Ch 1 | Nouns | Characteristics Identifying Nouns Exercise #1

A. Identify all nouns in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each noun in the column to the right.

C. Identify each noun in the column to the right as person (P), place (PL), thing (T), or idea (I).

1. Travel opens up a world of wonders for people. (T) travel, (PL) world, (T) wonders, (P) people

2. Nowadays, there is a myriad of suggestions and ideas for trips. (T) myriad, (T) suggestions, (I) ideas, (T) trips

3. One of the many travel guides features a list of 501 destinations. (T) guides, (T) list, (PL) destinations ** travel (guides) is normally a noun, but here it functions as an adjective that modifies the noun “guides”

4. The book includes natural parks such as the Grand Canyon as well as accomplishments such as the Parthenon.

(T) book,(PL) parks, (PL) Grand Canyon, (T) accomplishments (PL)Parthenon

5. It entices the reader with lively and interesting pictures together with useful information and further recommendations.

(P) reader, (T) pictures,(I) information, (I) recommendations

6. It also gives a short summary of each location, its characteristics, and the best time for a visit.

(T) summary, (PL) location, (T) characteristics, (I) time, (I) visit

7. Of course, a person would need a lifetime for all these places. (P) person,(I) lifetime, (PL) places 8. However, even one of these majestic sites could offer travelers an unforgettable

experience. (PL) sites, (P) travelers, (I) experience

9. The good news is that there is always more. (T) news

10. There is still a second volume. (T) volume

Ch 1 | Nouns | Characteristics Identifying Noun Number Exercise #2

A. List all nouns from the exercise above according to their number.

B. Form the other number, singular or plural, if the specific noun can form it.

SINGULAR PLURAL SINGULAR PLURAL 1. travel travels 18. picture pictures 2. world worlds 19. information no plural (Proper) 3. wonder wonders 20. recommendation recommendations 4. person people 21. summary summaries 5. myriad no plural (non-count) 22. location locations 6. suggestion suggestions 23. characteristic characteristics 7. idea ideas 24. time times (sometimes non-count/no

plural) 8. trip trips 25. visit visits 9. guide guides 26. person people/persons 10. list lists 27. lifetime no plural (non-count) 11. destination destinations 28. place places 12. book books 29. site sites 13. park parks 30. traveler travelers 14. Grand Canyon no plural (Proper) 31. experience experiences (sometimes non-

count/no plural) 15. accomplishment accomplishments 32. news no plural (non-count) 16. Parthenon no plural (Proper) 33. volume volumes (rarely in idioms such

as “Something speaks volumes”; for sound. )

17. reader readers

Ch 1 | Nouns | Characteristics Identifying Noun Case Exercise #3

Identify the case of each noun in bold as subjective (S), objective (O), or possessive (P) depending on whether the noun functions as a subject, an object, or the owner of something.

1. Modern travel has opened up a world of wonders for people. travel (S), world (O)

2. It has expanded people’s horizons and perspective. people’s (P), perspective (O)

3. Indeed, trips should not be only about museums and sightseeing. trips (S)

4. Trough trips travelers should try to not only learn new things, but also meet

interesting people and explore foreign cultures. travelers (S), things (O), cultures (O)

5. This direct knowledge can then help people to overcome their prejudices. knowledge (S), prejudices (O)

6. Usually people who have traveled are less willing to form stereotypes about

others. people (S), stereotypes (O)

7. They come to recognize other nations’ characteristics and mentality. nations’(P), characteristics (O)

8. Moreover, they gain a better understanding if they study a place’s history

beforehand. place’s (P), history (O)

9. Therefore, one should not just bring their new camera to capture a country’s

beauty. country’s (P), beauty (O)

10. Visitors should bring new eyes to the country. visitors (S), eyes (O)

Ch 1 | Nouns | Characteristics Forming Noun Case and Number Exercise #4

A. Complete the table below with the appropriate forms of the possessive case, if applicable. B. Add an appropriate noun to each of the nouns (owners) in the possessive case. C. Make a sentence for each one of the sets of nouns you have created.

Noun Possessive Singular

Possessive Plural

Sentence

1. country country’s countries’ Singular: A country’s treasures are open to the inquisitive visitor. (Or The treasures of a country…)

Plural: Countries’ treasures are open to the inquisitive visitor. (Or The treasures of countries…)

2. bus bus’s or bus’ busses’ Singular: The bus’s air conditioning system was not functioning.

Plural: The busses’ air conditioning systems for the whole fleet were not functioning.

3. box box’s boxes’ Singular A box’s secrets must be unlocked slowly.

Plural: The boxes’ secrets have to be unlocked one by one.

4. compass compass’s compasses’ Singular: Bring me the compass’s container!

Plural: Did you bring the compasses’ instruction booklets for the three we have with us?

5. group group’s group’s Singular: The group’s cohesion is breaking down.

Plural: The group’s cohesion is breaking down with two of the five groups being dysfunctional.

6. guest and host

guest and host’s guests and hosts’ or guests’ and hosts’

Singular: The guest and host’s car are out front (they own one car together--joint possession) Singular: The guest’s and host’s cars are both out front (two cars are out front--individual possession) Plural: The guests and hosts’ boat is out front (all the guests and all the hosts all own one boat—joint possession) Plural: The guests’ and hosts’ boats are out front (everyone seems to own a boat—individual possession)

7. guide guide’s guides’ Singular: The guide’s instincts for direction were amazing.

Plural: The guides’ knowledge of the area was unparalleled.

8. life life’s no plural Singular: Life’s opportunities should not be overlooked.

9. today today’s no plural Singular: Today’s picture comes from Alaska.

10. tour tour’s tours’ Singular: The tour’s agenda was packed full of interesting sites.

Plural: The tours’ website had pictures from all the tours that took place last year.

Ch 1 | Nouns | Characteristics Identifying Regular and Irregular Plurals Exercise #5

Complete each sentence with the appropriate plural form of the noun in the parenthesis.

When traveling, it is always interesting to meet and socialize with the local people (person). Indeed, it is the peoples (people) of this

world that make it unique. Once, I was hiking down a mountain 0n the island of Crete, Greece when I met some men (man) who were

shepherds. They were accompanied by dogs (dog) of various breeds that helped them guard and guide all their sheep (sheep). They

invited me to their village where they introduced me to their families (family) that included not only their wives (wife) and offspring

(offspring) but also their parents (parent) and other relatives (relative). Their children (child) further introduced me to the family’s pets

(pet) such as geese (goose), chickens (chicken), and oxen (ox), as well as their pests (pest) such as mice (mouse). Although our

communication was limited because of language issues (issue), we were able to understand each other by using our bodies (body) as

media (medium) for sign language. This experience was very entertaining and changed our lives (life). It is, after all, these simple

phenomena (phenomenon) of culture and society that are worth studying. They become the bases (basis) for our better understanding

of the world. Just like photos (photo), these real-life snapshots (snapshot) change our criteria (criterion) for evaluating our human

environment.

Ch 1 | Nouns | Types Identifying Noun Types Exercise #6

A. Categorize each noun in bold according to its type in the table that follows. Each noun should appear in two columns (proper or common, count or non-count).

B. If the noun is proper, capitalize it. You may need to capitalize other words that accompany the proper noun such as adjectives.

C. If the noun is count, then write the other number in parentheses.

The country (1) of egypt (2) is renowned for its ancient civilization (3). Its most impressive hallmark (4) is the pyramids (5), the

largest of which is the great pyramid (6) of Giza (7). This monument is not only the oldest but also the only surviving of the seven

wonders (8) of the ancient world (9). Furthermore, it is a wonder (10) that keeps intriguing archeologists (11), historians, as well as

the simple visitor. This pyramid is part of a complex (12) of structures dedicated to king khufu (13). It is situated in a plateau (14)

outside the city (15) of cairo (16). There have been various attempts (17) to estimate the manpower (18) necessary for building the

pyramid. According to Herodotus (19), the greek historian (20) in the 5th century BC, 100,000 workers participated in its construction

over a period of 20 years. Time (21), man (22), and nature (23) have managed to alter its size and features. Yet this pyramid still

remains an enigma (24), a fascinating human achievement (25).

Ch 1 | Nouns | Types Identifying Noun Types Cont Exercise #6

Proper Common Count Non-Count Proper Common Count Non-Count

1. country country (countries) 14. plateau plateau (plateaus)

2. Egypt 15. city city (cities) 3. civilization civilization(civilizations) Egypt 16. Cairo Cairo 4. hallmark hallmark(hallmarks) 17. attempts attempts

(attempt)

5. pyramids pyramids (pyramid) 18. manpower manpower 6. pyramid pyramids 19. Herodotus Herodotus 7. (Great)

Pyramid of Giza

Pyramid of Giza

20. historian historian (historians)

8. (Seven) Wonders (ordinarily wonders is a common/count noun)

(Seven) Wonders

21. time time (in this context)

9. (Ancient) World (ordinarily world is a common/count noun)

(Ancient) World

22. man man (men)

10. wonder wonder (wonders) 23. nature nature 11. archaeologists archaeologists

(archaeologist) 24. enigma enigma

(enigmas)

12. complex complex (complexes) 25. achievement achievement (achievements)

13. Khufu Khufu

Ch 1 | Nouns | Types Identifying Count (C) / Non-Count Nouns (NC) Exercise #7

A. Categorize each noun in bold according to its type (count/non-count) in the table that follows.

B. If the noun is count, then write its other number (singular or plural) in parentheses.

Archaeology (1) is a unique study (2), for it has no beginning (3) and no end. It is infinite as well as multi-faceted. On the one hand, it requires many hours of

studying (4) in a library (5) while at the same time it mandates research (6) outside a confined space (7). Archaeologists have to work both with their hands and

with their intellect (8) in order to uncover the mysteries (9) of antiquity (10) and provide us with their interpretation (11). They have to delve in ancient

manuscripts (12), as well as meticulously dig the earth (13) for even the slightest trace (14) of history (15). In defiance (16) of any obstacle (17) that may stand

in their way (18), sand (19), mud (20), or uncooperative weather (21), they must use their education (22), equipment (23), and imagination (24) to help us

reconstruct the past (25), understand the present, and re-imagine the future.

Noun 4. studying (NC) 8. intellect (NC) 12. manuscript (C) (manuscripts) 16. defiance (NC) 20. mud (NC) 24. imagination (NC)

1. archaeology (NC) 5. library (C) (libraries)

9. mystery (C) (mysteries) 13. earth (NC) 17. obstacle (C)

(obstacles) 21. weather (NC) 25. past (here NC)

2. study (C) (studies) 6. research (NC) 10. antiquity (C)

(antiquities) here is NC

14. trace (C) (traces) 18. way (C) (ways) 22. education (NC)

3. beginning (C) (rare: beginnings)

7. space (C) (spaces here count)

11. interpretation (C) (interpretations) here NC

15. history (NC) 19. sand (NC) 23. equipment (NC)

Ch 1 | Nouns | Types Using Count/Non-Count Nouns Exercise #8

A. Complete each sentence with the appropriate noun from the list below. Use each noun only once.

B. Add –s or –es to nouns if they should be in the plural.

adventure airport

boredom coffee

enjoyment flights

height foundation

information literature

luggage make-up

patience powder

reading tea

traffic time

travel weight wine

1. Air travel can be a great adventure, so you have to be prepared for it.

2. Make sure you know all the important information before you leave for the airport.

3. Your luggage should be of the right height, width, and weight.

4. You cannot carry any wine or other liquids in the cabin.

5. You should also have no cosmetics with you such as make-up, which includes things like powder, lotion, or foundation.

6. To avoid the airport traffic, you should try to check in as early as possible.

7. To avoid boredom, bring some literature with you because reading can always be pleasant.

8. Time between flights may seem endless, so patience is of great importance.

9. Coffee or tea can also help keep you awake and energetic.

10. Oh, and, of course, do not forget the enjoyment that lies ahead.

Ch 1 | Nouns | Types Counting Non-Count Nouns (Units of Measurement) Exercise #9

Use an appropriate form of measurement or unit expression to count the non-count nouns in the following sentences. More than one word may be appropriate.

After my 12-hour flight, I was so hungry that I ate two whole plates/portions/bowls, etc (1) of pasta. In addition, I gulped down a

gallon/can/bottle, etc. (2) of soda and devoured one gallon/pint/kilo, etc. (3) of ice cream. I probably gained at least three

pounds/kilos of fat (4) from that meal. However, during that long flight, they only served one small meal with a few grains/spoonfuls,

etc. (5) of rice and a small piece/slice, etc. (6) of meat, a glass/cup, etc. (7) of orange juice, and a slice (8) of bread. Next time I travel

with this airline, I will make sure to bring my own food like some pieces (9) of fruit for vitamins and a bottle/can/carton (10) of milk

for calcium. Likewise, security precautions have been significantly tightened at airports, so here is a little (11) advice and some (12)

information. Be sure to have only one piece (13) of carry-on luggage with you, for Transportation Authority personnel check all

types/forms/shapes (14) of electronic equipment, rummage through mounds/piles (15) of clothing, and generally look over the

pounds/kilos/bags (16) of stuff you brought. Long security lines can also require a great deal (17) of patience, and bringing hours (18)

of homework, though not ideal, may help with the wait. Indeed, a certain amount (19) of knowledge of the system can make traveling

that much more enjoyable. Lastly, forget to have a lot (20) of fun on the trip!

