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English 10
Grammar
Mona Shores High School
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Unit 1
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Phrases
Clauses
Sentence Patterns
Sentence Types
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT I
LESSON ONE: PHRASES
A phrase is two or more related words (without a subject and a verb) that function as a single
sentence part (either noun, adjective, or adverb). There are three kinds of phrases:
1. Prepositional – begins with a preposition and includes its object and any words modifying
the object
a. Mr. Weber learned the facts of life.
b. After the dance, we went to the cabin on Lake Michigan.
c. Justin fell off the stage during his opening song.
d. ____________________________________________________________________
2. Appositive – a noun or noun phrase that renames a nearby noun
a. Mr. Conrad, the world’s coolest dude, is absent today.
b. Our soldiers, the men over there, fought bravely in the streets of Iraq.
c. An owl, a creature of the night, kept Kimberly awake all night.
d. ____________________________________________________________________
3. Verbal
a. Participial phrase– a verb form ending in -ed or -ing that is used as an adjective.
Ex. – Being a professional golfer, Andy has the best job.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
b. Gerund phrase – a verb form ending in -ing that is used as a noun.
Ex. –Playing hockey is my favorite winter sport.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
c. Infinitive phrase – a verb form that appears with “to” before the verb.
Ex. – Mary wants to play tennis this weekend.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
Note 1: What is the difference between the preposition “to” and the infinitive “to”?
Note 2: What is the difference between a participial phrase and a gerund phrase?
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NOTES
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Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: In the following sentences, find the phrase or phrases. Circle
each phrase. Hint: There could be a phrase within a phrase!
1. Prying the wheel off the car took me nearly an hour.
2. On career day, Mr. Weber talked about a life in the rodeo.
3. Avery, the tallest girl on the team, tried dunking the ball, but the rim denied her.
4. Running through the woods is fun to do.
5. Running through the woods, John knew he had to escape from the bear.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Compose original sentences following the directions for each
item.
1. Write a sentence with the appositive “my smartest teacher.”
2. Write a question with the phrase “to smell.”
3. Write a sentence with “finishing the race” as the subject.
4. Write a sentence with “running for her life” as an adjective.
5. Write a sentence with “under the nachos” as a prepositional phrase.
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT I
LESSON TWO: CLAUSES
A clause (subordinate or dependent) is two or more related words that contain a verb and its
subject, but do not express a complete thought. A clause functions as a single sentence part,
either noun, adjective, or adverb. Clauses usually begin with an introductory word.
I. Adjective
a. The arrow that has left the bow never returns.
b. I prefer the teacher who listens to her students.
c. _________________________________________________________________________
(who, which, that, whom, whose, when, where)
II. Adverb
a. When the well is dry, we know the worth of water.
b. Muskegon would be a fine city if it were only warmer.
c. _________________________________________________________________________
(after, although, as, as if, because, before, even
though, if, since, so that, than, unless, when, where,
whether, while)
III. Noun
a. Whoever gossips to you will gossip about you.
b. I will do whatever you like.
c. _________________________________________________________________________
(who, which, that, how, whoever, whom, whomever,
what, whatever, when, where, whether, whose, why)
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NOTES
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Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Compose original sentences following the directions for each
item.
1. Write a sentence using the clause “who is my best friend”.
2. Write a sentence using the clause “where there is sunshine”.
3. Write a sentence using the clause “before we went to the football game”.
4. Write a sentence using the clause “unless you pay me five dollars”.
5. Write a sentence using clause “which is my favorite” as an adjective clause.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Underline the clauses in each sentence.
1. Whenever I feel sad, I turn watch an episode of The Jersey Shore.
2. Bradley Cooper, who appeared in Wedding Crashers, is hilarious.
3. The boy that fell asleep in class drooled all over his book when he wasn’t snoring.
4. After Steve gets home from school, he is going to play his guitar.
5. Johnny ate his food as if he had not eaten in two weeks.
6. Since The Backstreet Boys broke up, I have been crying for seven straight days.
7. Since he can’t hit, he will be cut from the team if he doesn’t improve his batting.
8. When Pop Goes the Sailors! is over, students will be exhausted unless they sleep.
9. Whoever wants to play Call of Duty tonight is going to miss the movie.
10. You will be late class unless you stop holding hands with your girlfriend between classes.
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT I
LESSON THREE: SENTENCE PATTERNS
Every sentence in the English language follows certain patterns and has certain elements.
You must be able to recognize the elements in order to understand the sentence better.
A sentence is a group of words with two main parts: a subject (who/what did it?) and a
verb/predicate (what was done?).
1. Subjects – tell who or what the sentence is about.
a. Subjects are either nouns or pronouns (Bob, he).
b. Subjects may be single words or groups of words (Mary, Empire State Building).
c. Subjects may have adjectives (The blue book, His funny girl).
d. Subjects may be compound (Sue and Bob, the dog and the cat).
e. Subjects always come before the verb, except in questions (Will you come
here?), in sentences that begin with “here” or “there” (Here is my book.), and in
sentences to emphasize the subject (High on the cliff was an eagle.).
f. Subjects could be understood (Stand here. – you is understood to be the
subject).
g. Subjects will never be found in prepositional phrases.
2. Verbs – word or words that make a statement about the subject; show action, state of
being or link something to the subject.
a. Verbs can be single words or a group of words (ran, will run, have been running).
b. Verbs can be compound (ran and jumped).
c. Verbs can be action or linking (ran, is).
d. Verbs generally follow subjects, except in questions (Is Jim here?), in sentences
that begin with “here” or “there” (Here is my book.), and in sentences to
emphasize the subject (Over the mountain was the train.).
e. Verbs can be separated by other words (will not run, can we go).
f. Verbs will never be found in prepositional phrases.
3. Direct Objects – a noun or pronoun that receives the action of an action verb.
(He hit the ball.)
4. Indirect Objects – a noun or pronoun that appears with a direct object and names the
person or thing that something is given to or done for. (He gave me the ball).
5. Predicate Nouns – noun or pronoun that appears with a linking verb and renames,
identifies or explains the subject. (He is the winner.)
6. Predicate Adjective – an adjective that appears with a linking verb and describes the
subject. (I am happy.)
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A sentence is a group of words containing a verb and its subject and expressing a complete
thought. Sentences follow one of five traditional patterns:
S+V
a. Pete shouted.
b. Pete shouted loudly.
c. He walked.
d. He walked down the street.
e. Halt! (understood subject – "you")
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
S + LV + PA
a. I am tired.
b. Mary looked frazzled.
c. Tom was late for school.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
S + LV + PN
a. He was a doctor.
b. During the summer, I am a lifeguard.
c. It is I.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
S + AV + DO
a. Tom hit the ball.
b. A group of musicians entered the concert.
c. We watched the old movie after school last night.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
S + AV + IO + DO
a. Give me that book, please. ("you")
b. He bought me a candy bar for lunch.
c. You show me a hero, and I'll write you a tragedy.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
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Name: ____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Compose original sentences following the directions for each
item.
1. S + AV + the prepositional phrase "in an irrigation ditch"
2. S + LV + PN using rapper as the PN
3. S + AV + IO + DO using Chuck Norris as the IO
3. S + LV + 2 PA's using am as the verb
5. S + AV + DO using wisdom as the DO
6. S + AV + DO with 2 prepositional phrases and English class as the DO
7. S + LV + PN using Barack Obama as the subject
8. S + AV + IO + DO with 3 prepositional phrases and gave as the verb
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PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Read the passage and select the correct sentence pattern for
each underlined sentence.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
Carlos Ray "Chuck" Norris is an American martial artist and actor. After serving in the
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United States Air Force, he began his rise to fame as a martial artist and has since founded his
own school, Chun Kuk Do. As a result of his "tough guy" image, an Internet phenomenon
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gave Chuck Norris fame in 2005. This fame was known as Chuck Norris facts, ascribing
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various implausible or even impossible feats to Norris.
Norris appeared in a number of action films, such as Way of the Dragon in which he
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starred alongside Bruce Lee and was The Cannon Group's leading star in the 1980s. He next
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played the starring role in the television series Walker, Texas Ranger from 1993 to 2001.
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Norris is politically conservative. He has written several books on Christianity and donated to a
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number of Republican candidates and causes. In 2007 and 2008, he campaigned for former
Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, who was running for the Republican nomination for
President in 2008. Norris also writes a column for the conservative website WorldNetDaily.
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1. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
4. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
2. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
5. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
3. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
6. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT I
LESSON FOUR: TYPES OF SENTENCES
There are four basic sentence types: the simple sentence, the compound sentence, the
complex sentence, and the compound-complex sentence. We will examine them one at a
time.
1. The Simple Sentence (S+V) – a single independent clause with its modifiers.
a. He walked the dog.
b. He took one look and shrugged his shoulders.
c. __________________________________________________________________________________
2. The Compound Sentence (S+V) + (; or conjunction w/ comma) + (S+V) – two or more
independent clauses and their modifiers joined by a coordinating conjunction (and, or, but,
nor, yet, for, so) or a conjunctive adverb (however, moreover, therefore, thus, indeed) or a
semi-colon.
a. He walked the dog, but he never had to feed the cats.
b. He took one look and shrugged his shoulders; however, he didn't say anything.
c. __________________________________________________________________________________
3. The Complex Sentence (S+V) + Clause – an independent clause and its modifiers with
one or more dependent clauses attached.
a. He walked the dog, which was one of the most expensive breeds in the world.
b. As soon as he entered the room, he took one look and shrugged his shoulders.
c. __________________________________________________________________________________
4. Compound-Complex Sentence (S+V) + (; or conjunction w/ comma) + (S+V) + Clause
Two or more independent clauses with one or more dependent clauses attached.
a. He walked the dog, which was one of the most expensive breeds in the world, but he never had to feed
the cats.
b. As soon as he entered the room, he took one look and shrugged his shoulders; however, he didn't say
anything when I questioned his answer.
c. __________________________________________________________________________________
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NOTES
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Name: _______________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Using the chart below, identify the types of sentences.
