JMC 101 Grammar Units 1-10
Robert Downey, Jr. and Cuba Gooding, Jr. have been nominated for Academy Awards.
incorrect
The security guard caught an 11 year old boy shoplifting.
incorrect
The students she tutors are primarily 16 and 17 year olds.
incorrect
We were all shocked when Ruby shouted "I'm Engaged"!
incorrect
The percentage of college students who graduate with high debt increase/increases every year
increases
Peanut butter and bananas are/is my favorite sandwich topping
is
President Barack Obama, along with George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, is/are invited to Nelson Mandela's memorial service.
is
Lora was laying/lying tile in the bathroom when the pipe burst
laying
Even if the minimum wage goes up, we'll still have fewer/less money than the average worker.
less
He had a fever, so she told him to lay/lie down on the bed
lie
Neither of my cats like/likes to go outside
likes
Neither of my cats like/likes to go outside.
likes
During her kidnapping ordeal, she literally/figuratively thought she was going to die
literally
Paisley is one of those patterns that look/looks terrible on almost everyone.
look
Plaid is one of those patterns that look/looks good on everyone
look
Substitute the quoted words for one word. The Arizona Diamondbacks "got on the scoreboard" in the first three minutes of the game.
scored
Either of these options seem/seems reasonable.
seems
Both John and Jeff thanked his/their lucky stars when the test results were revealed.
their
The beauty pageant contestants posed with her/their state flags.
their
Both Women should be proud of herself/themselves
themselves
if employees want to take holiday off, you/they must get permission from a supervisor.
they
Many literary scholars have compared her work with/to that of Sylvia Platt.
to
She pushed the papers toward/towards me.
toward
Jack throws the ball really hard. In this sentence, the verb is:
transitive
Judges should explain the laws to us/we jury members
us
We need a law to force bankers to make loans available to us/we small business owners
us
Why are the police arresting us/we peaceful protestors?
us
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. Delila "is" outside washing the car.
verb
Each of us want/wants to ride in first class.
wants
Neither of my nieces want/wants to invest her/their time to learn a musical instrument.
wants/her
Identify the subject. In the center of the plaza was a war memorial.
war memorial
Every shipment of building materials was/were on time.
was
None of his neighbors was/were attending the Neighborhood Watch meeting.
was
The applicant's poor writing skills was/were the principal/principle reason he wasn't hired.
were/principal
The City Council, that/which met in a special session, narrowly passed the ordinance.
which
Police arrested a man who/whom they say started the fires.
who
She is the manager that/who fired the server.
who
The journalists that/who broke the story had cultivated excellent sources.
who
The pilot that/who safely landed the plane on a river was commended by Congress.
who
The principal suspended the student who/whom brought a gun to school
who
The stage actors in the play are the ones that/who went on strike.
who
The waitress that/who spilled hot coffee on the customer was fired.
who
The woman that/who answered the phone was rude
who
Three students that/who cheated on the exam will be expelled.
who
He is one of those musicians who/that sleep/sleeps until late afternoon.
who/sleep
She is one of those mothers who/that think/thinks children should learn to be independent
who/think
Give the package to whoever/whomever answers the door
whoever
Mrs. Mortensen promised a candy bar to whoever/whomever could solve the equation first
whoever
The store manager plans to hire whoever/whomever has the most flexible schedule.
whoever
Whoever/whomever leaves the office last should turn out the lights
whoever
Whoever/whomever runs the fastest will win the race.
whoever
Whoever/whomever works the hardest will earn the biggest raise
whoever
whoever/whomever leaves the office last should lock up.
whoever
I don't know who/whom I can trust anymore
whom
She is still undecided about who/whom she will hire
whom
She is the doctor who/whom i trust the most
whom
Choose the sentence that is written correctly: A. The house that was built 20 years ago is sturdier than the new houses. B. The house which was built 20 years ago is sturdier than the new houses.
A
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. Anna Murphy, 58, was cited for speeding. B. Anna Murphy, 58 was cited for speeding.
A
Who/whom should he give the keys to?
Whom
He gets way fewer/less text messages than you do.
fewer
I hope they don't have to change their/there/they're plans.
Their
Identify the pronoun that is NOT nominative She Them He They
Them
Which one of these pronouns receives the action of the verb He They Who Them
Them
All of the students in the class voted to have its/their papers due a week later.
their
They plan to celebrate a decade of marriage on April 6, 2015 with a trip to Hawaii.
Incorrect
Choose the correct sentence A. The winter storms that have hit the Northeast have taken a serious toll on the region's infrastructure. B. The winter storms, which have hit the Northeast, have taken a serious toll on the region's infrastructure.
A
Choose the correct sentence. A. You've let me down in the past; therefore, I choose not to trust you. B. You've let me down in the past: Therefore I choose not to trust you. C. You've let me down in the past; Therefore, I choose not to trust you.
A
"My mother worked in the kitchen from morning until night." The verb in this sentence is (Active or Passive)
Active
Active or Passive? The shareholders protested the board of directors' choice for CEO.
Active
Mona us anxiously/eagerly watched her 5-year-old son board the school bus for the first time.
Anxiously
Ryan's parents eagerly/anxiously waited for the news about his deployment to Iraq.
Anxiously
She assured/insured/ensured her boss that the project would come in on time and on budget.
Assured
Because/since she never returned his email, he assumed she wasn't interested.
Because
Because/since you didn't leave me a message, I didn't call you back
Because
You can't tell a mother to choose between/among her daughter and son.