Ch 1 | Pronoun | Characteristics Identifying Pronoun Characteristics Exercise #10

List all pronouns in bold according to their characteristics (number, person, case).

I rarely participate in lotteries because I don’t feel particularly lucky. Four years ago my mother encouraged me to fill out this coupon

for a seven-day trip to Paris. I asked her under whose name I should send the coupon, and she said, “Just put yours!” “But I ‘m not

lucky!” I exclaimed; “I have never won anything.” “Yes, but you have never really tried to win anything,” my mother replied. Three

weeks later, a friend of mine called to congratulate me on winning that lottery. The company had drawn its winner, and my name had

come up. I could not believe it!!! Soon after, various company representatives called me to inform me about my trip. They were

offering one week in Paris for four people. I thanked them cordially for their offer, and then I immediately invited my dad, my

brother, and, of course, my mom. After all, she surely deserved it; the idea was hers. We all went together, and the City of Light was

ours for an entire, most memorable week and …for free!!!

Pronoun Number Pronoun Person Pronoun Case Singular Plural 1st 2nd 3rd Subjective Objective Possessive

I, me, her, she, yours, you, my, mine, its, it, hers

they, them, their, we, ours

I , me, my, mine, we, ours

yours, you her, she, its, it, they, their, them, hers

I , she, you, they, we

me, it, them her, yours, my, mine, its,

their, hers, ours

Ch 1 | Pronoun | Characteristics Identifying Pronoun Case Exercise #11

Identify the case of each pronoun in bold as subjective (S), objective (O), or possessive (P) depending on whether the pronoun functions as a subject, an object, or the owner of something.

1. Modern travel is a miracle in itself. itself (O)

2. It is very expansive and relatively cheap. It (S)

3. Who among us has not traveled even to one place in the country? who (S)

4. Wherever you want to go, modern travel can take you. you (S), you (O)

5. Many people even travel by themselves. themselves (O)

6. They choose to explore foreign places and meet new people. they (S)

7. This can certainly be a unique experience. this (S)

8. It can expand one’s perception and cultural horizons. one’s (P)

9. I, myself, would probably not try it, but other people truly enjoy it. myself (S)

10. It can certainly help practice your communication skills. your (P)

Ch 1 | Pronoun | Types Identifying Personal Pronouns Exercise #12

A. Identify all the personal pronouns in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each pronoun in the column to the right.

C. Write the word(s) the pronoun refers to next to it in parentheses (antecedent).

1. Paris is called “The City of Light” because it has always been a center of education, art, and ideas.

it (Paris)

2. People flock to this city, so they can enjoy its vivacity, architecture, and romanticism.

they (People), its (city)

3. The Parisian women are famous for their elegance. their (women)

4. The true “Parisienne” knows her ABC’s about fashion. her (“Parisienne”)

5. She is never caught unaware of style in all its nuances. She (“Parisienne”), its (style)

6. The Parisian man, however, is also very fashion conscious, and he frequents the catwalk.

he (man)

7. After all, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Jean Paul Gaultier are world famous designers, and they are French.

they (Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Jean Paul Gaultier)

8. To them “Haute Couture” is a form of creative expression. them (Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Jean Paul Gaultier)

9. To us their creations are “slightly” out of reach. us (implied: the readers, people), their (C.D., L.V., and J.P.G.)

10. Their designs, however, constitute a form of art which we can always appreciate and be inspired by.

Their (C.D., L.V., and J.P.G.), we ((implied: the readers, people)

Ch 1 | Pronoun | Types Identifying Relative Pronouns Exercise #13

A. Identify all the relative pronouns in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each relative pronoun in the column to the right.

C. Write the word(s) the relative pronoun refers to next to it in parentheses (antecedent).

1. Paris, which is called “The City of Light,” has always been a major attraction for tourists from all over the world.

which (Paris)

2. People who flock to this city seek to enjoy this city’s vivacity, architecture, and romanticism.

who (people)

3. The Parisian women, whose elegance is world renowned, truly know their fashion ABC’s.

whose (women)

4. The men also have an acute sense of style that is very unique. that (sense)

5. Therefore, if you are truly invested in the art of fashion, the French are people whom you can look up to.

whom (people)

6. Which city is famous for far more than simply fashion? Well, Paris also has many museums that are world-renowned.

that (museums); (“which” city operates as an adjective)

7. Families whose objective is to visit cultural icons will find many in the city by the Seine.

whose (families)

8. Who knows how many artists who became famous after death lived in Paris. who (artists); (“who” knows operates as an interrogative pronoun)

9. Many of these artists were inspired by events that took place in this city. that (events)

10. Perhaps their inspiration was the fashion, which could inspire anyone. which (fashion)

Ch 1 | Adjectives | Types Identifying Adjectives Exercise #14

A. Identify all adjectives in the sentences below by underlining them. Do not underline articles.

B. Write each adjective in the column to the right together with the noun(s) or pronoun(s) it modifies.

1. New York is one of the most amazing cities in the world. New (York), the most amazing (cities); normally (New York) would be a proper noun.

2. It is a metropolis in every sense of the word. every (sense)

3. In its immense diversity, the city hosts and brings together people, cultures, and mentalities.

immense (diversity)

4. Walking down 5th Avenue, for example, can be an absolutely unique experience. 5th (Avenue), unique (experience)

5. The busy crowd is overwhelming. busy (crowd), overwhelming)

6. The architecture seems fascinating. fascinating (architecture)

7. The beckoning of fashion may be irresistible. irresistible (beckoning)

8. Like a modern siren, it lures you into a world of miracles. modern (siren)

9. It promises you unforgettable experiences. unforgettable (experiences)

10. However, you need to be ready to take a bite of the Big Apple. ready (you), Big (Apple)

Ch 1 | Adjectives | Types Identifying Adjectives Types Exercise #15

A. Underline all adjectives in the following paragraph except for articles.

B. Categorize each adjective according to its type in the table that follows: descriptive or specifying. Write the noun it modifies or specifies right next to it in parenthesis.

I will never forget my first visit to New York. It felt like the whole city belonged to me. I only had three days, yet I wanted to see

everything. Which sites should I choose? I was in utter awe, so I eventually determined that I could not see everything. I decided that

whichever path I was to follow the experience for me would be exciting and interesting. At that point I felt free. I did not visit as

many museums as I could have, nor did I follow the rigid instructions of any guidebook. Instead, I chose to walk as much as I could

and absorb the light and sounds of the city. This was utterly rewarding. The real beauty of this city lies in the daily vibes of its life.

DESCRIPTIVE (MODIFYING)

SPECIFYING (LIMITING)

DESCRIPTIVE (MODIFYING)

SPECIFYING (LIMITING)

DESCRIPTIVE (MODIFYING)

SPECIFYING (LIMITING)

1. my (visit) (pronoun) 8. whichever (path) 15. any (guidebook) 2. first (visit) 9. exciting

(experience) 16. rewarding (it)

3. New (York) (Proper Noun)

10. interesting (experience)

17. real (beauty)

4. whole (city) 11. that (point) 18. this (city) 5. three (days) 12. free (I) 19. daily (vibes) 6. which (sites) 13. many (museums) 20. its (life) (pronoun) 7. utter (awe) 14. rigid

(instructions)

Ch 1 | Adjectives | Characteristics Forming the Degrees of Intensity for Adjectives Exercise #16

A. Complete the table below with the appropriate Degrees of Intensity, if applicable.

B. Add an appropriate noun to each of the adjectives.

C. Make a comparative or superlative sentence for each one of the sets of adjective-nouns you have created.

Positive Degree Comparative Degree

Superlative Degree Sentence

1. beautiful more beautiful

most beautiful New York is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

2. bad worse worst The worst experience in New York occurred in Central Park.

3. good better best I thought the subway in New York was better than the one in London. 4. far (for

distance) farther farthest

The farthest we walked in a day was ten miles. 5. far (for

extent) further furthest Experiencing New York requires abandoning stereotypes further than one would

think. 6. impressive more

impressive most impressive The MET is more impressive that the Museum of Modern Art.

7. little less least New York was also surprisingly clean, for city personnel were around to clean up the least bit of trash.

8. nice nicer nicest New Yorkers are the nicest city-dwellers I have encountered.

9. terrifying more terrifying

most terrifying Still, a more terrifying spectacle than rush hour in New York would be hard to

find.

10. happy happier happiest I had some of the happiest moments of my life in New York.

Ch 1 | Verbs | Definitions Identifying Verbs Exercise #17

A. Identify all verbs in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each verb in the column to the right.

C. Identify each verb in the column to the right as one that shows action (A), occurrence (O), or state of being (SB).

1. Traveling exposes you to alternative ways of viewing the world. exposes (A)

2. This exposure teaches you alternative methods of dealing with life. teaches (A)

3. You then overcome your prejudices and avoid misunderstandings. overcome (A), avoid (A)

4. An interesting example is that of a man who seems utterly cold and silent at your first meeting.

is (SB), seems (SB)

5. At first, you interpret this behavior as rude and unwelcoming. interpret (A)

6. However, for people from certain cultures, this silence shows respect to the speaker. shows (A)

7. Look at the woman who “crowds” others in line at the grocery store. Look (A), “crowds” (A)

8. Perhaps she appears rude or maybe she comes from an overpopulated place. appears (SB), comes (A)

9. Perhaps in her country people lack the luxury of ample personal space. lack (A)

10. Therefore, behavior does not just happen; people acquire it. does not happen (O), acquire (A)

Ch 1 | Verbs | Types Identifying Auxiliary (Helping) Verbs Exercise #18

A. Identify only the auxiliary (helping) verbs in the passage by underlining them.

B. In the column to the right, write the verb each auxiliary verb accompanies (helps).

The weather is perfect for a walk through Central Park. Yes, some grey clouds are hanging over my head, and it may be a little

gloomy. However, I shall overcome. I have never been intimidated by a few clouds. I can not allow this minor detail to stop me from

enjoying this quiet afternoon. As I am strolling down one of the trails, the sky does not seem threatening any more. I try to absorb all

the beauty around me: the trees that were recently trimmed clean, the flowers that are ready to bloom, the soil that has tirelessly given

birth to all this life. Suddenly, it starts to drizzle. I should perhaps head back to my hotel, but I do not mind. After all, a little bit of

water would be a relief in this summer heat. I will continue to ignore the capricious sky; however, the drizzle soon becomes a full-scale

storm. Now it is pouring. Now I must run.

AUXILIARY/HELPING VERBS

VERBS AUXILIARY/HELPING VERBS

VERBS

1. are hanging 9. were trimmed 2. may be 10. has giver 3. have been intimidated 11. should head 4. shall overcome 12. do not mind 5. can not allow 13. would be 6. am strolling 14. will continue 7. does not seem 15. is pouring 8. were trimmed 16. must run

Ch 1 | Verbs | Types Identifying Linking / Intransitive / Transitive Verbs Exercise #19

A. Identify all the verbs in the passage below by underlining them.

B. Categorize each verb in the table that follows according to its type (linking/intransitive/transitive). Since all linking verbs are intransitive, include them only in the linking-verb column.

C. Next to each transitive verb, write its object in parentheses.

D. Next to each linking verb, write its subject complement in parentheses.

Today is a perfect day for a walk in the narrow streets of Venice, Italy. I wake up in a good mood, and everything feels right. The

maze of paths, alleys, and dead-end streets does not frighten me. Though I have no map, I gradually become more familiar with this

labyrinth. It seems very difficult to find my way, but I still find the whole process very amusing. Slightly disoriented, I allow myself

to get lost. In my quest, I seek all things new; I touch the walls of hundreds of years, and I their strength; I smell the humidity of the air

trapped in the alleys, and I hear the incomprehensible sounds of singing Italian. I sit down for a minute, close my eyes, and breathe. I

open my eyes again; everything remains still and smells ancient, sounds melodic, looks inviting. I am not dreaming.

LINKING TRANSITIVE INTRANSITIVE is (a perfect day) remains (still) does not frighten (me) feel (their strength) wake up feels (right) smells (ancient) have (no map) smell (the humidity) sit down become (more familiar) sounds (melodic) find (the process) hear (the sounds) breathe seems (difficult) looks (inviting) allow (myself) close (eyes) am not dreaming seek (things) open (eyes) touch (the walls)

Ch 1 | Verbs | Forms Identifying Verb Forms Exercise #20

A. Categorize each verb form in bold according to its type in the table that follows.

B. Then complete the table with the rest of the forms of each verb.

C. Keep in mind that some of the verbs may be irregular, so you need to look up their forms in Chapter 2: Irregular Verbs Chart.

The real traveler enjoys (1) discovering remote and unknown sites. I always pursue (2) such opportunities, so the other day I had (3) a

really unique experience in my effort to reach a small but demanding location. Built (4) on a hill with a view to the sea, this tiny church

of Prophet Elijah required (5) a strenuous hike. The trail was (6) very difficult to navigate (7) as I tried to battle (8) the ferocious

winds. However, at the end of the hike the amazing (9) view rewarded (10) my efforts.

