which of the following uses commas in a series correctly

ATI TEAS 7

English and Language Usage TEAS

1. Which of the following uses commas in a series correctly?

A. Jericka went to the store for milk, bread, and eggs.
B. For breakfast, Jason wanted to make French toast, bacon, and eggs.
C. Aj had a lot to do the next day, including homework, hockey practice, and chores.
D. Paz's mom, dad, and sister would come to watch his game.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Option A is the correct answer as it uses commas to separate items in a series ('milk, bread, and eggs'). In option B, the comma after 'bacon' is unnecessary. Option C correctly uses commas to separate the items in the series ('homework, hockey practice, and chores'). Option D incorrectly omits commas between 'mom' and 'dad,' and 'dad' and 'sister,' making it incorrect for a series of three or more items.

2. In which of the following situations is the inclusion of a citation necessary?

A. The author is stating an opinion about a new biography of Abraham Lincoln.
B. The author is describing a trip to Abraham Lincoln's birthplace.
C. The author is quoting another author's opinion about a new biography of Abraham Lincoln.
D. The author is describing a play she saw about Abraham Lincoln.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. A citation is required when directly quoting another author's opinion to give credit and avoid plagiarism. Choices A, B, and D do not necessitate citations as they involve the author's own opinion, personal experience, and description of a play, respectively, without directly quoting another source.

3. Which of the following sentences would be classified as informal language?

A. I'm counting on you to finish this before the deadline.
B. The deadline presented by the CEO is non-negotiable.
C. Every member of the department must meet the deadline.
D. The time period prior to the deadline is extremely significant.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "I'm counting on you to finish this before the deadline." This sentence is classified as informal language due to the use of contractions (I'm) and the casual tone of the phrase. The other choices (B, C, D) are more formal in nature. Choice B uses formal language with terms like 'non-negotiable.' Choice C is a general statement about meeting a deadline without any informal language, and choice D discusses the significance of the time period before a deadline in a formal manner.

4. How can you effectively adapt your writing style to different audiences?

A. Use the same formal tone regardless of the audience.
B. Consider the audience's age, background, and level of knowledge.
C. Rely on jargon and technical terms to sound professional.
D. Focus on your own voice and writing preferences.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To effectively adapt your writing style to different audiences, it is essential to consider factors such as the audience's age, background, and level of knowledge. Adapting vocabulary, tone, and level of detail to match the audience's needs enhances communication and ensures better understanding. Choice A is incorrect because using the same formal tone for all audiences may not be suitable or engaging for different groups. Choice C is incorrect as relying solely on jargon and technical terms may alienate those who are not familiar with such language. Choice D is incorrect because focusing solely on your own voice and writing preferences may not effectively communicate your message to diverse audiences who may have different preferences and needs.

5. Select the meaning of the highlighted word in the sentence based on the context clues: If you wake up outside in your pajamas in the middle of the night, you may be a 'somnambulist'.

A. Explorer
B. Magician
C. Insomniac
D. Sleepwalker

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Sleepwalker'. The word 'somnambulist' refers to a sleepwalker, as indicated by the context of waking up outside in pajamas in the middle of the night. A sleepwalker is someone who walks while asleep, and this matches the situation described in the sentence. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not align with the behavior of walking during sleep, which is characteristic of a somnambulist/sleepwalker.