1 = simple sentence (S+V)
2 = compound sentence (S+V) + conj. + (S+V)
3 = complex sentence (S+V) + clause
4 = compound-complex sentence (S+V) + conj. + (S+V) + clause
_____ 1. When Alissa performs her gymnastics routine, her mother watches proudly.
_____ 2. Are Nick and Kelsey the youngest of their children?
_____ 3. Studying would be dull if Chloe did not tell her jokes every day.
_____ 4. Cassie invited Ryan to meet her for lunch; he happily accepted the invitation.
_____ 5. Doesn't the sun's warmth feel wonderful after the rain has stopped?
_____ 6. I have paid the postage on the package, and I will mail it Thursday.
_____ 7. On our Fourth of July trip, we visited Traverse City for a picnic and a boat ride.
_____ 8. Be careful; I don't want to hurt you.
_____ 9. Sisters can be fun, frustrating, helpful, annoying, and loving.
_____10. Shall we sail along the island that was once inhabited by pirates?
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Compose original sentences following the directions for each
item.
1. Write a simple sentence about your best friend.
2. Make your simple sentence about your best friend into a compound sentence using “and” as
the conjunction.
3. Make your simple sentence about your best friend into a complex sentence.
4. Combine your compound sentence and your complex sentence about your best friend into
a compound-complex sentence.
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PRACTICE EXERCISE 3: Read the passage and select the correct sentence type for
each underlined sentence.
Facebook is a social networking service and website, which was launched in February
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2004. As of January 2011, Facebook has more than 600 million active users. Users may create
a personal profile, add other users as friends, and exchange messages, including automatic
notifications when they update their profile. Facebook users must register before using the site.
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Additionally, users may join common-interest user groups, organized by workplace, school or
college, or other characteristics. The name of the service stems from the colloquial name for
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the book given to students at the start of the academic year by university administrations in the
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United States to help students get to know each other better. Facebook allows any users who
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declare themselves to be at least 13 years old to become registered users of the website, and
then they have full access to the site that allows them freedom to find friends.
Facebook was founded by Mark Zuckerberg with his college roommates and fellow
computer science students Eduardo Saverin, Dustin Moskovitz and Chris Hughes. The
website's membership was initially limited by the founders to Harvard students, but was
expanded to other colleges in the Boston area, the Ivy League, and Stanford University. It
gradually added support for students at various other universities before opening to high
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school students, and, finally, to anyone aged 13 and over, but based on
ConsumersReports.org on May 2011, there are 7.5 million children under 13 with accounts,
violating the site's terms.
1. A. Simple
B. Compound
C. Complex
D. Compound-Complex
3. A. Simple
B. Compound
C. Complex
D. Compound-Complex
2. A. Simple
B. Compound
C. Complex
D. Compound-Complex
4. A. Simple
B. Compound
C. Complex
D. Compound-Complex
5. A. Simple
B. Compound
C. Complex
D. Compound-Complex
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Name _________________________________
UNIT I
MASTERY TEST REVIEW (28 points)
PART 1: SENTENCE PATTERNS (1 point each)
Using the chart below, identify and label the pattern of each of the following sentences.
1) cross off prepositional phrases and adverbs
2) underline verb twice and label (LV or AV)
3) underline subject once and label
4) label PA or PN if LV
5) label DO with possible IO if AV
6) If it is a question, re-write as a sentence
Pattern 1 = S + V
Pattern 2 = S + LV + PA
Pattern 3 = S + LV + PN
Pattern 4 = S + AV + DO
Pattern 5 = S + AV + IO + DO
_____ 1. I gave my mom a gift of flowers yesterday.
_____ 2. I arrived at the concert before the rest of my friends.
_____ 3. Bill surprised me with his invitation for Saturday night.
_____ 4. Jay bought Sue a card for her birthday.
_____ 5. Sewing is a productive hobby.
_____ 6. His conscientious attitude is rare and profitable for the company.
_____ 7. Is Tom the chairperson for our committee?
_____ 8. Has Jim marked the calendar for the date of the play?
_____ 9. A band of musicians played late into the evening at the dance club.
_____10. Greg looks helpless and sad tonight.
PART 2: COMPOSING SENTENCES (2 points each)
Compose original sentences following the directions for each item.
1. Write a sentence with “beautiful” as the PA.
2. Write a sentence with “teacher” as the PN.
3. Write a question with “ball” as the DO.
4. Write a sentence with “my sister” as the IO.
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PART 3. (1 point each)
In this passage, certain sentences have been underlined and numbered. Each question
consists of a sentence pattern. Circle the appropriate letter.
I bet your morning habits are a lot like mine. However, it takes a while for me to get going. My
mom wakes me in the morning at 6:30 a.m. I usually do not get out of bed until 6:45 a.m. I like
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my pillow too much. I then run down the stairs to beat my sister to the shower. She is quicker
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than me usually. I have to beat her to the shower; otherwise, I have to wait for almost a half
hour. She takes a long time. Finally, when it is my turn, my mom gives me a towel. I like the
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towel with the seashells on it. It is my favorite. I only spend about 5 minutes in the shower.
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After that, I brush my teeth. I also take care of other personal stuff. Picking out the right clothes
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is difficult for me. I wish I were like my dad. He is a dentist. He doesn’t have to think about his
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clothes because he wears the same outfit every day – at least that’s what it seems like to me.
After I get dressed, I eat a hearty breakfast. Then, I am happy. By then, my bus arrives. And
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the next day, I start my pattern all over again.
1.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
6.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
2.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
7.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
3.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
8.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
4.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
9.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
5.
A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
10. A. S + V
B. S + LV + PA
C. S + LV + PN
D. S + AV + DO
E. S + AV + IO + DO
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Unit 2
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Commas
Fragments
Run-On Sentences
Comma Splices
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT II
LESSON ONE: THE COMMA
The following are the six most common rules governing the use of the comma.
Rule One: Use commas to separate three or more items in a series (words, phrases, or
clauses).
a. My little brother wants to play football, baseball, and hockey. (words)
b. He swims, reads, and hikes in his leisure time. (words)
Ex. _______________________________________________________________________
Rule Two: Use commas to separate the items in a date or address.
a. The company moved to 120 Turner Avenue, Macon, Georgia, late
last year.
b. The historic meeting took place at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, July 2, 1990, in
the Blackstone Hotel.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
Rule Three: Use a comma before the coordinating conjunction that joins two
complete sentences (for, and ,nor, but, or, yet, so)
a. The final session came to a close, and the legislators left for home.
b. The accident occurred in a busy intersection, but no one was hurt.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
Rule Four: Use a comma after introductory words, phrases, and clauses.
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
Yes, I will leave earlier. (word)
Well, what shall I do now? (word)
In the early morning light, the beach looks magical. (prepositional phrase)
Leaning over the desk, I grabbed the books and papers. (phrase)
To make matters worse, he was unable to walk for days. (verbal phrase)
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
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Rule Five: Use commas to set off words, phrases, or clauses that interrupt the flow of
the sentence.
1) expressions used in direct address
a. Mr. Ford, we will send you a copy later.
b. Has it occurred to you, my friend, that some people may disapprove?
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
2) appositives
a. Tom Walker, the leader of the expedition, died in the third month of
the voyage.
b. A great athlete, Tony received several offers to play in college.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
3) parenthetical expressions (interrupters)
a. I believe, however, that Sam scored better on the exam.
b. It was, in my opinion, a great example of Romantic literature.
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
Rule Six: Use commas to set off nonessential phrases and clauses.
c. All the kids who play instruments will be asked to join the band.
(essential)
d. Marty and Ben, who play instruments, have recently joined the band.
(nonessential)
Ex. ________________________________________________________________________
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Name: __________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Find the comma errors in the following sentences; then correct
the errors by adding or deleting commas. Any sentence will have only one type of
error. There are no correct sentences.
1. Frank planned to cheat on his exam but he forgot to make cheat notes.
2. My father on the other hand is better at golfing than I am.
3. The members, who all have perfect attendance, should meet at noon tomorrow.
4. I think Ben that you should probably try a little harder next time.
5. I think that his books are complex controversial and interesting.
6. My ordeal actually began on Monday April 17 1989 when I turned 19.
7. After we have gathered all our materials we intend to begin planning our project.
8. I really have to hurry now or I will be late for class.
9. The Martins will be moving to 437 Linton Road Norton Shores Michigan 49441.
10. My Aunt Phyllis the queen of polyester will never be a fashionable dresser.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Write the following sentences using commas correctly.
1. Write a sentence with a series telling me about your three favorite foods.
2. Write a sentence that includes your birth date.
3. Write a sentence about your parents using a conjunction to join two sentences.
4. Write a sentence about computers that uses an introductory word, phrase or clause.
5. Write a question with an appositive about your favorite musician or musical group.
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT II
LESSON TWO: SENTENCE FRAGMENTS
A sentence fragment is a word group that pretends to be a sentence; remember that a
complete sentence must contain at least one independent clause – it must contain a verb and
its subject, and it must express a complete thought. Fragments are usually dependent
phrases or clauses that need words added to make them complete sentences, or that need to
be attached to a nearby sentence.
There are two ways, then, to correct a sentence fragment:
1. Add whatever is needed to turn it into a sentence.
FRAGMENT: Is one of the largest snakes. (subject needed)
SENTENCE: The anaconda is one of the largest snakes.
FRAGMENT: Anacondas to a length of thirty feet. (verb needed)
SENTENCE: Anacondas can grow to a length of thirty feet.
FRAGMENT: Although these snakes aren't poisonous. (dependent)
SENTENCE: Although these snakes aren't poisonous, their size makes them dangerous.
2. Attach the fragment to a nearby sentence, making sure to punctuate correctly.
*If fragment is at the beginning, ALWAYS put a comma after the fragment*
FRAGMENT: Since we had driven both cars. We left at different times.
