HSPT Language Skills

Question 1

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

Accepted Answer

The dog was hungry; it ate its dinner quickly.

Answer

A semicolon joins two closely related independent clauses without a conjunction. Both parts can stand alone as sentences.

Question 2

What is a compound sentence?

Accepted Answer

A sentence with two or more independent clauses joined by a conjunction or semicolon

Answer

A compound sentence combines two or more independent clauses (complete thoughts) using coordinating conjunctions (FANBOYS) or semicolons.

Question 3

Which word is an adverb in the sentence: 'She quickly finished her homework'?

Accepted Answer

quickly

Answer

'Quickly' is an adverb modifying the verb 'finished,' telling how she finished her homework.

Question 4

What is the correct plural form of 'criterion'?

Accepted Answer

Criteria

Answer

'Criteria' is the correct plural of 'criterion.' This follows the Greek-origin rule where '-on' changes to '-a' in the plural form.

Question 5

Identify the preposition in: 'The cat jumped over the fence.'

Accepted Answer

over

Answer

'Over' is a preposition showing the spatial relationship between the jumping action and the fence.

HSPT Practice Test