From part ii of the novel to kill a mockingbird, pick one paragraph in which the author uses semicolons. read over your chosen paragraph and in 200 words, discuss the effect of using semicolons in order to create longer phrases.

Whether in this piece of work, or something else, the semicolon is used to combine phrases or sentences that are closely linked together.  This allows the writer to make a more powerful statement while still be grammatically correct.  For example:  The presidential speech was given in order to bring hope to the masses; he wants to ensure we remain positive during times of adversity.  

If I were to say (after the semicolon), "he just wanted the world to like him", that would not be using the semicolon in the correct way for the second sentence was night tied to the first.

each year on this day, i make it a point to listen to dr. martin luther king jr.’s great “i have a dream” speech. it’s electrifying every single time.

the content of dr. king’s speech, his inspiring presence, and the moment in history all came together to make the iconic “i have a dream” speech the defining moment of the american civil rights movement. but there are several other reasons why this speech, delivered over 50 years ago, remains an example of one of the best speeches in american history.

since part of my job is to people become better presenters, i’ve noticed several techniques that we can all learn from and be inspired by in this magnificent speech.

it’s anchored in a powerful related location

in most cases, you can’t handpick the spot to give a presentation, as mlk did for supreme symbolic effect when he stood on the steps of the lincoln memorial and echoed the opening words of the gettysburg address (“five score years ago . . ). but you absolutely can amplify your message by adapting it to your setting and location.

a complex sentence consists of an independent clause and one or more dependent clauses.  

to write complex sentences, we must use subordinating conjunctions.  

all the complex sentences begin with a subordinating conjunction and when it occurs, a comma must be place at the end of the dependent clause. on the contrary, if the sentence begins with an independent clause, then no comma is used.

after  

although  

as  

because  

before  

if  

since  

when  

for example,  

after she won the competition, she became very popular.  

although my father was hurt, he continued fighting for his rights.  

as all of you got a ten, you will be able to leave early today.  

before he went to the war, he asked his parents to bless him.  

if it is cold, i won’t go out.  

since you didn’t bring the homework, you will get low grades.  

when it is hot in the town, everyone goes to the beach.