Praxis Core 5722 - Writing Concepts
Adverb
A word that describes a verb, adjective, or another adverb. *When wondering what part of speech a word is -- choose adverb
according to, as of, as well as, aside from, by means of, with regard to, prior to, in place of, in addition to, out of, instead of, in front of, in respect to, because of
compound prepositions:
fewer/less
1. items that can be counted 2. items that can't be counted & items referred to as a whole
among/between
1. referring to 3 or more items/people 2. referring to 2 items/people
accept/except
1. to receive something offered 2. to leave out
affect/effect
1. verb that means influence 2. noun that means result
6 situations in which COMMAS are necessary
1. Joining two or more independent clauses "There was no school, so I went to the beach." *coordinating conjunction required 2. Following an introductory clause "In order to pass the test, you must study." *Non-independent clause (COMMA), independent clause 3. Before an "afterthought" clause "I don't need a tune-up, just an oil change" 4. On both sides of an appositive/ interrupting clause "This sentence, for example, is very short." "I saw my two favorite animals, lemurs and pandas, at the zoo." 5. Separating items in a list 6. Separating multiple adjectives before a single noun "The brave, popular, wizened, sleepy elephant taught leopards to tango."
Split infinitives
A marker that consists to plus verb. Two parts of the infinitive make up a grammatical unit that if split by placing adverb between the to and verb. Can be preferable and natural.
Pronouns: agree with the antecedent (a noun that corresponds to the pronoun in the sentence)
A student who applies for a part-time job assisting Alex from Target may get more than they bargained for. To expand the newspaper's coverage on politics, they transferred a popular columnist to the City desk.
Denotative meaning
A word that means literal, like dictionary definition.
Adjectives
A word that modifies a noun or pronoun. Describing words DOSA SCOMP *certain adjectives do not need to be separated by commas when they appear in a series before a noun * when using two adjectives from the same category use commas.
Preposition
A word that relates a noun or a pronoun to another word in a sentence over/on/above/behind/after/on/before
Adjectives
Adjectives describe or indicate degree. They answer the questions WHAT KIND? HOW MANY? WHICH ONE? To determine whether to use an adjective or an adverb, locate the word it describes. Adjectives decribe nouns or pronouns. Adjectives are also used after linking verbs.
Adverbs
Adverbs describe or indicate degree. They answer the questions HOW? WHY? WHEN? WHERE? HOW MUCH? or TO WHAT DEGREE? To determine whether to use an adverb or an adjective, locate the word it describes. Adverbs describe action verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
Subject-Verb Agreement: one subject needs one verb/a plural subject needs a plural verb and they agree in person.
Although nutritionists have criticized pizza for being too high in fat, there is many people who continue to enjoy it.
tense and number agreement
Always scan your answer choices to make sure that everything makes logical sense in terms of verb tense. "Before I gave him the book, he gives it to me" doesn't make sense, because something that happens in the present tense couldn't have occurred before something that happened in the past tense. There are also be a bunch of singular/plural tricks, so watch out for those — the sentence "If a student wants to do well, they have to study" is incorrect because the singular noun student doesn't match the plural pronoun they.
The first option is correct. The noun "planet" does not require capitalization, and neither does its possessive form.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: A volcano is an opening, or rupture, in a Planet's surface that allows hot, molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from below the surface. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select A volcano is an opening, or rupture, in a Planet's surface that allows hot, molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from below the surface.
The second option is correct. The possessive pronoun "its" should be "their" because the antecedent for it is the plural noun "banana plants
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Although banana plants are grown primarily for its fruit, the plants' large, flexible leaves are used in many ways, including as umbrellas and as wraps for packages. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Although banana plants are grown primarily for its fruit, the plants' large, flexible leaves are used in many ways, including as umbrellas and as wraps for packages. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The noun "claim" should be "claims"; "various mining companies" cannot logically be said to have a (singular) "competing claim." Two or more claims are needed to compete with one another.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: As early as the thirteenth century, miners in Europe began to use magnetic compasses in order to find their way around in underground mines and to define the sometimes competing claim of various mining companies. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select As early as the thirteenth century , miners in Europe began to use magnetic compasses in order to find their way around in underground mines and to define the sometimes competing claim of various mining companies.
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The use of a comma after "Charon" is unwarranted and inappropriate, providing an illogical break between subject and verb.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Astronomers have noted that Pluto's moon Charon, appears to be covered with active volcanoes spewing ammonia-rich water from the moon's deep interior. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select " Astronomers have noted that Pluto's moon Charon , appears to be covered with active volcanoes spewing ammonia-rich water from the moon's deep interior.
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. "Latin," the proper noun that refers to the ancient language of Rome, should be capitalized.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Beginning in C.E. 700 and for nearly a thousand years thereafter, the Republic of Venice was governed by a chief magistrate called "the doge," a title derived from the latin word dux, meaning "leader." Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select Beginning in C.E. 700 and for nearly a thousand years thereafter , the Republic of Venice was governed by a chief magistrate called "the doge," a title derived from the latin word dux, meaning "leader.
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The simple past tense — "buried" — should be used instead of the unwarranted "having been buried."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Champion boxer Joe Louis is arguably one of the most famous of the veterans having been buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Champion boxer Joe Louis is arguably one of the most famous of the veterans having been buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington , Virginia. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. One distinguishes something "from" something else, not "with" something else.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: It is hard to judge when people first began to cultivate lime trees, since the oldest surviving relevant documents do not clearly distinguish limes with other citrus fruits. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". It is hard to judge when people first began to cultivate lime trees, since the oldest surviving relevant documents do not clearly distinguish limes with other citrus fruits.
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The verb "are" should be "is," as the corresponding subject is the singular noun "interaction."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Many fiction writers refer to real places and events in their work, but what distinguishes Gabriela's stories are the complex interaction between fact and fiction. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select Many fiction writers refer to real places and events in their work, but what distinguishes Gabriela's stories are the complex interaction between fact and fiction.
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The verb "escaped" should be in the present tense to be parallel with the verb "retain," which appears earlier in the sentence and is not underlined.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Rubber balloons filled with helium typically retain their buoyancy for only a day or so because the enclosed helium atoms escaped through tiny pores in the latex. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select. Rubber balloons filled with helium typically retain their buoyancy for only a day or so because the enclosed helium atoms escaped through tiny pores in the latex. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The apostrophe in "pharaoh's" belongs after the final "s" because the possessive pronoun "their," which appears later in the sentence and is not underlined, indicates that more than one pharaoh is being referenced.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Since ancient Egyptian religion emphasized continuity between this world and an afterlife, the pharaoh's tombs were outfitted with food, furniture, and all else needed for their comfort in eternity. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select Since ancient Egyptian religion emphasized continuity between this world and an afterlife, the pharaoh's tombs were outfitted with food, furniture, and all else needed for their comfort in eternity.
Correct Answer: Fifth Option The fifth option is correct. The sentence contains no errors in grammar or usage.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The New Jersey state constitution of 1776 granted voting rights to all inhabitants who possessed a certain amount of property, not restricting the rights by race or sex, as other state constitutions did. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select The New Jersey state constitution of 1776 granted voting rights to all inhabitants who possessed a certain amount of property, not restricting the rights by race or sex, as other state constitutions did.
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The verb "encompass" should be "encompasses" (singular) to correspond with the singular subject, "setting," which appears earlier in the sentence and is not underlined.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The natural setting of the Incan site Machu Picchu, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompass the upper Amazon basin, known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select Th e natural setting of the Incan site Machu Picchu, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompass the upper Amazon basin, known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna.
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The plural of "child" is "children," and the possessive form of that is "children's," not "childrens'."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: With more than 43 million copies in print, the childrens' book series about Junie B. Jones has its share of die-hard fans and is required summer reading at many elementary schools. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select With more than 43 million copies in print, the childrens' book series about Junie B. Jones has its share of die-hard fans and is required summer reading at many elementary schools.
Websites "Works Cited"
Authors last name, first name, middle initial. "Title of Article/Document." Title of Site(underlined). Ed. Name of editor (first, last). Date of publication or most recent update. Name of organization. Date when you accessed document. website
Brackets
Brackets are used to insert explanations, corrections, clarifications, or comments into quoted material.
Form the possessive on?
Form the possessive only on nouns or pronouns that represent living things, celestial bodies, time, distance, or value.
Misplaced modifier
Is one that is in the wrong place in the sentence which in all forms-words, phrases, and clauses. Usually too far away from the word or modify words. Only, nearly, and almost should be placed placed next to modify word and not in front of some other word, a verb not intended to modify.
Parallelism
Is parallel structure used to express matching ideas. Refers to the grammatical balance of a series of phrases, adjectives, nouns, clauses, verbs, verbals, correlative conjunctives and repetition of structural signals.
Completing Sentences: require a main subject and main verb
Last of the world's leaders to do so, the prime minister admits that terrorist credible enough to warrant the imposition of stringent security measures.
Nouns
Nouns name PEOPLE, PLACES, or THINGS. A singular noun takes a singular verb in a sentence; a plural noun take a plural verb.
Subjective vs. objective pronoun case
Pronouns require knowing whether to use "I" or "me," "he/she" or "him/her," "we" or "us," "they" or "them," and "who" or "whom." RULE: -you use the SUBJECTIVE CASE of a pronoun (I, he/she, we, they, who) when the pronoun is performing the verb -the OBJECTIVE CASE (me, him/her, us, them, whom) when the pronoun is the object of a verb or preposition "He taught me," "Throw the ball to him," "Whom do you love?" Watch out for the trick where the sentence places another noun in between the verb or preposition and the pronoun, as in "Please take Tom and me home now."
Sample Argumentative Essay Topic
Read the opinion stated below: "Minimum-wage jobs are a ticket to nowhere. They are boring and repetitive and teach employees little or nothing of value. Minimum-wage employers take advantage of people because they need a job." Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with this opinion. Support your views with specific reasons and examples from your own experience, observations, or reading.
A 6 essay demonstrates a high degree of competence in response to the assignment but may have a few minor errors. An essay in this category: -insightfully explains why the concerns are important, supporting the explanation with effective links between the two sources and well-chosen reasons, examples, or details. -incorporates information from both sources to identify and explain important concerns regarding the issue discussed in the sources -organizes and develops ideas logically -displays effective sentence variety -clearly displays facility in the use of language -is generally free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics -cites both sources when paraphrasing or quoting
Score of 6 on a source-based essay
Sample source-based essay topic
See https://www.ets.org/s/praxis/pdf/5722.pdf pages 37 & 38 for example. Use this example to write a source-based essay for practice.
Smart tips for taking the test
See https://www.ets.org/s/praxis/pdf/5722.pdf pages 48 & 49 for smart tips regarding the writing section of the Praxis CORE
Semicolons
Semicolons separate two complete statements that are closely related. As a general rule, if a period will not work, neither will a semicolon. Semicolons also separate items in a series or equal parts of a sentence. EX. We should go shopping today; Macy's has a sale.
Double Negative: two negatives cannot be used in the same sentence because they cancel each other out to form a positive
The town hasn't hardly any money in its budget because of the unexpected snowplow costs. Sounds like: The town HAS money in its budget because of the unexpected snowplow cost.
Verb Tense: tells you when an action is taking place
Unsatisfied with the ending, the director considering reshooting the entire film.