SENTENCE: ______________________________________________________________________
*If the fragment is at the end, NORMALLY do not use any punctuation*
FRAGMENT: We left at different times. Since we had driven both cars.
SENTENCE: _______________________________________________________________________
*If the fragment is an appositive, use a comma before the appositive*
FRAGMENT: We recently met Mr. Harris. A business tycoon in town.
SENTENCE: ______________________________________________________________________
*If the fragment is a clause describing the word immediately in front of the clause, use a comma
before the clause*
FRAGMENT: We recently met Mr. Harris. Who is a business tycoon in town.
SENTENCE: ______________________________________________________________________
*If the fragment begins with “such as,” “including,” and “especially,” put a comma before the fragment*
FRAGMENT: He likes three sports. Including baseball.
SENTENCE: ______________________________________________________________________
*If the fragment is a list, put a colon (:) before the fragment.
FRAGMENT: He likes three sports. Baseball, football and basketball.
SENTENCE: ______________________________________________________________________
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NOTES
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Name: ______________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Re-write as needed to make the following fragment into
complete sentences; if the item is already a complete sentence, place a "C" in the left
margin.
1. If he comes to California to see the sights.
2. Seth, who complains constantly about everything.
3. After telling me about the accident.
4. Swimming each morning in her pool.
5. She insists that running is essential to good health.
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Read the following paragraph and correct the four sentence
fragments by attaching it to a nearby sentence.
The Great Depression began in October 1929. When the stock market in the United
States dropped rapidly. Thousands of investors were hit with large tragedies. Loss of jobs, loss
of money, and loss of families. The “crash” led us into the Great Depression. The ensuing
period ranked as the longest and worst period of high unemployment and low business activity
in modern times. Banks, stores, and factories were closed and left millions of Americans
jobless, homeless, and penniless. Over time. Many people came to depend on the
government or charity to provide them with food. A necessity.
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PRACTICE EXERCISE 3: Correct the following fragments based on our discussion.
Place a "C" next to any item that contains no fragment.
1. For the purpose of being prepared. Please bring all of your instruction booklets.
2. I gave a copy of my US Weekly to Mr. Andres. Because he likes celebrity gossip.
3. Before the Katy Perry concert even began. Zach was lined up at the door for tickets.
4. By the door of his room. He had left his iPod and his homework.
5. Give me a break; I need a Kit Kat bar.
6. My sister moved back home. Now, I have to share my MacBook with her.
7. Raised in New York City. Lucas was comfortable in the South Beach by himself.
8. I think we will win most of our games this season. Especially if Nick is in top shape.
9. Since she was a great dancer. Britney Spears appeared on the MTV Music Awards.
10. I did most of my homework at the dentist’s office. While I waited my turn to see him.
11. Mr. Miller will make a fool of himself. He does not know how to act in public.
12. Before you start yelling at me. Remember I always have excuses for missing curfew.
13. I asked four boys to the Christmas Dance this year. Dallas, Paul, Aaron, and Jordan.
14. This cheese has always been a mystery. Since no one will claim to have dropped it.
15. Craig will serve as a captain on our hockey team. He is a great leader.
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ENGLISH 10
UNIT II
LESSON THREE: RUN-ON SENTENCES/COMMA SPLICES
Some sentences are so closely related that the writer "runs" them together with no punctuation
(run-on sentences), or he joins them with a comma (comma splices). There are several ways
to correct these problems.
1. a period
RUN-ON:
COMMA SPLICE:
The boys wanted pretzels the girls wanted popcorn.
The boys wanted pretzels, the girls wanted popcorn.
CORRECT: _________________________________________________________________
2. a semi-colon (;)
RUN-ON:
The table is made of oak the bed is made of walnut.
COMMA SPLICE: The table is made of oak, the bed is made of walnut.
CORRECT: _________________________________________________________________
3. a semi-colon + a conjunctive adverb* + a comma (; however,)
RUN-ON:
The brakes on my car were faulty I had no time to fix them.
COMMA SPLICE: The brakes on my car were faulty, I had no time to fix them.
*however, moreover, nevertheless, thus, then, therefore, and consequently
are conjunctive adverbs when they join two sentences*
CORRECT: _________________________________________________________________
4. a comma + a conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, yet, so)
RUN-ON:
Mort flew to Chicago in March he drove to Chicago in May.
COMMA SPLICE: Mort flew to Chicago in March, he drove to Chicago in May.
CORRECT: _________________________________________________________________
5. subordination of one sentence to a modifying phrase or clause
RUN-ON:
Bob passed out right at the dance we took him to emergency.
CORRECT: _________________________________________________________________
***The No. 1 way to fix run-on sentences and comma splices
is to make them into two sentences using a period and capital
letter.
33
NOTES
34
Name: ______________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Please write the definition for a run-on sentence and comma
splice on the lines provided.
Run-On: ___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Comma Splice: ______________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Correct the run-on sentences and comma splices below in one
of the five ways listed above. Remember, using a period and capital letter is the easiest
way to fix run-on sentences and comma splices. Label RS or CS.
____ 1. Dustin pursued a career in game programming Jessica pursued a career in art.
____ 2. Collecting comic books is Tom's hobby, he often trades and resells them.
____ 3. He chuckled when he heard the bad joke, Jordan, however, thought it was distasteful.
____ 4. The stereo blared Emma's father was annoyed by the music.
____ 5. Mikayla was a sophomore this year; she’ll be a junior next year hopefully.
____ 6. When the clown approached her, she tazered him to the ground.
____ 7. Jared bought a new car yesterday, he refused to ride the bus anymore.
____ 8. Although Kayla accepted the invitation, she did not fulfill its obligations.
____ 9. The gamers played each night their health deteriorated quickly.
____ 10. The C.F. Prime is excellent, the food is delicious.
____ 11. Michigan’s Adventure has a new waterslide it should be open before summer.
____ 12. People admire Erin for her compassion, they admire Brooklyn for her persistence.
____ 13. The bathtub began overflowing I called a plumber for help.
____ 14. The test was difficult it covered three months' work.
____ 15. The time for the race neared; the tortoise and the hare approached the starting line.
35
PRACTICE EXERCISE 3: In the following paragraph, correct the run-on sentences and
comma splices below in one of the five ways listed in your notes. Remember, using a
period and capital letter is the easiest way to fix run-on sentences and comma splices.
California was not the promised land of the migrants' dreams, although the weather was
comparatively balmy and farmers' fields were bountiful with produce, Californians also felt the
effects of the Depression. Local and state infrastructures were already overburdened the
steady stream of newly arriving migrants was more than the system could bear. After
struggling to make it to California, many found themselves turned away at its borders. Those
who did cross over into California found that the available labor pool was vastly
disproportionate to the number of job openings that could be filled, migrants who found
employment soon learned that this surfeit of workers caused a significant reduction in the
going wage rate. Even with an entire family working, migrants could not support themselves on
these low wages and many set up camps along irrigation ditches in the farmers' fields. These
"ditchbank" camps fostered poor sanitary conditions and created a public health problem.
36
Name: _____________________________________
REVIEW EXERCISE: Correct the sentences using the skills you learned from precious
lessons.
1. Sit near your girlfriend she seems sad today.
2. The cruiser turned on its siren. Because the car was speeding.
3. If Connor asks me to go to the prom, I will be so excited.
4. Holly shrieked when she saw the mouse, Pete could not stop laughing.
5. Because the car was smoking. They forced to get it repaird.
6. The neighborhood has changed dramatically. Since you moved away.
7. I was hungry, I ate a ton of Taco Bell.
8. The coach explained the plan, still, many players were confused where to go.
9. Of all the possible solutions, Lisa chose the most creative.
10. The umpire made the right call, however, the manager was still mad.
11. Tim discovered the wallet on his dresser he thought he had lost it.
12. The jacket was a beautiful blue one. Since it was on sale, Skye decided to buy it.
13. Walking down the street. We saw the man dancing erratically.
14. We walked down Roosevelt Road. Where a parade of war veterans would march.
15. I bought a new car. It is a Toyota Prius.
16. The cigar smoke filled the air Tina felt nauseated and left the room.
17. He sang about the West and cowboys; she sang about romance and cowboys.
18. Pass the ketchup and mustard to Cooper pass the pickles to Penny.
19. The children chuckled incessantly, and their laughter was contagious.
20. Too many cars, all fouling up the air, are on the streets every day.
37
38
Name: _______________________________________
UNIT II
MASTERY TEST REVIEW
COMMAS
PART 1. Decide whether the following have comma mistakes or are correct sentences. If
it has a punctuation mistake, correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is correct,
put a C in the margin.
1. On Tuesday December 12 2011 we will be taking a grammar test.
2. Have you thought Ryan that it might hurt her feelings?
3. When I crawled to the window I saw a ghost out in the woods.
4. Tony, however, is a better tuba player than Shaun.
5. Kelsey’s address is 2342 Kingston Ave., Muskegon, MI, 49441.
FRAGMENTS
PART 2. Decide whether the following are fragments or complete sentences. If it is a
fragment, correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is correct, put a C in the
margin.
1. During the winter. We often sit on the floor near the fireplace.
2. Troy was hired by the manager of Best Buy. Because of his intelligence.
3. Tom hid beneath the bridge. While I ran and screamed for my life.
4. She danced as though no one was in the room. Her graceful movements were lovely.
5. Among the trees walked a lone figure. Which was looking at the stars in the sky.
COMMA SPLICES
PART 3. Decide whether the following are comma splices or complete sentences. If it is
a comma splice, correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is correct, put a C in
the margin.
1. Robert thinks that I am taller than he, however, I am not.
2. He made a very bad decision, however, he avoided trouble because he is so lucky.
3. Since my pen ran out of ink, I could not complete the letter.
4. Alexis began to study for her exam weeks in advance, but she still failed the test.
5. A Raisin in the Sun is very historical, the play and movie are considered a classic.
39
RUN-ON SENTENCES
PART 4. Decide whether the following are run-on sentences or complete sentences. If it
is a run-on sentences, correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is correct, put a
C in the margin.
