Let's solve this worksheet step by step.
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Understanding the Instructions
The worksheet explains that
dashes are used in writing to:
- A. Signal an explanation is coming
- B. Create dramatic effect
- C. Indicate an unfinished thought or comment
- D. Set apart a group of words that provide an explanation or comment (a pair of dashes)
We need to read each sentence and determine which function the dash serves, then write the corresponding letter (A, B, C, or D) on the line.
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Now, let’s analyze each sentence:
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1. My father—a true gourmet—never eats fast food.
- The phrase "a true gourmet" is set apart by dashes and gives additional information about the father.
- This is an explanation of who the father is.
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✔ Function: D – *Set apart a group of words that provide an explanation or comment.*
> Answer:
D
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2. I can’t go out with you tonight—I have to study.
- The dash introduces a reason for not going out — it explains why.
- It signals that an explanation is coming.
-
✔ Function: A – *Signal an explanation is coming.*
> Answer:
A
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3. If you ask me—forget it.
- This is a sudden change in tone or abrupt ending.
- The speaker refuses to elaborate — it feels like a dramatic cutoff.
-
✔ Function: C – *Indicate an unfinished thought or comment.*
> Answer:
C
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4. I was hoping for some time to myself, but—
- The sentence is cut off mid-thought; it doesn't finish.
- The dash shows the speaker is interrupted or trails off.
-
✔ Function: C – *Indicate an unfinished thought or comment.*
> Answer:
C
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5. That was the last time I saw her—the very last time.
- The phrase "the very last time" emphasizes the finality.
- It adds dramatic weight to the statement.
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✔ Function: B – *Create dramatic effect.*
> Answer:
B
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6. It’s incredible—the amount of work that goes into this.
- The dash introduces an explanation of what makes it incredible.
- "The amount of work..." explains why it's incredible.
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✔ Function: A – *Signal an explanation is coming.*
> Answer:
A
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7. This dog—my only companion—has an old soul.
- The phrase "my only companion" provides extra information about the dog.
- It's set off by dashes and explains the dog’s significance.
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✔ Function: D – *Set apart a group of words that provide an explanation or comment.*
> Answer:
D
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✔ Final Answers:
1.
D
2.
A
3.
C
4.
C
5.
B
6.
A
7.
D
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Summary of Functions Used:
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A (Explanation): 2, 6
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B (Dramatic effect): 5
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C (Unfinished thought): 3, 4
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D (Set apart explanation): 1, 7
This exercise helps students understand how dashes add meaning and style to sentences.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of dashes worksheet with answers.
