ACT: English Rules (BRN 36) Michael D

personification

1. attributing human qualities to something non-human Ex. The sun played hide and seek with the clouds. Ex. The sun struck his face. Ex. The wind howled.

ACT likes short and relevant details

ACT likes short and relevant details that are relevant to the passage.

Avoid redundancy on ACT

Avoid redundancy so you don't repeat things. This statement is redundant! ;) The ACT would say "Avoid redundancy." OR "Don't repeat things"

Modifiers

Describes or modifies someone or something in the sentence. As a general rule....keep modifiers next to the words they modify.

Commas with lists or series

How could you dump me, tell Julie you love her, go to prom with her, and then now tell me you love me? This sentence is long, but it is written correctly. All the verbs match in tense. Do a mixture of complex and simple lists below (always keep sentences as parallel as possible): Ex. I went to the store, bought the ingredients, went home, and then baked the cake. Ex. He woke up, went to school, went to practice, and then did his homework.

Prepositional Idioms and correct usage

Idioms do not follow rules. Get familiar with when to use each of the following step "toward" abide: by accused: me agreed: to apologized: for applied: for approve: of argued: with arrived: at believe: in blamed: for care: about charge: of compares: to complain: about consists: of count: on depart: for depend: on differ: from discriminate: against escape: from excuse: for fired: from hide: from hoped: for insist: upon object: to participate: in pray: for protect: me provide: me with OR for recover: from rely: on stared: at subscribes: to succeeded: in suspect: of wait: for work: with me preoccupation: with

ASSUME words that are not underlined ARE CORRECT!

In the following ACT example, the word "One" is underlined and the question asks...if "One" is correct or should be changed to any of the following... Q: "One" of his frescoes depict a progression through time... A) No change B) Many C) Each D) Any one Since "depict" is not underlined, "Many" is the only choice that is in agreement with "depict". All the other options are singular!!

Tense agreement

Keep it consistent! Good Ex. Joe ran the race and won. BAD *The instructor explains the diagram to students who asked questions during the lecture. ugh..b/c it pairs explains with asked *Do not shift from one tense to another if the time frame for each action or state is the same. CORRECTED: The instructor explains the diagram to students who ask questions during the lecture. Three sentences with correct verb tense agreement. Ex. I wrote a paper and studied. Ex. I went to the store and ran. Ex. She is going to the store and eating.

Omit vs No Change

Omit/Delete is right 50% of the time No Change is right 25% of the time

affect vs effect

affect=to influence effect = noun=result Ex. The rain affected Amy's hairdo. Ex. The rain had no effect on Amy's hairdo. Ex. The snow affected my driving. Ex. The test had an effect on my grade.

discreet vs discrete

discreet=quiet discrete=individually separate and distinct Ex. The library war discreet. Ex. His paper was discrete compared to others.

singular words- ACT loves to test this!

dollar, years, decades, civics, news, measles, mathematics, faculty, group, team, committee, class, family, presence Ex The family eats a lot. Ex The years flew by very fast. Ex The team won the Stanley Cup. Do three more sentences using three different words from above. Ex. The news is on. Ex. The class is listening. Ex. The measles is not common.

elicit vs illicit

elicit= evoke or cause illicit = bad, like an illicit affair Ex. He elicited her to go. Ex. His actions were illicit.

Simplest sounding answers are usually RIGHT

fake-fancy is a trap. Be economical...LESS is MORE! Ex Stew wanted to "form" a nonprofit organization -not "begin and found" this is redundant -not "formulate" incorrect use of verb -not "provide the formation of" b/c unnecessarily wordy

farther vs. further (usually on ACT)

farther = physical distance further = indicates level or degree Colorado is farther from Illinois than Iowa. Picasso goes further than Cezanne in his application of abstract ideas Ex. Florida is farther than Indiana. Ex. He is further ahead in his studies.

Purdue Grammar Quizzes

https://owl.english.purdue.edu/exercises/2/

It

it's = it is its=his its' = NEVER

dashes

3 main purposes: to indicate a sudden change of thought; to lead to the unexpected; to give extra information. Ex. I couldn't get out of it - but waited - maybe there was another way. Ex. My fish exploded- guts were everywhere- but I think I feed it to much food. Ex. The boy ran - without wearing shoes - and won the race. Ex. The girl started the oven - put the cookies in - and waited for the timer to go off.

