which of the following demonstrates correct punctuation

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 English Practice Test

1. 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.

2. Where can you typically find the thesis statement of an essay?

A. Conclusion
B. Introduction
C. Body paragraph
D. Bibliography

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The thesis statement of an essay is usually located in the introduction. This is where the author establishes the main idea or argument that will be developed throughout the essay. The conclusion (Choice A) summarizes the main points and restates the thesis but does not introduce it. Body paragraphs (Choice C) provide supporting details and arguments, while the bibliography (Choice D) lists the sources used in the essay, not the thesis statement.

3. Surely, he thought, I can’t trust this enticing yet dubious offer, although I could use the opportunity more than I’d like to admit. 'Although' is which part of speech?

A. Adverb
B. Preposition
C. Conjunction
D. Adjective

Correct answer: C

Rationale: 'Although' is a conjunction because it connects two clauses in the sentence. In the given sentence, 'although' introduces a dependent clause ('although I could use the opportunity more than I’d like to admit') and connects it to the independent clause ('Surely, he thought, I can’t trust this enticing yet dubious offer'). This conjunction shows the contrast between the two ideas. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because 'although' does not function as an adverb, preposition, or adjective in this context.

4. Which of the following sentences correctly uses a semicolon?

A. I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.
B. I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.
C. I have a big test tomorrow; and I can't go out tonight.
D. I have a big test tomorrow; but I can't go out tonight.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct use of a semicolon is to join two closely related independent clauses. Choice A is the only option that correctly uses a semicolon to connect two independent clauses: 'I have a big test tomorrow' and 'I can't go out tonight.' Choice B incorrectly uses a comma instead of a semicolon. Choice C adds an unnecessary 'and' after the semicolon, which disrupts the correct punctuation usage. Choice D introduces a contradictory conjunction 'but' after the semicolon, which is not necessary for the given context. Therefore, the correct answer is A.

5. What is the function of the underlined phrase 'with a mischievous grin' in the sentence 'He approached her with a mischievous grin, his eyes twinkling'?

A. Subject
B. Direct object
C. Adverbial phrase
D. Appositive phrase

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The underlined phrase 'with a mischievous grin' functions as an adverbial phrase in the sentence. It modifies the verb 'approached' by providing information on how he approached her, describing his manner. Adverbial phrases typically answer questions like 'how,' 'when,' 'where,' 'why,' or 'to what extent,' which this phrase does by indicating the manner in which he approached. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The phrase does not serve as a subject (A), direct object (B), or appositive phrase (D) in the sentence. Instead, it functions to provide additional information about the action of approaching, making it an adverbial phrase.