Test Prep Midterm Review: Test Questions Part 1

Front

What is proper comma usage?

Back

Proper comma usage involves placing commas in sentences to clarify meaning and separate elements. For example, 'Before the movie, we bought popcorn.' uses a comma to separate the introductory phrase from the main clause.

Front

What is parallel structure in writing?

Back

Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. For example, 'She likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bike.' maintains parallel structure.

Front

When should a colon be used?

Back

A colon is used to introduce a list, a quote, or an explanation. For example, 'The store sells many items: clothes, shoes, and accessories.' uses a colon to introduce the list.

Front

What is the function of a comma in a sentence?

Back

Commas are used to indicate a pause between parts of a sentence, separate items in a list, or set off introductory elements. For example, 'After the game, we went out for dinner.' uses a comma after the introductory phrase.

Front

Identify the correct use of commas in a series.

Back

In a series, commas are used to separate three or more items. For example, 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.' The last comma before 'and' is optional (Oxford comma).

Front

What is an introductory phrase?

Back

An introductory phrase is a group of words that provides context or background information for the main part of the sentence. It is usually followed by a comma.

Front

What is the difference between a semicolon and a colon?

Back

A semicolon connects two independent clauses that are closely related, while a colon introduces a list, quote, or explanation. For example, 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.' vs. 'He has three pets: a dog, a cat, and a fish.'

Front

How do you correct a sentence with improper comma usage?

Back

To correct improper comma usage, identify where the pauses or separations are needed for clarity and insert commas accordingly. For example, 'Before the movie we bought popcorn.' should be corrected to 'Before the movie, we bought popcorn.'

Front

What is a compound sentence?

Back

A compound sentence contains two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so). For example, 'I wanted to go for a walk, but it started to rain.'

Front

What is the role of conjunctions in sentence structure?

Back

Conjunctions connect words, phrases, or clauses. They help to create complex and compound sentences, enhancing the flow of writing.