Avoid Informal Language

-. use "could have" not "could of" Remember proper grammar is tested, not how we talk to our friends!

ACT avoids "being"

ACT rarely likes "being" choices.

Commas with Appositives

ALWAYS ON TEST Rule: When an appositive is essential to the meaning of the noun it belongs to, don't use commas!!! Ex. CEO Jane Adams will be the keynote speaker. You wouldn't say CEO will be the keynote speaker. The name Jane Adams is essential in this example and no commas are needed. When the noun preceding the appositive provides sufficient identification on its own, use commas around the appositive. Ex Jorge Torres, our senator, was born in California. Our senator is surrounded by commas because Jorge Torres is a precise identifier. Ex. Our senator, Jorge Torres, was born in California. Explanation: Our senator is still a relatively precise identifier so Jorge Torres is not considered essential. Example: CEO Julie Minsky will be our featured speaker. Explanation: Julie Minsky is necessary to help identify CEO, so no commas are used. It would also be silly to say CEO will be our featured speaker. Example: Julie Minsky, CEO, will be our featured speaker. Explanation: Julie Minsky is a precise identifier so the appositive is surrounded by commas. Ex. essential- The restaurant McDonalds is dirty. Ex. non-essential- Mcdonalds, the restaurant, is dirty.

Redundancy

Always pick the most concise answer!! Redundant. I value each and every student's opinion. Concise: I value each student's opinion. Redundant: My mom has a maternal, nurturing, caring, protective, motherly way about her. Concise: My mom cares, nurtures, and protects. Redundant Example: She won and received an award. Concise Example: She won an award.

who vs. which

who generally refers to people (subject-who, object-whom) and which usually refers to objects, events or animals Ex (who) She who is 16 can drive. Ex (whom) The dog likes her whom is nice. Ex (which) I like the coat which is purple.

Find What's Wrong - Part II (Put in parenthesis what is wrong in each sentence. Hint: There could be two mistakes)

-I need (to run a few errands, get groceries, pick up laundry, and buy stamps). -None of the girls (wants) a bad grade. -She whispered to her boyfriend in the movie that she (wants) a Coke. -That box of apples( which I picked this morning )can be used to make the pie. -She got there (quick), so she made the bus. -The flavor of the coffee tastes like pumpkin pie(,) and vanilla. -She should of listened to her parents, and then they (wouldn't be) so angry with her. -I like to (lay) on my bed during the day when I am stressed. -My youngest sister (Amy) is a (crazy wild )child. -I love to ski in Colorado - even though it's expensive() any chance I can get. -I love her the most; Jane is my favorite cousin. (switch order) -I applied toward a job (where) I was overqualified. -(Biting the heels of everyone), Jane yelled at her pesky (puppy). -The essay was written by the editor of the paper. -Women's presence in the 1960's (were) overwhelming positive. -(It's) programs are highly regarded() but she does not want to go to school there. -I love hanging out with my friend( which) likes all the same music as (I).

What's Wrong? - Part I (Put in parenthesis what is wrong in each sentence. Hint: There could be two mistakes)

-Susan, (whom) is 46 years old, loves to eat. -The staff (participate) in the Christmas fundraiser. -That is (Clare's) and Connor's dog. -Ralph enjoys (playing hockey, hiking in the hills, and to golf.) -Upon completing the building() the contractor sent us the bill. -She loves to bake(,) she really likes making cookies. -Jorge likes gym class; (He) should open a fitness studio. -Decades have gone by since WWII. -I have (less) apples than oranges at home. -She hates the dentist(; furthermore,) she scheduled her appointment. -He is more skilled than (I). -I have three favorite friends; namely() Lisa, Jill, and Karen. -Before that door closed(;) I made sure it was locked.

Commas and introductory words as Interupters (exception to rule) Hardly tested

-We ask, therefore, that you keep this matter confidential. Explanation: In this sentence, "therefore" is not introducing an independent clause so it is an interrupter. Use commas to surround interrupters.

Practice Economy

-use as few words as possible -less is better on the ACT -omit is correct 50% of time. If in doubt, pick "omit"

Uses of Correlative Conjunctions

1. To connect nouns: Summer school is not easy but difficult. Both trees and flowers grow colorfully during summer. 2. To connect adjectives: Summer camp offers not only swimming but also camping instruction. Kids enjoy both wet and dry sports. 3. To connect prepositional phrases: I'll take my vacation either in July or in August. Most students are neither below nor above national academic standards. 4. To connect independent clauses: Not only do students enjoy summer vacation, but they also enjoy Christmas break. Whether teachers are happy or they are sad, all are dedicated to student's success.

