1.
An emotional appeal can be strengthened through the use of _______________________
Correct Answer
B. Connotative words
Explanation
An emotional appeal can be strengthened through the use of connotative words. Connotative words are words that carry an emotional or subjective meaning, beyond their literal definition. By using connotative words, the speaker or writer can evoke specific emotions in the audience, making their appeal more persuasive and impactful. These words can create a sense of empathy, sympathy, or urgency, which can greatly enhance the emotional connection between the communicator and the audience. Therefore, the use of connotative words is an effective strategy to strengthen an emotional appeal.
2.
An effective cover letter aligns your personal qualifications with _________________________.
Correct Answer
C. the job requirements
Explanation
An effective cover letter aligns your personal qualifications with the job requirements. This means that the cover letter should highlight how your skills, experiences, and qualifications match the specific requirements of the job you are applying for. By doing so, you demonstrate to the employer that you have the necessary abilities and knowledge to excel in the role. Focusing on the job requirements also shows that you have taken the time to understand the position and are genuinely interested in it.
3.
Choose the correctly written sentence.
Correct Answer
C. George said, “Take the tamales to Lupe’s mother, whom you met yesterday.”
Explanation
The correct answer is "George said, 'Take the tamales to Lupe’s mother, whom you met yesterday.'" This is the correct sentence because "whom" is used to refer to the object of the verb "met" in the relative clause "whom you met yesterday."
4.
The strongest support point in a persuasive essay should be in the _______ body paragraph.
Correct Answer
C. Third
Explanation
In a persuasive essay, the strongest support point should be presented in the third body paragraph. The first body paragraph usually introduces the topic and provides background information, while the second body paragraph presents a supporting argument. By the time the reader reaches the third body paragraph, they have already been introduced to the topic and have been presented with a supporting argument. Therefore, the third body paragraph is the ideal place to present the strongest support point, as it will have the most impact and leave a lasting impression on the reader.
5.
Choose the correctly punctuated and capitalized sentence.
Correct Answer
C. Maria said, "My favorite book is Little Women by Louisa May Alcott."
Explanation
The correct answer is "Maria said, "My favorite book is Little Women by Louisa May Alcott."" This sentence is correctly punctuated with the quotation marks placed around the spoken words. The first letter of each sentence and the proper nouns are capitalized.
6.
Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.
Correct Answer
A. Jan needs a raise; she wants to move to an apartment in a quieter neighborhood.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Jan needs a raise; she wants to move to an apartment in a quieter neighborhood." This sentence uses a semicolon to separate two related independent clauses. The semicolon is used to indicate a stronger connection between the two clauses than a period would imply.
7.
An eyewitness account or a map is __________ source of information when you are researching where an event took place.
Correct Answer
C. A primary
Explanation
A primary source of information is the most reliable and direct source that provides firsthand evidence or accounts of an event. In the context of researching where an event took place, an eyewitness account or a map would be considered primary sources as they offer direct and firsthand information about the location of the event. These sources are more trustworthy and accurate compared to secondary sources, which are interpretations or analyses of primary sources. Therefore, when researching the location of an event, it is essential to rely on primary sources like eyewitness accounts or maps for accurate and reliable information.
8.
A cliché is __________________________________________.
Correct Answer
B. An overused word or pHrase that lacks originality.
Explanation
A cliché refers to an overused word or phrase that lacks originality. It is a term or expression that has been used so frequently that it has lost its impact or meaning. Clichés are often seen as unoriginal and can be seen as lazy or uninspired writing. They are commonly used in everyday language and can be found in various forms of media.
9.
Did you ask __________ going to graduate in May?
Correct Answer
A. Who’s
Explanation
The correct answer is "who's." In this question, we are asking about the person who is going to graduate in May. "Who's" is a contraction of "who is," which is the appropriate form to use in this context. "Whos'" is not a word, and "whose" is a possessive pronoun used to indicate ownership, which does not fit the sentence structure here.