Word Pictures
Vague: a nice day Specific: bright sunshine, marshmallow clouds in a brilliant blue sky Vague Verbs: walk Strong, active verbs: ambled, strolled, trotted appeal to senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell
Comma Splices
You can't separate two independent clauses with just a comma. MUST USE ONE OF THE FOLLOWING.... -comma and a conjunction -a semicolon -a colon -a single dash -or you need to make them two separate sentences with a period.
As a consumer, one can accept the goods offered to us or we can reject them, but we cannot determine their quality or change the system's priorities. "As a consumer, one can accept" should be replaced with: a) We the consumer either can accept b) The consumer can accept c) Either the consumer accepts d) As consumers, we can accept e) correct as is
d) As consumers, we can accept The problem in this sentence concerns parallelism and agreement in pronoun number. The underlined portion of the sentence uses the singular pronoun, "one," which correctly agrees with its antecedent, "consumer." However, in the portion of the sentence that is not underlined, the first person plural, "we," is used as a subject in the second part of the sentence. To create a sentence free of agreement faults, you must look for a choice that contains both "we" and the plural of "consumer." The last choice, "As consumers, we can accept" is the only one that corrects the agreement problem and has a phrase parallel to "we can reject them," and is thus the correct answer.
Which sentence is correct? a) The agent, passing through the crowd without being noticed by hardly anyone. b) The agent passed through the crowd without hardly being noticed by hardly anyone. c) The agent's passing through the crowd was not hardly noticed by anyone. d) No one hardly noticed how the agent passed through the crowd. e) The agent was hardly noticed as she passed through the crowd.
e) The agent was hardly noticed as she passed through the crowd. The first choice presents two major problems: it is not a complete sentence, and the phrase "without ... hardly" is not idiomatic. Although the second, third, and fourth choices are complete sentences, each uses "hardly" in an equally unidiomatic construction. The fifth choice, the best answer, is an idiomatic and complete sentence.
Sharing Tools
Allow student to collaborate with others or share their work with others to receive feedback and make edits to their work
Contraction
An apostrophe that takes the place of letters you see
Research Thesis
Author's presumption of what the reasonable answer to the research question is -Can be proven or disproven -Serves as the purpose of identifying any potential author bias -Serves as a baseline for discovery throughout the research process -2nd step in research process
wordiness
Decreases the clarity of expression with unnecessary words and tests the ability to detect redundancies (repetitions), circumlocution (point failure)and padding with loose synonyms. Choose sentences that use as few as possible to convey message clearly, economically and effectively.
Subordinating Conjunctions
Dependent on the main part of the sentence.... Because Before After As Although If While Unless Since Though
Semantic Cueing
Determining the meaning of the word, phrase, or sentence and determining what the passage is about
Simile
Direct comparison of 2 things often using the words "like" or "as" to foster the comparison -Ex. My love is like a red rose
When NOT to use a semicolon
Do not use semicolon to: (1) separate a defendant and independent clause (2) to substitute for a comma It should not be followed by a capital letter unless the first work in the second clause requires it
When NOT to use a colon
Do not use: (1) after a preposition (2) interchangeably with the dash (3) before the words "for example," "namely," that is", or "for instance"
When do you capitalize?
Do this when: (1) First word of a direct quote, (2) first word following a colon (if a complete sentence after colon), (3) proper nouns, (4) countries, (4) team names, (5) political parties, (6) titles, (7) historical periods, (8) gods, (9) regions, (10) planets, (11) salutations, (12) acronyms
Dash (-)
Use a dash to indicate an abrupt break in thought. Example: The truth is--and you probably know it--we can't do without you. Use a dash to mean namely, in other words, or that is before an explanation. Example: It was a close call--if he had been in a worse mood, I don't think I'd still be here.
Hyphen (-)
Use a hyphen to divide a word at the end of a line. Example: If you are not sure where to hyphen- ate a word, look it up in the dictionary. Hyphenate a compound adjective when it precedes the word it modifies. Examples: fast-moving train, long-distance runner.
Orthographic Awareness
The ability to perceive and recall letter strings and word forms, as well as the retrieval of letters and words
Prefix
The affix that is paced at the start of a root word (re-, pre-, un-) -Can't make a word on its own
Parallelism
The arrangement of ideas into phrases, sentences, and paragraphs that balance one element with another of equal importance and similar wording
Diction/Tone
The choice and use of words and phrases in speech or writing. the type of language, vocabulary, and word choice used to express the main idea, purposefully aligned to the audience and purpose
Clear Organization
The effective and purposeful arrangement of the content to support the main idea
Irony
The expression of something other than, and particularly the opposite of, the literal meaning, such as words or praise when blame is intended
Complex sentence Ex: The cat under the back porch, who loves tuna, jumped against the glass yesterday.
___ has only one independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses
Colon (:)
Use a colon to mean "note what follows." Example: When you go to training, take these items: paper, pencil, and an alert mind. Use a colon before a long, formal statement or quotation. Example: We remember Lincoln's Gettysburg Address: Four score and seven years ago....
Citing Sources in the essay
1. According to (author), " " 2. (author) believes ........ 3. (last name of author) in parenthesis at end of sentence
Post-hoc
A claim that, because two things happened close together in time, one caused the other.
Independent clause
A clause that can stand alone as a sentence Has a subject and a verb to form a sentence
Metaphor
A comparison without using like or as
proper noun
Alice, Canada
Subordinate Conjunction
Because
Digital resources
Can be classified into three categories 1. Sharing tools 2. Resource tools 3. Development tools -Include Google docs, Microsoft drive, Twitter, Youtube, Facebook
proper nouns
Capitalize proper nouns that name specific people, places, or things.
Encoding
Changing a message into symbols -Ex. oral language to writing, idea to words
COLONS (:)
Colons signal the reader that additional information with follow to elaborate on or to explain a statement. Colons are also used to introduce lists, tables, words, and formal quotations and to show time and ratios. EX. We saw several cars: a Honda, a Ford, and a Toyota.
Purpose
Comes into play when considering that while someone may completely understand a message they must also know what to do with it
Simple Sentence
Contains one independent clause (which contains one subject and one predicate)
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Barbara Strozzi was one of the few women of the seventeenth century pursuing a career as a composer and achieve public recognition for her efforts. A.pursuing B.having pursued C.who had pursued D.to have pursued E.to pursue
Correct Answer: E Option (E) is correct. The given sentence displays faulty parallelism ("pursuing . . . and achieve"); (E) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
logos
Logical, facts
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Although the reporter was determined to finish her story by the deadline, she could not, despite her intentions, get nothing done because of the interruptions from incessant phone calls. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Although the reporter was determined to finish her story by the deadline, she could not , despite her intentions, get nothing done because of the interruptions from incessant phone calls. No error
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. "She could not . . . get nothing done" contains a double negative; "nothing" should be "anything."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: When English colonists established the Plymouth settlement in New England, their Native American neighbors, the Pokanokets, not only provided them with seed corn and also showed them how to cultivate their crops. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". When English colonists established the Plymouth settlement in New England, their Native American neighbors, the Pokanokets, not only provided them with seed corn and also showed them how to cultivate their crops. No error
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The idiomatic expression is "not only . . . but also"; therefore, "and" should be "but."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Champion boxer Joe Louis is arguably one of the most famous of the veterans having been buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Virginia. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Champion boxer Joe Louis is arguably one of the most famous of the veterans having been buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington , Virginia. No error
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The simple past tense — "buried" — should be used instead of the unwarranted "having been buried."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Rubber balloons filled with helium typically retain their buoyancy for only a day or so because the enclosed helium atoms escaped through tiny pores in the latex. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Rubber balloons filled with helium typically retain their buoyancy for only a day or so because the enclosed helium atoms escaped through tiny pores in the latex. No error
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The verb "escaped" should be in the present tense to be parallel with the verb "retain," which appears earlier in the sentence and is not underlined.
English
Correct spelling, grammar, punctuation, and sentence structure, allowing for clear communication of ideas
common nouns
DO NOT capitalize common nouns that name general people, places, or things.
Intensive Pronoun
Emphasizes noun or pronoun and is unnecessary to the meaning of a sentence
Syntactic Cueing
Evaluating a word for its part of speech and its place in the sentence -Directly affects reading comprehension Ex. reader determines if a word is a noun, verb, or adjective (if adjective determines which word it modifies)
Comparison: parts of speech i.e. nouns and verbs all have the same form
Even though he is a Nobel Laureate, Elie Wiesel's name is still less well known than last year's Heisman Trophy winner.
Past Perfect Tense
Expresses action or a condition that occurred as a precedent to some other action or condition
Coordinating Conjunctions
FANBOYS: For And Nor But Or Yet So
coordinating conjunction
FANBOYS=for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so
Personification
Gives an object a human attribute
Have laid
Past participle of lay; have put
Laid
Put
Reflexive Pronoun
Refers to the subject and directs the action of the verb back to the subject.
Lies
Rests
Argumentative
To persuade
Informative
To teach or inform
Run-on Sentence
Too many independent clauses that improperly connected to each other
too
Use to mean excessively or also
Main Idea
What a piece of writing is mainly about; it is the driving message of the writing, clearly stated or implied
Transitions
Words or phrases used to connect ideas together Connect clauses within and between sentences for smoother writing
High-frequency Words
Words that are most often used in the English language
verbal phrases
__ begin with a word that would normally act as a verb but is instead filling another role within the sentence. - these phrases can act as noun, adjectives, or adverbs
linking ex: The dog is cute. THE DOG is the subject, IS is the linking verb, CUTE is the subject complement.
____ verb joins the subject of the sentence to the subject complement, which follows the verb and provides more information about the subject.
third person
____person refers to a person outside the sentence (he, she, they)
weather/ whether
atmospheric condition uncertainty about a choice
Find the error: For a writer, the rarest privilege is not merely to describe her country and time but to help shape it. a) rarest b) is not merely c) to describe d) it e) no error
d) it The pronoun "it" is incorrectly used to refer to two nouns, "country" and "time." The pronoun required here is the plural "them."
Clarity and coherency...
describe how easily the reader is able to synthesize the concepts, ideas, and story line of the authors writing.
every day
each day
everyday
frequent occurence
syntax
is the study of how words are combined to create sentences.
Drafting
is when the author puts their vision into the first vision, or draft of their writing.
Persuasive writing
is writing in which the author takes a definitive stance on an issue or subject, and supports the stance through rational written arguments that intend on influencing the reader to agree with the author's perspective.
raise/ rise
lift something move upward
Red Herring Fallacy
the use of irrelevant material to divert attention Introducing an irrelevant idea as an argument
elicit
to draw out a response from a listener or audience
-literary criticism and interpretation essays -biographies -historical criticism -politcal analyses -essays on ethics and social policies
what are secondary sources:
Primary Sources
-Most reliable type of sources -Represent original, factual information directly related to the research questions -Ex. Original texts, research or artifacts
Dangling Modifier
A word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence
Climax
A number of phrases or sentences arranged in ascending order of rhetorical forcefulness
Noun
A person, place, thing, or idea Nouns name PEOPLE, PLACES, or THINGS. A singular noun takes a singular verb in a sentence; a plural noun take a plural verb.
pronoun
A pronoun refers to or substitutes a noun in a given sentence.
Connotative meaning
A word that suggest meaning apart from what the word literally means.