Independent (FANBOYS) Dependent NO COMMA!

= No Comma used when the second clause is dependent (ex. missing a subject). This is always tested!!! Ex. Mike was the only person on the scene and tried to help the injured passenger. NOTICE...the subject "HE" is missing in the second clause (therefore a dependent clause), so do not use a comma! Write your own examples.. Ex. She went to the store and bought apples. Ex. She wanted to go to a movie or go shopping. Ex. She baked cookies so ate them.

Dependent Clause

A clause that does not stand alone as a sentence but depends on another clause to complete a sentence. Note the difference: -When Jim studied in the library for his chemistry quiz... dependent -Jim studied in the library for his chem quiz...Independent. Just adding the word "WHEN" changes the clause from ind. to dep.! Do a few examples of dependent clauses. Ex. Working on various lab equipment Ex.while in his room Ex. doing his homework Ex. when he woke up

Onomatopoeia

A figure of speech in which natural sounds are imitated in the sounds of words. Ex. The bee was buzzing around. Ex. The rain dripped. Ex. The boy splashed in the water.

hyperbole

A figure of speech that uses exaggeration to express strong emotion, make a point, or evoke humor. Ex. It is boiling outside. Ex. My mom is going to kill me. Ex. I am so hungry I can eat my hand.

Nonrestrictive clauses - use commas

A nonrestrictive clause is something that can be left off without changing the meaning of the sentence. You can think of a nonrestrictive clause as simply additional information. Such clauses are usually surrounded by, or preceded by, commas Ex. The town, which lies thirty miles from the capital, is famous for its potato festival. The "which" clause is surrounded by commas. It contains additional information that is not necessary to understand the sentence, so you can delete the clause if you want. WHICH always signifies non-essential information on the ACT.

Pronoun Usage & Sentence Placement

A pronoun must have a clear antecedent in the sentence; the lack of an antecedent is itself an error. Ex. She was pushed to the forefront of "it". Make sure "it" is defined first or the sentences are not in proper order or are incorrect. Pick an answer choice that makes this clear! Also, the antecedent may often be present, but will disagree with the pronoun in number, make sure all pronouns have a clear reference.

A restrictive clause - NO COMMAS

A restrictive clause is just part of a sentence that you can't get rid of because it specifically restricts some other part of the sentence" (1). Ex"The boy who threw up on Space Mountain wished he had stayed home." Here, the "who" clause is restrictive: It defines which particular boy wished he had stayed home, so you can't delete the clause, nor do you use commas around it. Ex. The man who was in the elevator passed out. Ex. The women who was buying food ran out of money.

Semicolons and Periods

A semicolon is essentially a soft period. If two answer choices are present, one with a comma and the other with a period....ELIMINATE BOTH CHOICES! Ex. The girl went to the store; she wanted a new outfit. Ex. The girl went to the store. She wanted a new outfit. Both can be crossed out as possible answer choices with the question at hand. They are too similar and the ACT will NEVER do this... so another answer choice must be correct.

simile

A simile compares two different things in order to create a new meaning and we are made explicitly aware that a comparison is being made due to the use of "like" or "as" Ex. He's like a shell of a man. Ex. He is as busy as a bee. Ex. He is as happy as a clam.

A subject will come before a phrase beginning with of. This is a key rule for understanding subjects. The word "OF" is the culprit in many, perhaps most, subject-verb mistakes

A subject will come before a phrase beginning with of. This is a key rule for understanding subjects. The word of is the culprit in many, perhaps most, subject-verb mistakes. Hasty writers, speakers, readers, and listeners might miss the all-too-common mistake in the following sentence: Incorrect: A bouquet of yellow roses lend color and fragrance to the room. Correct: A bouquet of yellow roses lends . . . (bouquet lends, not roses lend)

Writer's Purpose - the author's aim or goal

A writer usually has one or more of the following purposes: 1. to inform or explain (expository writing); 2. to portray a person, place, object, or event (descriptive writing); 3. to convince people to accept a position and respond in some way (persuasive writing); 4. and/or to tell a story or entertain (narrative writing) Keep in mind the author! Is the author a child? mother? student? newspaper editor? columnist? The answer is more obvious when you consider the choices from the proper point of view and NOT your own point of view.

