which of the following sentences uses correct punctuation

ATI TEAS 7

English and Language Usage TEAS

1. Which of the following sentences uses correct punctuation?

A. Carole is not currently working; her focus is on her children at the moment.
B. Carole is not currently working, and her focus is on her children at the moment.
C. Carole is not currently working; her focus is on her children at the moment.
D. Carole is not currently working, her focus is on her children at the moment.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A uses correct punctuation by correctly utilizing the semicolon to separate two closely related independent clauses. This punctuation choice effectively conveys the relationship between the two ideas presented in the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because it uses a comma without a coordinating conjunction to join two independent clauses. Choice C is incorrect as it lacks the coordinating conjunction 'and' after the comma to connect the two independent clauses. Choice D is incorrect because it lacks any punctuation or conjunction to properly separate the two independent clauses, leading to a run-on sentence.

2. What is the most effective way to ensure clarity and conciseness in your writing?

A. Using complex sentence structures and passive voice.
B. Avoiding unnecessary repetition and redundant words.
C. Replacing simple words with more sophisticated synonyms.
D. Adding flowery introductions and lengthy conclusions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective way to ensure clarity and conciseness in writing is by avoiding unnecessary repetition and redundant words. This approach helps in eliminating verbosity and getting straight to the point, making the writing more effective and easier to understand. Using active voice and straightforward language contributes to clarity and ensures the message is conveyed directly and clearly to the reader. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because using complex sentence structures and passive voice (A) can lead to confusion and lack of clarity, replacing simple words with more sophisticated synonyms (C) may introduce unnecessary complexity, and adding flowery introductions and lengthy conclusions (D) can detract from the main message and make the writing less concise.

3. Which of the following prefixes means 'with'?

A. bio-
B. per-
C. con-
D. trans-

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'con-'. The prefix 'con-' means 'with' or 'together,' as in words like 'convene' or 'connect.' Choice A, 'bio-', is a prefix that means 'life' or 'living organisms,' not 'with.' Choice B, 'per-', is a prefix that means 'through' or 'thoroughly,' not 'with.' Choice D, 'trans-', is a prefix that means 'across' or 'beyond,' not 'with.' Therefore, the correct choice that means 'with' is 'con-'.

4. Which pronoun correctly replaces the phrase Sarah and me in the sentence: 'Jessica invited Sarah and me to the party, but I forgot to respond to her.'

A. We
B. Us
C. Ours
D. Myself

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'B: Us.' In the sentence, 'Jessica invited Sarah and me to the party,' 'Sarah and me' serve as the object of the verb 'invited.' Therefore, the pronoun 'us' is the correct choice to replace 'Sarah and me' as the object pronoun. Choice A, 'We,' is a subject pronoun and does not fit in this context. Choice C, 'Ours,' is a possessive pronoun and is not appropriate for replacing the object pronoun 'Sarah and me.' Choice D, 'Myself,' is a reflexive pronoun, which is not suitable for this sentence where an object pronoun is needed.

5. Fred Hampton desired to see lasting social change for African American people through nonviolent means and community recognition. Which of the following is the best way to start this sentence?

A. NO CHANGE
B. Unfortunately,
C. Finally,
D. As a result,

Correct answer: D

Rationale: 'As a result' correctly introduces the cause-and-effect relationship in the sentence. In this context, 'As a result' signifies that Fred Hampton's desire for lasting social change through nonviolent means and community recognition led to a specific outcome or consequence. The other choices, 'Unfortunately,' 'Finally,' and 'NO CHANGE,' do not fit the context as they do not convey the cause-and-effect relationship intended in the sentence.