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. "She could not . . . get nothing done" contains a double negative; "nothing" should be "anything."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Although the reporter was determined to finish her story by the deadline, she could not, despite her intentions, get nothing done because of the interruptions from incessant phone calls. . Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select Although the reporter was determined to finish her story by the deadline, she could not , despite her intentions, get nothing done because of the interruptions from incessant phone calls.
Thesis: Good
Americans should add exercise to their daily morning routine because it not only keeps their bodies at a healthy weight but also reduces the risk of high blood pressure.
Correct Answer: E Option (E) is correct. The given sentence displays faulty parallelism ("pursuing . . . and achieve"); (E) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Barbara Strozzi was one of the few women of the seventeenth century pursuing a career as a composer and achieve public recognition for her efforts. A.pursuing B.having pursued C.who had pursued D.to have pursued E.to pursue
Pretentious
Attempting to impress by affecting greater importance, talent, culture, etc, than is actually possessed
5. commas should be used to set off non-essential information and appositives ex: Estelle, our newly elected chairperson, will be in attendance.
comma rule 5
Metaphor
Indirect comparison of 2 things -Use of a word or phrase denoting one kind of object or action in place of another -Ex. The chair has legs
Dependent clause
Has subject and verb but can't stand alone in a sentence
Misplaced Modifiers
INCORECT: "While playing football in the house, the lamp got broken" (implies that the lamp was playing football.) CORRECT: "While playing football in the house, we broke the lamp." When a sentence opens with a descriptive clause or phrase, the person or thing that it's describing needs to come right after the comma that follows it.
regular: helping, jumping irregular: been, swimming, sitting, setting, lying, laying, rising, raising
regular and irregular verbs: PRESENT PARTICIPLE
Dependent/Subordinate Clause: is linked to an independent clause using a conjunction such as because, although, since to express a complete thought
New restaurants appeared on the waterfront, however merchants were finally able to convince diners of the area's safety.
principal/ principal principle
main, central lead administrator truth that is the basis of something
Parentheses
Parentheses are used to enclose nonessential or supplemental information in a sentence.
Types of writing
Persuasive Narrative Expository Descriptive
Sentence Fragments
Phrases or incomplete sentences missing either a subject, predicate, or a complete thought.
-subject -object
most often nouns fill the position of ___ or ____ within a sentence
Prepositions
Prepositions connect nouns or pronouns to other words in a sentence. Two of the most common prepositions are the words OF and FOR. Other common prepositions can be recognized by picturing how an airplane flies in a cloudy sky. The airplane can fly _______ the clouds.
Free Writing
Prewriting technique in which a person continuously for a set period of time without regard to spelling, grammar, or topic
Brainstorming, Clustering, and Questioning
Prewriting technique of focusing on a particular subject or topic and freely jotting down any and all idea which come to your mind without limiting or censoring information
Root Word
Primary base of a word
Word Recognition
Process of automatically determining the pronunciation and some degree of the meaning of an unknown word
Lays
Puts
Comparative Adjectives
Shows comparisons. Examples: older, safer, louder, more beautiful End in -er
Comprehension
Simply understanding what someone says , the purpose behind the message, and the context in which it is said
Adjectives: modify a noun or pronoun Adverbs: modify a verb, adverb -ly
Since the onset of his blindness the artist has sculpted more slow than before.
Subject-verb Agreement
Single subject is paired with single verb, plural subject is paired with plural verb
Common Knowledge
Something known by most people
Non-sequitur
Something that does not logically follow A conclusion that doesn't follow the evidence presented.
Jargon
Special words or expressions that are used by a particular profession or group and are difficult for other to understand.
Prepositions
Squirrel words over / inside / under
Euphemism
Substitution of an agreeable or inoffensive term for one that might offend or suggest something unpleasant -Many used to refer to death -Ex. passed away
regular: helped, jumped irregular: was, swam, sat, set, lay, laid, rose, raised
regular and irregular verbs: SIMPLE PAST
Declamation
Term for the radio presentation style of the past, and to some extent the style of public speeches -Notable for rhetorical effect or display
Coordinating Conjunctions
The "FANBOYS"
regular: help, jump irregular: am, swim, sit, set, lie, lay, rise, raise
regular and irregular verbs: SIMPLE PRESENT
Narrative
The telling of a story or an account of an event or series of events.
Infinitive phrase Ex: [To visit Europe] had always been her dream.
___ is a verbal phrase that may act as a noun, an adjective, or an adverb. -these phrases begin with the word "to" followed by a simple form of a verb (to eat, to jump, to skip, to laugh, to sing)
Parallel Structure
The repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence 1) Mary likes hiking, swimming, and bicycling. 2) Mary likes to hike, to swim, and to ride a bicycling.
Alliteration
The repetition of consonant sounds in two or more neighboring words or syllables -Reinforces one or two consonant sounds
verb phrase ex: The chef [would have created] another shuffle, but the staff protested.
___ is composed of the main verb along with its helping verbs.
Participial phrase Ex: [Enjoying the stars that filled the sky], Dave lingered outside for quite a while.
___ is a verbal phrase that acts as an adjective -these phrases start with either present participles (which end in -ing) or past participles (which usually end in -ed) -these phrases can be extracted from the sentence, and the sentence will still make sense because the phrase is playing only a modifying role.
Lay
To put or place
When do you use commas?
Use: (1) takes the place of "and" in a series, (2) separate sentences with two main ideas, (3) abbreviations after names, (4) interjections, (5) direct address, (6) tag questions, (7) geographical names, (8) transitional words and phrases
Sight Words
Words that the reader learns to read spontaneously, either because of lack of frequency, or lack of conformity to orthographic rules Ex. the, what, boy, girl
syntax
__ is the study of how words are combined to create sentences.
Writing development is not...
a linear progression rather an overlapping one
semicolon
a punctuation mark (';') used to connect independent clauses
Idiomatic expression
an expression whose meanings cannot be inferred from the meanings of the words that make it up Informal English phrase used as a different meaning than the words were intended to mean.
Who's / whose
contraction "who are" Possessive form of who
could have/ should have/ would have
correct forms NOT = could of/ should of/ would of ex. i could have driven there last night, but i was too tired I should have told the truth, but i was afraid I would have come to the party if I had been invited
Pathos
emotional
common noun
example of a type of noun (chair, car horse)
Superlatives
excessive, exaggerated comments End in -est
Common noun
general name for a person, place, thing, or idea Name non specific people places things or ideas
common noun
general thing..girl, boy, country
predicate
gives information about the subject in a sentence
is, am, are, was, were, be, being, been, has, had, have, do, does, did, should, would, could, will
helping verbs:
subject
if the indefinite pronoun is the ____ of the sentence it is important to know whether that pronoun is singular or plural so that the verb can agree with the pronoun in number.
illicit
illegal activity
subordinating conjunctions
join dependent clauses. because, after, as, a, since, although, as long, than
Conjunctions
join words into phrases, clause, and sentences by use of three mechanisms.
Magazine "Works Cited"
last name, first mane, middle initial. "Article Name." Title of Magazine(underlined). Day, month, year: page number of article.
Encyclopedia "Works Cited"
last name, first name, middle initial. "Article Name." Title of encyclopedia (underlined). year of edition.
Books "Works Cited"
last name, first name, middle initial. Title of book (underlined). Place of publication: Publishing company, year of publication.
Descriptive writing
looks to explain concepts, ideas, or subjects in as much detail as possible.
Complex Sentence
made up of one independent clause and at least one dependent clause
slash /
mark that indicates a line break in poetry, or used to separate related items of information
Collective noun
names a group of people or things
Concrete noun
names a person, place, or thing that can be perceived by one or more of the senses
Abstract Noun
names an idea, a feeling, a quality, or a characteristic
pore/ pour
natural opening of skin cause to flow
abstract noun
not physical: examples - ideas, creativity, sadness
object of a sentence
not the subject and has the verb performed on it
effect
noun
me, us, you, all, him, her, it, them
object pronouns:
correlative conjunctions
pairs of conjunctions that join words or word groups that are used in the same way. whether/or either/or neither/nor both/and not only/but only
There/ their/ they're
physical location possessive form of "they" contraction, "they are"
concrete noun
physical object
to lay
place something ex I like on the ground
its / it's
possessive form of It contraction, "it is"
Your/ You're
possessive form of you contraction "you are"
mine, ours, yours, his, hers, theirs
possessive pronouns:
along, among, around, at, before, behind, below, without, within, with, since, through, during, except, for, from, in, into, down ,during, between, by, beyond, off, on, onto, out, under, underneath, outside, over, past, since
prepositions:
myself, ourselves, yourself, himself, herself, itself, themselves
reflexive pronouns:
regular: (have) helped, (Have) jumped irregular: (have) been, (have) swum, have sat, have set, have lain, have laid, have risen, have raised
regular and irregular verbs: PAST PARTICIPLE
ex: my father, WHOM I care for, is sick. when replacing the object you use whom because whom is NOT replacing the subject FATHER it is replacing the pronoun FOR therefore it is replacing an object.
relative pronoun replacing the object in a sentence:
subject: whose
relative pronoun type: POSSESSIVE subject?
subject: which, that
relative pronoun type: THING subject?
subject: who object: whom
relative pronouns type: PERSON subject: ?? object:??
A 6 essay demonstrates a high degree of competence in response to the assignment but may have a few minor errors. An essay in this category: -states or clearly implies the writer's position or thesis -organizes and develops ideas logically, making insightful connections between them -clearly explains key ideas, supporting them with well-chosen reasons, examples, or details -displays effective sentence variety -clearly displays facility in the use of language -is generally free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics
score of 6 on an argumentative essay
First stage of writing
scribbling on the paper regardless of comprehensiveness.
Predicate
the part of a sentence or clause containing a verb and stating something about the subject tells what the subject does Made up of verb and any other adverbs, adjectives, pronouns, or clauses that describe the action of the sentence
Semicolon
separates two independent clauses within a single sentence takes place of the comma and the coordinating conjunction "I fed the cats, and now they like me." "I fed the cats; now they like me."
Prepositions
set up relationships in time. after, among, around, before, up, up on, with, without,
I, we, you, all, he, she, it, they
subject pronouns:
cause: because
subordinating conjunctions: CAUSE
comparison: as, than
subordinating conjunctions: COMPARISON
although, as long as, even if, even though, if, provided that, though, while, unless
subordinating conjunctions: CONDITION
manner: as, as if, as though
subordinating conjunctions: MANNER
purpose: in order that, so that, that
subordinating conjunctions: PURPOSE
time: after, as, as long as, as soon as, before, since, until, when, whenever, while
subordinating conjunctions: TIME
Narrative writing
tells a story about an event or experience that happened to the author - can be factual or fiction.
Subject
the "do-er" of an action or the element that is being joined -also includes any element describing the "do-er"
Style and organization help deliver...
the authors content more effectively and allows them to further align their content with their target audience. 1. organization of the topics 2. style - the authors voice and personality.
Editing
the final step, after the final content has been developed and the piece is virtually complete.
Planning
the first step in the process and where the authors identifies the purpose/goal of the writing.
The purpose of a piece of writing is...
to dictate the type of writing being used.
