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©The TESTCOACH by EMBASSY

The Exercises
“Integrating grammar instruction into the revising
and editing process helps students make
immediate applications, thus allowing them
to see the relevance of grammar
to their own writing.”

-Professor Beverly Ann Chin-

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I. CAPITALIZATION
Add capital letters where they are needed in the following sentences.

1. sukarno, born kusno sosrodihardjo (6 june 1901 – 21 june 1970) was the first

president of indonesia.

2. sukarno was the leader of his country's struggle for independence from the

netherlands and was indonesia's first president from 1945 to 1967.

3. the spelling "sukarno" is frequently used in english as it is based on the newer

official spelling in Indonesia since 1947, but the older spelling was soekarno,

based on dutch orthography.

4. The son of a javanese primary school teacher, an aristocrat named raden

soekemi sosrodihardjo and his balinese wife from the brahman caste named

ida ayu nyoman rai from buleleng regency, sukarno was born at jl.pandean IV

/ 40 surabaya.

5. later, while a student in bandung, he immersed himself in western,

communist, and islamic political philosophy, eventually developing his own

political ideology.

6. in december 1930, sukarno was sentenced to four years in prison, which was

served in suka miskin prison in bandung; by this time, he had become a

popular hero widely known throughout indonesia.

7. sukarno was aware that his past history as japanese collaborator might

complicate relationship with the western countries.

8. on early morning of 17 august 1945, sukarno returned to his house at

jl.pegangsaan timur no. 56, where he was joined by mohammad hatta.

9. sukarno was fated during his visit to united states in 1956, where he

addressed a joint session of united states congress.

10. finally, at 10 am, sukarno and hatta stepped to the front porch, where

sukarno declared the independence of the republic of indonesia in front of a

crowd of 500 people.

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II. PUNCTUATION BASIC


Exercise 2.1 – Possessives
Check you mastery of possessives by writing the correct possessive form of the italicized word
in the space provided. Some items may be correct.

1. Davids reason was personal. __________________________________________


2. The future of Indonesias foreign policy is being debated. ____________________
3. Teams from all over the country have gathered in the hall. __________________
4. Dean is not at all interested in womens issues. ____________________________
5. The girls locker room is downstairs, but the boys is upstairs. _________________
6. We are invited to the Petersons house for New Years Eve. ___________________
7. All of the Terences are going out to eat. _________________________________
8. Have you seen Claris iPhone, which she left here yesterday? _________________
9. Both of the monitors screens need repair. ________________________________
10. He will be back in two weeks time. ______________________________________

Exercise 2.2 – Commas and Semicolons


In the sentences below, insert or remove commas and semicolons as necessary. Some sen-
tences may be correct.

1. Some people believe in the existence of God others refuse His existence.
2. I like dogs however I hate the way they smell.
3. The mail carrier did not leave the package for Victoria was not at home.
4. After doing homework David as you might expect played his favorite online
games for hours.
5. The ice cream truck man drove by my house today when he passed by he
honked his horns twice.
6. Yesterday the car that ran into mine at the intersection was a black SUV.
7. I need street maps of Boston and Portland Maine I do not know how to use a
GPS.
8. The people who live near the sea river and lake must be prepared for
occasional flooding.
9. Some people write with a word processor typewriter or a computer but others
for different reasons choose to write with a pen or pencil.
10. I go to gym twice a week this activity builds my muscles and refreshes my
mind so I will be better prepared for my days.
11. To anyone interested in writing novels hold endless fascination.
12. There are basically two ways to write: with a pen or pencil which is
inexpensive and easily accessible or by computer and printer which is more
expensive but quick and neat.

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III. PUNCTUATION EXERCISE ADVANCED


Provide these paragraphs with appropriate punctuations.

Attachment versus generalised sociability

a. though a parent may become attached to an infant almost as soon as the baby is born
the infants capacity to become selectively and securely attached to the parent or
primary caregiver takes several months to develop not all parents recognise this because
infants are sociable from the moment of birth preferring human companionship to
contact with inanimate objects it may seem as though they 'love' their parents instantly
however until they reach 3 to 5 months of age babies sociability and attraction to people
is largely indiscriminate very young infants will happily accept comfort from almost
anyone who holds feeds or soothes them in fact an experienced grandmother babysitter
or pediatric nurse who has become adept at these skills through caring for many babies
may be preferred to a novice mother who is lacking in such expertise