As a general rule, use a plural verb with two or more subjects when they are connected by "AND".

As a general rule, use a plural verb with two or more subjects when they are connected by "and". Example: A car and a bike are my means of transportation. But note these exceptions: Exceptions: Breaking and entering is against the law. The bed and breakfast was charming. In those sentences, breaking and entering and bed and breakfast are compound nouns.

dangling modifier BAD BAD BAD

Be aware that many sentences will begin with a modifying phrase and a comma. The subject after the comma MUST be the person or thing doing the action of the modifying phrase. Ex While reading the newspaper, the cat jumped on the table. BAD - THE CAT DID NOT JUMP ON THE TABLE while reading the paper. Watch out for these types of errors!! Do three INcorrect examples so you know what to look for: Ex While driving the car, the deer jumped out. Ex While making soup, the spoon fell in. Ex While sleeping, the house burned down.

Use a semicolon before introductory words such as "namely, however, therefore, that is, i.e., for example, e.g., for instance" WHEN THEY INTRODUCE A LIST following a complete sentence. Use a comma AFTER the introductory word.

CORRECT-The American flag has three colors; namely, red, white, and blue. You will want to bring many backpacking items; for example, sleeping bags, pans, and warm clothing. Ex. She does not like many foods; for instance, beans, pork, and carrots. Ex. She likes three types of pizza; for example, cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. Ex. He only likes two sports; namely, soccer and baseball. BUT IF YOU REMOVE "NAMELY" from the example above: NOW CORRECT - The American flag has three colors: red, white, and blue. Note the difference! EX. She likes three types of pizza: cheese, sausage, and pepperoni. Ex. He only like two sports: baseball and soccer.

capital vs capitol

Capitol is a building occupied by state legislature or the place in DC. Everything else is capitAl (money, Topeka, capital punishment, etc) Ex. In the movie White House Down, the Capitol was bombed. Ex. Someone that kills children should receive a capital punishment. Ex. The Capitol has many security guards inside. Ex. The capital of IL is Springfield.

metaphor

Compares 2 things as if they were the same without the words "like" or "as" A metaphor is a figure of speech that uses one thing to mean another and makes a comparison between the two. The key words here are "one thing to mean another." So, when someone says "He's become a shell of a man," we know not to take this literally, even though it's stated directly as if this person had actually lost his internal substance. Ex. She froze with fear. Ex. Time is a thief. Ex. SHe is the light of my world.

Colon Rule: It MUST follow an independent clause AND introduce either an 1) example, 2) explanation, 3) short phrase or 4) or list. Remember this!!!!!!!!

Ex. There's only one city where I'd ever live: Boulder, Colorado. Ex. There is only one city i hate: Denver. Ex. Martha has a serious problem: she's fourteen and doesn't know how to tie her shoes. (an example of a problem) Ex. I have an issue: I cannot find my necklace. Ex. The teacher had only three rules in her class: be on time, sit quietly, and check your attitude at the door. (explanation) Ex. The family had one rule at the dinner table: no phones could be out.

The noun immediately before the object that is being possessed receives the apostrophe

Ex. We drove to the lake in Angie and Paige's convertible... only Paige has the apostrophe Ex. I went to Emily and Joe's house. Ex. The dog's bed is in the kitchen.

Independent Clause

Expresses a complete thought and can stand alone as a sentence. Ex. Jim studied in the library for his chemistry quiz. Ex. He focused on balancing equations. Ex. He jumped. Your examples of independent clauses. Ex. He went to bed. Ex. He ran in the race. Ex. He took the test.

FANBOYS - Acronym to Remember

For, And, Nor, But, Or, Yet, So These words are commonly referred to as FANBOYS. You MUST USE a comma when these words separate two (2) independent clauses. MEMORIZE!

Tense agreement Exception

If it is VERY OBVIOUS that the tense has changed, then a shift in tense is allowed. This is not tested often Ex. Bruce asked Georgia to go to the music hall today and will ask Chuck to go to the action thriller tomorrow. (The very clear use of the words "today" and "tomorrow" makes this acceptable Ex. She asked me today and will ask him tomorrow.

Nouns connected by correlative conjunctions

If nouns are connected by the correlative conjunction "both" or "and"- use a plural verb. Unacceptable: Both your advisor and your course instructor "is" required to sign the form. Acceptable Both your advisor and your course instructor "are" required to sign the form. Ex. Both the cat and dog are nice. Ex. The man and women are friendly. Ex. The girl and boy are friends.