Brackets [ ]
to enclose added words to a quotation and add significant information within parentheses
precede/ proceed proceeds
to go or happen before something to move forward profits as from an event
Parentheses ( )
to include insignificate information
en dash (-)
to indicate a range of dates
em dash (--)
to indicate an abrupt break in a sentence
ellipses ...
to indicate information removed from quotation, to indicate a missing line of poetry, or to create a reflective pause
to lie
to recline ex I lie out in the sun
adverse / averse
unfavorable strong dislike of something
Conjunctions
used to fix comma splices. FAN BOY: For -- And -- Nor But -- Or -- Yet To link two independent clauses: 1. put a conjunction between them 2. place a comma before the conjunction *ONLY PUT THE COMMA BEFORE A COORDINATING CONJUNCTION IF IT LINKS TWO INDEPENDENT CLAUSES OR PRECEDES THE LAST ITEM IN A SERIES
first person: WE answer second person: YOU (ALL) answer third person: THEY answer
verb conjugation: PLURAL
first person: I answer second person: YOU answer third person: HE/SHE/IT answers
verb conjugation: SINGUALAR
simple: I WILL ANSWER your question. continuous: I WILL BE ANSWERING your questions after the lecture. perfect: I WILL HAVE ANSWERED every question before the class is over. perfect continuous: I WILL HAVE BEEN ANSWERING students questions for 20 years by the time I retire.
verb tense: FUTURE
simple: I ANSWER your questions in class. Continuous: I AM ANSWERING your question; please listen. perfect: I HAVE ANSWERED the questions already. perfect continuous: I HAVE BEEN ANSWERING questions for 30 minuend am getting tired.
verb tense: PRESENT
simple: I ANSWERED the question. continuous: I WAS ANSWERING your question when you interrupted me. perfect: I HAD ANSWERED all questions before class ended. perfect continuous: I HAD BEEN ANSWERING questions when the students started leaving
verb tenses: PAST
may be/ maybe
verb- will possibly happen or be the case adverb - perhaps possibly
helping verbs
verbs can stand alone or they can be accompanied by ___ which are used to indicate tense. -verb tense indicates the time of the action (past, present, or future)
non-countable nouns
what type of nouns are these: money, water
concrete nouns
what type of nouns are these: window, bread, person
verbal nouns
what type of nouns are these: writing, driving, hiding
proper nouns
what type of nouns are theses: Julie, Mckenzie, Tanner
-that -which ex: I live in Texas, WHICH is a large state I don't know WHOSE are that is.
when a relative clause refers to a non-human ___ and ___ is used.
1. determiners: articles (a, an, the), possessive adjectives (my, her) and descriptors of quantity (three, several) 2. opinions: modified that imply a value (beautiful, perfect, ugly) 3. size: descriptions of size (small, massive) 4. age: descriptions of age (young, five years old) 5. shape: descriptions of appearance or character (smooth, loud) 6. color: (blue, dark) 7. origin: modifiers that describe where something came from (American, homemade) 8. material: modifiers that describe what something is made from (cotton, Metallic) 9. purpose: adjectives that function as part of the noun to describe its purpose (sewing machine, rocking chair)
when multiple adjectives are used they should be listed in the following order:
correlative conjunction ex: I will [neither] mow the gross [nor] pull the weeds. (CORRECT) I will [neither] mow the grass [nor] undertake the pulling of the weeds today. (INCORRECT)
when using ____ conjunctions make sure that the structure of the word, phrase, or clause that follow the first part of the conjunction mirrors the structure of the word, phrase, or clause that follow the second part.
subject of a sentence
who the sentence is about, the subject performs the verb
Analogy
words that draw comparisons and similarities
Word Analysis
(Also called phonics or decoding) Process readers use to figure out unfamiliar words based on written patterns
How do you write a thesis statement
* Focus your ideas into one sentence * Presents topic of the paper * Writers position in relation to topic is clear *Tells the reader what the paper is about *Guides reader through the writing and keeps reader focused on writers argument
Information of Sources
-3rd step in research process -Assists in answering research questions -Provides the heart of any good writing
Secondary Sources
-Although relevant not considered first hand information -Quality information that has been received from an outside source Ex. article about a topic written by an author on their research -More at risk for marginal reliability
Research questions
-Begins the research process -Should identify the purpose of the writing and seek to provide the rationale for the writing being produced -1st step in research process
What to Capitalize
-People -Places -Things -Religious terms -Proper adjectives -Titles used with proper nouns -All main words in titles of works of literature, art, and music
Not Parallel Structure Examples
1) Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a bicycle. 2) The production manager was asked to write his report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed manner.
their/there
1. Their application for a loan is approved. 2. Indicates a position/place or acts as a placeholder at the beginning of a sentence
than/then
1. comparing 2. when referring to time or to mean "next" and "in that case"
than/then
1. comparing 2. when referrring to time or to mean "next" and "in that case"
Accept/Except
1. to receive something offered 2. to leave out
Pronoun Number and Person
1st person: I, Myself,Me 2nd: you your 3rd: he, she, it
False analogy
A comparison between two things that is not supported by evidence.
Personification
Attribution of human characteristics to an inanimate object, an abstract quality, or an animal Ex. arm of chair
Figurative Language
Often called figure os speech -Used to sharpen the effect and meaning of writing and to help readers see things in ways they have never seen them before
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: The defining features of the microorganism known as the paramecium include their slipperlike shape, a feeding groove, and two nuclei. A.include their B.include a C.includes their D.includes a E.including a
Option (B) is correct. There is no logical plural antecedent for the boldfaced possessive pronoun "their"; the error is corrected by the substitution of the article "a" for "their."
Correlative Conjunction
Pairs of conjunctions that join words or word groups that are used in the same way EITHER/OR, NEITHER/NOR, BOTH/AND join pairs of ideas
Correlative Conjunctions
Pairs of conjunctions that join words or word groups that are used in the same way: either/or neither/nor both/and not only/but also so/as whether/or
Subordinating Conjunction
A conjunction (like 'since' or 'that' or 'who') that introduces a dependent clause Used to connect an idea that is subordinate to the main clause
Oxymoron
A contradiction in terms deliberately employed for effect -Usually seen in a qualifying adjective whose meaning is contrary to that of the noun it modifies Ex. Jumbo shrimp
Hyperbole
A deliberate exaggeration for effect
Simple sentence
A sentence consisting of one independent clause and no dependent clause
Complex sentence
A sentence with one independent clause and at least one dependent clause
Thesis Statement definition
A short statement, usually one sentence, that summarizes the main point or claim and is developed, supported, and explained in the text by means of examples and evidence.
Claim
A statement that something is the case without providing evidence or proof
Bandwagon Appeal
A suggestions that because something is poplar, it is correct
Preposition
A word that shows the relationship of a noun or pronoun to another word Prepositions connect nouns or pronouns to other words in a sentence. Two of the most common prepositions are the words OF and FOR. Other common prepositions can be recognized by picturing how an airplane flies in a cloudy sky. The airplane can fly _______ the clouds.
Pronoun
A word that takes the place of a noun A pronoun refers to or substitutes a noun in a given sentence. -Used as a subject of predicate nominative in the nominative case (ex. she was the drum majorette) -Used as a direct object, indirect object, or object of a preposition in the objective case (ex. The teacher praised him)
accept / except
Accept= verb meaning to receive or to agree. Ex: He accepted their praise. except= not including other than
Value Judgement
An assessment of something as good and bad in terms of one's standards or priorities.
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence displays faulty subordination ("as being") and unidiomatic construction ("but yet"); (D) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A growing number of health-conscious Americans are avid consumers of papaya fruit, as being low in calories and sodium but yet high in dietary fiber and vitamins. A.as being low in calories and sodium but yet B.being low in calories and sodium but it is C.low in calories and sodium but then D.which is low in calories and sodium but E.it is low in calories and sodium but it is also
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence is a fragment; replacing the boldfaced "having" with "has" results in a complete statement with a consistent tense.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A self-described "womanist," Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Alice Walker having constantly maintained a strong focus on feminist issues within African American culture throughout her still-thriving career. A.having constantly maintained B.having to constantly maintain C.has constantly maintained D.had maintained constantly E.was constantly maintaining
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. Comments on challenges that teachers face at work, posted by the teachers themselves, constitute a primary source directly relevant to the topic of career satisfaction among teachers. (A) is too general, while the other three options are too narrowly focused.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A student is researching career satisfaction among teachers for a paper. Which of the following would best serve as a primary source for the paper? A.A published dissertation focusing on the history of education in the United States B.A Web site on which teachers post comments about challenges they face at work C.A book written about contemporary approaches to special education D.A journal article written by a principal outlining an approach to selecting textbooks E.A textbook that includes a chapter on the benefits of limited-size classes
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. That option, which refers to the growing dependence of the general public on radio reports for news about the war, is not directly relevant to the topic identified: the roles of American women during the Second World War.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A student is writing a paper about the roles of United States women during the Second World War. Which of the following pieces of information is NOT directly relevant to the student's paper? A.During the Second World War, some 350,000 women served in the United States armed forces. B.During the Second World War, the United States aviation industry saw a great increase in female workers. C.During the Second World War, though women were crucial to the United States war effort, their pay continued to lag far behind that of their male counterparts. D.During the Second World War, civilians in the United States grew increasingly dependent on radio reports for news of the fighting overseas. E.During the Second World War, the Rosie the Riveter recruitment campaign stressed the patriotic need for women to enter the United States workforce.
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence contains a lack of parallel construction ("By using . . . and she was disguised"); (C) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: By using an assumed name, and she was disguised in male clothing, Deborah Sampson enlisted in the Continental army in 1782 and became the only woman to serve formally in the American Revolution. A.By using an assumed name, and she was disguised in male clothing B.Using an assumed name and to disguise herself in male clothing C.Using an assumed name and disguising herself in male clothing D.With the use of an assumed name and disguising in male clothing E.With the use of an assumed name, she wore male clothing as a disguise
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence has a run-on construction (or comma splice); (B) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In 1869 John Wesley Powell traveled the length of the Colorado River canyon, this expedition led him to create the first detailed maps of the area. A.canyon, this expedition led B.canyon, an expedition that led C.canyon and this expedition leading D.canyon, with this expedition leading E.canyon and his expedition was leading
Tone
Attitude an author takes toward his or her subject -Exemplified in the language of the text -Reveal different opinions and attitudes
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The appropriate word in this context is the adjective "principal," in its meaning of "primary," not the noun "principle," which refers to a law, doctrine, or assumption.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: In ancient times, metallic toothpicks were used and ostentatiously displayed by privileged classes and were the principle means of caring for one's teeth. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select In ancient times, metallic toothpicks were used and ostentatiously displayed by privileged classes and were the principle means of caring for one's teeth.
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The sentence is a fragment; replacing "having" with "has" results in a complete statement.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The ordinary paper clip, a graceful loop-within-a-loop spring that easily accomplishes a necessary task, having long been admired by designers as an elegant solution to a problem. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select The ordinary paper clip, a graceful loop-within-a-loop spring that easily accomplishes a necessary task, having long been admired by designers as an elegant solution to a problem.
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The idiomatic expression is "not only . . . but also"; therefore, "and" should be "but."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: When English colonists established the Plymouth settlement in New England, their Native American neighbors, the Pokanokets, not only provided them with seed corn and also showed them how to cultivate their crops. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select When English colonists established the Plymouth settlement in New England, their Native American neighbors, the Pokanokets, not only provided them with seed corn and also showed them how to cultivate their crops.