b. at about the time when they begin to smile socially (approximately 6 to 8 weeks) babies
display this same generalised sociability in smiling grins are bestowed freely upon
grandparents neighbours even strangers in the supermarket by about this age infants
also begin to show negative reactions to being separated from people however they are
apt to protest equally strongly at being taken from whomever they happen to be with
regardless of their familiarity with or relationship to that person

c. the development of a special attachment between 6 or 8 months of age heralds a


dramatic departure from this earlier pattern of friendly sociability to all and sundry now
the infants is liable to cry and cling when the parent leaves and to react with fear or
aversion to the smiling face of a stranger the need to cling to someone and be soothed
can no longer be appeased by just any skilled caregiver this is particularly evident when
the baby is tired sick or frightened preference in clinging is therefore one of the first
signs that a true attachment has developed

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IV. TENSES CONSISTENCY


Exercise 4.1
Write the correct verbs in the spaces provided. Some sentences may contain no error

1. For anyone who is concerned about the problem, now is the time to work out a solution.
________________________________________________________________________
2. If Stephanie would have stayed home, she would not have missed Dave’s phone call.
________________________________________________________________________
3. In the afternoon, we spotted many friends we saw that morning at the breakfast.
________________________________________________________________________
4. In the street, a policeman stops him and asked to see his driver’s license.
________________________________________________________________________
5. Marcy kept the promise she has given to Thomas last year.
________________________________________________________________________
6. Once the dam had broken, the streets have been flooded.
________________________________________________________________________
7. The airline pilot expects to have seen the lights of the Changi Airport by now.
________________________________________________________________________
8. When she talks with her husband, Maria felt overwhelmed with guilt.
________________________________________________________________________
9. They had visited the park before they started their cross-country journey.
________________________________________________________________________
10. Writing a poem every week for a year, Dan finally had one of his accepted by a literary
magazine.
________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 4.2
Write the revised verbs in the spaces provided. Some sentences contain no error.

1. After they had seen the thief, Tim and Amanda set off for the police station.
_________________________________________________________________________
2. As they drove to Vermont, they had stopped for lunch at Bucky’s Bagel Shop.
________________________________________________________________________
3. First he built a fire, then dragged a log over to use as a seat, and finally collected enough
wood to keep the fire going all night.
________________________________________________________________________
4. For anyone with enough brains to have thought about the problem, now is the time to
work out a solution.
________________________________________________________________________
5. France is a lovely country. It has some beautiful beaches and historical buildings.
________________________________________________________________________
6. I used to go to the library when my husband is at work.
________________________________________________________________________
7. If the wagon train would have reached Salt Creek in time, the massacre would have been
prevented.
________________________________________________________________________
8. Jane cooked a fantastic meal and then had to do all the washing up.
________________________________________________________________________

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9. Michael said he shot the animal in the back. It escaped from the pen in which it was
kept.
________________________________________________________________________
10. Rose kept the promise she has given to Charles last year in India.
________________________________________________________________________
11. That night at the show, they met many people they saw that afternoon.
________________________________________________________________________
12. The couple biked all the way to the top of the mountain and then come back down in
time to eat lunch.
________________________________________________________________________
13. The patrolman testified that he had placed his revolver on the table.
________________________________________________________________________
14. The mechanic believes that Mrs. Chua has brought her car in last night.
________________________________________________________________________
15. We watched the movie and then walk to the coffee shop across the street.
________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 4.3 - Using Consistent Verb Tense


Choose the form of the verb in parentheses that is consistent with the other verbs in the fol-
lowing sentence. For a tip about keeping verb tense consistent within sentences, click on the
Tip link below.

1. The Internet has become increasingly 4. People are becoming concerned about
popular in the last several years and privacy on the Internet and ____ (ask)
____ (change) the way many people questions about its benefits.
conduct their daily lives.
A. changed A. have asked
B. has changed B. are asking

2. Many people shop over the Internet 5. The Internet has made knowledge
and ____ (read) about topics that in- more available and thus ____ (raise)
terest them. new questions about the boundaries
A. read between private and public infor-
B. have read mation.
A. raises
3. One woman who had been set up on a B. has raised
blind date ran an Internet search on
her match and ____ (find) that he had 6. A recent article in the New York Times
been described in an online article as argued that we are losing our privacy
one of the ten worst dates of all time. and ____ (give) examples of what av-
A. found erage people do with the Internet.
B. had found A. gave
B. gives

