Final answer:
Sentences A, D, and E correctly use a colon to introduce a list that's directly related to the independent clause before the colon. Sentences B and C incorrectly place colons as they do not follow independent clauses.
Step-by-step explanation:
The sentences that use a colon correctly are A, D, and E. The colon is correctly used after an independent clause when it is followed by a list that is directly related to that independent clause. Therefore:
- A. Please pack the following: a sleeping bag, a change of clothes, and a flashlight. (Correct use introducing a list)
- D. Our bus will stop in these cities: Knoxville, Atlanta, and Tallahassee. (Correct use introducing a list of cities)
- E. Whales primarily consume four sources of food: shrimp, larvae, plankton, and krill. (Correct use introducing a list)
Sentences B and C have incorrectly used colons because the colons follow verbs that do not end with an independent clause capable of standing on its own.