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. 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.

3. The RV was a great purchase for our family and brought us all closer together. Which of the following transitional phrases would improve this sentence?

A. NO CHANGE
B. Not surprisingly, the RV
C. Furthermore, the RV
D. As it turns out, the RV

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The transitional phrase 'As it turns out' adds a reflective tone that matches the surprise at how well the RV worked for the family. Choice A ('NO CHANGE') does not introduce any new information or transition. Choice B ('Not surprisingly, the RV') contradicts the surprise factor mentioned in the sentence. Choice C ('Furthermore, the RV') does not provide a suitable transition given the context of the sentence.

4. Which sentence uses comma splices incorrectly?

A. The baker kneaded the dough, flour dusted her apron, and the oven warmed up.
B. The mountains, shrouded in mist, seemed to disappear into the clouds.
C. He arrived late, having forgotten his keys, and the meeting had already started.
D. The movie, despite its flaws, was surprisingly enjoyable.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Option (C) incorrectly combines two independent clauses with only a comma, resulting in a comma splice. A comma should not be used to connect independent clauses; instead, a semicolon, conjunction, or period is needed to properly separate the ideas in the sentence. Choices (A), (B), and (D) do not contain comma splices and present their ideas in a grammatically correct manner.

5. Which transitional word would be the best option to represent the logical link between these two sentences? I often have heard arguments claiming that complete freedom of speech could lead to dangerous situations. Without complete freedom of speech, can it truly be said that we live in a free society?

A. However
B. Therefore
C. So
D. Supposedly

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'However.' In this context, the transitional word 'However' is used to introduce a contrast between the two sentences. The first sentence presents an argument about the potential dangers of complete freedom of speech, while the second questions the notion of living in a free society without such freedom. 'However' establishes a logical link by indicating a shift or contradiction in ideas. Choice B, 'Therefore,' would imply a cause-and-effect relationship, which is not supported by the content of the sentences. Choice C, 'So,' would indicate a conclusion or result, which does not fit the context. Choice D, 'Supposedly,' is not a suitable transitional word in this context as it does not connect the contrasting ideas presented in the sentences.