Writing: Grammar and Sentence Structure Flashcards

Which sentence correctly uses a semicolon?

Answer: She studied all night; consequently, she passed the exam.

A semicolon correctly joins two independent clauses, especially when followed by a conjunctive adverb like 'consequently.'

Identify the dangling modifier in this sentence: 'Running through the park, the rain began to fall.'

Answer: 'Running through the park' has no clear subject to modify

The participial phrase 'Running through the park' dangles because rain cannot run; the sentence needs a human subject.

Which option correctly identifies the underlined word in: 'The committee made its decision quickly.'

Answer: 'its' is a singular possessive pronoun referring to 'committee'

'Committee' is a collective noun treated as singular, so 'its' is the correct singular possessive pronoun.

Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure?

Answer: He enjoys reading novels, watching films, and listening to music.

All three elements use the gerund form (-ing), maintaining parallel grammatical structure.

Select the sentence with a correctly placed restrictive clause:

Answer: The book that I borrowed was excellent.

Restrictive clauses introduced by 'that' are not set off by commas and limit which specific noun is meant.

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

Answer: He almost drove his children to school every day.

'Almost' is misplaced; it should be 'He drove his children to school almost every day' to modify frequency rather than the act of driving.

Which version correctly fixes this comma splice: 'The presentation was long, the audience grew restless.'

Answer: The presentation was long; the audience grew restless.

A semicolon correctly separates two independent clauses without a coordinating conjunction.