which of the following sentences demonstrates the correct use of an apostrophe

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 English Practice Test

1. Which of the following sentences demonstrates the correct use of an apostrophe?

A. Lyle works for the courthouse, and among his responsibilities is getting the jurors meal’s.
B. Lyle works for the courthouse, and among his responsibilities is getting the juror’s meals.
C. Lyle works for the courthouse, and among his responsibilities is getting the jurors’ meals.
D. Lyle works for the courthouse, and among his responsibilities is getting the jurors meals’.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The apostrophe is correctly placed in this sentence to show possession by multiple jurors.

2. Which of the following sentences correctly uses a transition word?

A. Gilda is a hardworking student; therefore, she earned a good grade on her essay.
B. Gilda is a hardworking student; therefore she earned a good grade on her essay.
C. Gilda is a hardworking student: therefore, she earned a good grade on her essay.
D. Gilda is a hardworking student and therefore she earned a good grade on her essay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Choice A is the correct answer. 'Therefore' is correctly used as a transition word with proper punctuation in this sentence. In a compound sentence like this, a semicolon is used before the transition word to connect two independent clauses. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks the necessary punctuation to separate the independent clauses. Choice C is incorrect as a colon is not typically used before a transition word in this context. Choice D is incorrect because 'and' does not function as a transition word in this sentence.

3. What is the most effective way to ensure clarity and conciseness in your writing?

A. Using complex sentence structures and passive voice.
B. Avoiding unnecessary repetition and redundant words.
C. Replacing simple words with more sophisticated synonyms.
D. Adding flowery introductions and lengthy conclusions.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most effective way to ensure clarity and conciseness in writing is by avoiding unnecessary repetition and redundant words. This approach helps in eliminating verbosity and getting straight to the point, making the writing more effective and easier to understand. Using active voice and straightforward language contributes to clarity and ensures the message is conveyed directly and clearly to the reader. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because using complex sentence structures and passive voice (A) can lead to confusion and lack of clarity, replacing simple words with more sophisticated synonyms (C) may introduce unnecessary complexity, and adding flowery introductions and lengthy conclusions (D) can detract from the main message and make the writing less concise.

4. Identify the independent clause in the following sentence: You need to call your mother as soon as you get home.

A. You need to call your mother.
B. As soon as you get home.
C. You get home.
D. You need to call.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "You need to call your mother." An independent clause is a sentence that can stand alone and express a complete thought. In this sentence, the clause "You need to call your mother" functions independently and makes complete sense by itself. Choice B, "As soon as you get home," is a dependent clause as it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. Choice C, "You get home," is also a dependent clause lacking a complete thought. Choice D, "You need to call," is not a complete sentence without specifying who needs to call.

5. What is true about a strong academic thesis?

A. It is a viewpoint endorsed by one's professor.
B. It directly states the argument.
C. It reflects the opinions of most people.
D. A reasonable argument cannot be made against it.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: A strong thesis statement is a crucial element in academic writing as it clearly states the argument that will be supported throughout the paper. This statement serves as a roadmap for the reader to understand the main point of the paper. Choice A is incorrect because a strong thesis is not necessarily endorsed by a professor but is based on the writer's perspective. Choice C is incorrect as a thesis should reflect the writer's position, not necessarily the opinions of most people. Choice D is incorrect because a strong thesis should invite critical thinking and argumentation, rather than being immune to reasonable counterarguments.