which of the following uses commas in a series correctly

ATI TEAS 7

English and Language Usage TEAS

1. Which of the following uses commas in a series correctly?

A. Jericka went to the store for milk, bread, and eggs.
B. For breakfast, Jason wanted to make French toast, bacon, and eggs.
C. Aj had a lot to do the next day, including homework, hockey practice, and chores.
D. Paz's mom, dad, and sister would come to watch his game.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A is the correct answer as it uses commas to separate items in a series ('milk, bread, and eggs'). In option B, the comma after 'bacon' is unnecessary. Option C correctly uses commas to separate the items in the series ('homework, hockey practice, and chores'). Option D incorrectly omits commas between 'mom' and 'dad,' and 'dad' and 'sister,' making it incorrect for a series of three or more items.

2. What is the main function of transition words and phrases in writing?

A. To add unnecessary embellishments and fluff.
B. To emphasize specific words or phrases in the text.
C. To connect ideas smoothly and guide the reader's flow.
D. To introduce opposing viewpoints and counterarguments.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The main function of transition words and phrases in writing is to connect ideas smoothly and guide the reader's flow. They serve to establish logical relationships between different parts of the text, ensuring coherence and facilitating a clear progression of thoughts. Choice A is incorrect as transition words are meant to enhance clarity and coherence, not add unnecessary embellishments. Choice B is incorrect because while transition words can provide emphasis, their primary role is in facilitating the flow of ideas. Choice D is also incorrect as introducing opposing viewpoints and counterarguments is typically done through different means such as specific phrases or signal words.

3. Which of the following suffixes would change the verb 'manage' into an adjective?

A. -ed
B. -ible
C. -able
D. -er

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct suffix to change the verb 'manage' into an adjective is '-able.' When added to 'manage,' it forms the adjective 'manageable,' which means capable of being managed. Choice A ('-ed') is a past participle suffix, not an adjective-forming suffix. Choice B ('-ible') is used to form adjectives meaning 'capable of' but is not the correct choice in this context. Choice D ('-er') is typically used to form agent nouns rather than adjectives.

4. Which of the following sentences shows the correct use of quotation marks?

A. "Grady asked Abe, 'Did you know that an earthquake and a tsunami hit Messina, Italy, in 1908?'"
B. Grady asked Abe, 'Did you know that an earthquake and a tsunami hit Messina, Italy, in 1908?'
C. Grady asked Abe, "Did you know that an earthquake and a tsunami hit Messina, Italy, in 1908?"
D. Grady asked Abe, "Did you know that an earthquake and a tsunami hit Messina, Italy, in 1908?"

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct use of quotation marks is in option C. In this option, the entire quoted sentence is enclosed within double quotation marks. This is the standard convention for punctuating direct speech in English. Option A has an incorrect placement of single and double quotation marks. Option B lacks opening double quotation marks for the spoken sentence. Option D incorrectly places the closing quotation mark outside the question mark, which is not the standard punctuation rule for quoted sentences.

5. The test was ridiculously easy, and the entire class got every question right. Which of the following parts of speech is 'ridiculously' as used in the sentence above?

A. Verb
B. Interjection
C. Adjective
D. Adverb

Correct answer: D

Rationale: 'Ridiculously' is an adverb in this sentence, modifying the adjective 'easy.' Adverbs typically modify adjectives, verbs, or other adverbs. In this case, 'ridiculously' is describing the adjective 'easy,' indicating the degree or manner of the adjective. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect. 'Ridiculously' is not a verb (choice A) as it is not expressing an action or state. It is not an interjection (choice B) since it is not an abrupt exclamation. Also, it is not an adjective (choice C) as it is not directly modifying a noun or pronoun.