10.
Because you need to use a _________ tone in a persuasive essay, word choice is especially important.
Correct Answer
A. Respectful
Explanation
In a persuasive essay, the tone should be respectful in order to convey a sense of politeness and consideration towards the reader. This helps to establish credibility and build a connection with the audience. By using respectful language, the writer shows that they value the opinions and perspectives of others, which can make their argument more persuasive and convincing. Additionally, a respectful tone promotes a positive and professional atmosphere, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the essay.
11.
A verb will change __________________________ in order to show who performs the action in the sentence.
Correct Answer
C. Its form
Explanation
A verb will change its form in order to show who performs the action in the sentence. This is known as verb conjugation, where the verb changes its ending or form to match the subject of the sentence. By changing its form, the verb indicates whether the subject is singular or plural, and whether the action is happening in the past, present, or future tense. This helps to clarify the meaning of the sentence and provide information about the subject performing the action.
12.
Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.
Correct Answer
C. If he can get a scholarship, Ivan intends to go to college next year; his counselor has already written several recommendations for him.
Explanation
The correct answer is "If he can get a scholarship, Ivan intends to go to college next year; his counselor has already written several recommendations for him." This sentence correctly uses a comma to separate the dependent clause "If he can get a scholarship" from the independent clause "Ivan intends to go to college next year." It also uses a semicolon to separate the two independent clauses "Ivan intends to go to college next year" and "his counselor has already written several recommendations for him."
13.
Identify the type of figurative language used in the following sentence: The delicious chocolate mousse cake was a velvety cloud on my tongue.
Correct Answer
A. MetapHor
Explanation
The sentence compares the chocolate mousse cake to a velvety cloud, suggesting that the cake was smooth and light, just like a cloud. This comparison does not use "like" or "as," which is typical of a simile. Instead, it directly states that the cake "was" a cloud, making it a metaphor.
14.
To evaluate the credibility of information sources, you need to look at _________________________________
Correct Answer
B. The date of publication, the evidence, and the motivation of the author.
Explanation
To evaluate the credibility of information sources, it is important to consider the date of publication, the evidence provided, and the motivation of the author. The date of publication helps determine if the information is up-to-date and relevant. Assessing the evidence presented allows for an evaluation of its quality and reliability. Understanding the motivation of the author helps identify any potential biases or agendas that may influence the information provided. Considering these factors helps ensure that the information obtained is trustworthy and credible.
15.
Select the correctly written sentence:
Correct Answer
C. The cost of my sister's wedding gown--can you believe it?--was the same as the cost of my grandparents' first house!
16.
Which of the following sentences is incorrect because of a misplaced modifier?
Correct Answer
C. Running to the bus stop, the bus came just as Jen tripped.
Explanation
In the sentence "Running to the bus stop, the bus came just as Jen tripped," the modifier "Running to the bus stop" is misplaced. It should be placed closer to the noun it is modifying, which is Jen. The sentence could be corrected by rephrasing it as "Just as Jen tripped, the bus came while she was running to the bus stop." This way, the modifier is correctly placed next to the noun it is modifying.
17.
The salutation of a ___________ letter ends with a colon.
Correct Answer
C. Business
Explanation
In a business letter, the salutation typically ends with a colon. This is because a business letter is a formal communication, and the use of a colon after the salutation adds a professional and respectful tone. In contrast, informal and personal letters may use different punctuation marks or no punctuation at all after the salutation, depending on the desired tone and level of familiarity.
18.
A personal narrative is ___________________.
Correct Answer
A. A real story that happened to the author
Explanation
A personal narrative is a type of writing that recounts a real story that happened to the author. It is based on the author's personal experiences, emotions, and observations, making it a genuine account of events. Unlike a fictional story, a personal narrative aims to provide an authentic and truthful representation of the author's life. It often includes vivid details, dialogue, and personal reflections to engage the reader and convey the author's unique perspective.
19.