Base Form Simple Present (-s) form

Simple Past Tense (-ed) Form

Past Participle (-ed) Form

Present Participle (-ing) Form

Infinitive (to-) Form

1. enjoy enjoys enjoyed enjoyed enjoying to enjoy 2. pursue pursues pursued pursued pursuing to pursue 3. have has had had having to have 4. build builds built built building to build 5. require requires required required requiring to require 6. is/are is was been being to be 7. navigate navigates navigated navigated navigating to navigate 8. battle battles battled battled battling to battle 9. amaze amazes amazed amazed amazing to amaze 10. reward rewards rewarded rewarded rewarding to reward

Ch 1 | Verbs | Forms Identifying the Function of Participles and Infinitives Exercise #21

A. Categorize each verb form in bold according to its function. Be sure to note the number next to the word.

B. If the participle/infinitive functions as an adjective, write the noun/pronoun it modifies next to it in parentheses.

C. If the participle/infinitive functions as a noun, adverb, or part of verb, write the words it accompanies or refers to next to it in parentheses.

When traveling (1), I always enjoy discovering (2) remote and unknown sites. I have been always pursuing (3) such opportunities, so

the other day I had a really unique experience in my effort to reach (4) a small but demanding (5) location. Built (6) on a hill with a

view to the sea, this tiny church of Prophet Elijah required a strenuous hike. The trail was very difficult to navigate (7) as I tried to

battle (8) the ferocious winds. However, at the end of the hike the amazing (9) view rewarded my efforts. As I sat on top of the hill I

felt exhausted (10) but gratified.

Noun Adjective Part of Verb Adverb discovering (2) (object of: enjoy)

traveling (1) pursuing (3) (have been pursuing)

to navigate(7) (difficult)

to battle(8) (object of: tried) to reach (4) (effort) demanding (5) (location) built (6) (church) amazing (9) (view) exhausted (10)

Ch 1 | Verbs | Forms Identifying the Function of Participles and Infinitives Exercise #22

A. Form the remaining verb forms in the following table.

Verb Present Participle Past Participle Infinitive

1. pack packing packed to pack

2. develop developing developed to develop

3. cook cooking cooked to cook

4. record recording recorded to record

5. test testing tested to test

B. Fill in the blanks with the right verb form from the ones in the table.

1. pack: To pack or not to pack?

This is one of the biggest dilemmas a traveler can have when preparing for a trip. Packing can indeed be a challenge even for the most

experienced of travelers. Too often people realize that they have packed too much; however, this realization often comes too late when

they actually are hauling around those huge suitcases packed with useless clothes, gadgets, and nick knacks. So while you are packing,

always ask yourself, “Do I really need this (fifth pair of shoes)?” Always question the reason to pack each item. After all, it is really

easy to pack, but it’s hard to pack smart.

C. On a separate sheet of paper, construct short paragraphs by using the participle and infinitive forms of each verb in as many functions (noun, adjective, adverb) as possible; (you can use the “PACK” paragraph as a model.) Answers will vary.

2. develop 3. cook 4. record 5. test

Ch 1 | Adverbs | Types Identifying Descriptive Adverbs Exercise #23

A. Identify all descriptive adverbs in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each adverb in the column to the right together with the word(s) it modifies. Put those words in parentheses.

C. Categorize each adverb according to what information it provides. Some may appear in more than one category.

1. Airports are absolutely amazing places. absolutely (amazing) 2. They are always full of life. always (are) 3. What I really enjoy about airports is people. really (enjoy) 4. One can easily find very different nuances of human emotion at an airport: joy, grief,

stress, panic. easily (find) very (different)

5. Welcoming embraces, painful goodbyes, and erratic sprints are definitely part of any airport scene.

definitely (are)

6. Lately airports have been mostly dominated by panic and fear of terrorism. lately (have been dominated) mostly(dominated)

7. This is something travelers have to deal with locally and globally. locally (to deal with) globally (to deal with)

8. Unfortunately, we need to view this phenomenon as part of reality. unfortunately (we…reality) 9. We should try to arrive early and proceed patiently. early (to arrive)

patiently (proceed) 10. We should never allow our fears to spoil our excitement for air-travel. never (should allow)

MANNER How?

PLACE Where?

TIME When?

DEGREE OF INTENSITY

To What Degree?

QUANTITY How Much?

FREQUENCY How Often?

really (also intensity) easily definitely (also intensity) unfortunately patiently

locally globally

lately early

absolutely very

mostly always never

Ch 1 | Adverbs | Types Identifying Descriptive and Conjunctive Adverbs Exercise #24

A. Underline all adverbs in the following paragraph.

B. Categorize each adverb according to its type in the table that follows.

I will never forget my first visit to San Francisco. Everything felt utterly new and exciting. Indeed, it felt like the whole city belonged

to me. I only had three days, yet I wanted to see everything. Therefore, I had to choose wisely. First, I decided I could not see

everything. Hence, I immediately threw away my guidebook but kept my map; otherwise, I would be constantly lost. Furthermore, I

wore my most comfortable shoes, and, finally, I braced myself with curiosity and excitement. It turned out that those four things were

all I needed to fully enjoy the city.

DESCRIPTIVE (Help Modify)

CONJUCTIVE (Help Transition)

never indeed

utterly therefore

only first

immediately hence

wisely furthermore

fully finally

Ch 1 | Adverbs | Types Distinguishing Between Adverbs and Adjectives Exercise #25

A. Categorize each of the words in bold as adjectives or adverbs.

B. Write the word(s) each adjective or adverb modifies next to it in parentheses.

C. Categorize each adverb according to what information it provides. Some may appear in more than one category.

SENTENCE ADJECTIVE ADVERB

1. The daily life of people in a foreign place can be rather interesting. daily (life) foreign (place) rather (interesting)

2. Many people watch the travel channel daily. many (people) daily (watch)

3. Greek people are mostly known for their hospitality. Greek (people) mostly (known)

4. I recently bought this lovely painting from a gallery in France. lovely (painting) recently (bought)

5. Even if you travel by yourself, you will never feel lonely in New York. lonely (you) never (feel)

MANNER

How?

PLACE

Where?

TIME

When?

DEGREE OF INTENSITY

To What Degree?

QUANTITY

How Much?

FREQUENCY

How Often?

rather recently mostly daily (watch)

never

Ch 1 | Conjunctions | Types Identifying Conjunction Types Exercise #26

A. Identify all conjunctions in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each conjunction in the column to the right.

C. Identify each conjunction as coordinating (C), subordinating (S), or correlative (CR).

1. When people base their judgment of others on stereotypes, they fall prey to oversimplified beliefs.

when (S)

2. This is a very common mistake because stereotypes are widespread in most cultures. because (S)

3. People tend to form stereotypes, for they don’t see the underlying faulty reasoning. for (C)

4. If A, who is from country B, is obnoxious, then everyone from country B is obnoxious.

If (S)

5. Therefore, not only do people over-expand their conclusions to everyone, but they also do not question these assumptions.

not only…but also (CR)

6. Whether it is the demanding American, the camera-obsessed Japanese, or the lazy Greek, stereotypes usually prejudice people against others.

whether (S)

7. It is important that we both recognize and avoid stereotypes. both…and (CR)

8. Even though we may think of our evidence as sufficient, it is best to refrain from over-generalizing our conclusions.

even though (S)

9. We need to approach people’s behavior with an open mind, so we understand them better.

so (C)

10. Stereotypes promote neither mutual understanding nor collaboration among people. neither…nor (CR)

Ch 1 | Conjunctions | Types Identifying Conjunction Types Exercise #27

A. In each sentence below, underline the word(s) or groups of words (e.g. whole clauses) that each conjunction in bold connects.

B. Identify the type of each conjunction in bold as coordinating (C), subordinating (S), and correlative (CR), and write it in the column to the right.

1. My family and I took a trip to Paris two years ago. Coordinating (C)

2. Neither they nor I had been there before. Correlative (CR)

3. As the trip was free, we were all extremely excited. Subordinating (S)

4. We were overwhelmed, for there were too many stimuli. Coordinating (C)

5. For the newcomer, Paris is both a blessing and a curse. Correlative (CR)

6. It offers so many things, but the tourist never has enough time. Coordinating (C)

7. You could, for instance, spend a whole month just in the Louvre or the Orsey museum. Coordinating (C)

8. The scenery, the architecture, the art, and the cuisine are all magnificent. Coordinating (C)

9. You cannot get a full taste of Paris unless you stay there for some time. Subordinating (S)

10. You can only get a bite, yet it is very fulfilling. Coordinating (C)

Ch 1 | Prepositions | Types Identifying Prepositions Exercise #28

A. Identify all prepositions in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Write each preposition in the column to the right.

C. Write the object of each preposition next to it in parentheses (prepositional phrase).

1. Las Vegas is located in the middle of nowhere. in (the middle), of (nowhere)

2. Because of this nothingness, the city had to be “loud”. because of (nothingness)

3. Loudness in this case does not only include sound. in (case)

4. It involves elements like color, size, consumption. like (color, size, consumption)

5. Everything in Las Vegas comes as SUPER or EXTRA. in (Vegas), as (Super or Extra)

6. Las Vegas challenges its environment through excess. through (excess)

7. Along with its excess, this city is frantic. along with (its excess)

8. It lures people into a frenzy of lights, partying, gambling, and entertainment. into (a frenzy), of (lights, partying…)

9. Beyond the famous strip, however, lies a relatively normal city. beyond (strip)

10. It is hard to imagine, but on that “other side,” most people lead a less intense life. on (other side)

Ch 1 | Prepositions | Types Identifying Prepositions Exercise #29

A. Categorize each preposition (prepositional phrase) in bold according to its type/function as Adjective or Adverb.

B. Write the word(s) each preposition modifies next to it in parentheses.

Las Vegas offers visitors amazing opportunities for entertainment (1). In addition to (2) the traditional casino fun, Las Vegas also

provides an environment designed for family (3). Indeed, most hotels advertise themselves as family-friendly (4) and feature water

parks, roller coasters, and gigantic playgrounds. It is not rare that visitors will hardly spend any time at the casinos (5); instead of

(6) trying their luck, many choose to experiment with the plethora (7) of gourmet restaurants (8), to wander inside impressive

hotels (9), or to enjoy an extravagant show. The city has something for every taste (10).

Preposition as Adjective Modifies nouns and pronouns

Preposition as Adverb Modifies verbs, adverbs, adjectives,

clauses

Preposition as Adjective Modifies nouns and pronouns

Preposition as Adverb Modifies verbs, adverbs, adjectives,

clauses 1. for entertainment

(opportunities) 6. instead of testing (many)

2. in addition to the…fun (provides)

7. with the plethora (experiment)

3. for family (designed) 8. of gourmet restaurants (plethora)

4. as family friendly (themselves)

9. inside hotels (wander)

5. at the casinos (spend time) 10. for every taste (something)

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Present Tenses Using Present Tenses Exercise #1

A. Choose the correct verb tense in the parentheses by underlining it. Keep in mind that not all options are in present tenses.

B. Identify the particular tense of each verb you chose in the right column.

1. Architecture (entails, is entailing) the design of buildings and structures. Simple Present

2. Mark currently (is studying, studied) to become an architect at the University of Chicago. Present Progressive

3. He always (had been, has been) interested in transforming the environment through buildings. Present Perfect

4. Since his first year in college, he (has been focusing, focuses) on Architecture as well as Art History. Present Perfect Progressive

5. He constantly (dreams of, is dreaming of) creating a great structure and through it gaining immortality. Simple Present

6. Famous architects like Antoni Gaudi of Spain and the American, Frank Lloyd Wright, (are becoming, have become) an inspiration to Mark. Present Perfect

7. To further understand these famous creators, he (travels, is traveling) regularly to explore new places. Simple Present

8. We actually (are watching, have been watching) him right now in a video from Barcelona, Spain. Present Progressive

9. He (is standing, has stood) in awe outside Gaudi’s famous Roman Catholic Church , “La Sagrada Familia.” Present Progressive

10. Construction of this church (has been taking place, has taken place) since 1882. Impressive!! Present Perfect Progressive

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Present Tenses Forming Present Verb Tenses Exercise #2

A. Complete the table below with the forms of each verb. Try to retain the same person and number, and keep in mind that some of the verbs may be irregular.

B. In the space provided below, write a short paragraph about an architectural site that interests you. Try to use all the verbs from the table, but only in present tenses (you can use the verbs in a different person or number.)

Simple Present Present Progressive Present Perfect Present Perfect Progressive 1. it stands it is standing it has stood it has been standing 2. I admire I am admiring I have admired I have been admiring 3. I read I am reading I have read I have been reading 4. I work I am working I have worked I have been working 5. he shows he is showing he has shown (or showed) he has been showing

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Past Tenses Using Past Tenses Exercise #3

A. Choose the correct verb tense in the parentheses by underlining it. Keep in mind that not all verbs are in past tenses.

B. Identify the particular tense of each verb you chose in the right column.

1. Antoni Gaudi (was being, was) a Modernist architect, famous for his highly idiosyncratic style. Simple Past

2. He (has lived, had lived, lived) and created his art in Spain between 1852 and 1926. Simple Past

3. While he (grew up, was growing up), Gaudi always (had observed, was observing) nature and its elements. Past Progressive

4. As an architect, he (incorporated, had been incorporating) these natural elements in his work. Simple Past

5. Although he (had not been earning, has not been earning) excellent grades in college, he already (was known, was being known, has been known) for his idiosyncratic style.

