TOEFL Practice Test #7

Question 1

The porcupine is noted for curving its back when attacked and sticking out sharp quills in every directions.

Accepted Answer

directions

Answer

The error lies in the phrase "in every directions." The word "every" must be followed by a singular noun, so it should be "in every direction." Alternatively, if a plural noun is intended, the correct phrase would be "in all directions."

Question 2

Due to its relatively small size and inextricable orbit, some scientists believe that Pluto not actually a planet.

Accepted Answer

Pluto not

Answer

The phrase "Pluto not actually a planet" is grammatically incomplete because it lacks a main verb. To form a complete sentence, a form of the verb "to be" is required, making the correct phrasing "Pluto is not actually a planet."

Question 3

Barbiturates' prolonged use can increase the user's tolerance for a much larger doses of these drugs.

Accepted Answer

doses

Answer

The error is in the phrase "a much larger doses." The indefinite article "a" indicates a singular noun, but "doses" is plural. It should either be "a much larger dose" (singular) or "much larger doses" (plural, without the singular article).

Question 4

A state law allows companies incorporating in Delaware even though they might handle the bulk of the business activities outside the state.

Accepted Answer

incorporating

Answer

The verb "allows" typically takes an infinitive phrase (to + base verb) to express permission or enablement. Therefore, "allows companies incorporating" should be corrected to "allows companies to incorporate" to properly convey that the law permits companies to perform the action of incorporating.

Question 5

Earl Hines, an American jazz pianist and band leader, improvisation single trumpet-style notes with his right hand.

Accepted Answer

improvisation

Answer

The word "improvisation" is a noun, but the sentence requires a verb to describe what Earl Hines *did*. The sentence structure needs a past tense verb to match the historical context of his actions, so "improvised" is the correct form.