The concluding paragraph of a personal narrative should contain ________________________________________________.
Correct Answer
B. the meaning of the experience
Explanation
The concluding paragraph of a personal narrative should contain the meaning of the experience. This is because the purpose of a personal narrative is to share a personal story or experience and reflect on its significance. The concluding paragraph is the final opportunity to leave an impression on the reader and tie everything together by highlighting the lessons learned or the deeper meaning behind the experience. It allows the writer to provide closure and leave the reader with a lasting message or understanding.
20.
We can tell that the titles of the poem “Dulce et Decorum Est” and the novel All’s Quiet on the Western Front were chosen _________________ because they are the opposite of the images portrayed in these literary works.
Correct Answer
A. To be deliberately ironic,
Explanation
The titles of the poem "Dulce et Decorum Est" and the novel "All's Quiet on the Western Front" were chosen to be deliberately ironic because they present a stark contrast to the actual content and portrayal of war in these literary works. Both titles suggest a glorification or honor in war, but the poems and novel actually depict the horrors, suffering, and disillusionment of war. This deliberate irony emphasizes the disconnect between the romanticized notions of war and the harsh reality experienced by soldiers.
21.
When we present reasons and evidence to persuade someone to agree with us, we are making ________ appeal.
Correct Answer
A. A logical
Explanation
When we present reasons and evidence to persuade someone to agree with us, we are making a logical appeal. This means that we are using logical reasoning and evidence to support our argument and convince others of its validity. A logical appeal relies on facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to make a convincing argument. It does not rely on emotional manipulation or the use of loaded language to sway someone's opinion.
22.
Choose the correctly written sentence.
Correct Answer
B. The massive cuts to the local chapter of the Salvation Army’s budget made the neighborhood schools even more appreciative of the local Girl Scouts’ donations to their “Back to School Backpacks” program.
Explanation
The correct answer is "The massive cuts to the local chapter of the Salvation Army’s budget made the neighborhood schools even more appreciative of the local Girl Scouts’ donations to their 'Back to School Backpacks' program." This sentence correctly uses the possessive form of "Salvation Army" and "Girl Scouts" to show ownership. Additionally, it correctly uses the plural form of "neighborhood schools" to match the subject.
23.
A personal narrative should describe________________________________________
Correct Answer
C. A sequence of events focusing on one incident in the life of an individual.
Explanation
A personal narrative should describe a sequence of events focusing on one incident in the life of an individual. This means that the narrative should have a clear focus on a specific event and provide a detailed account of the events leading up to it and its consequences. The narrative should revolve around this incident and provide insights into the thoughts, emotions, and experiences of the individual involved.
24.
Choose the grammatically correct sentence.
Correct Answer
C. My sister, the doctor, gave me my flu shot, and her husband, the accountant, sent me a bill for it.
Explanation
The correct answer is "My sister, the doctor, gave me my flu shot, and her husband, the accountant, sent me a bill for it." This sentence uses commas to set off the appositives "the doctor" and "the accountant," providing additional information about the sister and the husband. The use of commas in this way helps to clarify the meaning of the sentence and make it grammatically correct.
25.
The ___________ of the poem “Dreamers” is described as “…foul dug-outs, gnawed by rats, / And…ruined trenches lashed with rain.”
Correct Answer
B. Setting
Explanation
The correct answer is setting. The question asks for the term that describes the description of the poem "Dreamers" as "foul dug-outs, gnawed by rats, and ruined trenches lashed with rain." This description refers to the physical environment or location in which the events of the poem take place, which is known as the setting.
26.
Write “ie” when the sound of the letters in a word is _____________.
Correct Answer
A. Long “e” except after “c”
Explanation
The sound of the letters in a word is usually a long "e" except when the letter "c" comes before it. In that case, the sound is a short "e".
27.
Select the correct salutation for a cover letter in the following circumstances: you are applying for a position at a company in which a friend named Janice Lorimer is the head of the personnel department.
