which of these examples shows incorrect use of subject verb agreement

ATI TEAS 7

English and Language Usage TEAS

1. Which of these examples shows incorrect use of subject-verb agreement?

A. Neither of the cars is parked on the street.
B. Both of my kids are going to camp this summer.
C. Any of your friends are welcome to join us on the trip in November.
D. Each of the clothing options is appropriate for the job interview.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The sentence 'Neither of the cars is parked on the street' is incorrect in terms of subject-verb agreement. The subject 'Neither' is singular, so the verb should also be singular, which should be 'is' instead of 'are.' The correct sentence should be 'Neither of the cars is parked on the street.' Choices B, C, and D demonstrate correct subject-verb agreement. In choice B, 'Both' is plural and agrees with the plural verb 'are.' In choice C, 'Any' is singular and agrees with the singular verb 'are.' In choice D, 'Each' is singular and agrees with the singular verb 'is.'

2. Which of the following sentences from a paragraph about gingivitis is the topic sentence?

A. Gingivitis can be reversed by daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings.
B. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease, in which bacteria causes inflammation of the gums.
C. With gingivitis, the gums become red and swollen and can bleed easily.
D. If left untreated, gingivitis can cause periodontitis, in which the gums pull away from the teeth.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The topic sentence in a paragraph typically introduces the main idea or topic of the paragraph. In this case, choice B correctly serves as the topic sentence by clearly stating that gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease caused by bacteria that leads to inflammation of the gums. Choices A, C, and D provide additional information that supports or follows the main idea but do not present the overarching topic of the paragraph.

3. The mechanic used a computer to perform the diagnostic tests. Which of the following sentences most clearly and concisely conveys the same meaning?

A. While performing diagnostic tests on the car, the mechanic used a computer.
B. Although the mechanic used a computer, he performed diagnostic tests on the car.
C. Because he used a computer, the mechanic performed diagnostic tests on the car.
D. The mechanic used a computer to perform diagnostic tests on the car.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Choice D correctly conveys that the mechanic used a computer to perform diagnostic tests on the car. It is concise and clear, effectively communicating the main point without unnecessary details. Choices A, B, and C include unnecessary repetition or do not convey the information as clearly as choice D. For instance, choice A adds unnecessary repetition by mentioning 'performing diagnostic tests' twice, while choices B and C introduce additional clauses that make the sentence less concise and direct.

4. Therefore, because, and accordingly are examples of which type of signal words?

A. Emphasis words
B. Compare/contrast words
C. Cause-and-effect words
D. Temporal sequencing words

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. 'Therefore,' 'because,' and 'accordingly' are examples of cause-and-effect signal words. These words indicate a relationship between actions or events where one causes or results in another. Choice A, 'Emphasis words,' is incorrect as the given signal words do not emphasize a point but rather show cause and effect. Choice B, 'Compare/contrast words,' is incorrect as these signal words do not indicate a comparison or contrast between two ideas. Choice D, 'Temporal sequencing words,' is incorrect as the signal words provided do not specifically denote a sequence of events over time, but rather a cause-and-effect relationship.

5. 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.