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7. People order books or ____ (listen) to 9. Some people ____ (erase) their Inter-
music online and reveal information net transactions with special software
about themselves to corporations. that costs a great deal of money.
A. listened
B. listen A. erased
B. erase
8. Many companies have offered dis-
counts or ____ (give) away free prod- 10. But most of us do not buy this soft-
ucts to consumers who supply infor- ware and ____ (be) at risk of having
mation for marketing research. our personal preferences become
A. have given public information.
B. gave A. are
B. were

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V. THE “S” QUIZ


Exercise 5.1 - Animal Testing
Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Every year, million of animal undergo painful suffering or death as a result of scientific
research into the effect of drug, food additive, cosmetic and other chemical product. While most
people think animal testing is necessary, other are upset by what they see as needless suffering. This
essay look at some of the positive and negative aspect of animal testing.
TEN
Many medical treatment and procedure have been developed from experiment on animal.
Since animal share many feature with human, scientist use animal to test the safety and
effectiveness of newly developed drug before pilot testing on small group of patient. Medical team
practice new operating technique such as transplant on animal. Without animal testing, many pro-
cedure or new drug would be extremely unsafe.
EIGHTEEN
However, many people are concerned that animal are suffering unnecessarily and cruelly.
They do not believe that every new drug need to be tested on animal, especially with the huge
database of knowledge and modern computer model. They also are worried that many animal test
are ineffective, pointing out that any drug have had to be withdrawn from the market despite
extensive testing. They particularly feel that animal testing should not be used for non-essential
product such as cosmetic, shampoo, soap, and cleaning product. Furthermore, some campaigner
would like to see certain test replaced and more humane method used.
FOURTEEN
We need to make sure that the million of animal who are used for testing new product are
treated with the minimum of suffering. Although some animal testing may be unavoidable at
present, treating our fellow creature as mercifully as possible will demonstrate our humanity.
FOUR

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Exercise 5.2 -Telecommuting: will it change the world?


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Telecommuting will have major effect in the world of work and family life. However, its
biggest effect will be in the area of individual freedom, responsibility, and time management.
TWO
Work and workplace will alter dramatically. Office may become smaller, as fewer desk are
needed. There will be greater need for high-bandwidth connection to link the office and the home,
and even home to other home, as other employee and supervisor also begin working from home.
Hour spent commuting, traffic jam, and fight for parking should diminish, as worker make fewer
journey or work staggered hour.
FIFTEEN
Family life will also change. Worker, both husband and wive, can arrange their work around
family commitment such as taking children to school, cooking, leisure activities, etc. However,
household will also have to set aside areas for work - particularly if both spouse are telecommuting.
SIX
However, although the idea of more time at home and less time traveling are attractive,
there are some drawback to telecommuting. People may feel unable to escape their work, and may
even work longer or more unsocial hour. The quality of work may suffer because of the reduced
face-to-face interaction with other employee. There may be delay if other worker are not
immediately available. Telecommuter may feel isolated or unmotivated, or insecure about decision.
A major change will be in the way people think about work as a place or an institution. Instead, they
will focus on the task or product. Worker may feel less loyal to a company and more inclined to
change job or work part-time or on contract.
TEN
In conclusion, the effect are difficult to predict because they depend on the extent to which
telecommuting become popular. However, telecommuting could be the start of a major societal
shift, possibly as big as the Industrial Revolution which created our present idea of work.
THREE

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Exercise 5.3 - Should rich countries help poorer ones?


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Today, the world is becoming more and more closely linked. Trade has increased and the
movement of people between country is greater than ever before. However, billion of people still
live in poverty, and in many place, the gap between rich and poor is widening. This essay will look at
the argument for and against helping poor country.
FIVE
There are many reason for helping poor country. First of all, there are humanitarian reason.
Like individual who give to charity, many country feel it is their religious, social, or moral duty to help
people in other country who are suffering from famine, drought, war, or disease. However, many
rich country also donate money for political or diplomatic reason. They want to maintain a relation-
ship of dependency with the recipient, or simply to influence the government and direction of the
country. A further reason why many country help poorer one is for economic reasons. The donor
may want to control the supply of commodity such as oil, water, or wheat. Alternatively, the richer
country may want to ensure market for their own product, whether these are plane, computer or
shoe.
EIGHTEEN
However, aid is not necessarily the best way to help a country. For one thing, billion of dollar
of aid often go missing, into corrupt government or inefficient administration. A second point is that
many foreign aid project are unsuitable for the target country. Many agency build huge dam or
industrial project that fail after a few years or that do not involve the local people. Furthermore,
much aid return to the donor. This can be in the form of expensive specialized equipment and expert
from the donor country.
TEN
There are many other way we can help poor country. Opening up trade barrier so that poor
country can sell their good is one way. Another is to remove subsidies so that imported good from
poorer country can compete fairly. A third method is to forgive debt. Many poor country have huge
interest repayment on old loan.
ELEVEN
The need of the poorer country may seem obvious. However, although our humanity make us want
to help eliminate poverty and suffering, we must examine the real need of poor country and
implement solution that will benefit both them and us.
SIX