Correct Answer
C. Dear Ms. Lorimer:
Explanation
The correct salutation for a cover letter in this circumstance is "Dear Ms. Lorimer:". This is the appropriate salutation because Janice Lorimer is the head of the personnel department at the company where the applicant is applying for a position. Using "Dear Ms. Lorimer:" shows respect and professionalism towards the recipient.
28.
The ___________ and the page number or numbers (if there are numbered pages) are the only things included in an MLA parenthetical citation for any source with one listed author.
Correct Answer
A. Author’s last name
Explanation
In an MLA parenthetical citation for a source with one listed author, only the author's last name and the page number (if applicable) are included. This citation format is used to provide brief information about the source within the text of the paper, allowing readers to easily locate the full citation in the Works Cited page. Including the author's last name helps to identify the source and give credit to the original author. The publisher or website and the author's full name are not necessary in the parenthetical citation.
29.
It is important to use transitional phrases both to connect ideas, and to __________________________
Correct Answer
A. Show how those ideas are related to each other.
Explanation
Transitional phrases are crucial for connecting ideas and demonstrating the relationship between them. They serve as bridges between different thoughts or arguments, allowing the reader to follow the logical flow of the text. By using transitional phrases, writers can show the connection between ideas, helping readers understand how one idea leads to another and how they are all related. This enhances the coherence and clarity of the writing, making it easier for the reader to comprehend the overall message or argument being presented.
30.
Choose the grammatically correct sentence.
Correct Answer
A. Knowing the situation, she felt whatever she did would only make matters worse!
Explanation
The correct answer is "Knowing the situation, she felt whatever she did would only make matters worse!" because it follows the correct grammar rules for using a dependent clause at the beginning of a sentence. The phrase "Knowing the situation" is a dependent clause that provides additional information about the subject "she." It is separated from the main clause by a comma, which is the correct punctuation in this case. The rest of the sentence follows a logical structure and maintains proper grammar.
31.
If your persuasive essay makes comparisons to things readers are ____________, you will not only illustrate your points, but also make them more believable.
Correct Answer
A. Familiar with
Explanation
Comparing things readers are familiar with in a persuasive essay helps to illustrate the points being made and makes them more believable. When readers are already familiar with the things being compared, they can easily understand and relate to the arguments being presented. This familiarity helps to establish a connection between the writer and the reader, making the essay more persuasive and convincing. On the other hand, if the comparisons were made to things readers are unfamiliar with, it would be harder for them to grasp the concepts and the essay would lose its impact.
32.
Choose the grammatically correct sentence.
Correct Answer
A. If the bride gets along with the groom’s family really well, it is usually a good sign.
Explanation
The correct answer is "If the bride gets along with the groom’s family really well, it is usually a good sign." This sentence uses the correct adverb "really" to modify the adjective "well." "Real" is incorrect in this context, as it is an informal way of saying "very" and does not fit grammatically. "Good" is also incorrect as it should be "well" to describe the action of getting along.
33.
In a personal narrative or a story, ___________ can be used to show thoughts and feelings, to build a relationship between characters, or to tell the story.
Correct Answer
C. Dialogue
Explanation
In a personal narrative or a story, dialogue can be used to show thoughts and feelings, to build a relationship between characters, or to tell the story. Dialogue allows the reader to directly hear the characters' words, which can provide insight into their emotions, motivations, and relationships. It also helps to bring the story to life by allowing characters to interact with one another and move the plot forward through their conversations. By including dialogue, the writer can create a more engaging and dynamic narrative that allows the reader to connect with the characters and their experiences.
34.
In the writing process, between writing your first draft and writing your final draft, you should spend time revising your draft for use of ideas and content, organization, voice, ___________ and word choice.
