English Language and Composition Exam Grammar Style and Conventions

Question 1

Which sentence demonstrates correct use of a semicolon?

Accepted Answer

The report was thorough; it covered every major issue.

Answer

She studied hard; but failed the test.

Answer

He arrived early; to set up the room.

Answer

The results were clear; and the team celebrated.

Question 2

In the AP Lang free-response essays, which grammatical error most significantly undermines a writer's credibility?

Accepted Answer

Comma splices that create run-on sentences throughout the essay

Answer

Using passive voice occasionally

Answer

Using contractions in one body paragraph

Answer

Beginning a sentence with 'And' or 'But'

Question 3

Which of the following correctly uses an appositive phrase?

Accepted Answer

Maya Angelou, a renowned poet and memoirist, advocated for civil rights.

Answer

Maya Angelou, she wrote many poems, was a civil rights activist.

Answer

Maya Angelou wrote poetry and was a civil rights activist she was famous.

Answer

Maya Angelou's poems and her civil rights work, were important.

Question 4

Which revision best eliminates the dangling modifier in: 'Running down the street, the ice cream truck was spotted'?

Accepted Answer

Running down the street, the children spotted the ice cream truck.

Answer

The ice cream truck, running down the street, was spotted.

Answer

Running down the street was when the ice cream truck was spotted.

Answer

The ice cream truck ran down the street and was spotted.

Question 5

Which sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

Accepted Answer

She likes hiking, swimming, and running.

Answer

She likes hiking, to swim, and runs every day.

Answer

She likes to hike, swimming, and to run every day.

Answer

She likes hike, swim, and to run.

Question 6

In formal AP Lang writing, which pronoun-antecedent agreement error is most common?

Accepted Answer

Using 'they' for a singular indefinite pronoun like 'everyone'

Answer

Using 'he or she' in academic writing

Answer

Using 'I' in the first person

Answer

Using 'we' in a persuasive essay