1. Bill wants to become a teacher even though jobs are not easy to get now.
2. Your shirt is too tight for him he needs a larger size.
3. Scott vacations in Florida each year his family owns land and condominiums there.
4. The grill is hot we can begin barbecuing in a few minutes.
5. Writing precisely is an important skill communicating effectively is important also.
FRAGMENTS, COMMA SPLICES & RUN-ON SENTENCES
PART 5. Correct the errors in the following sentences.
1. Chris can bake a delicious cherry pie, however, he refuses to wash the pans.
2. She signed her autograph. Although the fan only wanted one from her teammate.
3. Dad came home early; mom did not have dinner prepared.
4. His time is limited, Stan refuses to give up the race.
5. Lily is angry and bitter. Because Maggie is always late for her haircuts.
6. Rain continued to pour down into the sewers the city was flooded for days.
7. After the storm, the trail was littered with fallen branches; the ascent became difficult.
8. Most of the team members were late for practice they were ordered to run a mile.
9. By the time we reached the gate. The horses were freed from the corral.
10. Unless I object to the proposal, Joann will type it up as written.
40
PART 6. In each passage, certain words have been underlined and numbered. The
questions consist of alternatives for these underlined segments. Circle the alternative
that will fix the comma error, fragment, comma splice or run-on sentence. Circle “No
Change” if no change is necessary.
Passage 1
Disc jockey Alan Freed coined the term “rock ‘n’ roll” in 1951, however, the music really owes
1
its soul to the black rhythm-and-blues performers in the late 1940s. One of the first AfricanAmerican musicians whom Freed introduced to white teenagers was Chuck Berry Little
2
Richard, Otis Redding, Berry and scores of others from many different backgrounds and
cultures are honored at the Rock-and-Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Which opened in
3
Cleveland on May 24 1995. Both Little Richard and Yoko Ono were on hand to help cut the
4
opening ribbon. A high-school band playing “Respect” and a 16-foot Elvis puppet were part of
the celebratory parade. Neither parents nor reviewers from the 1950s could have dreamed that
some day public and private contributors would donate nearly $100 million to make sure rock
5
‘n’ roll got its place in history.
1. A. NO CHANGE
B. 1951, however; the
C. 1951; however, the
D. 1951; However, the
2. A. NO CHANGE
B. Berry, Little
C. Berry, and Little
D. Berry. Little
3. A. NO CHANGE
B. Museum which
C. Museum; which
D. Museum, which
4. A. NO CHANGE
B. May, 24, 1995
C. May 24, 1995
D. May, 24 1995
5. A. NO CHANGE
B. million. To
C. million, to
D. million; to
41
Passage 2
How many ways are there to cross Niagara Falls on a tightrope? In the mid-nineteenth century,
a performer named Blondin walked across Niagara Falls on a three-inch tightrope: sat down in
1
the middle, fried himself an egg on a stove he brought with him, lay down on the rope, and
pretended to nap. On one occasion, Blondin asked for a volunteer. Whom he would carry
2
piggyback across the falls. The only one to say yes was his manager, who shook so violently
3
that Blondin almost lost his balance. One of his craziest stunts; however, was stationing a man
4
below the falls and having him shoot holes through a hat that Blondin held as he balanced on
the rope. I don’t think that Blondin was a smart man do you?
5
1. A. NO CHANGE
B. tightrope. Sat
C. tightrope; sat
D. tightrope, sat
2. A. NO CHANGE
B. volunteer, whom
C. volunteer; whom
D. volunteer whom
3. A. NO CHANGE
B. manager. Who
C. manager; who
D. manager who
4. A. NO CHANGE
B. stunts. However,
C. stunts, however,
D. stunts however
5. A. NO CHANGE
B. man. Do
C. man, do
D. man; Do
42
Unit 3





Semi-Colons
Colons
Parenthesis
Dashes
Word Choice
43
44
ENGLISH 10
UNIT III
LESSON ONE: SEMI-COLONS (;) AND COLONS (:)
A semi-colon is always used as a separator, generally separating items of equal value; the
semi-colon, in fact, is sometimes called a “weak period.” The colon is used to direct the
reader’s attention to what follows – it is like an arrow pointing to what follows.
RULES FOR THE USE OF SEMI-COLONS
Rule One: Use a semi-colon to separate closely related main clauses of a compound
sentence if a coordinating conjunction does not connect them.
EXAMPLES: a. Cambridge is simply near Boston; it is not a part of that city.
b. The brochures have been printed; they have yet to be distributed.
c. _________________________________________________________
NOTE: Although periods can also be used in the above sentences, semi-colons
are preferred when the sentences are closely related.
Rule Two: Use a semi-colon before the conjunctive adverb or transitional phrase that
join two main clauses.
Conjunctive Adverbs
accordingly
conversely
also
finally
anyway
furthermore
besides
hence
certainly
however
consequently
incidentally
Transitional Phrases
after all
as a matter of fact
as a result
at any rate
indeed
instead
likewise
meanwhile
moreover
nevertheless
at the same time
even so
for example
for instance
next
nonetheless
otherwise
similarly
specifically
still
in addition
in conclusion
in fact
in other words
subsequently
then
therefore
thus
in the first place
on the contrary
on the other hand
EXAMPLES: a. The meeting has been in progress for two hours; however, important
issues have yet to be introduced.
b. He tried to make amends; that is, he offered me the use of his car.
c. ______________________________________________________________
45
Rule Three: Use a semi-colon to separate items in a series when the items themselves
contain commas.
EXAMPLES: a. We were visited by people from LaGrange, a suburb of Chicago; Troy, a small
college town in Georgia; and Austin, the capital of Texas.
b. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Rule Four: Use semi-colons instead of commas between two sentences joined by a
coordinating conjunction IF there are commas within one of those clauses, or if there is
one comma in both of the clauses.
EXAMPLES: a. His determination, his courage, and his sincerity could not be denied; but his
methods, as you know, were often questioned by the voters.
b. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
NOTE: Although commas would not be incorrect in these cases, the semi-colons
make the clear distinction between the main clauses.
RULES FOR THE USE OF COLONS
Rule One: Use a colon to introduce a list following a main clause.
EXAMPLES: a. For our camping trip, we need to rent the big items: tents, backpacks, and
sleeping bags.
b. For our camping trip, we need to rent tents, backpacks, and sleeping bags.
(list does not follow a complete sentence)
c. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Rule Two: Use a colon to introduce either a short quotation or a longer,
indented quotation IF it follows a complete sentence.
EXAMPLES: a. This is what the consultant actually said: “People in other parts of the world
will not like this ad.”
b. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
46
Rule Three: Use a colon in these special cases:
1) after the salutation of a formal or business letter
EXAMPLE: Dear Professor Richards:
2) between a title and a subtitle
EXAMPLE: She didn't want to read The Right Moves: Succeeding in a
Man's World without a Harvard MBA.
3) in time references
EXAMPLE: I'll meet you at 7:45 tonight.
4) in scriptural references
EXAMPLE: We'll be studying John 2:7.
5) in proportions
EXAMPLE: Mix the gasoline and oil at a 3:1 ratio.
47
48
Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Insert semi-colons and colons where appropriate in the
following sentences.
1. A daily routine should include at least the following 20 squats, 50 sit-ups, 30 push-ups,
and 25 minutes of running on the treadmill.
2. Most American hospitals offer only Western methods of treatment hospitals in China
provide both Western and Eastern medicine.
3. I learned all the rules and regulations, however, I never really learned to control the ball.
4. Classic science fiction sagas are Star Trek, with Mr. Spock, Battlestar Galactica, with its
Cylon Raiders, and Star Wars, with Han Solo and Darth Vader.
5. Consider the words of John F. Kennedy, "Ask not what your country can do for you; ask
what you can do for your country."
6. Our meeting must begin at exactly 8 30 p.m., or we will never finish on time.
7. In my English class this year, we were asked to read from Glencoe Literature The Reader’s
Choice.
8. We love to watch the comedy movies, after all, we need to laugh from time to time.
9. On Monday morning we faced several serious problems, for example, we could not use the
word processor because of a power shortage.
10. We were led to believe that Mr. Renko and the others would act favorably upon our
application, that Mr. Posten, our chief engineer, would receive full credit for his
invention, and that our company would soon begin moving into the next century with its
innovative products.
11. I have one serious objection to your project, it may prove to be too expensive.
12. Ms. Bradshaw used these exact words, "Don't argue the facts."
13. Our equipment will include the following a tractor, a large crane, and a ditch digger.
14. My Humanities professor asked us to read Genesis 2 8 for tomorrow.
15. Mr. Warwick commented on these three items, a net profit of one million, annual earnings
of $1.70 a share, and a book value of $11.15 a share.
49
Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Write the following sentences, using colons and semi-colons
where appropriate.
Write a sentence about mutual relationships using a semi-colon (no conjunctive adverb or
transitional phrase) between two closely related sentences.
Write a sentence about the theory that only the strong survive using the conjunctive adverb
“however.”
Write a sentence that contains a series about three cities and their states that you would like to
visit most. You must use a semi-colon.
Write a sentence listing your three favorite TV shows. You must use a colon.
Write a sentence that includes your favorite quote. You must use a colon.
50
ENGLISH 10
UNIT III
LESSON TWO: Dashes ( – )
There are three basic uses of the dash. Use dashes to indicate an abrupt change of thought, a
dramatic interrupting idea, or a summary statement.
RULES FOR THE USE OF DASHES
Rule One: Use a dash to indicate an abrupt change of thought.
EXAMPLES: a. I think the answer is – I’ve forgotten what I was going to say.
b. All of us – I mean most of us – look forward to Spring Break.
c. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Rule Two: Use a dash to set off interrupting ideas dramatically.
EXAMPLES: a. The star – if you can call her that – will begin a new TV show soon.
b. The TV show The Office – why did Michael Scott leave? – will still air next
season.
c. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Rule Three: Use a dash to set off a summary statement.
