Lesson: Semicolons

Objective: Students will learn how to use semicolons correctly in their writing.

Introduction: - Begin the lesson by asking students if they know what a semicolon is and when it is used. - Explain that a semicolon is a punctuation mark (;) used to separate two independent clauses that are closely related or to separate items in a list when the items themselves contain commas. - Provide examples of correct usage of semicolons.

Examples: 1. I have a big test tomorrow; I need to study tonight. 2. The weather was beautiful; we decided to go for a hike. 3. My favorite fruits are apples, which are crunchy and sweet; oranges, which are juicy and refreshing; and bananas, which are creamy and delicious.

Guided Practice: - Provide a brief explanation of Bar and Bat Mitzvahs to the students. - Write the following sentences on the board and ask students to identify where a semicolon should be used: 1. Sarah had her Bat Mitzvah she read from the Torah. 2. Max received many gifts at his Bar Mitzvah his family and friends were very generous. 3. Bar Mitzvahs are celebrated by Jewish boys Bat Mitzvahs are celebrated by Jewish girls.

• After discussing the correct placement of semicolons, write the corrected sentences on the board.

Independent Practice: - Distribute a worksheet with practice sentences about Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. - Instruct students to read each sentence and determine if a semicolon should be used. - Students should rewrite the sentences correctly, using semicolons where necessary. - Collect and review the completed worksheets to assess students’ understanding of semicolon usage.

Example Practice Sentences: 1. David practiced his Torah portion for months he wanted to do a great job at his Bar Mitzvah. 2. Rachel’s Bat Mitzvah was held at a beautiful synagogue her family and friends attended the ceremony. 3. Bar Mitzvahs and Bat Mitzvahs are important milestones in a Jewish person’s life they mark the transition into adulthood. 4. The reception was filled with music, dancing, and delicious food everyone had a great time. 5. Emily’s Bat Mitzvah was on a sunny day in May her parents were proud of her accomplishment.

Conclusion: - Review the correct usage of semicolons with the students. - Encourage them to practice using semicolons in their own writing to improve sentence structure and clarity.