A hundred years ago, automobiles were rare, but now cars are ubiquitous. However, she doesn't know what the word ubiquitous means. Which key context clue is essential to decipher the word's meaning?
- A. Ago
- B. Cars
- C. Now
- D. Rare
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Rare.' In the sentence, it is mentioned that 'a hundred years ago, automobiles were rare,' which provides the context that the opposite of rare would mean something very common, thus helping to decipher the meaning of 'ubiquitous.'
Choice A, 'Ago,' refers to a time frame and doesn't directly provide a contrast to 'ubiquitous.'
Choice B, 'Cars,' is mentioned in both parts of the sentence and does not help in defining 'ubiquitous.'
Choice C, 'Now,' signifies the current time but doesn't contrast with 'ubiquitous' to aid in its understanding.
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Which of the following would belong in a formal speech?
- A. We all need to work together to make this school better. First, we need to organize a list of our issues. Then we need to form small groups to discuss them and find solutions. Finally, we need to implement those solutions.
- B. Our purpose is to work together to improve the quality of education at this school. Ideally, we need to organize a list of our issues. Secondly, we need to form small groups to discuss them and find solutions. Then, we need to implement some solutions.
- C. We all have to work together to make this school much better than before. First, we need to express what is on our minds. We have to form small groups to discuss them and find solutions. And, we need to talk about those solutions.
- D. It is possible for us to discuss the problems in school and solve them. Certainly, we need to organize a list of our issues. For instance, we should form small groups to discuss them and find solutions. Finally, we need to implement those solutions.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Option B is the correct answer as it uses formal language, appropriate structure, and organized transitions like 'Ideally,' 'Secondly,' and 'Then,' which are essential for a formal speech. The tone is professional and clear, with well-constructed sentences that effectively convey the necessary information. Options A, C, and D either use informal language, lack the organized flow needed in a formal setting, or have less professional tone. Therefore, Option B stands out as the best fit for a formal speech.
Which of the following demonstrates correct punctuation?
- A. Graham still needs the following items for his class: a sable brush, soft pastels, a sketchbook, and an easel.
- B. Graham still needs the following items for his class, a sable brush, soft pastels, a sketchbook, and an easel.
- C. Graham still needs the following items for his class: a sable brush; soft pastels; a sketchbook; and an easel.
- D. Graham still needs the following items for his class - a sable brush; soft pastels; a sketchbook; and an easel.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A demonstrates correct punctuation. The sentence uses a colon to introduce a list, which is the most appropriate punctuation in this context. A colon is typically used to signal that a list or explanation follows, making it the suitable choice here. Choices B, C, and D either use a comma, semi-colon, or dash incorrectly to introduce the list, deviating from the standard punctuation rule for listing items. Therefore, they are incorrect in the context of this sentence.
What is the most effective way to combine the two sentences below?
- A. German cuisine is known for its hearty meat and potato dishes but families often enjoy a rich Sunday dinner of roast meat, potatoes, and cabbage.
- B. German cuisine is known for its hearty meat and potato dishes, but families often enjoy a rich Sunday dinner of roast meat, potatoes, and cabbage.
- C. German cuisine is known for its hearty meat and potato dishes and families often enjoy a rich Sunday dinner of roast meat, potatoes, and cabbage.
- D. German cuisine is known for its hearty meat and potato dishes, and families often enjoy a rich Sunday dinner of roast meat, potatoes, and cabbage.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. This choice effectively combines the two sentences with the use of a comma before 'and' to connect the two related but independent clauses. The comma helps to separate the contrasting information about German cuisine and the Sunday dinner, maintaining a clear and coherent structure. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they either lack the necessary punctuation or use 'but' instead of 'and,' which disrupts the flow of the combined sentence and fails to convey the intended relationship between the two ideas.
Which of the following statements would require a citation?
- A. The rate of increase in gasoline prices is unprecedented.
- B. I saw on the news that gas prices are increasing.
- C. Economic Times reported that gas prices are up 11% from last month.
- D. My friend and I were shocked by how much gas cost when we filled up yesterday.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C because when referencing a specific report, publication, or statistic like 'gas prices are up 11% from last month,' a citation is necessary to provide credibility and allow readers to verify the information. Choice A is a general statement about gasoline prices and does not require a citation as it is commonly known information. Choice B is a personal observation and not a direct reference to a specific source that would require a citation. Choice D is an anecdotal experience and does not present verifiable data that necessitates a citation.
Which of the following actions should NOT take place during the revising, editing, and proofreading steps of the writing process?
- A. Improving word choice
- B. Replacing irrelevant or weak sentences
- C. Identifying sentences that require citations
- D. Determining the argument the composition will defend
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: During the revising, editing, and proofreading steps of the writing process, the focus is on refining the existing content rather than creating new material. Improving word choice, replacing irrelevant or weak sentences, and identifying sentences that require citations are tasks that fall within these steps to enhance the overall quality and clarity of the writing. Determining the argument the composition will defend is a task that belongs to the drafting stage, where the main ideas and arguments are formulated. Therefore, deciding on the argument is not a step that should take place during revising, editing, and proofreading.