CAHSEE Writing Conventions

Question 1

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

Accepted Answer

Running quickly, the finish line was crossed.

Answer

In option A, 'running quickly' illogically modifies 'the finish line' instead of a person.

Question 2

Which of the following is a run-on sentence?

Accepted Answer

She studied hard she passed the test.

Answer

Option B joins two independent clauses without any punctuation or coordinating conjunction.

Question 3

Which word correctly completes the sentence? 'Neither the students nor the teacher ___ ready for the test.'

Accepted Answer

was

Answer

With 'neither…nor,' the verb agrees with the subject closest to it ('teacher'), which is singular, so 'was' is correct.

Question 4

Which sentence has correct subject-verb agreement?

Accepted Answer

The group of students is meeting today.

Answer

'Group' is a collective singular noun, so it takes the singular verb 'is.'

Question 5

Which of the following is a sentence fragment?

Accepted Answer

Because the rain fell heavily.

Answer

Option B is a dependent clause beginning with 'because' that lacks an independent clause to complete the thought.

CAHSEE - California High School Exit Examination Practice Test