Past Perfect Progressive, Simple Past

6. His devotion to Catholicism, which (had started, was starting) at an early age, (inspired, has inspired) him in his major project, “La Sagrada Familia” or “Sacred Family.” Past Perfect, Simple Past

7. He constantly (had been working, is working) on it when an accident (occurred, was occurring) on June 7th, 1926.

Past Perfect Progressive, Simple Past

8. As he (was walking, had been walking), he (is run over, was run over) by a tram and died three days after. Past Progressive, Simple Past

9. By the time of his sudden death in 1926, he (had not yet completed, has not yet completed) “La Sagrada Familia.” Past Perfect

10. As a tribute to his genius, the people of Spain (buried, had buried, were burying) Gaudi in the midst of his unfinished masterpiece. Simple Past

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Past Tenses Forming Past Verb Tenses Exercise #4

A. Complete the table below with the forms of each verb. Try to retain the same person and number, and keep in mind that some of the verbs may be irregular.

B. In the space provided below, write a short paragraph about an architectural site you have visited. Try to use all the verbs from the table, but only in past tenses (you can use the verbs in a different person or number.)

Simple Past Past Progressive Past Perfect Past Perfect Progressive 1. she observed she was observing she had observed she had been observing 2. I drove I was driving I had driven I had been driving 3. I traveled I was traveling I had traveled I had been traveling 4. you studied you were studying you had studied you had been studying 5. we took we were taking we had taken we had been taking

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Future Tenses Using Future Tenses Exercise #5

A. Choose the correct verb tense in the parentheses by underlining it. Keep in mind that not all verbs are in past tenses.

B. Identify the particular tense of each verb you chose in the right column.

1. When completed, Burj Dubai, or Dubai Tower, (will be, is) the tallest man-made building on Earth. Simple Future

2. Keeping it a secret, the building companies (will reveal, will have revealed) the final height in September 2009. Simple Future

3. Indeed, despite its current height at 636 m (2,087 ft), the tower’s final height (will be announced, would be announced) only when its construction (will have been completed, was completed).

Simple Future, Future Perfect

4. Based on current known facts, the Dubai Tower (will have, has) at least 164 floors by the end of construction. Simple Future

5. It (will have broken, will have been breaking) the record for highest vertical concrete pumping at 601. 0 m (1,972 ft). Future Perfect

6. Additionally, it (will have become, will be becoming) the tallest freestanding structure surpassing the CN Tower. Future Perfect

7. Until its completion, this tower (will have been continuously surpassing, is continuously surpassing) previous records for man-made structures.

Future Perfect Progressive

8. However, it (will have also cost, had also cost) approximately 4.1 billion American dollars. Future Perfect

9. Standing among other impressive structures in Dubai Downtown, Burj Dubai (will be serving, will have been serving) as a testament to man’s limitless ambition. Future Progressive

10. After September 2009, Burj Dubai (will be dwarfing, is dwarfing) any other structure on the globe, at least until the next ambitious endeavor. Future Progressive

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Future Tenses Forming Future Verb Tenses Exercise #6

A. Complete the table below with the forms of each verb. Try to retain the same person and number, and keep in mind that some of the verbs may be irregular.

B. In the space provided below, write a short paragraph about an architectural site that you would like to see. Try to use all the verbs from the table, but only in future tenses (you can use the verbs in a different person or number.)

Simple Future Future Progressive Future Perfect Future Perfect Progressive 1. I will book I will be booking I will have booked I will have been booking 2. you will take you will be taking you will have taken you will have been taking 3. she will stay she will be staying she will have stayed she will have been staying 4. he will spend he will be spending he will have spent he will have been spending 5. we will relax we will be relaxing (rare) we will have relaxed we will have been relaxing

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | All Tenses Identifying All Verb Tenses Exercise #7

A. Identify all verbs in the sentences below by underlining them.

B. Identify the particular future tense of each verb in the column to the right.

1. June 2006 was my first time visiting New York City. Simple Past

2. I had heard, read, and seen so much about this city that my four-day trip was only a humble beginning. Past Perfect, Simple Past

3. While the plane was approaching JFK airport, I kept revising my list of sight tours and things to do. Past Progressive, Simple Past

4. Four days, however, is just not enough for a city the size and magnitude of New York. Simple Present

5. I took the train to Grand Central Station and found myself amidst the architectural maze of Manhattan. Simple Past

6. As I was walking out to the busy streets of the metropolis, I was humming “I want to be a part of it! New York, New York!”

Past Progressive (2), Simple Present

7. By the end of my first day, I had only visited the Statue of Liberty, the World Trade Center monument, and the Empire State Building. Past Perfect

8. I had also realized that I was running out of time. Past Perfect, Past Progressive

9. Two years later, I still think of those four days in NYC with great fondness and nostalgia. Simple Present

10. I have promised myself to go back, and I will keep my promise. Present Perfect, Simple Future

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | Irregular Verbs Forming Irregular Verbs Correctly Exercise #8

A. Identify all verbs by underlining them.

B. Correct any errors in the form of irregular verb without changing the tense itself.

Corrections have been made with bigger, bold, and italicized font.

Since 1886 the Statue of Liberty, or Lady Liberty, has standed stood to welcome newcomers to the United States of America, the land of

opportunity. Originally conceived to commemorate the friendship and collaboration between France and the United States during the American

Revolution, the Statue of Liberty gradually becomed became (or has gradually become) a symbol of freedom, democracy, and friendship among

nations. At the time, the French side was responsible for the statue while the American side builted built the pedestal. When construction begun

began, sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi was assigned with the design of the statue, but perhaps the biggest challenge that rose arose was

funding the projects on both sides of the ocean. Fortunately, many people maken made consistent efforts toward the completion of the project. In

the process of construction, for instance, the contribution of engineer Alexandre Gustave Eiffel—designer of the Eiffel Tower— was proved

proven a key person in solving structural problems; in the U.S., newspaper editor Joseph Pulitzer— noted for the Pulitzer Prize— growed grew

critical of American people for their lack of interest in the project and, thus, managed to increase donations for the pedestal. Eventually, Lady

Liberty arrived in New York City in 1875; she had been broke broken into 350 pieces to fit in 214 crates. Ever since her assembly, she has keeped

kept holding her torch and showing the way to “[the] tired, [the] poor, [the] huddled masses, yearning to be free.”

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | All Verb Tenses Editing for Verb Tenses Exercise #9

A. Identify all verbs by underlining them.

B. Correct any verb tense errors.

Corrections have been made with bigger, bold, and italicized font.

Atop a hill of the Santa Monica mountains is sitting sits the Getty Center. Thanks to a generous founder, the J. Paul Getty Trust, an ingenious architect, Richard

Meier, and a plethora of individuals, this architectural jewel was has been honoring the City of Los Angeles, California since 1997. Not only the museum

collections, but also the privileged location of the site and its uniqueness in design and materials had have made (or make) this center world-renowned. Indeed,

the museum collections are constituting constitute only a part of the tribute to Art that the Getty Center had has been offering (or offers). Because the architect,

Richard Meier, has been envisioning had envisioned (or envisioned) this project as a bridge between nature and culture, he designed it as an enormous window to

nature. From atop, visitors daily have spent spend hours marveling at the view of the conjuring San Gabriel Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, and the city’s ever-

expanding street-grid. To further enhance natural light, Meier will be utilizing utilized specific materials, the most fascinating of which was travertine. This

beige, textured stone all will come came from Bagni di Tivoli, Italy. For a year, while workers have extracted were extracting (or extracted) all 16,000 tons of

travertine from the Italian quarries, Meier and his staff are were developing a technique to retain the many fossils in the stone. Apparently, Meier thinks thought

(or was thinking) of using those as part of another art collection, ingrained in building materials. Last but not least in this amazing site is coming comes (or

came) the 134,000-square-foot garden, designed by Robert Irwin as another contribution to Art. Undoubtedly, the Getty Center will have left leave (or leaves)

any guest in awe of nature and the human spirit.

Ch 2 | Verb Tenses | All Verb Tenses Editing for Verb Tenses Exercise #10

A. Identify all verbs by underlining them.

B. Correct any verb tense errors.

Corrections have been made with bigger, bold, and italicized font.

Frank Lloyd Wright was is still regarded as the most influential American architect. He has been was born in 1867 in Richland Center, Wisconsin.

Early in his childhood, his mother gives gave (or had given) him a set of Froebel toys, which consisted of wood blocks and paper for construction.

According to Wright, these toys have greatly influenced him in wanting to design rather than just draw. As a young adult, Wright was leaving left

for Chicago although he had been already attending attended two semesters of engineering, in the University of Wisconsin. In Chicago, he has

been working had worked (or worked) for the architectural team of Adler and Sullivan for ten years, until he decided to freelance on his own.

Another great influence on both his work and personal philosophy were being were Japanese art and culture. One of the structures that Wright will

be is (or has been) mostly famous for is the Kaufmann family House, known as Fallingwater. Since its construction in Western Pennsylvania in

1935, this house had has been fascinating audiences. Built on top of a waterfall, Fallingwater is giving gives the impression of floating on water.

No wonder, it has become became instantly famous for its peculiar design and is being was featured on Time magazine’s cover in 1938. Today

Fallingwater is a National Historic Landmark. Frank Lloyd Wright has remained active and prolific through the end of his days in 1959. New

York City’s celebrated Guggenheim Museum was his swan song, for he dies died during its construction.

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Phrase Types Identifying Phrase Types Exercise #1

In the column to the right, identify the type of the underlined phrase. Keep in mind that a phrase could fall under multiple types; however, with the exception of absolute phrases, the correct type is the one based on the phrase’s central (most important) word.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font. The central word of each phrase has been put in bold.

1. A democracy is a political system based on important institutions. prepositional phrase

2. In a democracy all citizens of adult age can elect their representatives. noun phrase

3. Actively participating in elections is not only a right but also a responsibility citizens have. participial phrase(as a noun)

4. Freedom of speech and freedom of the media are considered two institutions of fundamental importance. verb phrase

5. To safeguard democracy from power abuses, elections need to occur regularly. absolute phrase 6. The first democracy was established in the city-state of Athens, Greece in the fifth century B.C. noun phrase 7. To function properly, a democratic system needs to keep the judicial, executive, and legislative

branches separate. infinitive phrase (as a noun)

8. Depending on the decision-making process, a democracy can be direct or representative. participial phrase (as an adjective)

9. In a representative democracy, citizens can elect officials to make public decisions for them. verb phrase 10. Characterized by citizens’ ability to decide without officials intervening, a direct democracy is

possible primarily in small communities. participial phrase (as an adjective)

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures | Phrases/Clauses Phrases versus Clauses Exercise #2

In the column to the right, identify the underlined group of word(s) as a phrase or a clause.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. In order to be successful, a democracy has to be based on and promote tolerance and inclusion. phrase

2. By definition, a system which has only one political party cannot function as a democracy. clause

3. Pretending to be democratic, many totalitarian regimes organize pseudo-elections. clause 4. It is because of its democratic system that the U.S. has always attracted many political refugees. phrase 5. Although democratic, the American system has not always been inclusive of every adult of voting age. phrase

6. Although American women demanded equal voting rights, their struggle became successful only in 1920. clause

7. While white male citizens always had the privilege of voting in America, women and African Americans

had to fight for the same right. clause

8. Citizens need to be invested in the political system, for democracy cannot survive without active

involvement. clause

9. As an activist, Martin Luther King, Jr. fought passionately for citizens’ equal rights in the U.S. clause

10. Women’s suffrage became law by the 19th Amendment, Tennessee, on August 19th, 1920. clause

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Clause Characteristics Identifying Clause Characteristics Exercise #3

In the column to the right, identify the underlined word(s) as subject, verb, direct or indirect object, subject complement.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. The United States of America is a constitutional federal republic consisting of fifty states. subject complement

2. A constitutional federal republic functions at three levels of government: federal, state, and local. (complete) subject

3. The republic is comprised of three branches, the executive, legislative, and judicial. verb 4. Every four years the citizens of the U.S. elect the President of the country. direct object 5. As Commander-in-Chief, the President is responsible for the military. subject complement 6. Members of the Cabinet send the President their decisions for approval. indirect object 7. The Supreme Court and lower federal courts belong to the judicial branch of the political system. (complete) subject 8. It is the U.S. Congress—Senate and House of Representatives— that makes federal law. direct object 9. One of the President’s powers is vetoing legislative bills before they become law. subject complement 10. Under certain circumstances Congress can impeach members of the government. verb

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Clause Types Identifying Clauses

Dependent/Independent

Exercise #4

A. In the column to the right, identify each underlined clause as dependent or independent.

B. In each of the dependent clauses you identify, circle (here in bold) the word that creates dependence.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. The State of the Union is a speech that the President of the U.S. makes every year. DC

2. The President of the U.S. addresses Congress at a session which takes place at the House of Representatives. IC

3. In this speech the President not only reports on the state of the nation, but he/she also outlines the agenda for the upcoming year. IC 4. It was on January 8, 1790 when George Washington delivered the first State of the Union address in New York City. DC5. Because the executive and legislative branches are separate, ordinarily the President is not allowed in the House Chamber. DC

6. On the day of the State of the Union, after the President has been formally invited, he is announced to Congress. DC

7. It is the Sergeant at Arms of the United States House of Representatives who announces the President by calling out “Mister/Madam

Speaker, the President of the United States of America.” DC

8. Although the President is ordinarily not supported by all members of Congress, the latter usually applaud the President. DC

9. After the applause, the Speaker usually taps the gavel, so everyone can take a seat and listen to the speech. IC

10. Since 1966, the State of the Union is followed by a speech on TV by a representative of an opposing party so that the American people

can listen to a rebuttal of the President’s announcements. DC

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Clause Types Identifying Clauses

Adverb/Adjective/Noun

Exercise #5

A. In the column to the right, identify each underlined dependent clause as an adverb, adjective, or noun clause.

B. In each dependent clause, circle (here in bold) the word that creates dependence.

C. In the column to the right, also identify what role the clause plays in the sentence.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. The U.S. government recognizes certain holidays, which are mostly observed by state and local governments. Adjective: it modifies “holidays.”