Author's purpose questions

If stuck, it helps to eliminate wrong answers. Remember, the entire answer must be correct, so if part of an answer is incorrect, eliminate it!

Formality & Consistency

If you sense formality in the passage...avoid Colloquilalisms (slang, casual language). Keep the tone/form consistent!

than I

Use I after the word "than" if the pronoun is being compared to the SUBJECT of a verb. Ex. The quiz was harder than I had expected. Ex. She is nicer than I excepted. Ex. He is better than I thought.

subject verb agreement BE CAREFUL

Incorrect Ex. Women's increased presence in wartime workforces were not limited to factories and shipyards. What's wrong here? Correct: Women's increased PRESENCE in wartime workforces WAS not limited to factories and shipyards. The word "presence" is singular! Tricky!! Do examples where the subject is not immediately obvious (similar to the above example). Ex. The boys in the family are wild. Ex. The books on the shelf are old.

lie vs lay

Lie is to recline ( ex. I lie down after school). Lay is to put (ex. I lay my bookbag down on the floor). Ex. I lie on my bed for hours after my games. Ex. She lays her backpack on my desk every day. Ex. She lays her books on her desk. Ex. She lies down in bed.

Adverbs

Modify verbs, adjectives or other adverbs Ex. Praise does not come easy/easily (not easy) Ex. He ran quickly. Ex. The cat slept soundly.

ACT will always prefer Active Voice over Passive

Passive Voice puts the object of the sentence first. Make sure to keep the subject (the person or thing doing the action) before the verb by USING ACTIVE VOICE Ex Passive Voice NOT CORRECT The term paper was written by Alan. CHANGE TO ACTIVE: Alan wrote the term paper. Write two sentences using the correct/incorrect way Ex Passive The tv was on. Ex. Active He turned the tv on. Ex Passive The cookies were made by her. Ex. Active She made the cookies.

Noun: breakdown vs Verb: break down

Phrases that have verb, noun, and adjective forms should appear as separate words when used as verbs and as one word when used as nouns or adjectives. The engine will eventually break down. (verb) Please clean up your room. (verb) I'm having a nervous breakdown (noun) The cleanup operation was under way on Monday (noun) Create sentences using other compound words (something different than breakdown or cleanup). Ex. Ex.

parallel construction

Pick sentences that convey ideas in parallel style or structure, Structure of words or sentences, related and close by, should remain similar in structure and function. (Molly enjoys running, reading, and writing.)

BOTH, FEW, MANY, SEVERAL, NUMBER, MEN, WOMEN, SHEEP

Pronouns that ALWAYS Take a Plural Verb!! Know these! Ex Both are going. Ex Few have tickets. EX Many have cars. EX Several don't have a ride. EX The men are talking. EX The women are shopping. Ex THe sheep are eating.

who

Refers to the SUBJECT of the sentence Johnny, who is 5 years old, loves to sing Just pay attention to the statement -who is 5 years -;. If you can substitute -He-;, use -who-;. If you can sub -him-, use -Whom-. In this statement "who loves me? "He" loves me. Use "who"! It is the subject on the nonessential clause. Ex. The girl, who is sick, is not at school. Ex. The man, who is old, is her grandpa.

The "-ING" thing...Restrictive vs. Nonrestrictive Sentence-Ending Participial Phrases

Remember: For sentences ending with -ING statements... if it's extra information, use commas. In the sentence "She yelled at me, making me cry," use a comma because "making me cry" is extra information. Ex. "Everyone over 50 was fired, causing an uproar." "Making me cry" and "causing an uproar" are acting as afterthoughts (or extra info) in these sentences, so both require a comma beforehand. Example of a sentence-ending participial phrases that DOES NOT require a comma. "She is the lady making me cry." Here, we don't use a comma because we can't delete the phrase "making me cry." This phrase defines which particular lady we're talking about. It's restrictive and not extra information so NO COMMA! Do an example of both types: Ex. The dentist is the person cleaning my teeth. Ex. I tripped over the box, hurting my leg.

SANAM Rule for Agreement: "S"ome "A"ny "N"one "A"ll "M"ost Remember this!!!