Between
Choose the correct sentence: A. The attorney agreed to serve a two to four-year term on the board of directors. B. The attorney agreed to serve a two to four year-term on the board of directors. C. The attorney agreed to serve a two-to four-year term on the board of directors.
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. They found the body and then they found the pills. B. They found the body and then, they found the pills. C. They found the body, and then they found the pills.
C
Please enjoy these complementary/complimentary appetizers.
Complimentary
Someone left his/their T-shirt on the floor of the men's locker room.
His
Those tools don't belong to the Horns/Horn's - they are the gardening center's/centers.
Horns/Center's
Heather, Will and I/me are saving for a trip to Nepal
I
They were significantly more successful than I/me
I
Was it I/me who made the mistake
I
Was it I/me who misled you?
I
Kyle's/Kyles' boss's/boss' desk should be declared a disaster zone
Kyle's Boss's
How could he have laid/lain in bed all morning when the house was such a mess?
Lain
None of my daughters like/likes to dress in pink.
Likes
"He is reluctant to admit his error." In this sentence, the verb is:
Linking
The Matthews/Matthews' dog tore up all of the neighbor's/neighbors' gardens.
Matthews'/neighbors'
Between you and I/me, grammar is my secret obsession
Me
Kali went to the hockey game with Ravi and I/me
Me
If a pronoun is driving the action, the pronoun case should be _________
Nominative
She moved to Florida from the northeast/Northeast to escape the brutal winters.
Northeast
Parallel or not? Election results are so close that both candidates were claiming victory. The county recorder says a recount was necessary.
Not Parallel Construction
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. What is your favorite "book?"
Noun
Ours/Our's is a special relationship
Ours
(Parallel or Non Parallel) Serena woke up early, ate breakfast with her parents and headed to the tennis courts.
Parallel Construction
Active or Passive? The book was edited by Professor Barnes.
Passive
They have more time than her/she
She
Which one of these pronouns drives the action of the verb? Me She Whom Us
She
My father and her/she are choosing among/between Europe, Asia, and Africa as a vacation destination.
She/among
Because/since they warned me about that aggressive dog, I have been carrying a walking stick
Since
Because/since you told me that secret, all I want to do is tell someone.
Since
The nominative case is used for
The subject of the verb AND The complement of a linking verb (A and C)
If there/their is not an obvious solution, it's/its time to get creative.
There/it's
Identify the pronoun that is NOT objective Her Us They Me
They
How many "garbage words" are in the following sentences. Past history teaches us that emergencies can happen without previous warning. That's why we need advance planning.
Three
Linking verbs describe "state of being"
True
Who/Whom did you say took the last donut?
Who
Who/whom do you hope will win?
Who
Who/whom is your favorite Hollywood actor?
Who
Whose/who's calling at such a late hour?
Who's
Who/whom wants to go to the theatre with Diego and I/me
Who/Me
Whoever/Whomever painted that graffiti on the fence will be punished.
Whoever
Whoever/whomever fixes dinner should have to clean the kitchen
Whoever
Her patient was unhappy about the two to three-day delay for test results
incorrect
Paris Hilton is one of those celebrities who love/loves to stay in the spotlight.
love
Several of us were laying/lying on the beach this morning
lying
Whenever "Downton Abbey" is on, you can find me laying/lying on the couch with my popcorn
lying
He is smarter than her/she
she
Brit and she/her were unwilling to accept/except a reward for their good deed.
she/accept
The student's/students' behavior was the principal/principle reason he was expelled
student's/principal
Substitute the quoted words for one word. Marina "filed a lawsuit against" her formal boss.
sued
A review of the developer's land sales suggest/suggests possible fraud
suggests
My mother and father takes/take a walk every night
take
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. Vegetables labeled organic which are grown without pesticides are more expensive. A. Vegetables labeled organic, which are grown without pesticides, are more expensive.
B
The situation feels a little awkward. In this sentence, 'feels" is:
a linking verb
Her insurance company refused to pay the bill; it claimed the ambulance trip was unnecessary.
correct
She is famous for her wild, unpredictable behavior.
correct
Her coach, along with her trainers, has/have helped her be competitive.
has
My family has/have spirited conversations at dinner.
has
My sister, along with her husband, has/have offered me a place to stay.
has
The group of parents has/have agreed to testify before the School board
has
A number of senators has/have threatened a filibuster.
have
My sister is married to a high school principal/principle
principal
Judy Dench's best actress Oscar nomination was well-deserved/well deserved
well-deserved
A number of co-workers was/were at Leesa's farewell luncheon.
were
At the center of the debate was/were opposing sets of values.
were
Even if I was/were capable of doing such a thing, I wouldn't do it
were
On the center of the table was/were two ice sculptures.
were
One-fourth of the respondents was/were against reform
were
One-quarter of the team members was/were on the verge of expulsion
were
Sarah wishes she was/were more like mother
were
She would have taken the job if it was/were possible to work from home
were
The republican candidates was/were scheduled for three pre-election debates
were
She is the only friend who/whom I trust not to gossip about me
whom
We don't know who/whom the flu virus will take down next
whom
Choose the correct sentence: A. The state fair, which comes in October, provides a good excuse to eat fried foods. B. The state fair that comes in October, provides a good excuse to eat fried foods.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. We're hosting a celebration after she defends her doctoral thesis. B. We're hosting a celebration, after she defends her doctoral thesis. C. Neither is correct D. Both are correct
A
Choose the sentence that uses the commas correctly: A. The clouds blew away, and the sun came out. B. The clouds blew away and the sun came out.
A
Choose the example of parallel structure: A. The day was sunny, warm and breezy. B. The day was warm, the sun bright and a breeze blew.
