◆ Each paragraph should have a topic sentence whose content is expanded in the rest of the paragraph. 

◆ Short paragraphs may be used for effect. 

◆ Direct speech is always enclosed in inverted commas. 

◆ A new paragraph always starts at the beginning of the sentence in which a character speaks. 

◆ There is always a punctuation mark before the inverted commas are closed. 

◆ A punctuation mark always separates the speech from the person who says it. 

◆ Start a new paragraph when returning to the narrative. 

◆ Use double inverted commas for quotations and titles if contained in dialogue. 

◆ Inverted commas are not needed when reporting speech or writing a play. 

## PRACTISING WHAT YOU’VE LEARNT 

1. Change the following examples of direct speech into indirect speech: 

(a) ‘Will you come to the dance, Susan?’ asked John. 

(b) ‘I can’t go because I’m going to a wedding,’ replied Susan. 

2. Set out the following dialogue as a play. ‘I’ve got so much to do,’ wailed Ruth. ‘The wedding’s not for ages,’ Brian reminded her. 

