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. What are the five basic elements of the writing process?

A. Prewriting, drafting, conferencing, revision, editing
B. Brainstorming, outlining, writing, peer-review, researching
C. Researching, prewriting, writing, brainstorming, conferencing
D. Prewriting, writing, revising, researching, proofreading

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Prewriting, drafting, conferencing, revision, editing. In the writing process, prewriting involves planning and brainstorming ideas, drafting is the stage where you put your ideas into writing, conferencing refers to seeking feedback or discussing the work, revision involves making changes to improve the content and structure, and editing focuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. The other choices are incorrect because they either include elements that are not part of the standard writing process (such as peer-review and outlining) or they mix up the order of the stages (such as researching before prewriting).

3. Which of the following sentences contains a colloquialism?

A. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is pretty sure that the Zika virus is spread through mosquito bites.
B. Travelers who are pregnant or considering pregnancy should consult a doctor.
C. Some theories on the Zika virus are difficult to understand.
D. In response, the U.S. has taken steps to prevent the spread of the Zika virus.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because the phrase 'pretty sure' is a colloquialism, making the sentence less formal. Choice B is incorrect as it is a formal recommendation. Choice C is incorrect as it contains no colloquial expressions. Choice D is incorrect as it is a straightforward statement without colloquial language.

4. What does the phrase 'think outside the box' encourage individuals to do?

A. Follow established procedures.
B. Be creative and find new solutions.
C. Accept traditional ideas.
D. Avoid making mistakes.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The expression 'think outside the box' promotes creativity and innovation by urging individuals to consider unconventional and original ideas to solve problems or tasks, rather than sticking to conventional or traditional methods. This phrase emphasizes the importance of exploring new perspectives and solutions that are not limited by existing boundaries or norms. Choice A is incorrect because 'think outside the box' encourages individuals to break away from established procedures. Choice C is incorrect as the phrase contradicts accepting traditional ideas. Choice D is incorrect because 'think outside the box' does not focus on avoiding mistakes but rather on exploring new and innovative solutions.

5. Which of the following is an example of a correctly punctuated sentence?

A. Beatrice is very intelligent; however, she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
B. Beatrice is very intelligent: she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
C. Beatrice is very intelligent; she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.
D. Beatrice is very intelligent; she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Option D is the correct answer as it uses a semicolon to correctly separate two independent clauses. In this sentence, 'Beatrice is very intelligent' and 'she just does not apply herself well enough in her classes to make good grades' are two independent clauses that are related but can stand alone as separate sentences. The semicolon is the appropriate punctuation mark to link these two closely related ideas. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they either use a comma splice (A), a colon (B), or lack appropriate punctuation (C) to separate the independent clauses.