Language Proficiency Writing Skills 4

Question 1

Which sentence uses the semicolon correctly?

Accepted Answer

He finished the report; however, his manager requested revisions.

Answer

A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses, especially with a conjunctive adverb like 'however.'

Question 2

Which version best eliminates wordiness?

Accepted Answer

Because it was raining, we cancelled the event.

Answer

'Because' is more concise than 'due to the fact that' and avoids passive voice.

Question 3

What is the correct plural possessive form of 'children'?

Accepted Answer

children's

Answer

Since 'children' is already an irregular plural not ending in -s, add apostrophe + s to form the possessive.

Question 4

Which transitional phrase best signals a contrast?

Accepted Answer

Nevertheless

Answer

'Nevertheless' signals a contrasting idea despite what was previously stated.

Question 5

Identify the dangling modifier: 'Running down the street, the keys were dropped.'

Accepted Answer

'Running down the street' has no logical subject — keys cannot run.

Answer

A dangling modifier occurs when the implied subject of a participial phrase doesn't match the sentence's actual subject.

Language Proficiency Practice Test