2. What has become interesting about U.S. holidays is that most are closely connected to sales at retail stores. Noun: it is the subject of “is.”

3. If one looks at the holiday of Thanksgiving, for instance, this realization becomes very apparent. Adverb (condition): it modifies the independent clause.

4. Every year families come together on the fourth Thursday of November so that they can celebrate Thanksgiving. Adverb (result): it modifies the independent clause.

5. Even though some family members may live far away from each other, they still try to make it to the gathering. Adverb (contrast): it modifies the independent clause.

6. The day culminates with a big dinner that typically includes turkey with mashed potatoes and gravy. Adjective: it modifies “dinner.”

7. Whoever is the head of the family usually starts dinner with thanks for the goods at the end of the harvest season. Noun: it is the subject of “starts.”

8. Once the Thanksgiving dinner is over, many people start prepping for the following day, called “Black Friday.” Adverb (time): it modifies the independent clause.

9. Black Friday, which marks the official opening day for the Christmas season, is a day of massive sales. Adjective: it modifies “Friday.”

10. That many Americans can so easily transition from a family gathering to a consumerist feast is remarkable. Noun: it is the subject of “is.”

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Clause Types Separating and Identifying Clauses Exercise #6

A. Underline each verb and circle (here in bold) its subject and separate each clause with parentheses.

B. Mark the words that create dependence (here in italics).

C. Identify each clause as independent (IC) or dependent (DC).

IC (The White House, DC (where the President of the U.S. resides,) is probably one of the most recognizable architectural sites of

the country.) IC (The first President to live in the White House was President John Adams (1797-1801).) IC (In November 1800,

DC (when President Adams moved in,) the White House looked very similar to its contemporary form.) IC (Indeed, DC

(although space has been added to the original building,) the White House has retained its original form and shape,) IC (so it

symbolizes continuity in the government of the country.) IC (The White House is located in Washington DC, the capital city of the

country as chosen by President George Washington in 1790.) IC (Not only did George Washington select the site for the capital

city,) IC (but he also pinpointed the spot for the President’s house.) IC (Because of the importance of this project, a very competitive

contest was declared to select the designer.) IC (DC (Whoever won this competition) would be responsible for designing a building DC (that

should transcend time.) IC (James Hoban, a builder from Ireland, DC (who worked in the U.S.,) was the one to prevail in the competition.) IC

(Besides designing it, Hoban also supervised the construction of the White House,) DC (the cornerstone of which was laid on October 13, 1792.)

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Sentence Types Identifying Sentences

Simple/Complex/Compound/ Complex-Compound

Exercise #7

A. In the column to the left, write out the sentences from Exercise #6 (verbs are underlined, and subjects are in bold).

B. In each sentence, identify the clauses by marking them with parentheses and as independent (IC) or dependent (DC).

C. In the column to the right, identify each sentence as simple, complex, compound, or complex-compound.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. IC (The White House, DC (where the President of the U.S. resides,) is probably one of the most

recognizable architectural sites of the country.)

Complex:

1 IC + 1 DC (min)

2. IC (The first President to live in the White House was President John Adams (1797-1801).) Simple: 1 IC

3. IC (In November 1800, DC (when President Adams moved in,) the White House looked very

similar to its contemporary form.) Complex:

1 IC + 1 DC (min)

4. IC (Indeed, DC (although space has been added to the original building,) the White House has

retained its original form and shape,) IC (so it symbolizes continuity in the government of the

country.)

Complex-Compound: 2 IC (min)+ 1 DC (min)

5. IC (The White House is located in Washington DC, the capital city of the country as chosen by Simple: 1 IC

President George Washington in 1790.)

6. IC (Not only did George Washington select the site for the capital city,) IC (but he also pinpointed

the spot for the President’s house.) Compound: 2 IC (min)

7. IC (Because of the importance of this project, a very competitive contest was declared to select the

designer.) Simple: 1 IC

8. IC (DC (Whoever won this competition) would be responsible for designing a building DC (that

should transcend time.) Complex:

1 IC + 1 DC (min)

9. IC (James Hoban, a builder from Ireland, DC (who worked in the U.S.,) was the one to prevail in

the competition.) Complex:

1 IC + 1 DC (min)

10. IC (Besides designing it, Hoban also supervised the construction of the White House,) DC (the

cornerstone of which was laid on October 13, 1792.) Complex:

1 IC + 1 DC (min)

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Clause Types Identifying Clauses

Adverb/Adjective/Noun

Exercise #8

A. In each sentence, identify the dependent clause by marking it with parentheses and as (DC).

B. In the column to the right, identify each dependent clause as an adverb, adjective, or noun clause.

C. In the column to the right, also identify what role the clause plays in the sentence.

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. The White House, DC (where the President of the U.S. resides,) is a famous structure. Adjective: it modifies

“White House.”

2. The first President, DC (who lived in the White House) was President John Adams (1797-1801). Adjective: it modifies

“President.”

3. DC (When President Adams moved in,) the White House was still unfinished. Adverb (time): it modifies the independent clause.

4. Indeed, DC (although the exterior of the White House looked finished,) the interior part still needed

a lot of work.

Adverb(contrast): it modifies the independent clause.

5. DC (As Mrs. Adams remarked,) the view of the Potomac River was beautiful, but the house was

still quite problematic.

Adverb (time): it modifies the independent clause.

6. Thomas Jefferson was able to spend his entire presidency, DC (which lasted from 1801 to 1809,) at

the White House. Adjective: it modifies “presidency.”

7. DC (What Jefferson did) was to add two wings to the White House, one stretching to the east and

one to the west. Noun: it is the subject of “was.”

8. DC (Even though the White House has endured time,) it has also suffered damage. Adverb (contrast): it modifies the independent clause.

9. In the war of 1812, DC (while British troops were attacking Washington DC,) they torched the

White House. Adverb: it modifies the noun 1812.

10. DC (Because this event took place,) Congress proposed relocating the White House entirely, but

President Madison refused in order to emphasize the nation’s perseverance and permanency.

Adverb (cause): it modifies the independent clause “Congress…. White House.”

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Sentence Types

Creating Sentences by Combining Clauses

Exercise #9

Connect each set of clauses with the right conjunctions in order to create the sentence type required and to express the relationship required between the two clauses.

More than one combination may be possible.

1. Before each election, citizens of the United States must register. Citizens can vote.

• Complex (result): Before each election, citizens of the United States must register so that they can vote.

• Compound (result): Before each election, citizens of the United States must register, so they can vote.

2. Many people neglect to register on time. Their vote does not count.

• Complex (cause-effect): Because/Since/As many people neglect to register on time, their vote does not count.

• Compound (cause-effect): Many people’s vote does not count, for they neglect to register on time.

3. A voter may not be able to go to the official polling station location. This person can still vote with an absentee ballot.

• Complex (contrast): Even though/Although/Even if a voter may not be able to go to the official polling station location, this person can still vote with

an absentee ballot.

• Compound (contrast): A voter may not be able to go to the official polling station location, but/yet this person can still vote with an absentee ballot.

Ch 3 | Sentence Structures |

Sentence Types Creating Sentences by Combining Clauses Exercise #10

Connect the following set of clauses with the right conjunctions in order to create the sentence type required and to express the relationship required between the two clauses. More than one combination may be possible.

1. Voters cast their ballot without being informed. They become victims of political propaganda.

• Complex (cause-effect): Because voters cast their ballot without being informed, they become… propaganda.

• Complex (time): When voters cast their ballot without being informed, they become… propaganda.

• Complex (condition): If voters cast their ballot without being informed, they become… propaganda.

2. People do not realize the importance of participation in politics. The country cannot make any progress.

• Complex (condition): Unless people realize the importance of participation in politics, the country cannot make any progress.

• Compound (cause-effect): The country cannot make any progress, for people do not realize the importance of participation in politics.

3. Watching the debates among presidential candidates is informative. It is interesting in regards to rhetoric and logic.

• Compound (addition): Watching the debates among presidential candidates is not only informative, but it is also interesting in regards to rhetoric and

logic.

• Compound (addition): Watching the debates among presidential candidates is informative, and it is also interesting in regards to rhetoric and logic.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Subject/Verb Subject/Verb Agreement

General Principles

Exercise #1

A. In the sentences below identify all the verbs by underlining them.

B. Identify the subject of each verb by circling it (here, in bold) and by crossing out any other elements of the subject (modifiers, adjectives, etc.).

C. Make sure each verb agrees with its subject in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. As an educational and research institution, the University of California has a very strong reputation.

2. There exist exists general consensus among scientists today in regards to the phenomenon of climate change.

3. In the past few years, there has have been many people switching from an SUV to a hybrid car to lessen their carbon footprint.

4. Not only the individual but also companies needs need to make an effort to become green in order to protect the environment.

5. Carbon dioxide and methane, two of the major greenhouse gases, helps help to retain heat in the earth’s atmosphere.

6. The consequences of the climate change phenomenon affects affect the whole planet and not only certain countries.

7. According to many scientists, renewable energy along with technological advances are is the solution to this problem.

8. Political and business decisions play an important role in handling the phenomenon of climate change.

9. Fossil fuels and their products is are one of the major contributors to climate change.

10. Collaboration and responsibility between people and their government constitutes constitute a path to facing the challenge of

climate change.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Subject/Verb Subject/Verb Agreement

Nouns as Subjects

Exercise #2

A. In the sentences below identify all verbs by underlining them.

B. Identify the subject of each verb by circling it (here, in bold) and by crossing out any other elements of the subject (modifiers, adjectives, etc.).

C. Make sure each verb agrees with its subject in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. Usually my students are more technologically savvy than me.

2. In most university classrooms chalk has been replaced with markers for dry-erase boards.

3. Summer rain always come comes as a pleasant surprise to rejuvenate the dry soil and thirsty plants.

4. Thanks to the Internet, informations information has become easily accessible by millions of people.

5. Unlike jogging, swimming do does not strain nor harm a person’ joints.

6. Despite its importance in shaping the world, politics are is unappealing to many young people.

7. This activist group tries try to protect many endangered species such as the polar bear.

8. Although primarily American, the band hail from five different states.

9. In the United States, four dollars seem seems like an exorbitant price for a gallon of oil.

10. Directed by Clint Eastwood, Letters from Iwo Jima were was nominated for Best Picture in 2006.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Subject/Verb Subject/Verb Agreement

Pronouns as Subjects

Exercise #3

A. Underline only the verbs that have a pronoun as a subject.

B. Identify the pronoun-subject of these verbs by circling it (here, in bold) and by crossing out any other elements of the subject (modifiers, adjectives, etc.).

C. Make sure each of these verbs agrees with its subject in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. Instructors cannot help students who do not want to be helped.