A
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. The clouds blew away, and the sun came out. B. The clouds blew away and the sun came out.
A
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. The judge fined the men $1,000 and ordered them to do community service. B. The judge fined the men $1,000, and ordered them to do community service.
A
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. The residents of Birmingham, Alabama, are still talking about the freak snowstorm. B. The residents of Birmingham Alabama are still talking about the freak snowstorm.
A
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. The residents of Birmingham, Alabama, are still talking about the freak snowstorm. B. The residents of Birmingham Alabama are still talking about the freak snowstorm. C. The residents of Birmingham, Alabama are still talking about the freak snowstorm.
A
The budget director said the worst of the financial problems were over.
incorrect
Each of these questions is/are difficult to answer.
is
He said they stole his wallet, but its/it's right here.
it's
My Guru said the key to happiness is finding my purpose and serving others.
correct
Her tears were purely for affect/effect.
effect
The research studied the affect/effect of cloudy days on people's moods.
effect
Please type the subject: A group of protesters blocks the entrance to the freeway.
group of protesters
What's the subject? A group of tourists complained when lunch was served late.
group of tourists
Choose the correct sentence: A. Her favorite cities are New York, San Francisco and New Orleans. B. Her favorite cities are New York, San Francisco, and New Orleans.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Her only daughter, Jenny, will be attending Cornell University in the fall. B. Her only daughter Jenny will be attending Cornell University in the fall.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. His 11-year-old nephew won first place at the Science Fair. B. His 11-year old nephew won first place at the Science Fair. C. His 11 year old nephew won first place at the Science Fair.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. His favorite restaurant, which serves Mexican food, is closed for the summer. B. His favorite restaurant, that serves Mexican food, is closed for the summer.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Joseph Brown named his three sons Buster, John and Leroy. B. Joseph Brown named his three sons, Buster, John, and Leroy. C. Joseph Brown named his three sons Buster, John, and Leroy.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Kathy and Ron, who were married on January 28, plan a honeymoon to Athens, Greece. B. Kathy and Ron, who were married on January 28, plan a honeymoon to Athens Greece. C. Kathy and Ron, who were married on January 28, plan a honeymoon, to Athens, Greece.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Kavita's brother, sister and cousin said they would help us move. B. Kavita's brother, sister, and cousin said they would help us move.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Let me be clear: Math is not my strongest skill. B. Let me be clear: math is not my strongest skill.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. President Barack Obama said most of the troops would be out of Afghanistan by December 2014. B. President Barack Obama said most of the troops would be out of Afghanistan by December, 2014. C. President Barack Obama said, most of the troops would be out of Afghanistan by December 2014.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. She chose a lacy black gown to wear to the awards ceremony. B. She chose a lacy, black gown to wear to the awards ceremony.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. She is going to Macy's, Nordstom and Dillard's to find just he right dress. B. She is going to Macy's, Nordstom, and Dillard's to find just he right dress.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. She went to the market because she was out of coffee. B. She went to the market, because she was out of coffee.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. The new clothing boutique is looking for part-time workers. B. The new clothing boutique is looking for part time workers. C. The new, clothing boutique is looking for part-time workers.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. The percentage of states legalizing gay marriage is growing. B. The percentage of states, which are legalizing gay marriage, is growing.
A
That nasty cough tells me you aren't feeling good/well
well
Holder wishes it was/were possible to take back his words.
were
If I was/were Superman, I could start a fire with my X-ray vision.
were
If I was/were able to read minds, I'd probably go crazy
were
If I was/were rich, I'd be a philanthropist
were
If I was/were your father, I would never allow you to talk to me that way.
were
If my grammar was/were better, I would feel more comfortable doing public speaking
were
If my mother was/were here, you'd be getting a lecture right now.
were
In the middle of the road was/were two dogs without tags
were
In the middle of the road was/were two dogs without tags.
were
Neither the coach nor the players was/were overconfident.
were
Neither the lawyer nor the defendants was/were optimistic about the verdict
were
Neither the lawyer nor the defendants was/were optimistic about the verdict.
were
We don't know who/whom the president will nominate for the Supreme Court
whom
Who/whom do you want me to show around campus
whom
The Sun Devil Club raised $450,000 this year compared with/to $375,000 last year.
with
Could you please direct me to the women's/womens'/womens room
women's
With so many women working, workmens/workmens'/workmen's compensation is an antiquated term
workmen's
Nothing is more important than you're/your happiness
your
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. We went to the department store to buy a crib, diapers, and a humidifier. B. We went to the department store to buy a crib, diapers and a humidifier.
B
Who and whom are
Pronouns
Jude's sister is more flexible than him/he
he
Nedda came much later than him/he
he
Identify the verb in this sentence: Hiking is a popular activity in Arizona
is
None of the accident victims is/are expected to survive.
is
None of the classes is/are open for enrollment
is
None of the performances is/are sold out
is
None of your excuses are/is going to work today.
is
One-third of the population are/is overweight
is
President Bill Clinton, along with Hillary and Chelsea, is/are speaking at the plenary session.
is
The condition of these vinyl LP records are/is amazing
is
The remodeled barn, along with two tractors, is/are up for sale.
is
The vacant lot, along with two dilapidated buildings, is/are up for sale.
is
Everyone who has taken the final exam is/are saying its/it's imperative to study hard
is/it's
Everyone who has taken this class is/are saying its/it's surprisingly difficult.
is/it's
McDonald's announced today that it/they would begin to reduce the amount of salt used on french fries.
it
I hope it's/its all right if I tag along.
it's
It turns out the board has secrets of their/its own
its
The Board of Directors began planning its/their annual retreat last summer.
its
The administration has posted their/its list of finalists for the job.
its
The gang agreed to give up its/their weaponry before the meeting.
its
My colleague can never remember where he lay/laid his keys
laid
This child is breathing too fast
Adverb
You have more experience than me/I
I
A feel bad/badly my mother couldn't be there.
bad
If you're/your bed is uncomfortable, you should buy a new one.
your
"whom" is used when the pronoun is receiving the action, so it is connected to the objective pronoun case
True
Us/we Sun Devils have to stick together
We
You're/Your probably wondering what took me so long.
