ABLE ABLE Grammar and Syntax

Question 1

Which sentence demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement as tested on the ABLE exam?

Accepted Answer

The committee has reviewed all applications.

Answer

Collective nouns like 'committee' take a singular verb when acting as a single unit.

Question 2

On the ABLE exam, which sentence uses the correct form of the subjunctive mood?

Accepted Answer

It is essential that every candidate be on time.

Answer

The subjunctive mood uses the base form of the verb after expressions of necessity like 'it is essential that.'

Question 3

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier that would be flagged on the ABLE grammar section?

Accepted Answer

He almost drove his children to school every day.

Answer

The modifier 'almost' is misplaced; the intended meaning is that he drove them 'almost every day,' not that he 'almost drove.'

Question 4

Which sentence correctly uses a restrictive clause as assessed by the ABLE exam?

Accepted Answer

The book that I borrowed was overdue.

Answer

A restrictive clause ('that I borrowed') identifies which specific book and requires no commas.

Question 5

Which option correctly identifies the function of the underlined phrase in: 'Exhausted from the long exam, the students left quickly'?

Accepted Answer

Participial phrase modifying 'students'

Answer

The phrase 'Exhausted from the long exam' is a participial phrase that modifies the noun 'students.'

(ABLE) Assessment Board for Language Examinations Practice Test