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence contains a problematic pronoun reference and a lack of parallel structure. Replacing "its" with "their" and "their survival" with "to survive" corrects both errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Receding Arctic pack ice endangers polar bears by reducing its ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival. A.its ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival B.the polar bear's ability to find food, reproduction, and survival C.their ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival D.their ability to find food, to reproduce, and to survive E.the ability of the polar bear finding food, reproducing, and surviving
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence illogically suggests that Earth requires sunlight to perform an action; (C) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun and consequently requires sunlight to travel more than eight minutes before reaching Earth. A.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun and consequently requires sunlight to B.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun, therefore sunlight must C.Since the Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun, sunlight must D.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun; thus requiring sunlight to E.The Earth always in orbit at least 91 million miles away from the Sun; therefore sunlight must
Option (B) is correct. There is no logical plural antecedent for the boldfaced possessive pronoun "their"; the error is corrected by the substitution of the article "a" for "their."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: The defining features of the microorganism known as the paramecium include their slipperlike shape, a feeding groove, and two nuclei. A.include their B.include a C.includes their D.includes a E.including a
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence suffers from both a lack of parallel structure ("reduction of . . . to be formed") and awkwardness of expression; (B) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: To promote lasting peace after the First World War, Woodrow Wilson proposed mutual disarmament, reduction of international trade barriers, and a permanent league of nations to be formed. A.reduction of international trade barriers, and a permanent league of nations to be formed B.reduction of international trade barriers, and the formation of a permanent league of nations C.international trade barriers to be reduced, and a permanent league of nations being formed D.international trade barrier's reduction, and a permanent league of nation's formation E.reduce international trade barriers, and that they then form a permanent league of nations
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence suffers from both wordiness and a lack of parallel structure; (D) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Typically, salmon are anadromous, meaning that they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return to reproduce. A.migrate to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return B.migrating to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return C.migrated to the ocean, and then returning to freshwater D.migrate to the ocean, and then return to freshwater E.they migrate to the ocean, and then returning to freshwater
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. A biography of someone relies on primary sources but is itself a secondary source. The other four options represent direct evidence of Henry Ford's existence and activities.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Which of the following is a secondary source on Henry Ford? A.A letter written by Ford to his brother B.A biography about Ford's life and accomplishments C.A photograph of Ford and Thomas Edison D.An essay written by Ford about the first assembly line E.Film footage of Ford meeting President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Correct Answer: A Option (A) is correct. The publication name ("Pets"), the specific date of publication ("2005, January 28"), the volume/issue numbers ("171(4)"), and the title of the work ("Why we love dogs") indicate that a magazine article is being cited.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Williams, J. (2005, January 28). Why we love dogs. Pets, 171(4), 54-60. In the citation shown, which of the following is cited? A.A magazine article B.A book C.An interview D.A newspaper article E.A blog
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence lacks parallelism (required by the conjunction "and") between "defied" and "becoming." (B) uses a participial modifier ("becoming . . . normality") to avoid the error.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: With On the Road, Jack Kerouac inspired a generation of "Beats," who defied their era's social constraints and becoming self-proclaimed outcasts from a society that prized stability and normality. A.who defied their era's social constraints and becoming B.who defied their era's social constraints, becoming C.defying their era's social constraints, becoming D.to defy their era's social constraints and becoming E.who, defying their era's social constraints to become
Style
Artful adaptation of language to met various purposes -Authors can modify their word choice, sentence structure, and organization
how to cite a source
Book Author last name, author first name. Book title. Publication city: publishing company, publication year. Journal Article Author last name, author first name. "Article title." Journal title. Volume number. Issue number (publication year): page numbers. Magazine Article Author last name, author first name. "Article title." Magazine title. Publication month and year: page numbers. Encyclopedia Article Author last name, author first name. "Article title." Encyclopedia title. Edition. Publication City: Publication Company, publication year. Newspaper Article Author last name, author first name. "Article title." Newspaper title. Date published: page numbers. Website Author last name, author first name. "Article title." Website title. Publisher or website name, date accessed. <URL> (if source is difficult to find)
Supporting Details/Evidence
Content that gives depth and weight to the main idea of the story, argument, or information
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Williams, J. (2005, January 28). Why we love dogs. Pets, 171(4), 54-60. In the citation shown, which of the following is cited? A.A magazine article B.A book C.An interview D.A newspaper article E.A blog
Correct Answer: A Option (A) is correct. The publication name ("Pets"), the specific date of publication ("2005, January 28"), the volume/issue numbers ("171(4)"), and the title of the work ("Why we love dogs") indicate that a magazine article is being cited.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is best to do with sentence 6 (reproduced below) ? Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. A.Delete it from the passage. B.Insert "Ironically," at the beginning of the sentence. C.Change "Several" to "Numerous". D.Change "have" to "had". E.Add "on them" to the end of the sentence.
Correct Answer: A Option (A) is correct. While sentence 6 is grammatically correct, it provides information that is irrelevant to the main concern of the passage; for that reason, it is best deleted.
Descriptive
Giving details about; illustrating; explaining Delivers sensors details to the reader
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Which of the following is a secondary source on Henry Ford? A.A letter written by Ford to his brother B.A biography about Ford's life and accomplishments C.A photograph of Ford and Thomas Edison D.An essay written by Ford about the first assembly line E.Film footage of Ford meeting President Franklin D. Roosevelt
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. A biography of someone relies on primary sources but is itself a secondary source. The other four options represent direct evidence of Henry Ford's existence and activities.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A student is researching career satisfaction among teachers for a paper. Which of the following would best serve as a primary source for the paper? A.A published dissertation focusing on the history of education in the United States B.A Web site on which teachers post comments about challenges they face at work C.A book written about contemporary approaches to special education D.A journal article written by a principal outlining an approach to selecting textbooks E.A textbook that includes a chapter on the benefits of limited-size classes
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. Comments on challenges that teachers face at work, posted by the teachers themselves, constitute a primary source directly relevant to the topic of career satisfaction among teachers. (A) is too general, while the other three options are too narrowly focused.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Which sentence, if added immediately after sentence 16, would make the most suitable conclusion to the final paragraph? A.However, one recent survey indicated that younger people would accept a switch to dollar coins more readily than would older ones. B.Their attachment to their iconic dollar bill may be mostly sentimental, but it nevertheless seems extremely deep and powerful. C.Even if it is the most iconic form of currency in the world, the dollar bill may soon be replaced by the more durable coin. D.One of the best known dollar coins was the Susan B. Anthony dollar, which was similar in size and color to the quarter and first appeared in 1979. E.Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln are represented on coins and currency almost as frequently as George Washington.Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response.
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. It continues and expands upon the idea introduced in the preceding sentence, providing a summing-up statement about the aversion of Americans toward the dollar coin.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In 1869 John Wesley Powell traveled the length of the Colorado River canyon, this expedition led him to create the first detailed maps of the area. A.canyon, this expedition led B.canyon, an expedition that led C.canyon and this expedition leading D.canyon, with this expedition leading E.canyon and his expedition was leading
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence has a run-on construction (or comma splice); (B) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: With On the Road, Jack Kerouac inspired a generation of "Beats," who defied their era's social constraints and becoming self-proclaimed outcasts from a society that prized stability and normality. A.who defied their era's social constraints and becoming B.who defied their era's social constraints, becoming C.defying their era's social constraints, becoming D.to defy their era's social constraints and becoming E.who, defying their era's social constraints to become
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence lacks parallelism (required by the conjunction "and") between "defied" and "becoming." (B) uses a participial modifier ("becoming . . . normality") to avoid the error.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: To promote lasting peace after the First World War, Woodrow Wilson proposed mutual disarmament, reduction of international trade barriers, and a permanent league of nations to be formed. A.reduction of international trade barriers, and a permanent league of nations to be formed B.reduction of international trade barriers, and the formation of a permanent league of nations C.international trade barriers to be reduced, and a permanent league of nations being formed D.international trade barrier's reduction, and a permanent league of nation's formation E.reduce international trade barriers, and that they then form a permanent league of nations
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. The given sentence suffers from both a lack of parallel structure ("reduction of . . . to be formed") and awkwardness of expression; (B) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: NOTE: You must scroll to read the answer choices for this question. In context, which of the following is the most effective way to revise and combine sentences 2 and 3 (reproduced below)? They are instantly recognizable. It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. A.They are made instantly recognizable by the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. B.Their blackish-green color and distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president, make them instantly recognizable. C.Its blackish-green color and distinctive design, including its central portrait of America's first president, George Washington, make it instantly recognizable. D.One recognized it instantly by the blackish-green color and distinctive design, including the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president. E.Made instantly recognizable by the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, it includes the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president.
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. In sentence 2, "They" has no plural antecedent, while in sentence 3 "It" has no singular antecedent; additionally, sentence 3 is wordy and awkwardly expressed. (C) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 11 (reproduced below) ? Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. A.(As it is now) B.They claim that coins C.By contrast, coins D.In addition, coins E.Similarly, coins
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. Sentence 10 refers to currency made of paper and its short life span (about two years). Sentence 11 refers to coins and their much longer life span (up to 25 years). Inserting "By contrast," at the beginning of sentence 11 emphasizes the difference in durability of paper and coin currency.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: By using an assumed name, and she was disguised in male clothing, Deborah Sampson enlisted in the Continental army in 1782 and became the only woman to serve formally in the American Revolution. A.By using an assumed name, and she was disguised in male clothing B.Using an assumed name and to disguise herself in male clothing C.Using an assumed name and disguising herself in male clothing D.With the use of an assumed name and disguising in male clothing E.With the use of an assumed name, she wore male clothing as a disguise
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence contains a lack of parallel construction ("By using . . . and she was disguised"); (C) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun and consequently requires sunlight to travel more than eight minutes before reaching Earth. A.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun and consequently requires sunlight to B.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun, therefore sunlight must C.Since the Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun, sunlight must D.The Earth in orbit is always at least 91 million miles away from the Sun; thus requiring sunlight to E.The Earth always in orbit at least 91 million miles away from the Sun; therefore sunlight must
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence illogically suggests that Earth requires sunlight to perform an action; (C) corrects this error and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A self-described "womanist," Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist Alice Walker having constantly maintained a strong focus on feminist issues within African American culture throughout her still-thriving career. A.having constantly maintained B.having to constantly maintain C.has constantly maintained D.had maintained constantly E.was constantly maintaining
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. The given sentence is a fragment; replacing the boldfaced "having" with "has" results in a complete statement with a consistent tense.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which of the following is best to insert at the beginning of sentence 13 (reproduced below) ? Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. A.In fact, B.Fortunately, C.On the other hand, D.To bolster their argument, E.In addition to its potential savings,
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. Sentence 13 refers to a reason given by proponents of the adoption of coin currency. Starting the sentence with "To bolster their argument," makes explicit the motivation of these proponents.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A student is writing a paper about the roles of United States women during the Second World War. Which of the following pieces of information is NOT directly relevant to the student's paper? A.During the Second World War, some 350,000 women served in the United States armed forces. B.During the Second World War, the United States aviation industry saw a great increase in female workers. C.During the Second World War, though women were crucial to the United States war effort, their pay continued to lag far behind that of their male counterparts. D.During the Second World War, civilians in the United States grew increasingly dependent on radio reports for news of the fighting overseas. E.During the Second World War, the Rosie the Riveter recruitment campaign stressed the patriotic need for women to enter the United States workforce.