You're
is it you're/your turn or mine?
your
Where could they have laid/lay/lain those textbooks?
laid
Have you seen Miranda Jimenes'/Jimeneses'/Jimenes's new puppy?
Jimenes'
During spring break, you have laid/lain around the house every morning.
lain
A number of bills is/are unpaid each month.
are
I was so tired yesterday that I laid/lay in bed all morning
lay
None of the teenagers was/were injured in the car accident
was
Choose the correct sentence: A. He always orders orange juice, steak and eggs, and toast. B. He always orders orange juice, steak, and eggs, and toast. C. He always orders orange juice, steak, and eggs and toast.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. He is a terrific cook but a terrible housekeeper. B. He is a terrific cook, but a terrible housekeeper.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Amy Adams won the Oscar for "American Hustle." B. Amy Adams won the Oscar for "American Hustle".
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Executives who place ethics before financial gain should be admired. B. Executives, who place ethics before financial gain, should be admired.
A
Choose the correct sentence: A. Have you seen "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo"? B. Have you seen "Here Comes Honey Boo Boo?"
A
One-half of the team was/were on academic probation.
was
Choose the correct sentence: A. Clotheslines, which were popular in the 1950s, have been banned in some neighborhoods. B. Clotheslines, popular in the 1950s, have been banned in some neighborhoods. C. Clotheslines that were popular in the 1950s have been banned in some neighborhoods. A B A and B C
A and B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Philip Seymour Hoffman, 46, was found dead of an overdose. B. Philip Seymour Hoffman, 46 was found dead of an overdose. C. Philip Seymour Hoffman was found dead of an overdose at 46 years old. D. A and C E. None of the above
A and C
Choose the correct sentence: A. Jon Stewart, of the Daily Show, said mainstream news programs are doing viewers a disservice. B. Mainstream news programs are doing viewers a disservice said Jon Stewart of the Daily Show. C. The Daily Show's Jon Stewart said mainstream news programs are doing viewers a disservice. D. A and C E. All of the above
A and C (D)
Active or Passive Brisk winds blew dust, pollen and leaves throughout the city.
Active Voice
What kind of voice? My parents enjoy traveling the world on cruise ships.
Active Voice
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. In 'The Odd Couple,' Felix was the "fastidious" roommate.
Adjective
The Aguirres/Aguirres' want to go out on the Hyde's/Hydes' sailboat
Aguirres/Hydes'
Choose the correct sentence: A. "Many people reported they "binge-watched" all 13 hours of 'House of Cards,'" the screenwriter said. B. "Many people reported they 'binge-watched' all 13 hours of 'House of Cards,'" the screenwriter said. C. "Many people reported they 'binge-watched' all 13 hours of 'House of Cards,'"the screenwriter said.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. "These allegations remain under investigation", the attorney general said. B. "These allegations remain under investigation," the attorney general said. C. "These allegations remain under investigation." the attorney general said.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Because they wanted to lose weight they cut out soda and chips. B. Because they wanted to lose weight, they cut out soda and chips.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Did Cate Blanchett win a Golden Globe for her role in "Blue Jasmine?" B. Did Cate Blanchett win a Golden Globe for her role in "Blue Jasmine"?
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. He plans to announce his candidacy on April 1, 2014 in Why, Ariz. B. He plans to announce his candidacy on April 1, 2014, in Why, Arizona. C. He plans to announce his candidacy on April 1, 2014, in Why Arizona.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Her coast to coast schedule included the cities of Seattle, Wash., and Miami, Florida. B. Her coast-to-coast schedule included the cities of Seattle, Wash., and Miami, Florida.
