Let’s go step by step through each sentence and decide whether to use a
comma,
ellipsis (...), or
dash (–) based on the rules given:
> - Comma: separates or encloses phrases/clauses
> - Ellipsis: shows omission in a direct quote
> - Dash: emphasizes material within a sentence
---
1. I would suggest _______ or should I say argue _______ that this must change.
→ The phrase “or should I say argue” is an interruption — it adds emphasis or correction. That calls for
dashes.
✔ Answer:
I would suggest – or should I say argue – that this must change.
---
2. In conclusion _______ I am very proud of you.
→ “In conclusion” is an introductory phrase. We usually put a
comma after such phrases.
✔ Answer:
In conclusion, I am very proud of you.
---
3. Dan explained, “wash the dishes _______ someday you will learn.”
→ This is a direct quote. There’s a pause or break between “wash the dishes” and “someday you will learn.” Since it’s part of what Dan said, and there’s likely something omitted (like “because” or “and”), we use
ellipsis to show omission in speech.
✔ Answer:
Dan explained, “wash the dishes ... someday you will learn.”
*(Note: Some might think comma, but ellipsis fits better here because it’s showing a trailing off or omitted thought in dialogue.)*
---
4. At the end _______ we all agreed on which road to take.
→ “At the end” is an introductory phrase → needs a
comma.
✔ Answer:
At the end, we all agreed on which road to take.
---
5. Three leaders _______ even new members _______ agreed.
→ “even new members” is added for emphasis — it’s interrupting the main idea (“Three leaders agreed”). So we use
dashes to set it off.
✔ Answer:
Three leaders – even new members – agreed.
---
6. Yes _______ you can attend my birthday party.
→ “Yes” at the start of a sentence like this is followed by a
comma.
✔ Answer:
Yes, you can attend my birthday party.
---
7. Rachel said, “I saw a comet rise _______ it will arrive.”
→ Again, this is a direct quote. There’s a gap between “rise” and “it will arrive” — probably meaning “rise [and then] it will arrive” or “rise [...] it will arrive.” Since it’s quoting someone’s speech with a pause/omission, use
ellipsis.
✔ Answer:
Rachel said, “I saw a comet rise ... it will arrive.”
---
Final Answer:
1. – , –
2. ,
3. ...
4. ,
5. – , –
6. ,
7. ...
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of 8th grade english grammar worksheet.