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Exercise 5.4 - Education: Losing its Value


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Today, it seem to be universally accepted that increased education is a good thing. Thousand
of college and million of student spend vast amounts of time and money chasing piece of paper.
However, what is the value of these qualification? This essay discuss whether education has been
devalued.
EIGHT
Supporter of education (usually teacher or educator, or those who have an interest in stop-
ping people thinking for themselves) say that increased levels of education will open doors for stu-
dents. Certificate, diploma, and degree are held up as a status symbol, a passport to a private club of
money and power.
SIX
However, the truly powerful are not those who have taken degrees, but people who have
stood back and looked at what is really important in life. They have seen opportunity and followed
dream. These people are found in every part of society. Like many brilliant people, Einstein was a
weak student at math. Like many successful businessmen, Bill Gates never completed college. Like
many inventive and creative people, Edison never went to school. The greatest religious teacher do
not have letter after their name, but have looked into their heart for meaning. Similarly, the world’s
political leader do not have master’s degree or doctorate. These are the people who shaped our
century, and they are too busy with real life to spend time in the paper chase.
EIGHT
Student in college are being sold an illusion. They are made to believe that
self-understanding and society approval will come with the acquisition of a piece of paper. Instead of
thinking for themselves, and finding their own personality and strengths, they are fitted like square
peg into round hole.
THREE
The role of education is to prepare mass of people to operate at low level of ability in a very
limited and restricted range of activities. Some of these activities are more challenging than perhaps
the assembly line of the past, but still the ultimate purpose is equally uninteresting. More worrying-
ly, despite the increased level of education, people are still not genuinely expected to think for
themselves. In fact, the longer year of schooling make the job of brainwashing even easier.
FOUR
There is still a role for study, research, and education. However, we need to examine our
emphasis on education for the sake of a piece of paper, and to learn the real meaning and
revolutionary challenge of knowledge.
ZERO

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Exercise 5.5 - Should dangerous sports be banned? Yes!


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Million of people play sport every day, and, inevitably, some suffer injury or pain. Most
player and spectator accept this risk. However, some people would like to see dangerous sport such
as boxing banned. This essay will examine some of the reason for banning certain sport.
SEVEN
Some sport are nothing but an excuse for violence. Boxing is a perfect example. The last
thing an increasingly violent world need is more violence on our television. The sight of two men (or
even women) bleeding, with face ripped open, trying to obliterate each other is barbaric. Other
sport, such as American football or rugby, are also barely-concealed violence.
FOUR
Some people argue that the player can choose to participate. However this is not always the
case. Many boxer, for example, come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They are lured by money or
by social or peer pressure and then cannot escape. Even in richer social group, school force unwilling
student to play aggressive team sport, claiming that playing will improve the students' character (or
the school's reputation), but in fact increasing the risk of injury.
SIX
Even where people can choose, they sometime need to be protected against themselves.
Most people approve of government' effort to reduce smoking. In the same way, government need
to act if there are unacceptably high level of injuries in sport such as football, diving,
mountaineering, or motor-racing.
SIX
I accept that all sport involve challenge and risk. However violence and aggression should
not be permitted in the name of sport. Government and individual must act to limit brutality and
violence, so that children and adult can enjoy and benefit from sport.
FIVE

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Exercise 5.6 - Home Schooling: The Right Choice?


