About intonation and punctuation

Question

I have noticed in general that spanish speakers have different intonations at the end of sentences or part of sentences which confuse the listener and in dictations result in incorrect  punctuation.

Accepted Answer

Hola Habib
Yes, we understand what you say. It is sometimes difficult to realize when you need a comma, a full stop or any punctuation in dictations because the text is given in separate sentences; this is why we generally offer the feedback with and without the actual punctuation needed for each part, so you don't see it as a mistake made by you. I'd recommend to always have a listen at the whole text before clicking "start" so you have a sense of what is being narrated. Also remember that dictations are a self-marked exercise and we suggest not to be too harsh on your lack of punctuation in this case.
Un saludo cordial
Inma

Answer

Hi Habib,

You are correct. It is sometimes very difficult to know when the sentence is ending on the dictations. If I remember correctly the teachers guidelines are that you decide for yourself whether you should mark yourself down on a punctuation mistake like the end of a sentence, and to deduct a point for each grammatical or spelling error. That said, challenge yourself to follow the meaning of the dictation, and it will help. Saludos. John