CHSPE Writing Skills 4

Question 1

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Accepted Answer

After finishing the report, it was submitted by the student.

Answer

The modifier 'After finishing the report' has no logical subject in the main clause; the student finished the report, not 'it.'

Question 2

Which revision eliminates the redundancy in this sentence? 'The witness gave a true and accurate account of the events.'

Accepted Answer

The witness gave an accurate account of the events.

Answer

'True' and 'accurate' are redundant because they mean essentially the same thing; using just 'accurate' is more concise.

Question 3

Which sentence is written in passive voice?

Accepted Answer

An elaborate meal was prepared by the chef.

Answer

Passive voice occurs when the subject receives the action rather than performs it; 'an elaborate meal' receives the action of being prepared.

Question 4

Which sentence correctly uses a comma with a dependent clause?

Accepted Answer

Although she was tired, she finished her homework.

Answer

When a dependent clause comes before the main clause, a comma separates them; when it follows the main clause, no comma is typically needed.

Question 5

Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

Accepted Answer

She likes hiking, swimming, and riding her bike.

Answer

Parallel structure requires matching grammatical forms; all three activities are in gerund (-ing) form in option C.

California High School Proficiency Exam Practice Test