A poster highlighting the correct use of quotation marks and punctuation for direct speech.
This poster highlights rules when using quotation marks and gives examples for each rule.
According to the Australian Government Style Manual, single quotation marks should be used for direct speech.
However, many teachers instruct their students to use double quotation marks for direct speech.
We have created two versions of this resource in order to cater for both preferences. Both versions have a colour and a black and white version available.
Please select your preferred version from the drop-down menu above.
Maybe I'm missing something, but the rules listed here do not match this PowerPoint: https://www.teachstarter.com/au/teaching-resource/using-punctuation-marks-powerpoint/ The first point explains that you only use a singular quotation for direct speech, when the PowerPoint mentions two quotations. Perhaps I am mistaken, but I am certain that in Australia, we always use two quotations for direct speech.
Hey, Reuel! Anecdotally, and when I was in the classroom as recently as 2019, double quotation marks were most commonly used for teaching direct speech. However, several style guides I've consulted do confirm that in Australian English, double quotation marks are only to be used when using a quote within direct speech (the direct speech is in single marks). This ACARA link confirms the single quotation mark style is preferred (sub-element 5): https://www.australiancurriculum.edu.au/resources/national-literacy-and-numeracy-learning-progressions/national-literacy-learning-progression/writing/?subElementId=50959&scaleId=0 We love supporting teachers the way they choose to deliver their content so we're most happy to provide a second version for the poster and let you guys choose! Hope this helps, have a great day.
Hi Bronwyn, Thank you! I have checked with other teachers at my school and they have all said they teach two quotation marks. In case I am incorrect, is there anywhere you could point me to that clarifies what Australia is meant to use? I know the WA Curriculum specifies double.
Hi, Reuel, thanks for taking the time to comment! Our resource team is working on a second version of this poster using double quotes for those who choose to teach this way. Please keep an eye out for updates! Have a great day.
This would be great in a bookmark
Hi Rachelle. While we don't have this resource as a bookmark, we do have a great collection, including editable and customisable bookmarks. Take a look at the link below: https://www.teachstarter.com/resource-type/classroom-organisation/bookmarks/