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. When writing a blog post, what should you consider including?

A. Long, detailed paragraphs for comprehensive coverage.
B. Frequent use of emojis and informal slang for a casual tone.
C. Engaging headlines, subheadings, and bullet points for scannability.
D. Use academic vocabulary to sound intellectual.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When writing a blog post, it is crucial to consider including engaging headlines, subheadings, and bullet points for scannability. This formatting is essential as it enhances readability for readers who prefer scanning content rather than reading it thoroughly. Long, detailed paragraphs (Choice A) may overwhelm readers and deter them from engaging with the content. Using emojis and informal slang (Choice B) may not suit all types of blog posts and could potentially diminish the professionalism of the content. While using academic vocabulary (Choice D) can be beneficial in certain contexts, it may not always be necessary or suitable for a broader audience reading a blog post.

3. Which of the following demonstrates correct punctuation?

A. Graham still needs the following items for his class: a sable brush, soft pastels, a sketchbook, and an easel.
B. Graham still needs the following items for his class, a sable brush, soft pastels, a sketchbook, and an easel.
C. Graham still needs the following items for his class: a sable brush; soft pastels; a sketchbook; and an easel.
D. Graham still needs the following items for his class – a sable brush; soft pastels; a sketchbook; and an easel.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A demonstrates correct punctuation. The sentence uses a colon to introduce a list, which is the most appropriate punctuation in this context. A colon is typically used to signal that a list or explanation follows, making it the suitable choice here. Choices B, C, and D either use a comma, semi-colon, or dash incorrectly to introduce the list, deviating from the standard punctuation rule for listing items. Therefore, they are incorrect in the context of this sentence.

4. Which of the following sentences uses the most formal language?

A. The movie was awesome!
B. The film did not meet my expectations.
C. I found the cinematic experience to be unsatisfactory.
D. The flick was pretty bad.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Option C uses formal language by employing more sophisticated vocabulary ('cinematic experience') and refraining from informal terms like 'awesome' and 'flick.' Choice A ('awesome') and Choice D ('flick') use informal language typically used in casual contexts, making them less formal. Choice B, while more formal than Choices A and D, is still less formal than Choice C due to its less sophisticated vocabulary and directness in expressing dissatisfaction compared to the refined language used in Choice C.

5. Which of the following examples is a sentence fragment?

A. Believe me.
B. On the 5:30 train.
C. You probably know Sally.
D. That's right.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, 'On the 5:30 train.' This is a sentence fragment because it does not contain a subject and a verb. In this case, 'On the 5:30 train' is a prepositional phrase, not a complete sentence. Choices A, C, and D are complete sentences as they have both a subject and a verb, making them grammatically correct and not sentence fragments.