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. That option, which refers to the growing dependence of the general public on radio reports for news about the war, is not directly relevant to the topic identified: the roles of American women during the Second World War.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Receding Arctic pack ice endangers polar bears by reducing its ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival. A.its ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival B.the polar bear's ability to find food, reproduction, and survival C.their ability to find food, to reproduce, and their survival D.their ability to find food, to reproduce, and to survive E.the ability of the polar bear finding food, reproducing, and surviving
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence contains a problematic pronoun reference and a lack of parallel structure. Replacing "its" with "their" and "their survival" with "to survive" corrects both errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: A growing number of health-conscious Americans are avid consumers of papaya fruit, as being low in calories and sodium but yet high in dietary fiber and vitamins. A.as being low in calories and sodium but yet B.being low in calories and sodium but it is C.low in calories and sodium but then D.which is low in calories and sodium but E.it is low in calories and sodium but it is also
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence displays faulty subordination ("as being") and unidiomatic construction ("but yet"); (D) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Typically, salmon are anadromous, meaning that they are born in freshwater, migrate to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return to reproduce. A.migrate to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return B.migrating to the ocean, and then freshwater is where they return C.migrated to the ocean, and then returning to freshwater D.migrate to the ocean, and then return to freshwater E.they migrate to the ocean, and then returning to freshwater
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. The given sentence suffers from both wordiness and a lack of parallel structure; (D) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Many fiction writers refer to real places and events in their work, but what distinguishes Gabriela's stories are the complex interaction between fact and fiction. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Many fiction writers refer to real places and events in their work, but what distinguishes Gabriela's stories are the complex interaction between fact and fiction. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The verb "are" should be "is," as the corresponding subject is the singular noun "interaction."
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins.Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 14 (reproduced below) ? Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. A.(as it is now) B.a similar thing C.doing so D.their solution E.this kind of change
Correct Answer: E Option (E) is correct. It is not clear what "it" refers to in sentence 14; replacing the vague pronoun with "this kind of change" (the switch from paper currency to coins, addressed in the preceding sentence) results in a clear and grammatical statement.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Technically speaking, under the right set of circumstances, almost any shelled mollusk can produce some kind of "pearl," though most molluscan "pearls" lack the iridescence for which high-quality oyster pearls are valued. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Technically speaking , under the right set of circumstances, almost any shelled mollusk can produce some kind of "pearl," though most molluscan "pearls" lack the iridescence for which high-quality oyster pearls are valued. No error
Correct Answer: Fifth Option The fifth option is correct. The sentence contains no errors in grammar or usage.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The New Jersey state constitution of 1776 granted voting rights to all inhabitants who possessed a certain amount of property, not restricting the rights by race or sex, as other state constitutions did. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". The New Jersey state constitution of 1776 granted voting rights to all inhabitants who possessed a certain amount of property, not restricting the rights by race or sex, as other state constitutions did. No error
Correct Answer: Fifth Option The fifth option is correct. The sentence contains no errors in grammar or usage.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: A volcano is an opening, or rupture, in a Planet's surface that allows hot, molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from below the surface. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". A volcano is an opening, or rupture, in a Planet's surface that allows hot, molten rock, ash, and gases to escape from below the surface. No error
Correct Answer: First Option The first option is correct. The noun "planet" does not require capitalization, and neither does its possessive form.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Beginning in C.E. 700 and for nearly a thousand years thereafter, the Republic of Venice was governed by a chief magistrate called "the doge," a title derived from the latin word dux, meaning "leader." No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Beginning in C.E. 700 and for nearly a thousand years thereafter , the Republic of Venice was governed by a chief magistrate called "the doge," a title derived from the latin word dux, meaning "leader." No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. "Latin," the proper noun that refers to the ancient language of Rome, should be capitalized.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: It is hard to judge when people first began to cultivate lime trees, since the oldest surviving relevant documents do not clearly distinguish limes with other citrus fruits. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". It is hard to judge when people first began to cultivate lime trees, since the oldest surviving relevant documents do not clearly distinguish limes with other citrus fruits. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. One distinguishes something "from" something else, not "with" something else.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: In ancient times, metallic toothpicks were used and ostentatiously displayed by privileged classes and were the principle means of caring for one's teeth. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". In ancient times, metallic toothpicks were used and ostentatiously displayed by privileged classes and were the principle means of caring for one's teeth. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The appropriate word in this context is the adjective "principal," in its meaning of "primary," not the noun "principle," which refers to a law, doctrine, or assumption.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: As early as the thirteenth century, miners in Europe began to use magnetic compasses in order to find their way around in underground mines and to define the sometimes competing claim of various mining companies. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". As early as the thirteenth century , miners in Europe began to use magnetic compasses in order to find their way around in underground mines and to define the sometimes competing claim of various mining companies. No error
Correct Answer: Fourth Option The fourth option is correct. The noun "claim" should be "claims"; "various mining companies" cannot logically be said to have a (singular) "competing claim." Two or more claims are needed to compete with one another.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Since ancient Egyptian religion emphasized continuity between this world and an afterlife, the pharaoh's tombs were outfitted with food, furniture, and all else needed for their comfort in eternity. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Since ancient Egyptian religion emphasized continuity between this world and an afterlife, the pharaoh's tombs were outfitted with food, furniture, and all else needed for their comfort in eternity. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The apostrophe in "pharaoh's" belongs after the final "s" because the possessive pronoun "their," which appears later in the sentence and is not underlined, indicates that more than one pharaoh is being referenced.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: With more than 43 million copies in print, the childrens' book series about Junie B. Jones has its share of die-hard fans and is required summer reading at many elementary schools. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". With more than 43 million copies in print, the childrens' book series about Junie B. Jones has its share of die-hard fans and is required summer reading at many elementary schools. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The plural of "child" is "children," and the possessive form of that is "children's," not "childrens'."
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Although banana plants are grown primarily for its fruit, the plants' large, flexible leaves are used in many ways, including as umbrellas and as wraps for packages. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Although banana plants are grown primarily for its fruit, the plants' large, flexible leaves are used in many ways, including as umbrellas and as wraps for packages. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The possessive pronoun "its" should be "their" because the antecedent for it is the plural noun "banana plants
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The ordinary paper clip, a graceful loop-within-a-loop spring that easily accomplishes a necessary task, having long been admired by designers as an elegant solution to a problem. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". The ordinary paper clip, a graceful loop-within-a-loop spring that easily accomplishes a necessary task, having long been admired by designers as an elegant solution to a problem. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The sentence is a fragment; replacing "having" with "has" results in a complete statement.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: Astronomers have noted that Pluto's moon Charon, appears to be covered with active volcanoes spewing ammonia-rich water from the moon's deep interior. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". Astronomers have noted that Pluto's moon Charon , appears to be covered with active volcanoes spewing ammonia-rich water from the moon's deep interior. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The use of a comma after "Charon" is unwarranted and inappropriate, providing an illogical break between subject and verb.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The natural setting of the Incan site Machu Picchu, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompass the upper Amazon basin, known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". The natural setting of the Incan site Machu Picchu, on the eastern slopes of the Andes, encompass the upper Amazon basin, known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna. No error
Correct Answer: Second Option The second option is correct. The verb "encompass" should be "encompasses" (singular) to correspond with the singular subject, "setting," which appears earlier in the sentence and is not underlined.
Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Listen to the sentence that follows: The first bridge to be constructed across the river Thames, at the site where London Bridge later stood, were built of wood by the Romans around C.E. 60. No error. Now select the part of the sentence that is incorrect or select "no error". The first bridge to be constructed across the river Thames, at the site where London Bridge later stood, were built of wood by the Romans around C.E. 60. No error
Correct Answer: Third Option The third option is correct. The verb "were" should be "was," as the corresponding subject is the singular noun "bridge."
Thesis: Bad
Everyone should exercise.
Suffix
Follows the root word to which it attaches and appears at the end of the word (-s,-es,-ed,-ly)
Run-On Sentence: two complete sentences joined together when they should be separated using a period, coma, semicolon
Harry Elephante was born in East Harlem, New York, the developer of the polio vaccine.
Has lain
Has rested; past particle of "lie"
Dialect
Includes vocabulary that is specific to a region -Can vary extensively -Ex. Pop and soda
Bathos
Ludicrous attempt to portray pathos to evoke pity, sympathy, or sorrow -may result from inappropriately dignifying the commonplace using elevated language to describe something trivial, or greatly exaggerating pathos
Possessives
Possessives show ownership. Forming possessives is a complex issue on which experts disagree. If you follow the rules below, we believe this issue will be less confusing.
Decoding
Involves changing communication signals into messages
Sexism Language
Language that excludes either men or women when discussing a topic that is applicable to both sexes.
Inflammatory Language
Language that tends to arouse anger, hostility and passion.
Informal Language
Language used in a natural or real-life setting.
Compound Sentence
Made up of two independent clauses that are joined by a conjunction, a correlative conjunction (e.g. either or, neither nor), or a semicolon
Hasty Generalization
Making a claim based on insufficient or incomplete data
Idioms: word combinations that sound right/go together Words that can trick you: by, at, among, before
Many people are desensitized to violence on TV shows, but this does not mean that they are not sensitive of the real-life violence around them.
Adjectives
Modify or describe nouns or pronouns
Affix
Morpheme that attaches to a base word
Proper nouns
Name specific People, animals, places, and things. They always begin with a capital letter. Ex. John, New York, Mt. Rushmore
Appositive noun
Noun noun phrase or series of nouns places next to another word or phrase to identify or rename it
Quotation Marks (" ")
Put periods and commas inside quotes. Put colons and semicolons outside quotes. Vary placement of exclamation and question marks according to meaning.
Laying
Putting
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. Sentence 10 refers to currency made of paper and its short life span (about two years). Sentence 11 refers to coins and their much longer life span (up to 25 years). Inserting "By contrast," at the beginning of sentence 11 emphasizes the difference in durability of paper and coin currency.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 11 (reproduced below) ? Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. A.(As it is now) B.They claim that coins C.By contrast, coins D.In addition, coins E.Similarly, coins
Correct Answer: C Option (C) is correct. In sentence 2, "They" has no plural antecedent, while in sentence 3 "It" has no singular antecedent; additionally, sentence 3 is wordy and awkwardly expressed. (C) corrects these errors and does not introduce further errors.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: NOTE: You must scroll to read the answer choices for this question. In context, which of the following is the most effective way to revise and combine sentences 2 and 3 (reproduced below)? They are instantly recognizable. It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. A.They are made instantly recognizable by the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. B.Their blackish-green color and distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president, make them instantly recognizable. C.Its blackish-green color and distinctive design, including its central portrait of America's first president, George Washington, make it instantly recognizable. D.One recognized it instantly by the blackish-green color and distinctive design, including the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president. E.Made instantly recognizable by the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, it includes the central portrait of George Washington, America's first president.
Correct Answer: B Option (B) is correct. It continues and expands upon the idea introduced in the preceding sentence, providing a summing-up statement about the aversion of Americans toward the dollar coin.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: Which sentence, if added immediately after sentence 16, would make the most suitable conclusion to the final paragraph? A.However, one recent survey indicated that younger people would accept a switch to dollar coins more readily than would older ones. B.Their attachment to their iconic dollar bill may be mostly sentimental, but it nevertheless seems extremely deep and powerful. C.Even if it is the most iconic form of currency in the world, the dollar bill may soon be replaced by the more durable coin. D.One of the best known dollar coins was the Susan B. Anthony dollar, which was similar in size and color to the quarter and first appeared in 1979. E.Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln are represented on coins and currency almost as frequently as George Washington.Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response.
