Apostrophes

This resource uses a flow chart to help guide learners to the correct use of apostrophes.

Editor’s note
Updated Aug 2016. now includes irregular plurals such as ‘children’.

A set of exercises based around an article from the BBC News website during the adverse weather of 2010.
There are multiple choice comprehension questions, together with exercises on apostrophes, vocabulary and synonyms and anagrams. The learner is then asked to write his/her views.

A Powerpoint suitable for an end of lesson assessment. Includes omissive and possessive apostrophes.

Clear explanations of the use of possessive and omissive apostrophes. Followed by photographs of examples of misuse (great for prompting further discussion).
Mapped to Functional English criteria and adult literacy curriculum elements.

An expertly adapted text with ten missing apostrophes. Includes apostrophes of omission and possession (some example are challenging).

A useful one page reminder about using apostrophes of omission and possession.

A lovely set of three PPTs.
1 – Apostrophes presentation which covers the use of apostrophes of omission and possession. Includes information, examples, questions and self-assessment (20 slides).
2 – Multiple choice questions on apostrophes of omission (ideal for use on an interactive whiteboard – 8 slides).
3 – Printable guide and worksheets for students (21 slides – print as a PPT handout – 6 slides per sheet).

A paired activity based on the well known web site provides an engaging way to introduce or revise this tricky topic.
Emma suggests that a useful extension activity is for learners to take pictures on their phones – where appropriate – of apostrophe ‘abuse’ they come across and bring them in to class for discussion.

Written for students who confuse these two words in their writing. Suitable for E2 or dyslexia support at any level. Also useful for introducing the omissive apostrophe. Includes info, examples and tips followed by practice exercises and self evaluation.