EXAMPLES: a. A string cast, funny writers, and a good time slot – all of these can lead to a
successful TV series.
b. It was a spin-off of the number one comedy – this was all the critics needed to
know to predict success.
c. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
51
ENGLISH 10
UNIT III
LESSON THREE: Parentheses ( )
When using parentheses, you should keep two points in mind. Parentheses are the strongest
separator. They also act to de-emphasize anything they set off. Thus, you should never use
parentheses for an essential idea.
RULES FOR THE USE OF PARENTHESES
Rule One: Use parentheses to set off asides or explanations only when the material is
not essential or when it consists of one or more sentences.
EXAMPLES: a. Actors try to empathize with (to share the feelings of) the characters they
portray.
b. Alfred Hitchcock produced some masterful horror films (The Birds, Psycho,
and Rear Window, among others) that are considered are now considered
classics.
c. Matt Damon has one the Academy Award for best actor once. (She won it for
Good Will Hunting in 2002.) He also won the People’s Choice Award for
best actor.
d. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
Rule Two: Use parentheses to set of numerical explanations such as dates of a
person’s birth and death and around numbers and letters marking a series.
EXAMPLES: a. Babe Ruth (1895-1948) is probably the most famous baseball player.
b. My favorite movies include the following: (1) Tommy Boy, (2) Grand Torino,
(3) Lincoln Lawyer.
c. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
d. ______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
52
Name: ___________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Rewrite each sentence, correcting errors in the use of the
dash.
1. His answer and it did surprise us was a reluctant consent.
2. Then slowly stir in the salt, pepper, mustard, are you listening?
3. Food, housing, and clothing all of these are getting more expensive.
4. Our club raised $50.00 more or less for the U.S. Olympic Team.
5. Feeding, exercising, and providing medical care all of these constitute important aspects of
pet ownership.
6. I really like, no, I love, rap music.
7. Some bad habits biting your nails, grinding your teeth, and drumming your fingers seem
almost impossible to break.
8. Pencils, paper, notebooks, and pens these are all required in this course.
9. We will play tennis or at least attempt to play tennis in gym today.
10. I’d like to introduce you to what did you say your name was?
Name: ___________________________________
53
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Rewrite each sentence, correcting errors in the use of
parentheses.
1. The longboard sale held only once a year at Buffalo Bob’s usually offers some great deals.
2. The story page 84 in your books is about a man dealing with the difficulties of society.
3. The bill said Stuart owed fifty-seven dollars and nine cents $57.09.
4. You need to get the following songs on iTunes: a “Paper Planes”, b “California Gurls”,
c “Cooler Than Me”.
5. We listened to the last song “Don’t Stop Believin’” and then left.
6. We sang the songs of Tupac 1971-1996.
7. The angler a fisherman who uses a hook and line pulled in a 33-pound salmon.
8. The directions called for ten 10 screws and twelve 12 nails.
54
ENGLISH 10
UNIT III
LESSON FOUR: WORD CHOICE
RULES
WORD
FUNCTION
DEFINITION
EXAMPLE
1. ACCEPT, EXCEPT
accept
verb
except
preposition
to receive
other than or leaving out
We refused to accept the shipment.
Everyone except me was there.
2. ADAPT, ADOPT
adapt
verb
adopt
verb
to change to be made more suitable
We can adapt this to our own use.
to take something and make it one's own
We may adopt a new policy.
3. ADVICE, ADVISE
advice
noun
advise
verb
opinion
recommend
I always take his advice to heart.
I advise you to arrive early.
4. AFFECT, EFFECT
affect
verb
effect
noun
verb
to influence
the result
to bring about
His performance affected me.
That drug has dangerous effects.
The teacher effected certain changes.
5. ALLUSION, ILLUSION
allusion
noun
illusion
noun
indirect reference
false image
6. ALREADY, ALL READY
already
adverb
all ready
adjective
previously
all are ready
I've already finished the homework.
Are they all ready* to begin the music?
*substitute ready to see of all ready fits
7. AMOUNT, NUMBER
amount
noun
number
noun
singular
plural
He ordered a large amount of sand.
He ordered a large number of books.
8. BESIDE, BESIDES
beside
preposition
besides
preposition
by the side of
except or in addition to
She sat beside the bed for hours.
He gets money besides praise.
9. BETWEEN, AMONG
between
preposition
among
preposition
used with two things
used with three or more things
Park between these two posts.
You are among friends here.
10. BRING, TAKE
bring
verb
take
verb
to convey something to the person speaking
to convey something away from the speaker.
11. COARSE, COURSE
coarse
adjective
course
noun
rough
program of study
We often find allusions to the Bible in our literature.
Under duress, people often suffer illusions.
Bring me that notebook.
Take this to your locker.
The rope feels coarse.
What course are you taking this term?
55
WORD
FUNCTION
DEFINITION
EXAMPLE
12. COMPLEMENT, COMPLIMENT
complement noun
something that completes
A direct object is a sentence complement.
verb
to make whole or bring to perfection
That color complements your eyes.
compliment
noun
expression of praise
Her hair receives many compliments.
13. COUNCIL, COUNSEL
council
noun
counsel
noun
verb
assembly of people
advice
advise
14. DESERT, DESSERT
desert
noun
verb
dessert
noun
a dry region
to leave
part of a meal
The council meeting is today.
He gives me legal counsel.
I will counsel you.
Don't ever get lost in a desert.
Please don't desert me in my time of need.
I ordered pie for dessert.
15. DISCOVER, INVENT
discover
verb
to be the first to find, see, realize
invent
verb
to devise or think up for the first time.
The Americas were discovered by explorers.
Who invented the telescope?
16. FARTHER, FURTHER
farther
adverb
further
adverb
physical distance
abstract distance
How much farther is camp?
He is further along in his writing than I.
17. FEWER, LESS
fewer
adjective
less
adjective
plural
singular
I have fewer grades than you or Marty.
I have less money than you.
modifies a noun or pronoun
healthy
well-dressed
That meat tastes good.
I didn't feel well.
He looked well in his uniform.
All is well.
He drives well.
18. GOOD, WELL
good
adjective
well
adjective
well
satisfactory
adverb
19. IMPLY, INFER
imply
verb
badly.
infer
verb
suggest (speaker or writer)
The lawyer implied that her client had been treated
conclude (listener or reader)
I inferred from your argument that you intend to win.
20. LIE, LAY
lie
verb
lay
modifies a verb or other adverb
verb
21. LOOSE, LOSE
loose
adjective
lose
verb
to rest or recline- no object
lie, lying, lay, (have) lain
to put or place something takes an object
lay, laying, laid, (have) laid
free
to mislay
He lies around all day.
Yesterday, he lay down to nap.
Lay your packages here.
I think you laid the book down.
The bindings came loose.
I lose the page numbers often.
22. PERSECUTE, PROSECUTE
persecute
verb
to attack or annoy
prosecute
verb
to bring legal action against
Minorities are often persecuted.
The law prosecutes all crimes.
23. PRINCIPAL, PRINCIPLE
principal
noun
principle
noun
Mrs. Bustard is our principal.
She has fine principles.
chief official or first in rank
a fundamental truth or rule
56
24. RAISE, RISE
raise
verb
rise
verb
to move something upward
raise, raising, raised, (have) raised
to go upward – no object
rise, rising, rose, (have) risen
Raise your hand for questions.
Prices rise every few months.
25. RESPECTFULLY, RESPECTIVELY
respectfully
adverb in a manner that shows respect
She behaved respectfully.
respectively adverb each in the order given Bob, Peg, and Sue are a dog, cat, and a pig, respectively.
26. SIT, SET
sit
verb
set
verb
to rest in a seated position; no object
sit, sitting, sat, (have) sat
to put or place something
set, setting, set, (have) set
The book sits on the desk.
Set your books over there.
27. SITE, CITE, SIGHT
site
noun
cite
verb
sight
verb/noun
a location
He chose a wonderful site for his new house.
to refer to
He cited several sources in his research project.
ability to see or something that is seen He lost his sight when he was five.
28. THAN, THEN
than
conjunction
then
adverb
used in comparison
at that time; when
She is younger than I.
I will leave early, then wash the car.
29. THEIR, THERE, THEY'RE
their
pronoun
possessive of they
there
adverb
at or in that place
they're
pronoun+verb contraction of they are
We slept at their house.
Put the book over there.
They're arriving at noon.
30. TO, TOO, TWO
to
preposition
too
adverb
two
adjective
I took her to the store.
I like him almost too much.
Give me two slices, please.
31. WEATHER, WHETHER
weather
noun
dress.
weather
verb
together.
whether conjunction
going.
32. YOUR, YOU’RE
your
adjective
You’re
pronoun+verb
toward
very, also
number
general condition of temperature, etc.
Check the weather before you
to get through safely
We will weather any storm
if it be the case that; either
He asked whether we were
possessive of you
contraction of you are
Your grade will suffer if you don’t learn grammar.
You’re my best friend.
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58
Name: __________________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Cross out the incorrect word choice and then Correct the error
by writing the correct choice above in the following sentences. If the sentence contains
no errors, place a "C" in the margin.
1. I am sure that after that large meal he doesn't feel good.
2. When I am feeling lazy, I tend to lay around all day.
3. I have had to ask you to be quiet to many times today.
4. How much farther do we have to go to reach your cabin?
5. Most adopted children adapt very well to there new families.
6. Have your parents told you where their going for their vacation?
7. One of my students just recently invented a new motor for the machine.
8. I really wish you would be late less times in the future.
9. When I got home from work, I laid down for an hour before dinner.
10. When I walked onto the stage in front of all the students, my skirt button came lose.
11. I sometimes wonder if that group operates with any principals at all.
12. The cream always raises to the top.
13. I believe that his second book was better then his first.
14. Don't get caught setting around while you should be working.
15. Mr. Trujillo used to be our principle.
16. Do you intend to explore any further the possibility of going to Europe next term?
17. Less people travel in the winter months than in the summer months.
18. I want too go to the store in two days.
19. She said she would like to go to the store to.
20. There is no way I am going to let her advice me about the decision.
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PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Use the following words in a sentence.