2. As the mayor, I would like to thank all the volunteers who has have helped replant the burnt forest.

3. This engagement ring is an heirloom which have has been in my family for more than seven generations.

4. Celebrities are extravagant when, for instance, they buy jeans that costs cost three hundred dollars a pair.

5. Although everyone in these games have has worked very hard, only one contestant can win the gold medal.

6. Every time Kevin returns from a trip abroad, nothing seems the same to him thanks to his new perspective.

7. Each among my students have has a different way of learning and absorbing grammar.

8. Unfortunately, only few of my high-school friends have stayed in contact after the end of their senior year.

9. All of the parents attending the graduation ceremony was were deeply moved and highly proud of their offspring.

10. People are often unaware that not all of the information found on websites come comes from valid sources.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Subject/Verb Making Sure Verbs Agree With Their Subjects Exercise #4

Correct any Subject/Verb Agreement errors in the paragraph below (do not change the verb tenses). Subjects have been put in bold, and verbs have been underlined. Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

Among the most famous of ancient Greek tragedies are is Oedipus Rex or Oedipus the King. Composed by Sophocles and first

performed in 429 B.C., this tragedy is the first of a trilogy sequence, which consist consists of Oedipus the King, Oedipus at Colonus,

and Antigone. According to many critics, there is are very few tragedies comparable to this one. Oedipus the King is the story of

Oedipus, son of Laius and Iocasta, king and queen of Thebes. Warned by an oracle that he will perish by the hand of his own offspring,

Laius binds the feet of baby Oedipus with a pin and give gives him to a servant with the order to assassinate the infant. The servant,

filled with pity, prove proves incapable of the brutal murder, so he abandons the baby in the mountains. A shepherd, who finds the

baby, give gives him the name “Oedipus,” which mean means “swollen foot.” Due to the shepherd’s lack of means, the boy ends up

being adopted by Polybus, King of Corinth, and his wife, Merope. In Corinth rumors and stories about Oedipus not being Polybus’

biological son reaches reach Oedipus himself. Determined to discover the truth, he asks for the Delphi Oracle’s help, but all he finds

out is that he is doomed to sleep with his mother and kill his father. The news delivered by the Oracle are is very disturbing, so

Oedipus decides to leave Corinth in hopes to avert his destiny. Alas, all of this process only bring brings him closer to it, for neither

his efforts nor his intellect are is powerful enough to change it.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Subject/Verb Making Sure Verbs Agree With Their Subjects Exercise #5

Correct any Subject/Verb Agreement errors in the paragraph below (do not change the verb tenses). Subjects have been put in bold, and

verbs have been underlined. Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

Besides Oedipus the King, there is are two more tragedies in Sophocles’famous trilogy; Antigone constitutes one of them. Antigone

narrates the story of Oedipus’ daughter in her quest for a legal system of morality. The action of the protagonists take takes place in

Thebes following Oedipus’ realization that he have has killed his father and slept with his mother, Iocasta. After Oedipus voluntarily

abandons his kingdom and go goes into exile, his sons, Eteocles and Polyneices, has have a quarrel over ruling rights. Polyneices

forms an alliance with the king of another city, Argos, and march marches against Thebes. However, his failed assault against

Thebes are is sealed by the two brothers who kills kill each other in battle. The day after the fatal battle, Creon, now king, issue

issues a decree which declares Polyneices a traitor and prohibit prohibits anyone from honoring him with a proper burial. These

orders is are what Antigone, sister of Polyneices and Eteocles, decides to challenge, for they opposes oppose divine law. As a

consequence not only Antigone but also her fiancé and son of Creon, Aemon, and the wife of Creon, Eurydice, perishes perish.

Antigone is executed for her disobedience while Aemon and Eurydice commit suicide. In her struggle, Antigone declares her

defiance toward human law that is not in harmony with divine law. For this, many has have considered Antigone to be an emblem of

justified civil disobedience. Although approximately twenty-five-hundred years have has passed since Antigone was written, she

still symbolizes the struggle of free-thinking individuals against tyrannical and totalitarian regimes.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Pronoun/Antecedent Pronoun/Antecedent Agreement

General Principles

Exercise #6

A. In the sentences below identify all pronouns (that have an antecedent) by underlining them.

B. Identify the antecedent of each pronoun by circling it (here, in bold).

C. Make sure each pronoun agrees with its antecedent in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font. 1. My family and I enjoy spending quality time together, so we often attend shows or go on trips together.

2. As the youngest in the family, Jim did not only have everyone’s guidance, but she he also had to meet everyone’s expectations.

3. Considering a pet as part of the family, many people name it after humans, celebrate it’s its birthday, and dress them it up.

4. A doctor/Doctor has/have to go through years of rigorous training, and personal sacrifices to earn his his/her /their degree.

5. The CEO of a company is the person who usually signs his his/her name on most official documents regarding the company.

6. An experienced nurse/Experienced nurses can give you her his/her /their opinion on the side-effects of most drugs.

7. Students, instructors, and administrators gathered together to support their school’s debate team at the national contest.

8. The leading actress in the movie was alarmed when she discovered in his her purse a cell phone that was not her hers.

9. Not only the parents but also the brave firefighter, Jason, put their his life at risk to rescue the baby in the flooded apartment.

10. Neither the prosecutor nor the defendants were able to prove their case to the jury and the judge.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Pronoun/Antecedent Pronoun/Antecedent Agreement

Nouns as Antecedents

Exercise #7

A. In the sentences below identify all pronouns (that have an antecedent) by underlining them.

B. Identify the antecedent of each pronoun by circling it (here, in bold).

C. Make sure each pronoun agrees with its antecedent in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. English is notorious for its numerous idioms and expressions which always confuse non-native speakers.

2. Learning about water and his its importance as well as scarcity may help people think twice before taking a long shower.

3. Not only did the assigned homeworks homework help me understand the concept, but they it also helped me ace the final.

4. Jane’s hair is very thick and lush, but it shows signs of damage because of all the heavy processing.

5. The detective found two hairs at the crime scene, and it they may help with the investigation of the murder.

6. In order to understand statistics, a person has to study their its principles and appreciate it’s its value.

7. Memorization can sometimes be an effective learning strategy if it is accompanied by critical thinking.

8. The class casted their votes in favor of high standards and objective grading.

9. The government informed his its members of a new strategy to manage the national deficit.

10. The Board of Directors announced their its unanimous decision to raise membership fees.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Pronoun/Antecedent Pronoun/Antecedent Agreement

Pronouns as Antecedents

Exercise #8

A. In the sentences below identify all pronouns (that have an antecedent) by underlining them.

B. Identify the antecedent of each pronoun by circling it (here, in bold).

C. Make sure each pronoun agrees with its antecedent in terms of number, person, and gender by making any necessary changes.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. Anyone can construct his his/her personal page on Facebook or MySpace and can share information with friends.

2. Both agreed on a two-month truce to re-establish diplomatic relationships and negotiations between them.

3. According to the Chinese concept of yin and yang, everything has their its opposing but complementary aspects.

4. All of the defendants had to submit his/her their passports before being released on bail.

5. All of this food was produced locally, so it is very fresh and fragrant.

6. At the end of each year, one has to look in the mirror and be honest with himself/herself oneself.

7. My hope as an instructor is that each of my students in the class will reach their his/her potential.

8. The Declaration of Independence ensures that nobody is deprived of his his/her inalienable rights.

9. Much of this explanation is redundant, for it keeps repeating the same things over and over again.

10. Several among the audience were willing to share his their stories in public, something that was very courageous.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Pronoun/Antecedent Pronoun/Antecedent Agreement

Avoiding Sexist Language

Exercise #9

Rewrite the following sentences in a way that avoids sexist language but does not change the meaning of the sentence.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

1. Any politician has to try his best to overcome the stereotype that all politicians are liars.

• Any politician has to try his/her best to …liars. OR All politicians have to try their best to overcome the stereotype …liars.

2. An avid video-gamer spends much of his time at the computer playing or chatting about the game with other gamers.

• An avid video-gamer spends much of his/her time at … gamers. OR Avid video-gamers spend much of their time at … gamers.

3. Every competent kindergarten teacher can keep her students busy with interesting and constructive games.

• Every competent kindergarten teacher can keep his/her students busy … games. OR All kindergarten-teachers can keep their students busy … games.

4. In a democracy a citizen not only can voice his opinion freely, but he should also try to do so.

• In … a citizen not only can voice his/her opinion freely, but he/she … so. OR In … citizens not only can voice their opinion

…, but they … so.

5. For any operation to be successful, the surgeon relies on his team to be quite knowledgeable, responsive, and competent.

• For any operation to be successful, the surgeon relies on his/her team to be … competent. OR For any operation to be successful, surgeons rely on their team to be … competent.

Ch 4 | Agreement | Pronoun/Antecedent Making Sure Pronouns Agree With Their Antecedents Exercise #10

In the paragraph below underline all pronouns and correct any Pronoun/Antecedent Agreement errors.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, italicized, and underlined font.

After Annie graduated from college, he she found oneself herself at a crossroads. Hers Her degree was a Bachelor of Arts with a

major in Philosophy. During one’s her college years, many people had been puzzled by her major, for one they could not understand

what it means to be a philosopher. Annie would try to explain that a philosopher is a person who uses her his/her critical thinking

skills to analyze issues such as life and their its purpose, death, morality. Herself She would also mention names of famous

philosophers such as Socrates, Aristotle, Kant, Rousseau, yet it she was only met with more puzzlement. The usual follow-up

questions to Annie’s explanation would be “What kind of position can you/one get as a philosopher?” or “How much money can he

you/one make in philosophy?” Some would even question society’s need for such a profession, and he/she they would mock Annie

for being a “loser.” Gradually, Annie grew tired of his their questions, ignorance, and focus on money, so he she stopped trying to

explain anything to us them. With the degree in its her hand, however, she still needed to think about job applications or possibly

graduate school. Society today seems focused on more pragmatic aspects of life, so he it mostly values those members whose who can

put a price tag on his their work-output. Clearly, this decision was going to be a great challenge for Annie. However, it would be hers

her philosophical background and training in analysis that would assist him her with choosing the right professional path.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors | Fragments Identifying & Correcting Fragments Exercise #1

A. In the space provided, identify any fragment errors. If there is a fragment, briefly explain why.

B. Correct any existing fragments. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try as many options as you can.

Key: subjects are in bold, verbs are underlined, and words that create dependence are italicized. DC stands for Dependent Clause, while IC stands for Independent Clause. Sentences are put in brackets while clauses (and phrases) are put in parentheses.

1. [DC (When Mario first started learning English at the age of five.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of only one DC, so it lacks the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Delete words that create dependence: When Mario first started learning English at the age of five. OR

Add an IC: When Mario first started learning English at the age of five, his parents hired a tutor for him.

2. [phrase (Needing to memorize many idioms and words.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of one main (participial) phrase (no subject, no verb), so it lacks the

minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Turn the phrase into an IC: One needs to memorize many idioms and words. OR Add an IC: Needing

to memorize many idioms and words, I asked for my friend’s help.

3. [phrase (Fluency in many languages such as Spanish, English, and German.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of one main (noun) phrase and a list (no subject, no verb), so it lacks

the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Turn the phrase (with list) into an IC: He has fluency in many languages such as Spanish, English, and

German. OR Add an IC: This job requires specific qualifications, one of which is fluency in many languages such as Spanish,

English, and German.

4. [IC (Because of her knowledge of four different languages, Monica works as an interpreter for the United Nations.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of a prepositional phrase and one independent clause, so it has the

minimum requirement of 1 IC and is not a fragment.

• Sentence Correction: None.

5. [DC (Which is very different than English in terms of structure and grammar.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of only one DC, so it lacks the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Delete words that create dependence: Which Chinese is very different than English in terms of structure

and grammar. OR Add an IC: I recently took up Chinese, which is very different than English in terms of structure and

grammar.

6. [DC (Because his mother is from Greece.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of only one DC, so it lacks the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Delete words that create dependence: Because His mother is from Greece. OR Add an IC: Because his

mother is from Greece, he speaks Greek fluently.

7. [IC (Which language did you learn first, English or Korean?)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of one independent (interrogative) clause. The word “which” here is

not a word that creates dependence (relative pronoun); instead, it is an interrogative pronoun that introduces a question.

• Sentence Correction: None.

8. [DC (Although his parents cannot speak English very well.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of only one DC, so it lacks the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Delete words that create dependence: Although His parents cannot speak English very well. OR Add

an IC: Although his parents cannot speak English very well, he speaks it like a native.

9. [phrase (Translating from one language to another.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of one main (participial) phrase (no subject, no verb), so it lacks the

minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Turn the phrase into an IC: Translating from one language to another can be very difficult. OR Add

an IC: She can easily perform difficult tasks such as translating from one language to the other.

10. [phrase (When watching foreign movies without subtitles. )]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of one main (prepositional) phrase (no subject, no verb), so it lacks

the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Turn the phrase into an IC: When He often watches watching foreign movies without subtitles. OR

Add an IC: When watching foreign movies without subtitles, one can practice the foreign language.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors |

Run On & Comma Splice Identifying & Correcting

Run-On & Comma-Splice Errors

Exercise #2

A. In the space provided, identify any run-on or comma-splice errors. If there is a run-on or a comma splice, briefly explain why.

B. Correct any existing run-on or comma-splice errors. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try as many options as you can.

Key: subjects are in bold, verbs are underlined, and conjunctions are italicized. DC stands for Dependent Clause, while IC stands for Independent Clause. Sentences are put in brackets while clauses (and phrases) are put in parentheses.

1. [IC (The children were playing quietly in the back yard,) IC (suddenly an earthquake occurred.)]

• Sentence Error ID: COMMA SPLICE: This sentence consists of two ICs which are connected only by a comma; therefore, this sentence contains a comma splice.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: The children were playing quietly in the back yard, but suddenly an earthquake occurred. OR Separate ICs: The children were playing quietly in the back yard; suddenly, an earthquake occurred. OR Turn one IC into a DC: While the children were playing quietly in the back yard, suddenly an earthquake occurred.

2. [IC (No one could have predicted this catastrophe) IC (no relevant data was available at the time.)]

• Sentence Error ID: RUN ON: This sentence consists of two ICs which are not connected at all; therefore, this sentence contains a run-on.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: No one could have predicted this catastrophe, for no relevant data was available at the time. OR Separate ICs: No one could have predicted this catastrophe. No relevant data was available at the time. OR Turn one IC into a DC: No one could have predicted this catastrophe because no relevant data was available at the time.

