APOSTROPHESHow to use

USE AN APOSTROPHE To indicate possession

One person owns something: Mark’s dog is a bloodhound.

Two or more people own something: The teachers’ lounge has a sofa and a table. The children’s desks were made from

marshmallows. To refer to a two-digit year

Padmini was born in (1986 ’86). She graduated in (2004 ’04).

USE AN APPOSTROPHE To indicate a contraction

I (cannot can’t) see with my eyes closed. I (will not won’t) give my cat a tattoo. I (do not don’t) want a jellyfish to sting

me. I (should not shouldn’t) sleep in class. I (have not been haven’t) walked through

lava while barefoot. You (are not aren’t) a television.

DO NOT USE AN APOSTROPHE To indicate a plural

There are eight (bear’s bears) in my bedroom.

The (birds’ birds) chased the cat. To indicate a span of time

Aisling went to high school in the (‘90’s ‘90s).

My great grandparents were born in the (1800s’ 1800s).

USING AN APOSTROPHE WITH “IT” DO use an apostrophe to show a

contraction (It is It’s) a very hungry spider.

DO NOT use an apostrophe to show possession The spider might eat its children.

Yes

No

APOSTROPHES SHOW PLURALS

Yes

No

APOSTROPHES SHOW CONTRACTIONS

Yes

No

APOSTROPHES SHOW POSSESSION

WHICH SENTENCE IS CORRECT?

The kittens’ tails were dirty.

The kitten’s tails were dirty.

WHICH SENTENCE IS CORRECT?

Columbus discovered America in the 1400’s.

The giraffe’s feet were cold.

It’s love of garlic was contagious.