1. Write a sentence about grammar using the word “good”.
2. Write a question about your best friend using the word “discovered”.
3. Write a sentence about a vacation using the word “farther” and a clause.
4. Write a sentence about Of Mice and Men using the word “whether” and two prepositional
phrases.
5. Write a sentence about your favorite song using the word “fewer”.
6. Write a sentence using the word “take”.
7. Write a sentence using the word “amount”.
8. Write a sentence about Mona Shores using the word “complement”.
60
Name: ____________________________________
UNITS I, II, AND III
MASTERY TEST REVIEW
SENTENCE PATTERNS
PART 1. Please write a sentence for each of the following directions.
1. S + V about your favorite person.
2. S+ LV + PN about your dad.
3. S + LV + PA about your favorite TV show.
4. S + AV + DO about a soccer ball.
6. S + AV + IO + DO about your favorite teacher.
SENTENCE TYPES
PART 2. Please write a sentence for each of the following directions.
1. A simple sentence about your favorite class.
2. A compound sentence about nature.
3. A complex sentence about computers.
4. A compound complex sentence about your favorite restaurant.
61
FRAGMENTS
PART 3. Decide whether the following are fragments or correct sentences. If it is a
comma splice, put FRAG on the line and correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it
is correct, put a C on the line.
_____ 1. Having planned for years to become a lawyer. She had good reason for coming to
college.
_____ 2. Walking through the halls were three students. They were late for first hour.
_____ 3. The meeting was to have been conducted in an orderly fashion, but it was
impossible. With demonstrators seizing the microphones and banging the gavel.
_____ 4. I finally received permission from my parents. To spend the summer in Mexico.
_____ 5. I enjoy all kinds of music. Especially classic rock and roll.
COMMA SPLICES
PART 4. Decide whether the following are comma splices or correct sentences. If it is a
comma splice, put CS on the line and correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is
correct, put a C on the line.
_____ 1. During September, the rain fell unceasingly.
_____ 2. I was surprised at the commotion in the newspaper office, reporters were in a rush.
_____ 3. The train stopped at the viaduct, however, none of the passengers could figure out
why.
_____ 4. From the high board, the water looked amazingly far away, besides, I was getting
cold.
_____ 5. Walking through the halls of the school, three students were tardy for first hour.
RUN-ON SENTENCES
PART 5. Decide whether the following are run-on sentences or correct sentences. If it is
a run-on sentence, put RS on the line and correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If
it is correct, put a C on the line.
_____ 1. Mow the lawn without touching the flowers when that is finished, trim the hedges.
_____ 2. The person I met was an agent for actors it was obvious he had much to share.
_____ 3. I like running in the morning because the weather is much cooler.
_____ 4. Learning grammar can be fun math can be fun too.
_____ 5. I walked directly to first hour then I had to go to the principal’s office.
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PUNCTUATION
PART 6. Decide whether the following have punctuation mistakes (commas, colons,
semi-colons) or are correct sentences. If it has a punctuation mistake, put P on the line
and correct it. Be careful to punctuate correctly. If it is correct, put a C on the line.
_____ 1. The committee invited speeches from Maya Angelou, a poet, Amy Tan, a novelist,
and Neil Simon, a playwright.
_____ 2. Salt which is plentiful in this country is still inexpensive.
_____ 3. All applicants must furnish the following items of information date of birth, grade in
school, and the names of two references.
_____ 4. The horn made a shrill prolonged weird sound.
_____ 5. When the most difficult part of the hike was behind him the traveler felt more
confident.
WORD CHOICE
PART 7. Decide whether the following have word choice mistakes or are correct
sentences. If it has a word choice mistake, put WC on the line and correct it. If it is
correct, put a C on the line.
_____ 1. Will you please bring these reports down to the office?
_____ 2. The team has less members this year than last.
_____ 3. During the most crucial moment of the race, my shoe laces came lose.
_____ 4. On this assignment, you will not be allowed to lay around all day.
_____ 5. In the case of this paper, there is nothing farther to be done.
FRAGMENTS, COMMA SPLICES, RUN-ON SENTENCES, PUNCTUATION & WORD
CHOICE
PART 8. Using the chart below, identify the errors in the following sentences. Correct
the errors using periods, commas, semi-colons, colons, or word choice. None are
correct.
FRAG = sentence fragment
RS
= run-on sentence
CS
= comma splice
P
= commas, colons, semi-colons
WC = word choice
_____ 1. Sociologists believe that we have too few heroes to look up to my hero is my father
because I believe he is someone who has lived his life the right way.
_____ 2. I don't recommend that you arrive to early for the concert.
63
_____ 3. Few people spend their leisure time listening to their radios, most people now watch
TV.
_____ 4. She lives in Apartment 25 at 222 Smith Road Muskegon Michigan.
_____ 5. You will have a difficult time doing that lesson. Because you forgot to read the
chapters.
_____ 6. When I begin drinking coffee. I have a tendency to drink several cupfuls.
_____ 7. Don’t you think she does good on everything she tries?
_____ 8. Everyone seems to believe that the new principle of the building is going to be a
good one.
_____ 9. Many people walked the entire bridge this morning. Although the weather was poor.
_____ 10. We should know that no other person can guarantee our happiness, however, if
you live your life the right way, you will have a chance at a happy life.
_____ 11. The school newspaper has won the Spartan Award for the past nine years. As one
of the top newspapers in the state.
_____ 12. Make sure you understand grammar you will be doing lessons for the next two
years.
_____ 13. I learned a lesson yesterday. I need to except people regardless of their differences
from me.
_____ 14. I enjoy three types of ice cream chocolate chip, butter pecan and Mackinaw Island
fudge.
_____ 15. My best friend’s grandmother died yesterday, the funeral will be on Saturday.
_____ 16. After school on Tuesdays, I have to go to Jeff’s house we study our algebra on that
day.
_____ 17. The Bible is a book that I enjoy reading. Before I go to sleep.
_____ 18. Everyone seems to believe that there children are the best.
_____ 19. After the storm had passed the children went outside to play on the swings.
_____ 20. My advise to you is to do well on this test.
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FRAGMENTS, COMMA SPLICES, RUN-ON SENTENCES & PUNCTUATION
PART 6. In each passage, certain words have been underlined and numbered. The
questions consist of alternatives for these underlined segments. Circle the alternative
that will fix the fragment, comma splice, run-on sentence or punctuation. Circle “No
Change” if no change is necessary.
Passage 1
The Romans built many outdoor arenas for recreational events, including the famous
Colosseum in Rome. Which is located in Italy. The tall, four-story oval structure could seat
1
50,000 spectators on its benches. For more than 300 years people cheered as gladiators
2
fought bloody man-to-man or man-against-animal battles to the death. The Colosseum could
also be partially filled with water for mock sea battles each ship’s crew attempted to sink their
3
competitors as the crowd went wild. The Colosseum’s chariot races were also popular. Today
inhabited only by stray cats, the Colosseum stands as a silent reminder of the noisy, violent
4
contests that thrilled ancient Rome. Many people from this time period adopted to this kind of
5
violence.
1. A. NO CHANGE
B. Rome which
C. Rome: which
D. Rome, which
2. A. NO CHANGE
B. years. People
C. years, people
D. years; people
3. A. NO CHANGE
B. battles. Each
C. battles, each
D. battles: each
4. A. NO CHANGE
B. Today. Inhabited
C. Today, inhabited
D. Today: inhabited
5. A. period; adopted
B. period adapted
C. period, adopted
D. period - adopted
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66
Unit 4




Subject Verb Agreement
Pronoun Antecedent
Misplaced Modifiers
Dangling Modifiers
67
68
ENGLISH 10
UNIT IV
SUBJECT/VERB AGREEMENT AND PRONOUN ANTECEDENT AGREEMENT
LESSON ONE- AGREEMENT OF SUBJECT AND VERB
Subject/verb agreement simply means that verbs must always agree with the subject of the sentence
in both number and person. For example:
SINGULAR
PLURAL
I was
He seems
It is
We were
They seem
They are
The following are instances where we have trouble with agreement:
Rule One: A verb after a prepositional phrase must agree with the subject, not with
the object of preposition.
EXAMPLES: a. The student’s answer to the questions was brief.
b. The roads down in the country are not paved.
c. ___________________________________________________________________
Rule Two: A verb in a dependent clause agrees with the subject of the clause; in
other words, with the phrase “one of those,” the verb that follows will
be plural.
EXAMPLES: a. Alice is one of those students who always receive an “A”.
b. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Three: A verb after an expletive (it or there) agrees with its subject, not with
the expletive.
EXAMPLES: a. There seem to be several students absent today.
b. There’s not much time to get ready for the party.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Four: The following singular indefinite pronouns take a singular verb: one,
each one, everyone, each, either, neither, no one, anyone, someone,
anybody, somebody, everybody.
EXAMPLES: a. Each one of the students is required to attend.
b. Neither of the boys attends a private school.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
69
Rule Five: The following plural indefinite pronouns take a plural verb: several, few,
both, many.
EXAMPLES: a. Several of the players were sick today.
b. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Six: The following indefinite pronouns take either a singular or a plural verb
depending on the object of the preposition: any, some, none, all.
EXAMPLES: a. All of the milk was sour.
b. All of the girls were sick.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Seven: A verb with a collective noun is singular when the group is considered
as a unit; a verb with a collective noun is plural when the members of
the group are considered as individuals. (There will most often be a
clue later in the sentence.)
EXAMPLES: a. The class has reached a unanimous decision on the issue.
b. The family have agreed among themselves to stop fighting.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Eight: Singular or plural subjects joined by “and” take plural verbs.
EXAMPLES: a. Mary and Sue are here early today.
b. ___________________________________________________________________
NOTE: Exception is when the two are considered a single item.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
Macaroni and cheese
Rule Nine:
Subjects joined by “or” or “nor” take a verb that agrees with the nearer
subject.
