuation rules, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 English lessons from the Apostrophes and speech punctuation unit, dive into the full primary English curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.