Correct Answer
B. Sentence fluency
Explanation
In the writing process, between writing your first draft and writing your final draft, you should spend time revising your draft for use of ideas and content, organization, voice, and sentence fluency. Sentence fluency refers to the flow and rhythm of sentences, ensuring that they are clear, concise, and varied. This involves checking for proper sentence structure, eliminating awkward phrasing, and ensuring that sentences connect smoothly to convey the intended meaning. By focusing on sentence fluency, you can enhance the overall readability and cohesiveness of your writing.
35.
In the lines, "Who leaving his glad school-days and putting boyhood by / Joined England's bitter Iliad" from the poem "Gervais (Killed at the Dardanelles)," the phrase “England’s bitter Iliad” is a metaphor and an ____________
Correct Answer
B. Allusion
Explanation
The phrase "England's bitter Iliad" is a metaphor because it compares England's experience to the epic Greek poem, the Iliad. The Iliad is known for its depiction of the Trojan War, which was filled with tragedy and conflict. By using this metaphor, the poet suggests that England's experience is similarly filled with bitterness and strife. The phrase is also an allusion because it references a specific literary work, the Iliad, to convey a deeper meaning.
36.
With an online source, you must include ________________ in your citation.
Correct Answer
C. The date you accessed the web page
Explanation
When citing an online source, it is important to include the date you accessed the web page in your citation. This is because online content can change or be updated frequently, so including the date allows readers to know when you accessed the information. It also helps with cross-referencing and verifying the accuracy of the information, as it indicates the version of the web page you used for your research.
37.
When Wordsworth uses the lines, “Continuous as the stars that shine / And twinkle on the Milky Way” to describe the daffodils, he is using __________________.
Correct Answer
C. Simile and hyperbole
Explanation
The correct answer is simile and hyperbole. In this excerpt, Wordsworth compares the daffodils to the stars on the Milky Way using the word "as," which indicates a simile. The comparison of the daffodils to the stars on the Milky Way is exaggerated and not meant to be taken literally, making it a hyperbole.
38.
Choose the correctly written sentence.
Correct Answer
A. Jane’s mother-in-law’s ex-husband was a banker.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Jane’s mother-in-law’s ex-husband was a banker." This is the correct answer because it uses hyphens to correctly indicate the relationship between "mother" and "in-law" and between "ex" and "husband". The hyphens help to clarify the meaning and prevent any confusion or misinterpretation.
39.
Select the correctly written sentence.
Correct Answer
C. You cannot deny anyone’s rights based on ethnicity because “All men are created equal (the Declaration of Independence).”
Explanation
The correct answer is "You cannot deny anyone’s rights based on ethnicity because “All men are created equal (the Declaration of Independence).” This sentence is correctly written because it follows standard punctuation rules. The colon is used to introduce a quotation, and the quotation marks are placed correctly around the quoted phrase. Additionally, the parentheses are used to provide additional context for the quoted phrase."
40.
The metaphor of ____________ to denote a group of people working to overcome a difficult situation originated in Shakespeare’s play “Henry V.”
Correct Answer
A. “a band of brothers”
Explanation
The correct answer is "a band of brothers." In Shakespeare's play "Henry V," the phrase "band of brothers" is used as a metaphor to denote a group of people working together to overcome a difficult situation. This phrase has since become a popular expression to describe a close-knit group or team facing challenges together.
41.
Choose the prepositional phrase that should be used as a transitional element to establish a difference or a contrast.
Correct Answer
C. On the other hand
Explanation
"On the other hand" is a prepositional phrase that is commonly used to introduce a contrasting or opposing idea. It is used to indicate a shift in perspective or to present an alternative viewpoint. This phrase is effective in establishing a difference or contrast between two ideas or situations.
42.
Choose the correctly written sentence.
Correct Answer
A. Dr. Ramone Gonzales, Jr. and his fiancée, Betty Rodriguez, took their sisters out to a Chinese restaurant to tell them about the engagement.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Dr. Ramone Gonzales, Jr. and his fiancée, Betty Rodriguez, took their sisters out to a Chinese restaurant to tell them about the engagement." This sentence correctly uses capitalization and punctuation, including the use of commas to separate the names and titles. It also correctly capitalizes "Chinese" as it is referring to a specific type of cuisine.