EXAMPLES: a. Either the judge or the lawyers are wrong.
b. My brother or my sister is at home today.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
Rule Ten: Verbs after expressions of amount are singular when the amount is
considered as a unit (time, money, measurement, weight, volume).
EXAMPLES: a. Three years in a strange land seems like a long time.
b. Ten dollars is a small price to pay for that book.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
70
Rule Eleven: A verb after a fraction can be singular or plural depending on the
object of preposition.
EXAMPLES: a. Two-thirds of the meat is spoiled.
b. Two-thirds of the people are French.
c. ____________________________________________________________________
71
Name __________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Circle the correct verb for each of the following sentences;
underline the subject that the verb must agree with.
1. The welfare of these children (depends, depend) on your generosity.
2. The best features of this magazine (is, are) the pictures of news events.
3. The sweater, as well as the skirt, (was, were) imported from Paris.
4. There (is, are) no living organisms in Great Salt Lake except algae.
5. It’s one of those accidents that (happens, happen) when you are tired.
6. Rain or snow (doesn’t, don’t) stop a football game.
7. How much (is, are) those leather wallets in the showcase?
8. Tracy Avenue is the only one of those streets that (runs, run) that is always busy.
9. The owner or his friends (plans, plan) to use the boat this afternoon.
10. Ten miles (is, are) a long hike for a hot day.
11. He had one of those gliders that (is, are) given away with the cereal.
12. The main floor and the balcony (was, were) sold out the first day.
13. The orchestra (was, were) tuning up their instruments for tonight.
14. Neither the hours nor the pay (is, are) satisfactory to us.
15. Three-quarters of our wheat (was, were) eaten by the grasshoppers.
16. Someone in the group (is, are) going to arrive early.
17. Either baking soda or ammonia (relieves, relieve) mosquito bites.
18. Ten cents (is, are) left in our treasury.
19. Two-thirds of the profit (goes, go) to charity.
20. The entire class (was, were) excused from the examination.
72
PRACTICE EXERCISE 2: Identify the errors in subject/verb agreement below using the
numbers of the rules; correct all errors. If the sentence is correct, put a “C” in the blank.
_____ 1. Kathy is one of those girls who always arrive early at school.
_____ 2. There seems to be several students absent today.
_____ 3. The author’s wide interests in literature, education, and politics proves his
versatility.
_____ 4. Each one present are requested to attend the conference.
_____ 5. The committee are about to announce its unanimous decision.
_____ 6. The poetry collection with its many poems about the war have been donated to
the literary society.
_____ 7. Frank is one of those citizens who always attends town meetings.
_____ 8. Everybody knows that we will win the game on Friday.
_____ 9. There definitely seems to be fewer errors in your compositions lately.
_____10. The study of literature and history occupy her spare time.
_____11. Ten dollars are not enough for this lovely dress.
_____12. Either Harry or Jake is sure to know the answer.
_____13. The cost of his explorations were assumed by the county board.
_____14. All of his friends has been faithful to him through this bad time.
_____15. The question of taxes don’t belong in this discussion.
_____16. Fifteen minutes are enough time for this exercise.
_____17. Neither our car nor our truck were able to plow through the drifts.
_____18. There’s not many selfish people in the world.
73
UNIT IV
LESSON TWO
AGREEMENT OF PRONOUN/ANTECEDENT
A pronoun agrees with its antecedent (the noun or pronoun for which it stands) in NUMBER,
PERSON, and GENDER.
Rules One through Twelve: A pronoun must agree with its antecedent in number.
Follow the same rules as those for subject/verb agreement.
INCORRECT: Everyone has a right to their opinion.
CORRECT: Everyone has a right to his opinion.
(RULE FOUR)
INCORRECT: Either Jack or Hal will bring their records.
CORRECT: Either Jack or Hal will bring his records.
(RULE NINE)
INCORRECT: The football team has their new plays.
CORRECT: The football team has its new plays.
(RULE SEVEN)
INCORRECT: The football team have been awarded its numbers.
CORRECT: The football team have been awarded their numbers. (RULE SEVEN)
INCORRECT: All of the equipment was in their proper place.
CORRECT: All of the equipment was in its proper place.
(RULE SIX)
INCORRECT: All of the backfield were playing its best game.
CORRECT: All of the backfield were playing their best game.
(RULE SIX)
Rule Thirteen: A pronoun must agree with its antecedent in person.
INCORRECT: Everyone should present your thoughts on automation.
CORRECT: Everyone should present his thoughts on automation.
Rule Fourteen: A pronoun must agree with its antecedent in gender (male or female).
If the antecedent can be either male or female, the masculine pronoun
Is used – the “he/she” or "his/ her" construction is awkward in formal
writing.
CORRECT: It seems like a girl must always carry her purse.
CORRECT: Everyone should bring his coat for the parade.
(gender not known here)
74
Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Correct the errors in agreement of pronoun/antecedent in the
following sentences.
1. Neither the buyer nor the seller had made up their mind.
2. Everyone has a right to their own opinion.
3. Each of the winning essays had their good points.
4. Either Jim or Guy will lend us his history book.
5. Will each student please turn in their schedule tomorrow?
6. The cast are taking their places on the stage.
7. Some of the band are wearing its new uniforms.
8. Each of us needs to start thinking about their career now.
9. Neither Brad nor Jerry answers their telephone.
10. If one tries hard enough, you can usually finish the reports in an hour.
11. None of the salesmen were doing their best.
12. Does either Mother or Sue have their keys?
13. Neither Sue nor Lynn has written their thank-you notes.
14. Can Charles or George bring their tape-recorder to school tomorrow?
15. Everybody in the office has made their vacation plans.
16. The more one works, the more you earns.
17. Each girl should bring her own textbook.
18. Everyone should take their turn at rowing.
19. Everyone in the play knew their lines before the scheduled opening.
20. None of our students will be taking their jackets with them.
75
ENGLISH 10
AGREEMENT CHART
AGREEMENT QUICK REFERENCE
1. A verb/pronoun after a prepositional phrase must
agree with the subject, not with the object of
preposition.
2. A verb in a dependent clause agrees with the
subject of the clause; in other words, with the
phrase “one of those,” the verb that follows will
be plural.
3. A verb after an expletive (it or there) agrees with
its subject NOT with the expletive.
4. The following singular indefinite pronouns take a
singular verb and a singular pronoun:
one, each one, everyone, each, either, neither,
no one, anyone, someone, anybody, somebody,
everybody
5. The following plural indefinite pronouns take a
plural verb and plural pronoun:
several, few, both, many
6. The following indefinite pronouns take either a
singular or plural verb depending on the object
of preposition:
any, some, none, all, both
7. A verb and a pronoun with a collective noun is
singular when the group is considered as a unit.
8. A verb and a pronoun with a collective noun is
plural when the members of the group are
considered as individuals. (There will most often
be a clue later in the sentence.)
9. Singular or plural subjects joined by “and”
take plural verbs and plural pronouns.
10. Subjects joined by “or” or “nor” take a verb
and a pronoun that agrees with the nearer
subject.
11. Verbs and pronouns after expressions of
amount are singular when the amount is
considered as a unit (time, money,
measurement, weight, volume).
12. A verb after a fraction can be singular or
plural depending on the object of preposition.
The student’s answer to the questions was brief.
The roads down in the country are not paved.
The teacherrs of the class gave their directions to
the students.
Alice is one of those students who always receive
an “A”.
There seem to be several students absent today.
There’s not much time to get ready for the party.
It is healthy to eat fruits and grains.
It is clear that we must change our approach.
Each one of the students is required to attend.
Neither of the boys attends a private school.
Everyone is required to turn in his homework.
Neither Jess nor Chris is ready to give his speech.
Several of the players were sick today.
Several members of the team forgot their uniforms.
All of the milk was sour.
All of the girls were sick.
The class has reached a unanimous decision on the
issue.
The team learned that it had earned enough points
to compete in the playoffs.
The family have agreed among themselves to stop
fighting.
The class finished their tests.
Mary and Sue are here early today.
Mary and Sue brought their books home.
Either the judge or the lawyers are wrong.
Either the lawyers or the judge is wrong.
Lindsey or her best friends left their purses in my
car.
Three years in a strange land seems like a long
time.
Ten dollars is a small price to pay for that book.
Four years of high school seems like a long time,
but it can pass very quickly.
Two-thirds of the meat is spoiled.
Two-thirds of the people are French.
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77
Name: ____________________________________
REVIEW EXERCISE 1: Identify the agreement problems in the following sentences and correct
them. The errors may be in subject/verb agreement or pronoun/antecedent agreement or
both. If the sentence is correct, put a “C” to the left of the number.
1. Not one of my friends are able to go.
2. Neither Lynn nor Bess had their keys with them.
3. The family were going their separate ways.
4. Neither the mayor nor his assistant have released any information.
5. Neither the student nor the teacher likes the new rule.
6. Who’s the three people in that photograph?
7. Onto the stage comes the players and the musicians.
8. Neither of the girls had brought their skis with them.
9. Each of the women had removed their shoes.
10. One out of every twenty students are dropped from the course.
11. The effect of the comics on young people are not so drastic as some believe.
12. Neither of the proposed bills were accepted in its entirety.
13. Each of the papers read in class were good.
14. Has either of the orders been sent?
15. When an employer is interviewing a prospective employee, one of the first things they ask
about is experience.
16. After a person retires, they usually prefer to live in the city.
17. A certain degree of privacy and security seem desirable.
18. Neither the Department of Agriculture nor the farmers were sure of their position.
19. Each of these suggestions must be taken only for what they are worth.
20. Every member of the crew was decorated for their part in the rescue.
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79
ENGLISH 10
UNIT IV
LESSON THREE: Misplaced Modifiers
A misplaced modifier occurs when the modifier is placed too far from the word it modifies. When the
modifiers are not placed to their advantage, the reader may be confused. Essentially, a misplaced
modifier appears to modify the wrong word in a sentence.