Correct Answer: A Option (A) is correct. While sentence 6 is grammatically correct, it provides information that is irrelevant to the main concern of the passage; for that reason, it is best deleted.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is best to do with sentence 6 (reproduced below) ? Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. A.Delete it from the passage. B.Insert "Ironically," at the beginning of the sentence. C.Change "Several" to "Numerous". D.Change "have" to "had". E.Add "on them" to the end of the sentence.
Correct Answer: D Option (D) is correct. Sentence 13 refers to a reason given by proponents of the adoption of coin currency. Starting the sentence with "To bolster their argument," makes explicit the motivation of these proponents.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins. Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which of the following is best to insert at the beginning of sentence 13 (reproduced below) ? Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. A.In fact, B.Fortunately, C.On the other hand, D.To bolster their argument, E.In addition to its potential savings,
Correct Answer: E Option (E) is correct. It is not clear what "it" refers to in sentence 14; replacing the vague pronoun with "this kind of change" (the switch from paper currency to coins, addressed in the preceding sentence) results in a clear and grammatical statement.
Questions 31-36 refer to the following passage. (1) The United States one-dollar bill is probably the most iconic form of currency in the world. (2) They are instantly recognizable. (3) It is because of the blackish-green color and also the distinctive design, which includes the central portrait of George Washington, who was America's first president. (4) For many people in the United States and elsewhere, this paper banknote symbolizes the very concept of monetary value. (5) But an increasing number of people seriously argue that dollar bills should be entirely withdrawn from circulation and replaced with dollar coins. (6) Several other countries around the world have also had currency featuring Washington's image. (7) Advocates of the dollar coin contend that making the switch from bills to coins would save money for the United States government. (8) The main reason for this is easy to grasp. (9) Metal is much more durable than paper. (10) Thus, although it is more expensive to mint metal coins than to print paper notes, new dollar coins would not have to be manufactured nearly as often as new dollar bills, which wear out, on average, after only a couple of years of use. (11) Coins may last up to 25 years in circulation. (12) Obviously, the savings from the switchover would take time to accrue, but they would eventually be substantial. (13) Dollar-coin proponents point to other nations, including Canada, that have already replaced bills with coins as their basic units of currency. (14) Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. (15) Previous efforts to introduce dollar coins are widely deemed to have been failures, even though those coins were meant not to replace dollar bills outright but merely to supplement them. (16) Americans, it appears, just don't like using dollar coins.Answer the question below by clicking on the correct response. Question: In context, which is the best version of the underlined portion of sentence 14 (reproduced below) ? Whether the American public would accept it, however, is another question. A.(as it is now) B.a similar thing C.doing so D.their solution E.this kind of change
Syntax
Rules or patterned relationships that correctly create phrases and sentences from words
What they are looking for in your essay The 6 different types of scores.
Score of 1: essay demonstrates fundamental deficiencies in writing skills. An essay in this category: contains serious and persistent writing errors, or is coherent, or is undeveloped Score of 2: essay is seriously flawed. An essay in this category reveals one or more of the following weaknesses: No clear position or thesis Weak organization or very little development Few or no relevant reasons, examples, or details Frequent serious errors in the use of language Frequent serious errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics Score of 3: essay demonstrates some competence in response to the assignment but is obviously flawed. An essay in this category reveals one or more of the following weaknesses: limited in stating or implying a position or thesis limited control in the organization and development of ideas inadequate reasons, examples, or details to explain key ideas an accumulation of errors in the use of language an accumulation of errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics Score of 4: essay demonstrates competence in response to the assignment. An essay in this category: states or implies the writer's position or thesis shows control in the organization and development of ideas explains some key ideas, supporting them with adequate reasons, examples, or details displays adequate use of language shows control of grammar, usage, and mechanics, but may display errors Score of 5: essay demonstrates clear competence in response to the assignment but may have minor errors. An essay in this category: states or implies the writer's position or thesis organizes and develops ideas clearly, making connections between them explains some key ideas, supporting them with relevant reasons, examples, or details displays some sentence variety displays facility in the use of language is generally free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics Score of 6: essay demonstrates a high degree of competence in response to the assignment but may have a few minor errors. An essay in this category: states or clearly implies the writer's position or thesis organizes and develops ideas logically, making insightful connection between them clearly explains key ideas, supporting then with well-chosen reasons, examples, or details displays effective sentence variety clearly displays facility in the use of language is generally free from errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics
Onomatopoeia
The naming of a thing or action by a vocal imitation of the sounds associated with it -Marked by the use of words whose sound suggests teh sense -Ex. buzz, hiss
Antecedent
The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun.
Pre-writing Strategies
Thinking Freewriting Listing Outlining Brainstorming Clustering Questioning
Pronoun Case
This is the form of a pronoun which changes to show the relationship to other words in the sentence. There are three types: Subjective- subject of the sentence Objective- objects of verbs or prepositions Possessive- ownership
Research Tools
Those that allow a student t conduct research on a topic in order to develop content for their writing
Development Tools
Those that assist a student in the actual writing process and developing the content for their paper
Three Tiers of Vocabulary
Tier 1- basic words. Tier 2- high utility words. Tier 3- academic content words.
Apostrophe (')
To form the possessive case of a singular noun, add an apostrophe and an s. Examples: Bob's car; One's home. If the addition of an "s" produces an awkward sound, add only the apostrophe. Usually, this is when there is already a double "s" sound. Examples: Moses'; for old times' sake; for goodness' sake. To form the possessive case of a plural noun, add an apostrophe after the s. Example: girls' teams. If the plural form of the word does not end in s, add an apostrophe and an s. Example: women's team. Use an apostrophe to show where letters have been omitted in a contraction. Examples: can't = cannot; it's = it is.
Lie
To rest or recline
Semicolon (;)
Use a semicolon between independent clauses not joined by and, but, nor, for, yet, and so. Example: Read what you've written; don't just pass it on. Use a semicolon between independent clauses joined by such words as for example, besides, nevertheless, etc. Example: I think he's right; however, it's difficult to know. Use a semicolon between items in a series if the items contain commas. Example: Winners in the competition were Bill, first place; Amy, second place; and Jeff, third place.
Comma (,)
Use commas to separate items in a series. Example: Our itinerary included Rome, London, and Madrid. Use a comma before and, but, or, nor, for, so, and yet, when they join independent clauses (unless the clauses are short). Example: The story gets off to a slow start, but it gets exciting toward the end. Use commas to set off nonessential clauses and phrases. Example: My father, who started this company, really knows his stuff. Use a comma after introductory elements. Examples: Well, how do you do? Before you leave, turn off the lights. Use commas to set off an expression that interrupts a sentence. Examples: The article in The Herald, our local paper, is about writing skills. Cabs in New York, I'm certain, obey the speed limit. Use a comma in certain conventional situations (to separate items in dates and addresses, after the salutation and closing of a letter, and after a name followed by a title). Examples: January 1, 1992 New York, NY Dear Shirley, Cordially, Albert Schweitzer, Ph.D. Don't use unnecessary commas. Use them sparingly and only to clarify issues. Commas in the wrong places can be confusing.
Apostrophes: When to use 's
Use: (1) add to singular nouns and pronouns (2) add to singular nouns ending in "s" (unless it distorts the pronunciation) (3) add to plural nouns NOT ending in "s" (4) to the last word in a compound word or group (5) to the last name when indicating joint ownership (6) to show individual possession (7) to words and initials to show they are plural (no if's, and's or but's ... three A's
When do you use colons?
Use: (1) to introduce a list (2) to introduce a list preceded by "as follows" or "the following" (3) to separate two independent clauses, when the second clause is a restatement or explanation of the first (4) to introduce a word or word group that is a restatement, explanation, or summary of the first sentence (5) to introduce a formal appositive (6) to separate the introductory words from a quotation that follows, if the quotation is formal, long or contained in its own paragraph
When do you use semicolons?
Use: (1) to separate groups, (2) to separate independent clauses, (3) to separate independent clauses, (4) to separate items in a series when each item has internal punctuation
Subjunctive Mood
Used for conditional clauses or wish statements that pose untrue conditions -Verbs in this mood are plural with both singular and plural subjects
Future Tense
Used to express action or a condition of future time
Present Perfect Tense
Used to express action or a coordination that started in the past and is continued to or completed in the present
Past Tense
Used to express action that has occurred in a past time
Present Tense
Used to express that which is currently happening or is always true
Indicative Mood
Used to make unconditional statements
Register
Variation in language depending on the formality and intention for a conversation
affects
Verb
Malapropism
Verbal blunder in which one word is replaced by another that is similar in sound but different in meaning -Ex. saying geometry of contagious countries instead of geography of contagious countries
Subordinating Conjunctions: After, before, once, until, when, whenever, while, as, because, in order that, so, so that, if, even if, provided that, unless, although, even though, whereas, where, whenever, than, whether Relative pronouns and adjectives: who, whoever, whom, whomever, whose, which, that, when, where, why, how
Words that begin Dependent clauses
Adjectives
Words that modify nouns or pronouns by defining, describing, limiting, or qualifying those nouns or pronouns Adjectives describe or indicate degree. They answer the questions WHAT KIND? HOW MANY? WHICH ONE? To determine whether to use an adjective or an adverb, locate the word it describes. Adjectives describe nouns or pronouns. Adjectives are also used after linking verbs.
Adverbs
Words that modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs and express such ideas as time, place, manner, cause, and degree. Adverbs describe or indicate degree. They answer the questions HOW? WHY? WHEN? WHERE? HOW MUCH? or TO WHAT DEGREE? To determine whether to use an adverb or an adjective, locate the word it describes. Adverbs describe action verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.
Brackets
[ ], grouping symbols, A pair of symbols used to enclose sections of an expression. Brackets are used to insert explanations, corrections, clarifications, or comments into quoted material.
prepositional phrase ex: The dog is hiding [under the porch]
__ beings with a preposition and ends with an object of the preposition.
Clasues
__ contain both a subject and a predicate. -can be independent or dependent.
Compound-complex sentence Ex: The cat under the back porch, who loves tuna, jumped against the glass yesterday; he left a mark on the window.
__ has two or more independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses.
subject
__ is what the sentence is about. -it will be a noun that is usually performing the main action of the sentence and it may be accompanied by modifiers.
conjunctions
__ join words into phrases, clauses, and sentences by use of three mechanisms
Gerund phrase , gerund HINT: gerund has an [n] in it reminding you that a gerund acts as a [noun] Ex gerund phrase: [Writing numerous Christmas cards] occupies her aunts time each year.
__ phrases being with ___, which are verbs that end in -ing and act as nouns. -might act as the subject, direct object, or the object of the preposition just as another noun would
indefinite ex: SEVERAL came to the party to see BOTH.
__ pronouns simply replace nouns to avoid unnecessary repetition. These can be either singular or plural (and some can act as both depending on the context)
adverbs ex: He [quickly] ran to the house next door. (quickly modifies the verb ran.) ex: Her [very] effective speech earned her a promotion. (Very modified the adjective effective) ex: [Finally], the table was set and dinner was ready. (finally modifies the clause "the table was set and dinner was ready")
__ which are formed by adding the suffix -ly, modify any word or set of words that isn't a noun or pronoun. -they can modify verbs, adjectives, other adverb, phrases, or clauses
Exclamation marks Ex: What a great show that was!