3. [IC (Mark conducted the experiment with great caution and attention to detail,) IC (therefore, the results were reliable.)]

• Sentence Error ID: COMMA SPLICE: This sentence consists of two ICs which are connected only by a comma; therefore,

this sentence contains a comma splice.

• Sentence Correction: Separate ICs: Mark conducted the experiment with great caution and attention to detail. Therefore, the results were reliable. (In this case, where you have a conjunctive adverb such as “therefore” introducing the second IC, the simplest way to correct the comma splice (or run-on) is to separate the two clauses. You can also use a semi-colon instead of a period.)

4. [IC (Not only are Steven’s parents very strict,) IC (but they also tend to criticize him about everything.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of two independent clauses that are properly connected with a comma and the correlative conjunction “not only … but also”; therefore, this sentence does not contain a run-on or a comma splice.

• Sentence Correction: None.

5. [IC (We need to proofread in a systematic way) DC (so that we can identify all sentence errors and correct them.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of one IC and one DC; therefore, it has the minimum requirement of 1 IC (no fragment) and creates no suspicion for a Run-On or Comma-Splice because there is only one IC.

• Sentence Correction: None.

6. [IC (Professor Lyon, DC (who is a leading researcher in her field,) is starting a new project,) IC (so she is seeking new assistants.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of two ICs and one DC; the two ICs are properly connected with a comma and the coordinating conjunction “so”; therefore, the sentence does not contain a run-on or a comma-slice.

• Sentence Correction: None.

7. [DC (Whenever I listen to political debates,) IC (I notice the rhetorical fallacies committed by the participants,) IC (they usually avoid the issue.)]

• Sentence Error ID: COMMA SPLICE: This sentence consists of one DC and two ICs which are connected only by a comma; therefore, this sentence contains a comma splice.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: Whenever I listen to political debates, I notice the rhetorical fallacies committed

by the participants, for they usually avoid the issue. OR Separate ICs: Whenever I listen to political debates, I notice the rhetorical fallacies committed by the participants. They usually avoid the issue. OR Turn one IC into a DC: Whenever I listen to political debates, I notice the rhetorical fallacies committed by the participants who they usually avoid the issue.

8. [IC (Fred is very competitive) IC (he does not compete against other people) IC (he prefers to race against his own best potential.)]

• Sentence Error ID: RUN ON: This sentence consists of three ICs which are not connected at all; therefore, this sentence contains two run-ons.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: Fred is very competitive, yet he does not compete against other people, for he prefers to race against his own best potential. OR Separate ICs: Fred is very competitive. He does not compete against other people; instead, he prefers to race against his own best potential. OR Turn one (or more) IC into a DC: Although Fred is very competitive, he does not compete against others, but he prefers to race against his best potential.

9. [DC (Although the quiz DC (that the instructor administered last week) was very challenging,) IC (most students earned an A.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of two DCs and one IC; therefore, the sentence has the minimum requirement of 1 IC (no fragment) and creates no suspicion for a Run-On or Comma-Splice because there is only one IC.

• Sentence Correction: None.

10. [IC (After having heard both sides’ arguments, the jury conferred in a separate room) IC (they could reach a unanimous decision.)]

• Sentence Error ID: RUN ON: This sentence consists of two ICs which are not connected at all; therefore, this sentence contains two run-ons. (Do not mistake the introductory prepositional phrase for a DC. Although “after” can be a subordinating conjunction, in this context it does not introduce a clause (subject + verb), but only a phrase. Compare to “After the jury heard both sides’ arguments”: this would be a DC.)

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: After having heard both sides’ arguments, the jury conferred in a separate room, so they could reach a unanimous verdict. OR Separate ICs: After having heard both sides’ arguments, the jury conferred in a separate room; thus, they could reach a unanimous verdict. OR Turn one (or more) IC into a DC: After having heard both sides’ arguments, the jury conferred in a separate room until they could reach a unanimous verdict.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors |

Mixed Construction Identifying & Correcting

Mixed Construction

Exercise #3

A. In the space provided, identify any mixed construction errors by underlining them. If there is a mixed construction, briefly explain why.

B. Correct any existing mixed-construction errors. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try as many options as you can.

1. Because of his strong resume secured him a very good position with a major company.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

word “resume” tries to be both the object of the preposition “because of” and the subject of the verb “secured.” However, a

word cannot be an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: Because of His strong resume secured

him a very good position with a major company. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one: Because of his strong

resume, he was able to secure a very good position with a major company.

2. Thanks to her excellent communication skills, she managed to become head of the Human Resources Department.

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence contains no word that has a dual function to create a mixed construction.

• Sentence Correction: None.

3. In the most recent report by the company CEO confused everyone with a lack of specificity and with contradictions.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

word “CEO” tries to be both the object of the preposition “by” and the subject of the verb “confused.” However, a word cannot

be both an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Separate ICs: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: In the most recent

report, by the company CEO confused everyone with a lack of specificity and with contradictions. OR Add a subject to the

verb that does not have one: In the most recent report by the company CEO, she confused everyone with a lack of specificity

and with contradictions.

4. [DC (Even though Mark became manager in a very short time) (did not make him authoritative or arrogant.)]

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

DC (Even though … time) is supposed to be the subject to the verb “did not make” of the IC. However, this DC is an adverb

dependent clause and, therefore, cannot function as a subject to any verb.

• Sentence Correction: Convert the adverb DC into a noun DC: Even though That Mark became manager in a very short time

did not make him authoritative or arrogant. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one (or has the adverb DC as its

subject): Even though Mark became manager in a very short time, the new position did not make him authoritative or arrogant.

5. [DC (That Monica has two master degrees) (has not stopped her from pursuing a Ph.D.)]

• Sentence Error ID: CORRECT: This sentence consists of one noun DC which functions as the subject to the verb “has not

stopped” in the IC. Therefore, there is no mixed up part that creates a mixed construction.

• Sentence Correction: None.

6. [DC (Because competition in the marketplace has become fierce) (forces people to seek higher degrees in education.)]

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

DC (Because … fierce) is supposed to be the subject to the verb “forces” of the IC. However, this DC is an adverb dependent

clause and, therefore, cannot function as a subject to any verb.

• Sentence Correction: Convert the adverb DC into a noun DC: Because That competition in the marketplace has become

fierce forces people to seek higher degrees in education. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one (or has the

adverb DC as its subject): Because competition in the marketplace has become fierce, it forces people to seek higher degrees in

education.

7. By using various incentives such as bonuses or vacation packages increases productivity among employees.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

prepositional phrase “using … packages” tries to be both the object of the preposition “By” and the subject of the verb

“increases.” However, a word cannot be both an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: By Using various incentives such as

bonuses or vacation packages increases productivity among employees. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one:

By using various incentives such as bonuses or vacation packages, this manager increases productivity among employees.

8. While working full-time for her father taught her not only discipline but also respect for manual work.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

prepositional phrase “working full-time” tries to be both the object of the preposition “While” and the subject of the verb

“taught.” However, a word cannot be both an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: While Working full-time for her father

taught her not only discipline but also respect for manual work. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one: While

working full-time for her father, she was taught her not only discipline but also respect for manual work.

9. When constantly antagonizing one’s coworkers creates a negative and counterproductive atmosphere.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

prepositional phrase “constantly antagonizing one’s coworkers” tries to be both the object of the preposition “When” and the

subject of the verb “creates.” However, a word cannot be both an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: When Constantly antagonizing one’s

coworkers creates a negative and counterproductive atmosphere. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one: When

constantly antagonizing one’s coworkers, one creates a negative and counterproductive atmosphere.

10. [DC (As Anthony became more familiar with the job) (gave him a new sense of confidence and self-esteem.)]

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

DC (As … job) is supposed to be the subject to the verb “gave” of the IC. However, this DC is an adverb dependent clause

and, therefore, cannot function as a subject to any verb.

• Sentence Correction: Convert the adverb DC into a noun DC: As That Anthony became more familiar with the job gave him

a new sense of confidence and self-esteem. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one (or has the adverb DC as its

subject): As Anthony became more familiar with the job, this familiarity gave him a new sense of confidence and self-esteem.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors |

Misplaced Modifiers Identifying & Correcting

Misplaced Modifiers

Exercise #4

A. In the space provided, identify any existing misplaced modifiers by underlining them and briefly explaining why they are misplaced.

B. Correct any existing misplaced modifiers. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try as many options as you can.

1. Nina studied for her final exam not only her notes from class but also the main textbook of five-hundred pages.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “for her exam” comes

between the verb “studied” and its object “not only her notes from class … pages.” Therefore, this modifier causes an

unnecessary split between those two elements.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid these unnecessary splits: For her exam Nina studied not only her notes from class but also the

main textbook of five-hundred pages.

2. Completing his dissertation finally gave John the title of Doctor.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (adverb) “finally” could be referring to both the

word “completing” and the word “gave.” Therefore, this (squinting) modifier causes confusion to the reader.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid squinting modifiers: Finally completing his dissertation gave John the title of Doctor. OR

Completing his dissertation gave John the title of Doctor finally. (It depends on what the writer wants to modify with “finally.”)

3. The instructor announced the time for the exam just and then handed it out to the students.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (limiting) “just” does not modify anything in the

position it is placed. It needs to be placed right before the element it modifies; otherwise, the meaning of the sentence can

change significantly.

• Sentence Correction: Be careful with limiting words: Just the instructor announced the time for the exam and then …

students. OR The instructor just announced the time for the exam and then … students. OR The instructor announced just the

time for the exam and then … students. (Notice how the meaning of the sentence changes depending on the position of “just.”)

4. With instructors explaining concepts gradually students can become more aware of complex issues.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (adverb) “gradually” could be referring to both

the word “explaining” and the word “can become aware.” Therefore, this (squinting) modifier causes confusion to the reader.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid squinting modifiers: With instructors explaining concepts gradually, (insert a comma) students

can become more aware of complex issues. OR With instructors gradually explaining concepts, students can become more

aware of complex issues. OR With instructors explaining concepts, students can gradually become more aware of complex

issues. OR With instructors explaining concepts, students can become more aware of complex issues gradually.

5. The research assistant, because the professor gave detailed directions, conducted the experiment successfully.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (adverb dependent clause) “because the

professor gave detailed directions” comes between the subject “assistant” and the verb “conducted.” Therefore, this modifier

causes an unnecessary split between those two elements.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid these unnecessary splits: Because the professor gave detailed directions, the research assistant

conducted the experiment successfully.

6. Dr. Walsh has become in the field of nanotechnology the most prominent researcher.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “in the field of

nanotechnology” comes between the subject “Dr. Walsh” and the subject complement “the most prominent researcher.”

Therefore, this modifier causes an unnecessary split between those two elements.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid unnecessary splits: Dr. Walsh has become the most prominent researcher in the field of

nanotechnology.

7. For this experiment you will need a transparent, glass, medium-size surface.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifiers (adjectives) “a, transparent, glass, medium-

size” are positioned in the wrong order.

• Sentence Correction: Arrange a string of adjectives correctly: For this experiment you will a medium-size, transparent, glass

surface.

8. This student is a fluent speaker of three different languages who only recently arrived in the U.S. from Thailand.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (adjective clause) “who only recently arrived …

Thailand” is positioned far away from the word it modifies. In the case of these adjective clauses, it is best to position them as

close to the word they modify as possible.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid these unnecessary splits: This student, who only recently arrived in the U.S. from Thailand, is a

fluent speaker of three different languages.

9. On the first day of forensics class, everybody fainted at the almost sight of the dead body to be examined.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (limiting) “almost” modifies the word “sight,”

but this does not make sense. Therefore, the modifier needs to be placed right before the element it refers to; otherwise, the

meaning of the sentence can change significantly.

• Sentence Correction: Be careful with limiting words: On the first day of forensics class, almost everybody fainted

…examined. OR On the first day of forensics class, everybody almost fainted …examined. (Notice how the meaning of the

sentence changes depending on the position of “just.”)

10. As an entomologist, Karen was mostly fascinated by those dark, tiny, amazing, hard-working creatures called ants.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifiers (adjectives) “those dark, tiny, amazing, hard-

working” are positioned in the wrong order.

• Sentence Correction: Arrange a string of adjectives correctly: As an entomologist, Karen was mostly fascinated by those

amazing, hard-working, tiny, dark creatures called ants.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors |

Dangling Modifiers Identifying & Correcting

Dangling Modifiers

Exercise #5

A. In the space provided, identify any existing dangling modifiers by underlining them and briefly explaining why they are dangling.

B. Correct any existing dangling modifiers. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try as many options as you can.

1. Explaining the difficult concept to students, a dog walked in the classroom causing mayhem.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (participial phrase) “explaining … students” is

literally referring to the noun “a dog.” However, “a dog” can obviously not explain a difficult concept to anyone. Therefore,

this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: While the instructor was explaining a difficult concept to students, a

dog walked in the classroom causing mayhem.

2. To threaten the lazy students in class, their grades were lowered significantly.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (infinitive phrase) “to threaten … in class” is

literally referring to the noun “their grades.” However, “grades” cannot threaten anybody. Therefore, this modifier is just

hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: To threaten the lazy students, the instructor lowered their grades

significantly.