B
Choose the best example of parallel structure: A. I want a computer that is speedy, has compatibility features and at a price I can afford. B. I want a computer that is fast, compatible and affordable.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. I like cooking kids and pets. B. I like cooking, kids and pets C. I like cooking, kids, and pets
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. I'd like you to meet my wife, Natalie, and her sisters, Emma and Laura. B. I'd like you to meet my wife, Natalie, and her sisters Emma and Laura. C. I'd like you to meet my wife, Natalie, and her sisters Emma, and Laura.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Javin promised to meet his friends at 7 p.m. but they forgot to establish a meeting place. B. Javin promised to meet his friends at 7 p.m., but they forgot to establish a meeting place. C. Javin promised to meet his friends at 7 p.m. but, they forgot to establish a meeting place.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. She can't decide whether to order the tacos, a burrito, or the enchilada plate. B. She can't decide whether to order the tacos, a burrito or the enchilada plate. C. She can't decide whether to order: the tacos, a burrito, or the enchilada plate.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. She watched the news, while her husband did the dishes. B. She watched the news while her husband did the dishes. C. She watched the news while her husband, did the dishes.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. She will return to the United States, after she completes her fellowship. B. She will return to the United States after she completes her fellowship.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Sheriff Joe Arpaio who is a controversial figure in Arizona, is under investigation. B. Sheriff Joe Arpaio, who is a controversial figure in Arizona, is under investigation.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. The band's tour schedule includes Salt Lake City, Utah, Phoenix, Arizona, Denver, Colo., and Albuquerque, N.M. B. The band's tour schedule includes Salt Lake City, Utah; Phoenix, Arizona; Denver, Colo.; and Albuquerque, N.M.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. The pianist that is rehearsing six hours daily will preform with the symphony next week. B. The pianist, who is rehearsing six hours daily, will preform with the symphony next week.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. The two boys who were under 18, were tried as adults. B. The two boys, who were under 18, were tried as adults. C. The two boys that were under 18 were tried as adults.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. The valet that parked my car scratched the paint. B. The valet who parked my car scratched the paint. C. The valet, who parked my car, scratched the paint.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. They are moving from Frankfurt, Germany to Baltimore, Maryland next month. B. They are moving from Frankfurt, Germany, to Baltimore, Maryland, next month.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. They named the kittens; Athena, Zeus and Pandora. B. They named the kittens Athena, Zeus and Pandora. C. They named the kittens Athena, Zeus, and Pandora.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. They plan to get married, buy a house, and get a dog. B. They plan to get married, buy a house and get a dog. C. They plan to, get married, buy a house and get a dog.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. Tom's last minute decision to call-in sick may have cost him his job. B. Tom's last-minute decision to call in sick may have cost him his job. C. Tom's last-minute decision to call-in sick may have cost him his job.
B
Choose the correct sentence: A. We're going to till the soil, add compost, and plant vegetables. B. We're going to till the soil, add compost and plant vegetables.
B
Choose the correctly written sentence: A. After she got married, Gigi moved from Tucson Ariz., to Portland Ore. B. After she got married, Gigi moved from Tucson, Ariz., to Portland, Ore. C. After she got married Gigi moved from Tucson, Ariz., to Portland, Ore.
B
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. Because they wanted to lose weight they cut out soda and chips B. Because they wanted to lose weight, they cut out soda and chips
B
Choose the sentence that uses commas correctly: A. The sign says the resort will open in September, 2015 B. The sign says the resort will open in September 2015
B
Which is correct: A. Have you read Sam Harris's new book - its so controversial! B. Have you read Sam Harris' new book? It's so controversial! C. Have you read Sam Harrises' new book; Its so controversial!
B
Janet seemed "painfully flustered," observers said, when questioned about changes to the controversial Volcker Rule.
correct
Choose the correct sentence(s). A. We demand that Governor Andrew Cuomo investigate the allegations. B. We demand that Gov. Andrew Cuomo investigate the allegations. C. As governor, Andrew Cuomo is responsible for investigating the allegations.
B and C
After waiting 30 minutes, Jena left the cafe because/since it was clear she had been stood up
Becuase
The boss's/boss' standard reply is "No."
Boss's
Choose the correct sentence: A. Alyce K. Webb of Tucson is planning to run for Senate. B. Alyce K. Webb of Tucson, is planning to run for Senate. C. Alyce K. Webb, of Tucson, is planning to run for Senate.
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. I generally dislike sushi; However, I am willing to try the new Japanese restaurant. B. I generally dislike sushi; however I am willing to try the new Japanese restaurant. C. I generally dislike sushi; however, I am willing to try the new Japanese restaurant.
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. She tried to persuade him to stop smoking but he was addicted. B. She tried to convince him to stop smoking, but he was addicted. C. She tried to persuade him to stop smoking, but he was addicted
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. They're ferocious, smelly dog is the terror of the neighborhood. B. Their ferocious smelly dog is the terror of the neighborhood. C. Their ferocious, smelly dog is the terror of the neighborhood.
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. They've started calling 11 and 12-year-olds "tweeners." B. They've started calling 11- and 12-year-olds "tweeners". C. They've started calling 11- and 12-year-olds "tweeners."
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. They've started calling 11 and 12-year-olds "tweeners." B. They've started calling 11-and 12-year-olds "tweeners". C. They've started calling 11-and 12-year-olds "tweeners."
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. When meditating, start by relaxing, closing your eyes, and taking a few conscious breaths. B. When meditating start by relaxing, closing your eyes, and taking a few conscious breaths. C. When meditating, start by relaxing, closing your eyes and taking a few conscious breaths.
C
Choose the correct sentence: A. You set the table and Hunter can empty the dishwasher. B. You set the table and, Hunter can empty the dishwasher. C. You set the table, and Hunter can empty the dishwasher.
C
It's/Its the best I can do.
It's
Identify the part of speech that is quoted. He expected to meet her at the station, "but" the bus was rerouted.
Conjunction
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. I park my car at the station "and" take the light rail to work.
Conjunction
When do you use were?
Contrary-to-fact conditions, doubts, wishes and regrets
"Ms. Lane asks that people respect her privacy at this very painful time," the actress' spokeswoman said.
Correct
"My favorite children's book is 'The Sneetches' by Dr. Seuss," the writer told the interviewer.
Correct
Can you believe how many times he has seen "Star Wars"?
Correct
Cramped muscles, which many athletes complain about, can be from lack of hydration.
Correct
Cynicism resides at the intersection of Disappointment Boulevard and Lost Hope Avenue.
Correct
Evelyn is planning to graduate from college in June 2016.
Correct
He chose a beige seersucker suit to wear to the island wedding.
Correct
He knew what was coming next: the breakup.
Correct
He was born in Flint, Michigan, in 1952.
Correct
My mother is a physician, and she met my father when she was a student.
Correct
She rang the doorbell, and the dog began to bark.
Correct
She studied hard and aced the test.