Some Any None All Most - an amount like "none" is married to one word. None gets married to the word at the end of "OF " . That word dictates the verb status! Ex None of my friends want to to see the new movie. "Friends" is the word that follows "of" so there has to be verb agreement between "friends" and "want". Ex. Some of my friends want to go. Ex. None of my friends have rides. Ex. All of my friends have cars.

Sometimes the subject is separated from the verb by such words as along with, as well as, besides, not, etc. These words and phrases are not part of the subject. Ignore them and use a singular verb when the subject is singular.

Sometimes the subject is separated from the verb by such words as along with, as well as, besides, not, etc. These words and phrases are not part of the subject. Ignore them and use a singular verb when the subject is singular. Examples: The politician, along with the newsmen, is expected shortly. Excitement, as well as nervousness, is the cause of her shaking.

singular pronouns - KNOW THESE

THESE ARE ALL SINGULAR each, everyone, every one, anybody, someone, either, neither Ex. "Each" of the members "has" one vote. Singular word=singular verb! NOTE: A good rule of thumb to remember is that all the words ending in -one, -thing, and -body are singular, even though these words might seem to be plural when we think of "everybody in a crowd" or "everybody in Texas." Don't think of the word that way. Instead, think of it as being equivalent to "every single individual." Do examples for the remaining Ex. everyone- everyone is happy. Ex. every one- every one has a dog. Ex. anybody- does anybody want to come? Ex. someone- someone needs to help. Ex. either- do either of you have a job? Ex. neither- Neither of them have a bird.

parallel structure

The ACT likes similar grammatical structure within a sentence or within a paragraph. Ralph enjoyed biking, hiking, and to run. BAD! "to run" must be parallel to the other words....use RUNNING. Write your own examples using proper parallel structure: Ex.She liked to bake, to decorate, and to cook. Ex. He liked swimming, dancing, and running.

"and" between adjectives

The comma rule comes down to the difference between two kinds of adjectives: coordinate adjectives and cumulative adjectives. Coordinate adjectives are adjectives in a row that each separately modify the noun that follows (1), as in "heavy, bulky box." Both "heavy" and "bulky" modify "box." You can even rearrange the adjectives and say, "bulky, heavy box." So you need a comma between the adjectives that can be interchanged with one another. Ex. Roberto is a warm, gentle, kind father. Another test: You can rearrange these adjectives and say "and" between each one. So again, use a comma between these adjectives. Cumulative adjectives, on the other hand, don't separately modify the noun that follows even though they are all stacked up before the noun too (2). Instead, the adjective right before the noun pairs with the noun as a unit, and the adjective before that unit modifies it. Example. Three large gray shapes moved slowly toward us. You can't say Gray large three ships...or Three and large and gray shapes (both sound funny) so these are cumulative adjectives = NO COMMAS! Your examples highlighting the difference. Ex. The fluffy, gray cat slept under the bed. Ex. The two big dogs ran outside. Ex. The colorful, small birds flew around the three fat cows.

Dashes

The dash works somewhat like parentheses or commas, but it is used where a stronger punctuation is needed. It can connect an independent clause with the 'interrupting' thought: Independent clause—thought—independent clause. Independent clause—thought. Examples: Skiing at Vail is expensive --it cost me ninety bucks--but the back bowls are worth every penny. Three of my most difficult subjects--history, physics, and English--are all first thing in the morning. I'd better have passed my test—it's ninety percent of my class grade—or I'll have to go to summer school. Ex. My test was really hard- I failed- but I went in for help. Well, I passed the test—granted, I cheated—but I passed! Ex. I ran out of the house - it was 10 degrees - and i forgot a coat. Abby gave me a terrible haircut—and she expected a tip! Ex. My mom made a horrible cake - and she wanted me to eat it. Usually if you START a dash look to FINISH THE DASH on the ACT.

What's wrong? Picky Picky Picky

The test was difficult. In addition, the time was also limited. What's Wrong? In addition + also = redundant!

Mixed Subjects: The verb in an or, either/or, or neither/nor sentence agrees with the noun or pronoun closest to it.

The verb in an or, either/or, or neither/nor sentence agrees with the noun or pronoun closest to it. Examples: Neither the plates nor the serving bowl goes on that shelf. Neither the serving bowl nor the plates go on that shelf. Your examples: - The boys or girl is nice. - The boy or girls are nice.

continuation conjunctions

These are continuation conjunctions. Do your own examples of each. Good Review: http://writing.umn.edu/sws/assets/pdf/quicktips/transitions.pdf because- I had an allergic reaction because I ate chocolate. since- I bought some since I had none. finally- I went to the store finally to buy more. furthermore- I went to the store furthermore moreover- I enjoy receiving presents moreover I enjoy giving presents. so- We ran out so I bought more. thus- Bob fell thus Jim won. therefore- She said no therefore he couldn't go.

