ELSA Writing Skills & Composition 3

Question 1

Which choice correctly uses a comma with a coordinating conjunction?

Accepted Answer

She was tired, but she finished her work.

Answer

A comma is placed before a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) when it joins two independent clauses.

Question 2

An essay introduction should generally move from:

Accepted Answer

Broad general context to a specific thesis statement

Answer

Effective introductions funnel from a broad hook or context down to the specific thesis statement.

Question 3

Which sentence contains a dangling modifier?

Accepted Answer

Running late, the bus was missed by Maria.

Answer

In option B, the participial phrase 'Running late' illogically modifies 'the bus' rather than 'Maria'.

Question 4

In formal academic writing, which of the following should generally be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Employing contractions like 'don't' or 'can't'

Answer

Contractions are considered informal and are typically avoided in formal academic writing.

Question 5

Which revision eliminates the wordiness in 'Due to the fact that it was raining, the game was canceled'?

Accepted Answer

Because it was raining, the game was canceled.

Answer

'Due to the fact that' is a wordy phrase that can be replaced with the single word 'because'.

(ELSA) English Language Skills Assessment Practice Test