Correct
Sores that do not heal can be a warning sign of cancer.
Correct
Susan and Lars planted heirloom tomatoes, Tuscan kale and bell peppers.
Correct
Suspected bank robber Georgia Klute, 43, was captured on April 1, 2012, in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Correct
The new burger joint has first-rate food!
Correct
The police officer yelled, but they continued running.
Correct
The students have made a lot of progress, but they need more practice.
Correct
Zoe just got hired at a highly respected university.
Correct
Its/It's clear that only one thing counts in this world: Success/success
It's/success
It's/its easy to say you stand for something, but who's/whose going to step up and act?
It's/who's
Police Chief Lynn Jones said, "We won't release the names of suspects until they've been booked."
correct
Susan and Lars planted heriloom tomatoes, Tuscan kale and bell peppers.
correct
Suspected bank robber Georgie Klute, 43, was captured on April 1, 2012 in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Incorrect
The Hawaiian Hurricanes had a dozen wins, four losses, and a forfeit.
Incorrect
The cyclist that won the race was later stripped of his medal.
Incorrect
The sprinter that won a gold medal in the Olympics was later accused of doping.
Incorrect
The suspects began running and the police officer shouted "Halt!"
Incorrect
Misplaced modifier, dangling, or correct? Hoping to excuse his tardiness, a note was written to the teacher.
Dangling Modifier
Which kind of modifier? Approaching the Sky Harbor airport, the accident snarled traffic for hours.
Dangling modifier
Are you anxious/eager for the school year to be over?
Eager
She is eager/anxious to put the past behind her.
Eager
Confident about her technical skills, Reta anxiously/eagerly began operating on her first patient.
Eagerly
A comma is always needed to separate an independent clause from a dependent clause.
False
A reliable way to choose grammar is to think about whether it sounds right
False
Adjectives can only modify nouns and adverbs can only modify verbs.
False
Collective nouns and plural nouns are the same thing
False
Journalists should avoid paraphrasing whenever possible.
False
Quotation marks must always open and close a direct quote, no exceptions.
False
The rules governing possession for proper nouns ending in "s" and common nouns ending in "s" are the same.
False
The subject of a sentence is always next to the verb.
False
This is a complete sentence: Although we went to the park.
False
To determine the subject of a sentence:
Find who or what is doing the action.
None of the suits fit/fits
Fits
Is the quoted word acting as a gerund or present principle: "Hiking" is a popular activity in Arizona
Gerund
Each of these questions is/are difficult to answer
Is
The house, along with the stables and corral, are/is listed at $599,000
Is
neither tobacco nor alcohol is/are allowed.
Is
The crowd cheered when the 80-year-old woman crossed the marathon finish line.
correct
Substitute the quoted words for one word. "In the event" you are going to be late for the meeting, please text me.
If
Cisa found the ring, and wondered whether to keep it.
Incorrect
Georgie Porgie ate pudding, kissed the girls, and made them cry.
Incorrect
He took her out to dinner and she ordered the most expensive entree
Incorrect
He'll come back from work, after he picks his kids up from school.
Incorrect
I must get to Kansas and there is nothing you can do to stop me.
Incorrect
John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt, 94, died today in Frankfurt, Germany, after a long illness.
Incorrect
Kaela called a cab, and waited near the door until it arrived.
Incorrect
My mother is a physician, and met my father when she was a student.
Incorrect
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. "We finally returned home" after a long work trip.
Independent clause
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. "Wow!" He actually crossed the Grand Canyon on a tightrope.
Interjection
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. That car barely missed the child. "Thank Heavens!"
Interjection
The book club meet/meets once a month for dinner.
Meets
Emma Millers/Miller's/Millers' columns appear on Mondays and Thursdays
Miller's
Misplaced modifier, dangling, or correct? Absorbed in studying, the screeching tires interrupted Junie's concentration.
Misplaced
Misplaced modifier, dangling, or correct? Down on the ground, people in the high-rise had a birds-eye view of the arts festival.
Misplaced Modifier
Misplaced modifier, dangling, or correct? Hidden in the nook of a tree, the children discovered the Easter candy the bunny had left the night before.
Misplaced Modifier
The Nuneses/Nunes' returned from the party just after the Jonses/Joneses' house burned down
Nuneses/Joneses'
If the pronoun is receiving the action, the pronoun case should be _________.
Objective
Who's/Whose turn is it to clean the kitchen?
Whose
What kind of voice? Kylie was horrified by his attitude.
Passive Voice
What voice is being used? The letters were opened by her assistant.
Passive Voice
My family convinced/persuaded me to go home for the holidays
Persuaded
identify the part of speech that's quoted. Please put the glass, plastic and paper "in the recycling bin".
Phrase
Davis' fear of heights is the principle/principal reason he won't try canyoneering.
Principal
What's your principle/principal reason for quitting?
Principal
The senator voted against the bill because gambling violates his principles/principals.
Principles
Whose/Who's computer case was left in the lab?
Whose
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. He had a hard time giving up his "Dr. Pepper" habit.
Proper noun
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. "Delila's" outside washing the car.
Proper noun, subject, and contraction.
The apartment complex was hit with several burglaries and several residents/resident's/residents' computers were stolen.
Residents'
Since/Because Harold was accepted to Harvard, that is all he talks about.
Since
The Smiths/Smith's/Smiths' vacation home is in St. Johns
Smiths'
The Smyths/Smyths'/Smyth's new car is a Toyota Prius
Smyths'
Whose/Who's party are you going to this weekend?
Whose
Whose/who's turn is it to make the bank deposit?