3. After creating many grammar exercises on sentence errors, confusion arose about what is grammatically correct.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “after creating …errors” is

literally referring to the noun “confusion.” However, “confusion” cannot create grammar exercises. Therefore, this modifier is

just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: After the instructor had created many grammar exercises on

sentence errors, confusion arose about what is grammatically correct.

4. To defend his dissertation in front of a committee of professors, a PowerPoint presentation was used.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (infinitive phrase) “to defend … professors” is

literally referring to the noun “a PowerPoint presentation.” However, “a PowerPoint presentation” cannot defend a dissertation.

Therefore, this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: To defend his dissertation in front of a committee of professors, the

Ph.D. Candidate used a PowerPoint presentation.

5. Finally being able to figure out the solution to the math problem, time had run out.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (participial phrase) “… being able to figure out

… problem” is literally referring to the noun “time.” However, “time” cannot figure something out. Therefore, this modifier is

just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: By the time Matt was finally able to figure out the solution to the

math problem, time had run out.

6. While rigorously messaging her friend, Erica’s cell-phone beeping sound caught the instructor’s attention.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “while rigorously

messaging her friend” is literally referring to the noun “the cell phone.” However, a “cell phone” itself cannot message

someone. Therefore, this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: While Erica was rigorously messaging her friend, her cell-phone

beeping sound caught the instructor’s attention.

7. To proctor an exam with five-hundred students efficiently, a clever system was improvised.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (infinitive phrase) “to proctor … efficiently” is

literally referring to the noun “a clever system.” However, “a clever system” cannot proctor an exam. Therefore, this modifier is

just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: To proctor an exam with five-hundred students efficiently, the course

instructors improvised a clever system.

8. Because of trying to cheat at the exam, the supervising instructor had to report the student to the committee of academic integrity.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “because of trying to cheat

at the exam” is literally referring to the noun “the supervising instructor.” However, it is unlikely that the “instructor” was the

one trying to cheat at the exam. Therefore, this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: Because the student was trying to cheat at the exam, the supervising

instructor had to report her to the committee of academic integrity.

9. Fiercely competing against everybody else during their senior year, no friendship was left intact by the time of graduation.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (participial phrase) “Fiercely competing against

… year” is literally referring to the noun “friendship.” However, a “friendship” cannot compete. Therefore, this modifier is just

hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: Because students were fiercely competing against everybody else

during their senior year, no friendship was left intact by the time of graduation.

10. Before taking the course “Living Healthy,” his diet mainly consisted of hamburgers and other kinds of junk food.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “before taking the course

‘Living Health’” is literally referring to the noun “his diet.” However, a “diet” cannot take a course. Therefore, this modifier is

just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: Before Harry took the class “Living Healthy,” his diet mainly

consisted of hamburgers and other kinds of junk food.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors |

All Identifying & Correcting

Sentence Errors

Exercise #6

A. In the space provided, identify any sentence errors and briefly explain why they are errors.

B. Correct any existing sentence errors. Because more than one way may be appropriate for the correction, try at least two options

Key: subjects are in bold, verbs are underlined, and conjunctions are italicized. DC stands for Dependent Clause, while IC stands for Independent Clause. Sentences are put in brackets while clauses (and phrases) are put in parentheses.

1. [IC (The education system in the U.S. offers many opportunities,) IC (for instance, a person can switch careers through higher

education.)]

• Sentence Error ID: COMMA SPLICE: This sentence consists of two ICs which are connected only by a comma; therefore,

this sentence contains a comma splice.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: The education system in the U.S. offers many opportunities, so, for instance, a

person can switch careers through higher education. OR Separate ICs: The education system in the U.S. offers many

opportunities. For instance, a person can switch careers through higher degrees. (You can also use a semi-colon instead of a

period.) OR Turn one IC into a DC: Because the education system in the U.S. offers many opportunities, a person, for

instance, can switch careers through higher education.

2. Eagerly following her advisor’s suggestion, an apprenticeship at a law firm was pursued.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (participial phrase) “Eagerly following

…suggestion” is literally referring to the noun “an apprenticeship.” However, “an apprenticeship” can clearly not follow a

suggestion. Therefore, this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: Eagerly following her advisor’s suggestion, Mary pursued an

apprenticeship at a law firm.

3. [DC (Whether Alexa herself wanted to become a doctor.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of only one DC; therefore, it lacks the minimum requirement of 1

IC.

• Sentence Correction: Delete words that create dependence: Whether Alexa herself wanted to become a doctor. OR Add an

IC: At the interview the advisor asked Alexa’s parents whether Alexa herself wanted to become a doctor.

4. [DC (When I was seventeen-years old) IC (I felt very stressed and confused) IC (I had to declare my major before entering the

university.)]

• Sentence Error ID: RUN ON: This sentence consists of one DC and two ICs; however, the ICs are not connected at all;

therefore, this sentence contains a run-on.

• Sentence Correction: Connect ICs properly: When I was seventeen-years old, I felt very stressed and confused, for I had to

declare my major before entering the university. OR Separate ICs: When I was seventeen-years old, I had to declare my major

before entering the university. Therefore, I felt very stressed and confused. OR Turn one (or more) IC into a DC: When I

was seventeen-years old, I felt very stressed and confused because I had to declare my major before entering the university.

5. [phrase (Being very indecisive about choosing a major.)]

• Sentence Error ID: FRAGMENT: This sentence consists of one main (participial) phrase (no subject, no verb); therefore, it

lacks the minimum requirement of 1 IC.

• Sentence Correction: Turn the phrase into an IC: Many students are very indecisive about choosing a major. OR Add an IC:

Being very indecisive about choosing a major, many students take a variety of courses beforehand.

6. In this grammar handbook includes thorough explanations and multiple examples of sentence errors.

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

word “handbook” tries to be both the object of the preposition “in” and the subject of the verb “includes.” However, a word

cannot be both an object and a subject at the same time.

• Sentence Correction: Take the word of dual function out of the prepositional phrase: In This grammar handbook includes

thorough explanations and multiple examples of sentence errors. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one: In this

grammar handbook, the authors include thorough explanations and multiple examples of sentence errors.

7. Before being exposed to different cultures through traveling, books were Paul’s main source of information about the world.

• Sentence Error ID: DANGLING MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “before being exposed to

different cultures through traveling” is literally referring to the noun “books.” However, a “book” cannot be exposed to

cultures. Therefore, this modifier is just hanging loosely from the sentence not making any sense.

• Sentence Correction: Include the word that is implied: Before Paul was exposed to different cultures through traveling,

books were his main source of information about the rest of the world.

8. Keith has been for the English Department working as a lecturer for the last seven years.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “for the English

Department” comes between parts of the verb “has been working.” Therefore, this modifier causes an unnecessary split

between those two elements.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid these unnecessary splits: Keith has been working as a lecturer for the English Department for the

last seven years.

9. Kate, after her one-year tour of Europe, has gained a different perspective on many issues.

• Sentence Error ID: MISPLACED MODIFIER: In this sentence the modifier (prepositional phrase) “after her one-year tour of

Europe” comes between the subject “Kate” and the verb “has gained.” Therefore, this modifier causes an unnecessary split

between those two elements.

• Sentence Correction: Avoid these unnecessary splits: After her one-year tour of Europe, Kate has gained a different

perspective on many issues.

10. [DC (When Adela was an exchange student abroad) (helped her practice her Spanish and meet people from other countries.)]

• Sentence Error ID: MIXED CONSTRUCTION: This sentence consists of two parts that are mixed up together because the

DC (When … abroad) is supposed to be the subject to the verb “helped” of the IC. However, this DC is an adverb dependent

clause and, therefore, cannot function as a subject to any verb.

• Sentence Correction: Convert the adverb DC into a noun DC: When That Adela was an exchange student abroad helped her

practice … countries. OR Add a subject to the verb that does not have one (or has the adverb DC as its subject): When Adela

was an exchange student abroad, the time there helped her practice her Spanish … countries.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors | All Correcting Sentence Errors Exercise #7

In the paragraph below, find and correct any sentence errors (fragments, run-ons, comma splices, misplaced and dangling modifiers). Remember that the safest way to edit for sentence errors is to isolate your sentences and clauses, so it may be better to start by completing Exercise #8. Keep in mind that more than one ways of correction may be appropriate.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, and italicized font. Dear Students, There comes in our lives a time in our lives. (take out the period) W when we all have to look at ourselves in the mirror. Usually mirrors

do not lie, but we choose not to see the truth about ourselves. Indeed, many times we try to take credit only for our successes; (take out

the semi-colon) while we refuse to take responsibility for our failures. Instead, we often try to blame our failures on others, and we tend

to complain about our bad luck. Blaming While students blame instructors for harsh grades, laziness is what instructors blame

students for. If we closely and honestly look closely and honestly, however, the mirror will be honest too. (insert a period) It will

reveal both our strengths and our weaknesses. When That we analyze the causes of our successes or failures can be the source of

invaluable lessons. Following If we follow this strategy, future problems will not be too challenging because we will be ready to

overcome them. If we take a brave look in the mirror, it will tell us the truth.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors | All Identifying Sentence Errors Exercise #8

A. In the column to the left, write out the sentences from Exercise #7.

B. For each sentence, identify any existing errors by underlining them and writing their ID in the column to the right. If the sentence is correct, write CORRECT

The answers have been put in bold, and italicized font and explanations in

1. There comes in our lives a time. Misplaced Modifier

2. [DC (When we all have to look at ourselves in the mirror.)] Fragment (only DC)

3. Usually mirrors do not lie, but we choose not to see the truth about ourselves. Correct

4. Indeed, many times we try to take credit only for our successes; [DC (while we refuse to take

responsibility for our failures.)] Fragment (only DC)

5. [IC (Instead, we often try to blame our failures on others,) IC (we tend to complain about our bad luck.)] Comma Splice

6. Blaming instructors for harsh grades, laziness is what instructors blame students for. Dangling Modifier

7. [DC (If we closely and honestly look closely and honestly, however,) IC (the mirror will be honest too)

IC (it will reveal both our strengths and our weaknesses.)] Run On

8. When we analyze the causes of our successes or failures can be the source of invaluable lessons. Mixed Construction

9. Following this strategy, future problems will not be too challenging because we will be ready to overcome

them. Dangling Modifier

10. If we take a brave look in the mirror will tell us the truth. Mixed Construction

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors | All Correcting Sentence Errors Exercise #9

In the paragraph below, find and correct any sentence errors (fragments, run-ons, comma splices, misplaced and dangling modifiers). Remember that the safest way to edit for sentence errors is to isolate your sentences and clauses, so it may be better to start by completing Exercise #10. Keep in mind that more than one ways of correction may be appropriate.

Corrections have been made in bigger, bold, and italicized font. PHILOSOPHY & PLATO

Philosophy derives from the Greek words “philo” and “sophia” ; (take out the semi-colon) which mean “love” and “wisdom” accordingly.

This love for knowledge urges people to seek answers to questions regarding abstract matters ; (take out the semi-colon) such as life,

reason, and truth. One of the most famous Greek philosophers was Plato his whose “Allegory of the Cave” is still taught at universities

all over the world. Because That he investigates the nature of truth and reality in this piece makes this allegory a classic one. By using

the metaphor of a man trying to escape from a cave, the effort of this man Plato shows humans’ struggle to discover truth. Plato is

also famous for also his account of the teachings of Socrates. Furthermore, to be truly informed on his work, one must study Plato’s

epic work, The Republic, must be studied. In this book, he describes an idealistic, utopian world, governed by citizens. In many ways

The Republic has served as a model for the government systems of the Roman Empire and of the modern United States of America .

(insert a period) t Therefore, we can observe continuity in the teachings of philosophers from the past to the present.

Ch 5 | Sentence Errors | All Identifying Sentence Errors Exercise #10

A. In the column to the left, write out the sentences from Exercise #9.

B. For each sentence, identify any existing errors by underlining them and writing their ID in the column to the right. If the sentence is correct, write CORRECT

The answers have been put in bigger, bold, and italicized font.

1. Philosophy derives from the Greek words “philo” and “sophia”; Correct

2. [DC (which mean “love” and “wisdom” accordingly.)] Fragment (only DC)

3. This love for knowledge urges people to seek answers to questions regarding abstract matters; [phrase

(such as life, reason, and truth.)]

Fragment (only

phrase)

4. [IC (One of the most famous Greek philosophers was Plato) IC ( his “Allegory of the Cave” is still taught

at universities all over the world.)] Run On

5. [adverb DC/subject of verb:makes (Because he investigates the nature of truth and reality in this piece)

IC (makes this allegory a classic one.)] Mixed Construction

6. By using the metaphor of a man trying to escape from a cave, the effort of this man shows humans’

struggle to discover truth. Dangling Modifier

7. Plato is famous for also his account of the teachings of Socrates. Misplaced Modifier

8. Furthermore, to be truly informed on his work, Plato’s epic work, The Republic, must be studied. Dangling Modifier

9. In this book describes an idealistic, utopian world, governed by citizens. Mixed Construction

10. [IC (In many ways The Republic has served as a model for the government systems of the Roman Empire

and of the modern United States of America) IC (therefore we can observe continuity in the teachings of

philosophers from the past to the present.)] Run On