choose the sentence that demonstrates correct use of the semicolon

ATI TEAS 7

Practice English TEAS TEST

1. Choose the sentence that demonstrates correct use of the semicolon.

A. I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.
B. I have a test; tomorrow I need to study.
C. I have a test tomorrow.
D. I have a test tomorrow; and I need to study.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct use of a semicolon is demonstrated in sentence A: 'I have a test tomorrow; I need to study.' Semicolons are used to connect closely related independent clauses. In this sentence, the semicolon correctly separates the two independent clauses 'I have a test tomorrow' and 'I need to study.' Choice B is incorrect because it separates the clauses improperly by using the semicolon after 'test' instead of after 'tomorrow.' Choice C is incorrect as it lacks a second independent clause to be connected using a semicolon. Choice D is incorrect as it inappropriately adds 'and' after the semicolon, which disrupts the correct use of the punctuation mark to link independent clauses.

2. Janine was so nervous that she was surprisingly graceless and awkward on stage. What is the meaning of the word 'graceless' as used in the sentence below?

A. Against fear
B. Without religion
C. Lacking elegance
D. Full of caution

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The word 'graceless' in this context means lacking elegance or poise. Janine's nervousness caused her to act awkwardly and without the elegance one would typically expect on stage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Against fear,' 'Without religion,' and 'Full of caution' do not accurately capture the meaning of 'graceless' in the given sentence.

3. First and foremost, they receive an annual pension payment. T has been reviewed and changed a number of times, most recently to reflect the salary of a high-level government executive. Which of the following would NOT be an acceptable way to revise and combine the underlined portion of the sentences above?

A. annual pension payment, the amount of which
B. annual pension payment; the amount of the pension
C. annual pension payment; over the years since 1958, the amount of the pension
D. annual pension payment, the amount of the pension.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Option C is the correct answer because it disrupts the flow of the sentence and introduces unnecessary information. The phrase 'over the years since 1958' is irrelevant in this context and does not contribute to the intended meaning of the sentence. The sentence is focused on the recent changes to the pension, not its historical evolution. Choices A, B, and D provide clear and concise ways to revise and combine the underlined portion of the sentences, maintaining a logical and relevant sentence structure.

4. Which of the following statements about heat engines is true?

A. Heat engines are the most common type of engine.
B. Pneumatic and hydraulic motors are both types of electric engines.
C. The three types of engines are heat engines, electric engines, and pneumatic motors.
D. Heat engines can be broken down into combustion and non-combustion engines.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The statement that 'Heat engines can be broken down into combustion and non-combustion engines' is correct. Heat engines can indeed be categorized into combustion engines, where fuel combustion occurs, and non-combustion engines, such as steam engines, where heat is applied without combustion. This categorization helps in understanding the different mechanisms and types of heat engines available. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect as heat engines are not the most common type of engine; internal combustion engines are more prevalent. Choice B is incorrect as pneumatic and hydraulic motors are not types of electric engines, but rather different systems that use gas (pneumatic) or liquid (hydraulic) to transmit power. Choice C is incorrect as it lists electric engines, which are not a primary classification of engines like heat engines, but rather a type of engine that uses electricity to operate.

5. After a long, exhausting hike, Stephanie went home and fell asleep on the couch, which she had done many times before. Which comma should be removed in the sentence above?

A. The comma after the word 'long'
B. The comma after the word 'hike'
C. The comma after the word 'home'
D. The comma after the word 'couch'

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The comma after 'home' is unnecessary and should be removed. In this sentence, 'and' is joining two independent clauses, which doesn't require a comma before it. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they are correctly placed commas within the sentence.