Whose
The students she tutors are primarily 16- and 17-year-olds.
correct
They studied hard and aced the test.
correct
Who was your favorite character in "The Hunger Games"?
correct
Adjectives modify nouns and adverbs modify verbs, adverbs and adjectives
True
Collective nouns almost always take a singular verb form
True
Commas should be used with a conjunction to separate two independent clauses.
True
Dependent clauses have a subject and a verb.
True
In general, writers should always use active voice.
True
Linking verbs connect nouns or adjectives back to the subject
True
The relative pronoun for collective nouns is always "that."
True
What distinguishes a plural common noun from a singular possessive noun is a apostrophe before the S
True
Whom should be used when the subject is receiving the action
True
Writers should never use passive voice in their writing.
True
We/Us chefs need to get more creative in our cooking
We
We/Us teachers need to fight for higher saleries
We
He hasn't looked good/well since he finished his treatment
Well
After starting her career as a sales clerk, she is now a well paid/well-paid CEO.
Well-paid
If his boss was/were here, he would be working a lot harder
Were
Who/Whom will you choose to marry?
Whom
The group of hikers lost in the Superstitions was/were rescued this morning.
was
You literally look like a million bucks. / You look like a million bucks.
You look like a million bucks.
You're/your probably wondering what took me so long.
You're
Your/You're going to have the time of your/you're life.
You're/Your
The jury, along with the defendants, was/were relieved when the trial ended.
was
She can't understand why he refuses to accept/except her apology.
accept
An intransitive verb is
active, without an object
The actress's/actress' closet was crammed with costumes
actress's
The actress's/actress'/actresses struggle with drugs and alcohol has been widely documented
actress's
The actresses/actress's/actress' coat was left at the party
actress's
Modifiers are words used to:
add information, further define or limit something in a sentence, are adjectives or verbs, and can be phrases or clauses.
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. He is a "whiny" child.
adjective
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. Maya gets so many compliments on her "red" blouse.
adjective
Identify the part of speech that's quoted. She purchased the book "here".
adverb
How did the test scores affect/effect their grades?
affect
The cyclists were warned that blood-doping could affect/effect their health
affect
None of the volunteers agree/agrees on the best solution
agree
The man's erratic behavior was/were the principle/principal reason the bystander called the police.
was/principal
It's after midnight, and they are anxious/eager for their daughter to get home.
anxious
A number of applicants are/is waiting in line outside the building.
are
A number of artists are/is opening their studios to the public on First Friday.
are
A number of students are/is boycotting the company's products.
are
In her office is/are two bookcases and an antique desk.
are
Kathy, along with two sisters, is/are extremely talented
are
Somewhere on my desk is/are a resume and the draft proposal.
are
Three miles down the narrow dirt road is/are a cade and a gas station
are
They avoided going to crowded places to assure/ensure/insure that they didn't catch the flu.
assure
Substitute the quoted words for one word. The reporter "made attempts" to contact the candidate.
attempted/tried
I feel bad/badly that Pat sang so bad/badly
bad/badly
I have been craving chocolate ice cream lately, but I can't eat it because/since I started a diet
because
Substitute the quoted words for one word. Siri failed the course "due to the fact" she frequently missed class and rarely studied.
because
He knew what was coming next: the breakup
correct
I can't endorse your candidacy because of your voting record.
correct
Janet Yellen seemed "painfully flustered," observers said, when questioned about changes to the controversial Volcker Rule.
correct
The headmistresses'/headmistress's standards were very high
headmisress's
Have you been to the childrens/childrens'/children's museum in New York City?
children's
This color of paint will really compliment/complement the living room furniture.
complement
Identify the unnecessary word: Hurricane Katrina completely devastated Louisiana's fishing industry.
completely
Substitute the quoted words for one word. Hank "reached the conclusion" that the entire political system was corrupt.
concluded/decided/realized/believed
He is convinced/persuaded he is right about immigration policy.
convinced
I am convinced/persuaded she will go on to do great things
convinced
He was convinced/persuaded that smoking was unhealthy but couldn't be convinced/persuaded to quit
convinced/persuaded
"Have you seen the film 'Gone Girl'?" Rhett asked. "Or did you read the book?"
correct
Dale Earnhard Jr. and Hank Williams Jr. grew up in the shadows of famous fathers
correct
Dr. Russell's nurse told the patient to expect a four- to five-week recuperation period.
correct
He has one goal for the year: successfully completing a doctorate.
correct
Identify this part of speech: "When the semester ends", I am going on a diet.
dependent clause
Many people just don't understand the affect/effect of positive thinking
effect
She worried about the affect/effect of secondhand smoke on the children.
effect
The Broadway play had amazing special affects/effects
effects
The drug company's advertisement included a long list of side affects/effects.
effects
How can you assure/ensure/insure this package will arrive on time?
ensure
Everyone accept/except her brother will be there.
except
None of the women we interviewed wanted her/their name in the story.
her
Identify the subject in the sentence: Her parents insist that Kenneth does all his homework before he goes out.
her parents
The manager never notified her/she and me/I about the schedule change.
her/me
Either of those women could handle the assignment by herself/themselves
herself
We'll leave that decision to you and he/him
him
Did everyone remember to turn in his or her/their assignments?
his or her
Choose the extra words: Real estate agents say it's essential to care for one's home, or it won't appreciate in value.
in value
Dependent clauses have a subject but lack a verb.
false
Formal titles should always be abbreviated.
false
It's acceptable to use either "toward" or "towards" because they mean the same thing.
false
The bank is further/farther from the school than the credit union.
farther
The English department is offering three fewer/less writing courses next semester.