Contrast conjunctions

These are contrast conjunctions. Do your own examples of each: but- I am allergic to chocolate, but I eat it anyway. yet- Christmas is only a few weeks away, yet it doesn't feel like it. although- He is mean to others, although he is nice to me. even though- I do not like him, even though he is nice to me. however- I hate fish, however I eat it anyway. nonetheless- He wants to help, nonetheless he can't. never the less- He wanted to go, nevertheless his mom would not let him.

Adjectives modify nouns and adverbs modify verbs

This is ALWAYS on the test!!!!!!!!!!!! Ex He could see clearly/clear enough to make out the horizon. *Use clearly b/c it modifies to see* Ex. Even though commercials tell you it's easy to get rich quick/quickly. You should use quickly bc it modifies "gets" Ex. He ran quickly. Ex. The small boy walked slowly.

proximity rule

This is the rule for when you have a singular and plural noun grouped together in an in applying the principle of subject-verb agreement, rely on the noun that is closest to the verb to determine whether the verb is singular or plural.

Two singular subjects connected by or, either/or, or neither/nor require a singular verb.

Two singular subjects connected by or, either/or, or neither/nor require a singular verb. Examples: My aunt or my uncle is arriving by train today. Neither Juan nor Carmen is available. Either Kiana or Casey is helping today with stage decorations. Your examples: - The dog or cat is nice. - The man or women has a car. - The fish or turtle is hungry.

I

Use -I-; when you are the subject Tim and I went to the mall. Ex. Madeline and I are very strange. Ex. Kim and I are at school. Ex. Bob and I are swimming.

Introductory phrase = Comma

Use a comma when it separates introductory words from the rest of sentence. Ex. After seven weeks of studying, I raised my ACT score by three points. Ex. Upon completing the building, the contractor sent us the bill. Ex. When I finished the test, I turned it in. Ex. After taking a nap, I was not tired anymore.

Independent ; however , Independent

Use a semicolon and comma when you see... thus, furthermore, however, moreover, therefore, nevertheless BETWEEN TWO independent clauses. Ex. I like pick up trucks; however, they are not practical in NY. Ex. She is annoying; nevertheless, she is my mother. Ex. I need a good grade; therefore, I will study all night. Ex. Greece is awesome; moreover, you should visit the country. Ex. I want to drive; however, I do not have gas. Ex. I received a bad grade; therefore, I went in for help. Ex. He wanted to come; however, he was grounded.

Independent ; Independant NO fanboys present - USE A SEMI

Use a semicolon when it separates two independent clauses and you DO NOT SEE FANBOYS!!! * Do not capitalize the word after the semi unless you see a quote or a proper noun. Notice: "she" is not capitalized below. Ex. I'm thinking of going to Georgetown; D.C. is an ideal place for me. Ex. Madeline baked a cake; (s)he should open a bakery. Ex. He found a dog outside; he went to the store to buy a collar. Ex. The water was cold; he put ice in it.

Independent,,,,,,,,, (FANBOYS) Independant

Use comma when it separates two (2) independent clauses and you see F-A-N-B-O-Y-S (For And Nor But Or Yet So) Below is an example for each word. Please do your own example following. -F The two stopped to eat, for the work had made them hungry. Ex. -A The afternoon had been long, and hours had gone by since lunch. Ex. -N There was no house nearby, nor did they have any food with them. Ex. -B They wanted to pick blueberries as a snack, but a bear growled at them from the berry patch. Ex. -O Should they leave now, or should they wait awhile? Ex. -Y The job was not done, yet they needed to rest and eat. Ex. -S They were starving, and it was getting dark, so they went home. Ex. The two girls wanted to play in the snow, but the snow melted.

Commas hug interruptors ,,,,BTW,,,,

Use commas to set off words or phrases that are nonessential to the integrity of the sentence. Make sure to look for the closing comma! Ex. The orchestra, excluding the violin section, was not up to par. Ex. The man, who is a doctor, is buying cookies. Ex. The child, who plays soccer, is at basketball practice.

than Me

Use me after the word "than" if the pronoun is being compared to the OBJECT of a verb. Ex He is smarter than me. Ex. He is better than me. Ex. The dog is cuter than me.