Recognizing Misplaced Modifiers
Notice how the placement of the italicized modifier in the following sentence might cause confusion
MISPLACED MODIFIER: Coming in for a landing, ground control radioed to the distressed airliner.
It seems as if the ground control is coming in for a landing. However, do you think that is what
the writer was trying say?
CORRECT: Ground control radioed to the distressed airliner coming in for a landing.
PRACTICE: Underline the misplaced modifier in each sentence.
1. The baby crawled on the floor with blue pajamas.
2. The golfer won the trophy wearing pink golf shoes.
3. The ugly cat drank the spoiled milk that was hungry.
4. Running smoothly and easily, the crowd watch the sprinters.
5. Blowing from the north, the pines were attacked by the wind.
Correcting a Misplaced Modifier
It is pretty easy! Correct a misplaced modifier by moving the phrase or clause closer to the word it
should logically modify. See the examples below.
INCORRECT: A man leaped into the water over the pier’s rail.
CORRECT: A man leaped over the pier’s rail into the water.
INCORRECT: Smashed beyond repair, Dexter saw his watch lying on the court.
CORRECT: Dexter saw his watch, smashed beyond repair, lying on the court.
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81
Name: _____________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE 1: Write each of the following sentences, correcting each misplaced
modifier. Then underline the correct modifier and draw an arrow from it to the word it
modifies.
1. A sundae was served to each guest, dripping with chocolate sauce.
2. Sarah realized the mistake she had made after a few minutes.
3. Mr. Gawkowski spoke to the boys about loitering in the principal’s office.
4. Steve gave scraps of meat to the dog that had been left on his plate.
5. Stacy bought an umbrella after shopping carefully with pink and purple polka dots.
6. The hunter crouched behind a tree waiting for a bear to come along with a bow and arrow.
6. Trying to catch the scent, the sheriff gave the bloodhound one of the fugitive’s socks.
7. We saw many beautiful homes driving through Arkansas.
8. Ashley put the trophies into an old cabinet that she had won in golf tournaments.
9. At the last meeting, the mayor discussed the cost of filling in Mona Lake with city council
members.
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83
ENGLISH 10
UNIT IV
LESSON FOUR: Dangling Modifiers
Problems also arise when a modified word seems to missing entirely. Then the modifier is known as
a dangling modifier, which can be confusing for readers.
Recognizing Misplaced Modifiers
A dangling modifier appears to modify either the wrong word or no word at all because the word it
should logically modify is missing. Reading a sentence that contains a dangling modifier can make a
stop to guess what the missing word might be.
DANGLING MODIFIER:
Giving a party, several balloons were blown up.
The italicized modifier should describe whoever gave the party, but no word in the sentence
identifies the partygiver. Adding a word can correct this problem.
CORRECT: Giving a party, they blew up several balloons.
PRACTICE: Underline the dangling modifier in each sentence.
1. Skating across the pond, the ice was very slippery.
2. The smell of the fresh cookies reached my nose watching TV.
3. Lost in a huge city, the theater could not be found.
4. Using high-powered binoculars, the lost child was found.
5. Not seeing the pothole, the skateboard went flying.
Correcting a Dangling Modifier
Again, it is pretty easy! Correct a dangling modifier by rewriting the sentence to include the missing
word. See the examples below.
INCORRECT: Driving through the desert at night, the cactuses looked eerie.
CORRECT: Driving through the desert at night, we thought the cactuses looked eerie.
INCORRECT: When he was three years old, Jerry’s uncle entered medical school.
CORRECT: When Jerry was three years old, his uncle entered medical school.
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85
Name: ___________________________________
PRACTICE EXERCISE ONE: Write each sentence, correcting the dangling modifier. Then
underline the correct modifier and draw an arrow from it to the word it modifies.
1. Trying to get to the city quickly, the highway seemed best.
2. Jogging one morning, the solution to the problem was clear.
3. When she was five, Katrina’s mother graduated from college.
4. Getting up much earlier than usual, the house seemed oddly quiet.
5. Running for the bus, my book fell in the mud.
6. Upon entering the doctor’s office, the skeleton caught my attention.
7. Having finished the homework, the TV was turned on.
8. Having arrived late to school, a written excuse was requested.
9. When he got the chicken pox, Dan’s father called the school.
10. Waiting for a ride, the rain fell like cats and dogs.
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Name: ______________________________
ENGLISH 11: UNITS I, II, III, IV
MASTERY TEST REVIEW - FORM A
PART ONE:
Using the chart below, identify and correct the errors in the following
sentences.
FRAG
RS
CS
C
=
=
=
=
sentence fragment
run-on sentence
comma splice
correct
_____ 1. Mrs. Foley painted her house this summer it is now a very pretty pale green.
_____ 2. He ordered a deluxe hot dog, I ordered a chili dog.
_____ 3. What if you had been in the same position how would you have felt?
_____ 4. Mr. Green treats all of his customers with consideration. A trait that brings
him a lot of business.
_____ 5. Just as the two boys finished putting up the last section of fence. The whole fence came
crashing down.
PART TWO: Using the chart below, identify and correct the errors in the following
sentences.
SV
PA
C
= subject-verb agreement (changing a verb)
= pronoun-antecedent agreement (changing a pronoun)
= correct
_____ 6. Both Beth and Amy forgot her tickets to the concert at home.
_____ 7. The grades for the test are posted outside the teacher’s room.
_____ 8. Neither are likely to approve your actions.
_____ 9. I think that there's many things to consider before we decide.
_____ 10. Either the teacher or the students are to close the door when exiting a classroom.
_____ 11. Someone from the party has left their coat behind.
_____ 12. Either Tom or Arnie must bring their notebook to the review session.
_____ 13. My father felt that $300 were too much to pay for a new snowboard.
_____ 14. Neither of the girls had told their parents about the new tattoo.
_____ 15. Peanut butter and jelly are a popular choice for kids’ sandwiches.
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PART THREE: For each item below, choose the letter that correctly identifies the error; then, correct
the error. If there is no error, choose “Correct Sentence.”
_____16. By the time spring arrives my parents and I will have finished the renovations on the
house.
A. AGREEMENT (SV or PA)
B. PUNCTUATION ERROR
C. WORD CHOICE
D. CORRECT SENTENCE
_____17.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Before he entered the plea. Stan talked to several of the witnesses.
FRAGMENT
RUN-ON SENTENCE
COMMA SPLICE
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____18.
A.
B.
C.
D.
If we advertise in trade magazines our sales will certainly increase.
RUN-ON SENTENCE
PUNCTUATION ERROR
WORD CHOICE
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____19.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Congress adapted a new law that increases people’s taxes.
RUN-ON SENTENCE
AGREEMENT (SV or PA)
WORD CHOICE
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____20.
A.
B.
C.
D.
At age six, his parents were divorced.
RUN-ON SENTENCE
MODIFIER ERROR
PUNCTUATION ERROR
CORRECT SENTENCE
PART FIVE: Putting it all together- For each item below, choose the letter of the correct choice. If no error
choose D.
_____21.
A.
B.
C.
D.
The number of employees who left early are small.
early is small
whom left early
employees, who left early,
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____22.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Mr. Smith farther discussed the problem with mom and me.
problem, with mom and me
with mom, and me
Mr. Smith further discussed
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____23.
A.
B.
C.
D.
The only unwelcome guests was his competitors, Marion and I.
competitors, Marion and I
competitors Marion and I
guests were his competitors,
CORRECT SENTENCE
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_____24.
A.
B.
C.
D.
I believe, moreover, that you will find him cooking delicious.
believe; moreover that
his cooking delicious
believe, moreover;
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____25.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Someone in the group left their notebook on my desk all day.
on me desk all day
someone, in the group,
his notebook on my
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____26. Knights in the Middle Ages were bound by a code of honor it was called the
code of chivalry.
A. in the Middle Ages.
B. honor. It was
C. Knights’ in the
D. CORRECT SENTENCE
_____27.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Knighthood was not a mark of distinction, in fact, the first knights were common soldiers.
distinction; in fact
distinction in fact
knights was common
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____28.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Thirty minutes are more time than we need to prepare.
Thirty minutes’ are
than them need
minutes is more
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____29.
A.
B.
C.
D.
I wish it were possible for they to go with you.
I wish, it were
for them to
it was possible
CORRECT SENTENCE
_____30.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Each of these assignments take at least an hour to complete.
of these assignment’s
each, of these assignments,
assignments takes
CORRECT SENTENCE
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PART SIX: PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER “ACT” STYLE
In each of the following passages, certain words/phrases have been underlined and numbered. The questions
for each passage consists of alternatives for these numbered segments. Choose the alternative that follows
the proper grammar rules studied. If the item is correct, select “No Change.” Write down the correct letter by
each question. (On the test, there will be ten questions.)
According to the new book out by Kenneth Davis the population of Mexico City in 1992
1
2
were about 23 million, and everybody who studies it think the population will double by the
3
year 2025. Because one of Mexico City’s worst problems are air pollution, there has been
4
5
interesting ideas suggested for controlling it.
_____ 1.
A.
B.
C.
D.
No Change
new book out, by Kenneth Davis
new book out by Kenneth Davis”
new book out by Kenneth Davis,
_____ 2.
A.
B.
C.
D.
No Change
Mexico City, in 1992 were about 23 million, and
Mexico City in 1992 were about 23 million. And
Mexico City in 1992 was about 23 million, and
_____ 3.
A.
B.
C.
D.
No Change
whom studies it think the population will double by the
who studies it thinks the population will double by the
who studies it, think the population will double by the
_____ 4.
A.
B.
C.
D.
No Change
one of Mexico Cities worst problems are
one of Mexico City’s worst problems is
one of Mexico City’s, worst problems are
_____ 5.
A.
B.
C.
D.
No Change
pollution. There has been interesting ideas
pollution, there have been interesting ideas
pollution; there has been interesting ideas
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