fewer
What's the subject? The gang of drug peddlers terrorizes the neighborhood.
gang of drug peddlers
Don't forget to pick up the girl's/girls homework.
girl's
Either of these ties goes/go well with that dress shirt.
goes
I feel extremely good/well about the job interview
good
Building all those monuments has/have given him a monumental ego.
has
A number of service workers has/have demanded the minimum wage be raised.
have
All of my cats has/have been pure breeds
have
All of my nieces has/have brown eyes
have
None of the state representatives have/has collaborated during the legislative session.
have
"Conditions are tough in Afghanistan," Gates said, "But our forces are doing their best."
incorrect
"I can't predict when gas prices will be lower," the mayor said, "I do know it's a good time to use public transportation."
incorrect
"I didn't recognize the team that showed up to play tonight", Coach Davis said. "We were outplayed and outclassed."
incorrect
"I really hope I can count on your vote", he said.
incorrect
"Ms. Lane asks that people respect her privacy at this very painful time" the actress' spokeswoman said.
incorrect
"My favorite children's book is "The Sneetches" by Dr. Seuss," she told the interviewer.
incorrect
"This is not a gently falling snowfall, said Zak Jones of Boston. "It's more like a smack in the face."
incorrect
"You shouldn't be here" he shouted, "it's too dangerous!"
incorrect
After peace talks failed in Syria, the refugee crisis worsened.
incorrect
Fashionistas advise women to always own a little, black dress
incorrect
He interviewed for the job but he didn't make the first cut.
incorrect
He is 63 years old and is the father of twin four-year-olds.
incorrect
He is known for wearing fake, gold watches.
incorrect
He is the designer that created the U.S. Olympic team's uniforms.
incorrect
Her insurance company refused to pay the bill - they claimed her ambulance trip was unnecessary.
incorrect
Lets face the facts: he's never going to compete in the Olympics.
incorrect
My craving usually centers on one thing: Chocolate.
incorrect
Observers said, Janet Yellen seemed "painfully flustered" when questioned about changes to the controversial Volcker Rule.
incorrect
She knew what was coming next: A lecture.
incorrect
The governor said, snowstorms have forced the schools to close for a second day.
incorrect
Either Emma or Evan is/are going to run for class president.
is
Either Ron or Gina is/are working at the front desk tomorrow.
is
Either of my brothers are/is available to help you move
is
Every box of cookies is/are stale
is
Everyone is/are longing for a few minutes of solitude
is
Everyone is/are welcome to bring a date to the reception
is
Excitement, as well as nervousness, are/is setting in as the competition approaches.
is
Greediness, as well as dishonesty and lack of compassion, are/is contributing to the world's problems
is
Huevos rancheros are/is my favorite breakfast
is
She was laying/lying on the beach this morning and got upset when a man lay/laid his towel next to her.
lying/laid
The feelings of goodwill and harmony mark/marks the season.
mark
None of the outfits match/matches her shoes
matches
The mayor/Mayor chose to resign in the wake of a campaign scandal.
mayor
Tell Franklin to leave the key with George or I/me
me
You can leave the deposit with Marie or I/me
me
Between you and I/me, it feels impossible to choose just one between/among so many choices.
me/among
Between you and I/me, the waitress's/waitress' skirt is way too short
me/waitress's
A book group meet/meets once a month for dinner.
meets
If a pronoun is driving the action, the pronoun case should be _________________. If the pronoun is receiving the action, the pronoun case should be ______________.
nominative/objective
(Parallel or Non Parallel Construction) Sometimes I wish I could jet to an island, taking my favorite books and my cellphone left behind.
not parallel construction
Substitute the quoted words for one word. The prosecuting attorney immediatley "raised his objections" when the defense attorney asked for a dismissal.
objected
(passive or active)? Verbs are robbed of their power in passive voice.
passive
She tried to convince/persuade him to stop smoking.
persuade
The photographer's/photographers'/photographers conference was held in New Orleans last year
photographers
One-eyed McGee is one of those poker players who play/plays for high stakes
play
My principles/principals prevent me from gambling.
principles
He claims to have principals/principles, but his principal/principle motivation seems to be greed.
principles/principal
The condition of these antique cars reflect/reflects an investment of time and money
reflects
She is the only one of the surgeons who play/plays in a rock 'n' roll band
refuse
Theresa is one of those schoolteachers who refuse/refuses to join Facebook.
refuse
She is recovering from surgery and still doesn't feel good/well
well
Beets are one of those vegetables that tastes/taste like dirt to me.
taste
The teachers/teacher's agreed to delay the students/students' exam date
teachers/students'
Either Erica or Ellen teach/teaches the yoga class on Wednesday nights.
teaches
After is was over, the jury who/that convinced the politician refused interview requests.
that
Giacamo manages the division that/who handles waste management services
that
I am tired of restaurants that/which are so noisy you can't have a conversation.
that
Marina served on a jury who/that voted for acquittal
that
The city council that/which passed the ordinance was comprised of five women and four men.
that
The jury that/who found him guilty was compiled of two men and six women.
that
The orchestra that/who played at Carnegie Hall has also preformed at the White House
that
The team that/who beat us is from Miami
that
Police arrested the gang who/that was burglarizing churches thanks to a tipster, who/whom is eligible for a reward.
that/who
The family that/who moved in next door have children that/who go to a private school.
that/who
The team that/who lost the championship has three players that/who are on academic probation.
that/who
Identify the subject in the sentence: The box of crayons has every conceivable color.
the box
None of his neighbors was/were attending the homeowners association meeting.
was