___ are used to indicate that the writer or speaker is exhibiting intense emotion or energy
correlative conjunctions ex: [Both] the teacher [and] the students needed a break after the lecture.
___ conjunctions (weather/or, either/or, neither/nor, both/and, not only/but also,) work together to join items
subordinating conjunctions ex: We treat ourselves during football season to several orders [because] we love pizza. ex: [Because] we love pizza, we treat ourselves during football season to several orders.
___ conjunctions join dependent clauses (thought that cannot stand alone as sentences) to the related independent clause. -they usually describe some some of relationship between the two parts of the sentence, such as a cause/effect or order. -they can appear at the beginning or in the middle of a sentence.
noun phrase ex: The big, red barn rests besides [the vacant chicken house.]
___ consists of a noun and its modifiers
predicate
___ describes what the subject is doing or being. - it contains the verbs and any modifiers or objects that accompany it.
verb
___ expresses action (run, jump, play) or state of being ( is, seems).
interjections ex: [Ouch!] He stepped on my toe. She shopped at the stores after Christmas and [hooray], found many items on sale. I have seen his love for his father in many expressions of concern--[WOW!]
___ have no grammatical attachment to the sentence itself other than to add expressions of emotion. -these parts of speech may be punctuated with commas or exclamation points and may fall anywhere within the sentence itself.
phrase ex: The animals crossed [the large bridge to eat the fish on the wharf.]
___ is a group of words that communicates a partial idea and lacks either a subject or a predicate. -these are categorized based on the main word in the phrase.
appositive phrase ex: My dad, [a clock maker], loved antiques
___ is a particular type of noun phrase that renames the word or group of words that precedes it. -usually follow the noun they describe and are set apart by commas.
colon ex: The buffet offers three choices that include: ham, turkey, or roast (INCORRECT) The buffet offer three choices: ham, turkey, or roast. (CORRECT) The buffet offers three choices that include the following: ham, turkey, or roast. (CORRECT)
___ is used to introduce a list, definition, or classification -the clause preceding the colon must be an independent clause, the clause that follows does not have to be one.
semicolon ex: The disgruntled customer tapped angrily on the counter; she had to wait nearly ten minutes to speak to the manger After the trip to the raceway; we realized that we should have brought ear plugs. (INCORRECT) After the trip to the raceway, we realized that we should have brought ear plugs. (CORRECT)
___ is used to show general relationship between two independent clauses
Independent clause Ex: The dog ate her homework.
___ or main clause, can stand alone as its own sentence.
Dependent clause Ex: [Because] the dog ate her homework
___ or subordinate clause, cannot stand alone as their own sentences. -they start with subordinating conjunction, relative pronoun, relative adjective, which will make them sound incomplete.
second person
___ person is the person being addressed (you)
first person
___ person is the point of view of the speaker (I, me)
possessive ex: the apartment is HERS, but the furniture is MINE
___ pronouns indicate possession
preposition
___ set up relationships in time ([after] the party) or space ([under] the cushions) within a sentence. -will always function as part of a prepositional phrase, which includes a prepositional phrase. -if a word that acts as a preposition is standing alone in a sentence the word is likely functioning as an adverb.
Period Ex: Sarah and I are attending a concert.
___ the most common and is used to end declarative (statement) and imperative (command) sentences.
active voice ex: ALEXIS played tennis --Alexis is performing the action
___ the subject of the sentence preforms the main action of the sentence.
intransitive ex: she jumped. He will run.
___ verbs do not require a direct object verbs like (run, jump, go) make sense without any object.
transitive ex: The pitcher will throw the ball. ----the transitive verb [throw] has a direct object [ball].
___ verbs require a direct object.
direct object
___ which is a noun that receives the action of the verb.
Simple sentence ex: The cat under the back porch jumped against the glass yesterday.
___ will have only one independent clause and no dependent clause. -may contain phrases, complements, modifiers, but it will comprise only one independent clause, one complete idea.
coordinating ex: I'll order lunch, [but] you need to go pick it up. ex: Make sure to get sandwiches, chips, [and] sodas.
____ conjunction join together two independent clauses (two complete thoughts) -and, but, or, for, nor, yet, so (FANBOYS) -some of these can also be used to join items in a series
Compound sentence Ex: The cat under the back porch jumped against the glass yesterday, and he scared my grandma.
____ has two or more independent clauses and no dependent clauses
Question mark Ex: how many people are attending the concert?
____ is used to end interrogative sentences
adjective ex: I think that lasagna smells [delicious]
____ notify to describe nouns and pronouns. they are usually placed before the word being modified, although they can also appear after a linking verb such as [is] or [smells]
relative ex: Charlie, WHO made the clocks, works in the basement. who is substituting for Charlie and who is in the subject place because it is PREFORMING THE ACTION (makes the clocks)
____ pronouns begin dependent clauses.
interrogative ex: who worked last night?
____ pronouns begin questions. They request information about people, places, things, ideas, location, time, means, and purposes.
reflective (intensive) ex: I MYSELF made the dessert. I made the dessert MYSELF.
____ pronouns intensify a noun or reflect back upon a noun.
demonstrative pronouns
____ pronouns point out or draw attention to something or someone. they can also indicate proximity or distance
passive voice ex: Tennis was played ---the subject [tennis] receives the action [played]
____ the subject of the sentence is receiving the action of the main verb.
passive voice ex: The experiment was preformed three times.
____ used when the subject is unknown or unimportant. there is no indication of who performed the action.
personal ex: SHE received a letter; I gave the letter to HER
____pronouns acts as subjects or objects in a sentence.
pronouns
___replace nouns in a sentence or paragraph, allowing a writer to achieve a smooth flow throughout a text by avoiding unnecessary repetition.
some, any none, all, most, more
indefinite pronouns: SINGULAR or PLURAL --these pronouns take their singularity or plurality from the object of the prepositions that follow: ex: SOME of the pies were eaten ex: SOME of the pie was eaten.
who(person), whom(person), what(thing), where(place), when time), which(selection), why(reason), how(manner)
interrogative pronouns:
Effective writing should leave the reader with...
a clear understanding of the authors point of view, topic discussed, or narrative insight.
Compound sentence
a sentence with two or more coordinate independent clauses, often joined by one or more conjunctions
infinitive verb ex: to swim, to be
a verb that has not been conjugated is called an ___ verb and begins with [to].
article
a word that comes before a noun that indicates whether the noun is specific or non specific a, an, the, this
preposition
a word that indicates direction or position or connects two ideas (on, off, above, to, of, from, at)
Find the error: The school magazine will print those who win prizes for poetry, short stories, and drama; nonfiction, however, will not be accepted for publication. a) those who win b) ; c) will not d) be accepted for e) no error
a) those who win In the phrase "those who win," the pronoun "those" indicates the people who win prizes. But the magazine will not print the people who win; it will print what the winners have written, or the submission of those who win prizes. The error in this question is the illogical use of a pronoun.
over all / overall
above others taking everything into account
How can adjectives be turned into adverbs?
add -ly adjective- quick adverb- quickly
loose/ lose
adj -not tight verb misplaced
Which is the main purpose of reviewing the references in a research article when one writes an academic paper? a) To check that the authors did their own research b) To identify additional relevant sources c) To learn how to write citations correctly d) To verify that the authors did not cite themselves. e) To avoid reading other sources on the same topic.
b) To identify additional relevant sources
ethos
balanced, fair language that speaks to build trust.
"Works Cited"
includes: 1. name of author (last, first, middle initial) 2. name of article 3. name of publication 4. city of publication 5. year of publication
both, few, several, many
indefinite pronouns: PLURAL
each, either, neither, one, everyone, no one, someone, anyone, everybody, nobody, somebody, anybody, everything, nothing, something, anything, another
indefinite pronouns: SINGULAR
Find the error: The club members agreed that each would contribute ten days of volunteer work annually each year at the local hospital. a) agreed b) each would contribute c) annually each year d) at the local hospital e) no error
c) annually each year The phrase "annually each year" is redundant, since "annually" and "each year" convey the same information. The sentence would be correct with either "annually" or "each year."
Conjugation
changing the spelling of the verb and or adding helping verbs ex: first, second, and third
conjugation
changing the spelling of the verb and/or adding helping verbs is known as ___
1. commas should be used to separate two independent clauses along with a coordinating conjunction ex: George ordered the steak, but Bruce preferred the ham.
comma rule 1
2. commas should be used to separate coordinative adjectives (two different adjectives that describe the same noun.) ex: The shiny, regal horse ran majestically through the wide, open field.
comma rule 2
3. commas should be used to separate items in a series. The comma before the conjunction is called the Oxford or serial comma and is optional
comma rule 3
4. commas should be used to separate introductory words, phrases and clauses from the rest of the sentence. ex: Slowly, Nathan became aware of his surroundings after the concussion.
comma rule 4
Compound noun
consists of two or more words used together as a single noun
this (subject): THIS is my apartment---please come in! this (proximity): THIS is the computer you will use right here, not the one in the other office. that (object): I gave THAT to him yesterday that (distance): THAT is the Statue of Liberty across the harbor
demonstrative pronoun: SINGULAR
these (subject): THESE are flawless diamonds. these (proximity): THESE right here are the books we want not the ones over there. those (object): Give THOSE to me later. those (distance): THOSE mountains across the plains are called the Rockies
demonstrative pronouns: PLURAL
predicate
describes what the subject is doing or being
dependent clause
does not express a complete thought (ex: because he got a flat tire)
Parallel Phrasing
don't mix up the infinitive form (the kind preceded by "to") and the participial form (the kind that ends in "-ing") of a verb. Neither one is preferable all the time, but the FORMS SHOULDN'T BE MIXED. CORRECT: "I like to write and read" "I like writing and reading," INCORRECT: "I like to write and reading."
Second step of writing
drawing letter-like symbols then moving to just a 'b' for bird.
Martin Luther King, Jr. spoke out passionately for the poor of all races. "spoke out passionately" should be replaced with: a) spoke out passionate b) did spoke out passionately c) has spoke out passionately d) had spoken out passionate e) correct as is
e) correct as is
intransitive: lie -- to recline transitive: lay -- to put [lay something] intransitive: rise -- to go or get up transitive: raise -- to lift [raise something] intransitive: sit -- to be seated transitive: set -- to put [set something]
intransitive and transitive verbs: HINT: these intransitive verbs have [i] as the second letter. intransitive beings with i. the word transitive beings with a [t] and it TAKES an object.
Writing is...
is a process, a series of steps that need to be taken to ensure the content will have the desired impact on the reader and will be free from distractions and errors.
Expository writing
is factual and specific with the objective or informing the reader of information pertaining to the specific topic of the writing.
antecedent
the noun that a pronoun replaces is called its _____
antecedent
the noun that a pronoun stands for
-letters and emails -autobiographies, diaries, and memoirs -firsthand or eyewitness accounts or descriptions of events -interviews, questionnaires, and paintings -new stories written at the time of the event
what are primary or original sources:
- a primary source
what kind of source is a political speech?
compound nouns
what type of nouns are these: brother-in-law, rollercoaster
countable nouns
what type of nouns are these: dollars, cubes
abstract nouns
what type of nouns are these: love, intelligence, sadness
nouns
words used to give names to people, places, things and ideas.
conjunction
a word that joins two words or phrases (for, and, but, or)
Use Anecdotes in writing
VERY short story like a memorable experience