43.
When the narrator of a poem or story knows the thoughts and feelings of _______________ the viewpoint being used is the third person omniscient.
Correct Answer
B. All the characters in a story or poem,
Explanation
When the narrator of a poem or story knows the thoughts and feelings of all the characters in a story or poem, the viewpoint being used is the third person omniscient. In this viewpoint, the narrator has access to the inner thoughts and emotions of every character, allowing the reader to have a broader understanding of the story and its characters. This perspective provides a more objective and comprehensive view of the events and allows the reader to see the story from multiple angles.
44.
When two items are compared by talking about the same feature for each item in the same paragraph or section of the essay before the author addresses a second feature for each item, the expository essay is using the ________ method of organization.
Correct Answer
C. Point-by-point
Explanation
In an expository essay, when two items are compared by discussing the same feature for each item before moving on to the next feature, the essay is using the point-by-point method of organization. This method allows for a clear and direct comparison between the two items, as the author addresses each feature one by one for both items. It helps the reader understand the similarities and differences between the two items in a systematic and organized manner.
45.
Choose the grammatically correct sentence.
Correct Answer
B. Amy took up skydiving, snowboarding, marathon running, and BMX racing last winter.
Explanation
The correct answer is "Amy took up skydiving, snowboarding, marathon running, and BMX racing last winter." This sentence correctly uses commas to separate the different activities that Amy took up, making it grammatically correct.
46.
Adverb suffixes include ________________________
Correct Answer
B. “-ant,” and “-ly.”
Explanation
Adverb suffixes are word endings that are added to base words to form adverbs. In this case, the correct answer is "-ant" and "-ly." The suffix "-ant" is commonly used to form adverbs from adjectives, such as "brilliantly" or "gently." The suffix "-ly" is the most common adverb suffix and is added to adjectives or other adverbs to form adverbs, such as "quickly" or "happily." Therefore, both "-ant" and "-ly" are examples of adverb suffixes.
47.
Choose the most appropriate transitional word to use as the beginning of a new sentence in a paragraph in which you are comparing similarities.
Correct Answer
C. Moreover
Explanation
"Moreover" is the most appropriate transitional word to use as the beginning of a new sentence in a paragraph comparing similarities. This word is commonly used to introduce additional information or evidence that supports or strengthens the previous point. It helps to emphasize the similarities being discussed and adds to the overall coherence and flow of the paragraph.
48.
The two styles of a business letter are ______________.
Correct Answer
C. Block and modified block
Explanation
The two styles of a business letter are block and modified block. In the block style, all the content is aligned to the left, including the date, address, salutation, body paragraphs, and closing. On the other hand, in the modified block style, the date, closing, and signature are aligned to the right, while the rest of the content is aligned to the left. Both styles are commonly used in business correspondence, and the choice between them depends on personal preference or specific formatting requirements.
49.
Choose the correctly punctuated sentence.
Correct Answer
C. He had many reasons for taking up walking: he needed exercise, he lived close to school, and he couldn’t afford his car insurance payments any more.
Explanation
The correct answer is "He had many reasons for taking up walking: he needed exercise, he lived close to school, and he couldn’t afford his car insurance payments any more." This sentence is correctly punctuated because it uses colons to introduce a list of reasons. Each reason is separated by commas, and the sentence is structured in a clear and concise manner.
50.
You should use __________ order to organize a personal narrative.
Correct Answer
B. Chronological
Explanation
In order to organize a personal narrative, it is best to use a chronological order. This means that the events in the narrative are presented in the order in which they occurred, from beginning to end. Using a chronological order helps to create a clear and logical flow to the story, allowing the reader to easily follow along and understand the sequence of events. It also helps to build suspense and anticipation as the story progresses.