Colons and lists

Use the COLON after an independent clause to introduce a list of items when introductory words such as "namely", "for example" do not appear. I need a few items at the store: clothespins, a bottle opener, and napkins. Ex. I packed items in my suitcase: shirts, shorts, and pants. Ex. I bought some fruit: apples, oranges, and bananas.

Standard Convention Rule (difficult and not likely to be on test)

When a subject is made up of two elements joined by or or nor, the verb is singular if both elements are singular. If one of the elements is plural, the verb becomes plural. (see proximity rule exceptions) For example: Shortbread or cake is on sale. Chocolates or cake are on sale.

What's a comma splice error?

When two independent clauses are incorrectly spliced together using a comma... Ex. She ran to the store, she purchased eggs. Learn to spot these MISTAKES on the ACT!!! Write a few bad examples below so you know what to look for. BAD Example 1: He went to class, he was late. BAD Example 2: She drove to school, she was early.

With words that indicate portions—a lot, a majority, some, all, etc.—Rule 1 given earlier is reversed, and we are guided by the noun after of. If the noun after of is singular, use a singular verb. If it is plural, use a plural verb.

With words that indicate portions—a lot, a majority, some, all, etc.—Rule 1 given earlier is reversed, and we are guided by the noun after of. If the noun after of is singular, use a singular verb. If it is plural, use a plural verb. Examples: A lot of the pie has disappeared. A lot of the pies have disappeared. A third of the city is unemployed. A third of the people are unemployed. All of the pie is gone. All of the pies are gone. Some of the pie is missing. Some of the pies are missing.

Transition words help with ordering sentences and passages.

Words that are used to transition between ideas in a text (i.e. however, therefore, moreover, consequently, additionally, etc.). They are written to give you CLUES for passage placement or sentence placement within the paragraph.

except vs accept

except = apart from; With the exception of accept = verb To admit or approve; to receive Ex. She likes everything except sushi. Ex Comments are accepted for a month before guidance is adopted. Ex. She was accepted into college. Ex. I like all animals except sharks.

fewer vs less

fewer refers to a number you can count. Less refers to an amount of something. Ex. Use the cooking analogy...you have fewer cherries and less flour than you need. Ex. He has fewer books than you. Ex. Their yard has less grass.

principle vs principal

principle (a doctrine, standard, rule, or law, etc.) is always a noun: A principle of management is to treat your employees as you want them to treat your customers. On the other hand, principal (primary, chief, most important, boss of the school) is both a noun and an adjective (*usually an adjective in non-legal usage) In general usage, principal refers to a person who plays an important role or holds a high position: Ex. Last week, there was a meeting among the principals in the deal. In legal and financial English, however, principal is often a noun (from principal person). In the law of agency, the principal is the one on whose behalf the agent acts: Ex. She attended the meeting as the agent of a principal who wished to remain anonymous. Ex The borrower was only able to make the minimum payment, which covered the interest but did not reduce the principal. Principle examples: Ex A principle in the classroom is to raise your hand. Ex. All the principles are written on the wall. Principal examples: Ex. The principal of the school is mean. Ex. The principal is a man.

whom

refers to the OJBECT of the sentence Whom do you love? I love him. So you use the -whom-. Ex. Whom did you go to the store with? Ex. Whom did he hire to do the job?

Writer's meaning or details (ex. paragraph would primarly lose/gain....)

scan a sentence or two before and after the selection and determine which answer fits the best in context.

that vs which

that= restrictive=no commas "that" restricts the meaning or identity of the word. If removed, the meaning of the sentence will change. Ex. Chairs that don't have cushions are uncomfortable to sit on. You wouldn't say Chairs are uncomfortable to sit on and capture the same meaning of the sentence. Too broad and needs to be restricted with "THAT" which= Adds info, but doesn't define it. Usually non-restrictive clauses are either in brackets or have a comma before and after them! Use commas in this case. For example: I sat on an uncomfortable chair, which was in my office. Ex. Dogs that don't have fur are ugly. Ex. I went to my friends house, which is far away.

Me

use "me" when you are the object Sarah woke up my dog and me. Ex. She is tired of Tim and me. Ex. She wants to go with Bob and me. Ex. He is not friends with Kim and me.