ERB Writing Mechanics 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which sentence contains a comma splice error?
- She studied hard, and she passed.
- He was tired, he went to bed. (Correct answer)
- After the game, they celebrated.
- The test was long but manageable.
Correct answer: He was tired, he went to bed.
A comma splice occurs when two independent clauses are joined only by a comma without a coordinating conjunction.
Question 2: On ERB writing samples, what does 'coherence' refer to?
- Using long sentences
- Ideas flowing logically and connecting clearly (Correct answer)
- Writing with many adjectives
- Avoiding punctuation
Correct answer: Ideas flowing logically and connecting clearly
Coherence in writing means ideas are logically organized and clearly connected so the reader can follow the argument easily.
Question 3: Which punctuation mark is used to introduce a list after an independent clause?
- Semicolon
- Colon (Correct answer)
- Dash
- Comma
Correct answer: Colon
A colon is used after an independent clause to introduce a list, explanation, or quotation.
Question 4: What is the purpose of a topic sentence in a paragraph tested by ERB?
- To provide supporting evidence
- To introduce the main idea of the paragraph (Correct answer)
- To conclude the argument
- To define vocabulary terms
Correct answer: To introduce the main idea of the paragraph
A topic sentence states the main idea of a paragraph and tells the reader what the paragraph will be about.
Question 5: Which of the following is an example of a run-on sentence?
- She ran quickly to catch the bus.
- The dog barked the cat hissed they fought. (Correct answer)
- Although tired, he finished the assignment.
- The meal was delicious and nutritious.
Correct answer: The dog barked the cat hissed they fought.
A run-on sentence incorrectly joins two or more independent clauses without proper punctuation or conjunctions.
Question 6: In ERB essay scoring, what does 'development' refer to?
- The length of the essay
- Support and elaboration of ideas with details and examples (Correct answer)
- The number of paragraphs
- Correct spelling only
Correct answer: Support and elaboration of ideas with details and examples
Development refers to how well a writer supports and elaborates on their main idea using specific details, examples, and reasoning.
ERB Writing Mechanics 1
Which sentence contains a comma splice error?