CHSPE Writing Skills 5

Question 1

Which sentence uses the correct form of the verb? 'Each of the boys ______ responsible for cleaning his room.'

Accepted Answer

is

Answer

'Each' is an indefinite pronoun that always takes a singular verb, so 'is' is the correct choice.

Question 2

Which sentence contains a comma splice?

Accepted Answer

I was hungry, I made a sandwich.

Answer

A comma splice incorrectly joins two independent clauses with only a comma; a coordinating conjunction, semicolon, or period is needed.

Question 3

Which sentence uses 'fewer' and 'less' correctly?

Accepted Answer

She has fewer assignments and less stress this semester.

Answer

'Fewer' is used with countable nouns (assignments) and 'less' with uncountable or abstract nouns (stress).

Question 4

In which situation is formal writing style most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Submitting a persuasive essay for a class assignment

Answer

Academic essays require formal writing: complete sentences, standard grammar, precise vocabulary, and an objective tone.

Question 5

Read this sentence: 'The reason I was late is because I missed the bus.' Which revision is MOST grammatically correct?

Accepted Answer

I was late because I missed the bus.

Answer

'The reason is because' is redundant; the cleaner and grammatically preferred form simply uses 'because' to state the cause.

California High School Proficiency Exam Practice Test