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This is simple, really it is. Learn the following rules and apply them every time!

First, some reminders:

• Proofread your paper for apostrophe errors. Scan for the letter s at the ends of words and ask yourself whether there needs to be an apostrophe near it or not.
• Visit this site if you can't remember what the rules are.

Now, here are the rules:

1. You use an apostrophe when you are creating a contraction. This means you put two words together and you leave out some letters. The apostrophe stands in place of the missing letter(s).



2. You use an apostrophe to signify ownership. The noun that is the owner is the noun that has the apostrophe and the letter s. The placement of the apostrophe in relation to the letter s is dependent on a couple of things:
1. if it is a singular noun, the apostrophe comes before the s.
2. if the singular noun ends in s (e.g. James), then you still add an apostrophe and then an s (e.g. James's)
3. if it is a plural noun that ends in s then the apostrophe comes after the s.
4. if it is a plural noun that does not end in 's', then you add an apostrophe and then an s.



3. An exception, sort of: its is possessive. it's is a contraction for the two words it and is.

Most of you understand the contraction part. But, let's practice anyway.

List the contractions for the following words:

1. cannot
2. you all
3. will not
4. it is
5. she is
6. do not

Now list the two words for which these are contractions:

1. couldn't
2. you're
3. he'll
4. didn't
5. y'all
6. let's

Now, this is where I see the most errors. Let's practice using apostrophes to show possession.

Place apostrophes in the correct locations in the following sentences.

1. The teachers plan to give the girls in the class some of the boys desks.
2. The childrens recess was taken away because of the teachers disappointment in their behaviors.
3. James and his brother have three train sets.
4. Used cars.
5. Boiled peanuts.
6. For sale: two chairs and one couch. Call my sisters number at 555-0000 to ask for more information.
7. The rats ate the cats cheese.
8. My plans include helping the principals of the schools figure out when to give out the childrens rewards.

Write a sentence that correctly uses the word its.

Write a sentence that correctly uses the word it's.

Please email me if you have any other questions about apostrophe use!

If you've gotten out of fourth grade, you should know how to use apostrophes!