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

In most countries in the world, government require children to attend school in which
trained teacher are responsible for educating the children using an approved curriculum. However, a
significant number of parent believe that it is much better for their children to be educated at home
by the people who know them and their need best. This essay will examine the question of home
schooling and discuss which the best option for the child is.
FIVE
An increasing number of parent are deciding that home schooling is the best option for their
children. They are unhappy with the quality or depth of education offered in the schools, or have
other reason why they feel that traditional school are not suitable for their children. One reason is
social factor. Parents worry that their children will suffer from bullying or will be forced into
antisocial behavior by peer pressure. They believe that the good behavior they have taught the child
will be lost in school. Another reason is concern over the quality of schooling available. Schools
frequently have large class. They are often under-funded, and staffed by teacher without sufficient
knowledge of their subject. Subject such as the family’s religion or language may not even be
available in the school. Other parent may disagree with the aim of the school curriculum, preferring
for academic, social or cultural reason to keep their children separate. Finally, some children with
special need may need particular parental care.
TWELVE
However, there are many argument in favor of sending children to conventional school. The
first is that the children will be exposed to other children. These children may represent either a
cross-section of society or a narrow group, but in either case the children will interact with each
other and develop social skill. A second point is that the children will learn to function outside the
family. They will not be dependent on their parent for their educational, emotional and social need.
A third point is that the children will find it easier to integrate when they finish school, as they even-
tually will, when they start work or college.
FIVE
Overall, while many parent work hard to teach their children at home, conventional school
are still the right choice for most children. School are not perfect, but they seem to be a proven way
of preparing our children for the real world.
THREE

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Exercise 5.7 - Drug Abuse: Problems and Solutions


Put “s” or “es”or “ies (from ending Y)” whenever necessary in the nouns and verbs.

Drug abuse is rife in many countries. Billion of dollar are spent internationally preventing
drug use, treating addict, and fighting drug-related crime. Although drugs threaten many societies,
their effect can also be combated successfully. This essay look at some of the effect of drug use on
society, and suggest some solution to the problem.
NINE
Drug abuse cause multiple problem for countries and communities. The medical and psycho-
logical effect are very obvious. Addict cannot function as normal member of society. They neglect or
abuse their families, and eventually require expensive treatment or hospitalization. The second
effect is on crime. Huge police resource are needed to fight smuggling and dealing. Criminal gang
and mafia underworld develop with the money from drug.
NINE
However, the menace of drug can be fought. Education is the first battle. Children need to
be told at home and in school about drug. People need to be aware of the effect so that they can
make avoid this problem. A second approach is to increase police manpower and power to stop
dealer and to enforce the law. However, the main target should be the user. Families and counselor
need to talk to children and people at risk. Parent need to look at their children and help them to job
needed to give people a role in society.
EIGHT
In conclusion, although the problem of drug may seem impossible to eliminate, there are
concrete step that can be taken to weaken the hold of drug on society. The danger from drug is too
great to ignore.
FOUR

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VI. COORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS


Exercise 6.1 - WRITING CORRECT SENTENCES
Look for sentence fragments, run-ons, and comma splices. Use the spaces to identify the error and
write the sentence correctly. Some items may contain no error.

1. My grandfather is 86 years old therefore he walks at a snail’s pace.


_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Because Ann is stressed out about mounting the garbage in the back yard.
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. St. Petersburg was renamed Leningard after the Russian Revolutions, its original name was
restored in the 1990s.
_______________________________________________________________________________
4. Amanda found a squirrel lying dead in a ditch she did not tell Greg.
_______________________________________________________________________________
5. During the night, the stars that came out sparkling like diamonds on black velvet.
_______________________________________________________________________________
6. There is a belief among superstitious people that birthmarks foretell the destiny of the newly
born child.
_______________________________________________________________________________
7. This year’s class being more active than last year’s.
_______________________________________________________________________________
8. The American hated the King’s tax on British tea they drank Dutch tea instead.
_______________________________________________________________________________
9. A professor of biology working in the field of genetic engineering; involved in the controversy
surrounding human genetic modification.
_______________________________________________________________________________
10. Use the space below to tell one important story about yourself to provide the admission
committee, either directly or indirectly, with an insight into the kind of person you are.
_______________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 6.2 – Analyzing Errors


Turn these sentences into correct sentences; some of them are already perfect.

1. Mrs. Smith gone to visit her mother at the hospital.


_______________________________________________________________________________
2. It is freezing outside, do not forget your coat!
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. Before picking out an interesting wallpaper pattern that went well with her furniture.
_______________________________________________________________________________
4. To apply for the position as a manager at the new store in the mall.
_______________________________________________________________________________
5. His business been so hectic that his life revolves around just his work.
_______________________________________________________________________________
6. Eunice had excellent grades and recommendations however, she was still worried about not get-
ting accepted to college.
_______________________________________________________________________________

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7. Shaking his new boss' hand, Darren knew he would like to work there.
_______________________________________________________________________________
8. By making sure that no one will recognize her in public.
_______________________________________________________________________________
9. Sam picked up the ball, tossed it to his elder brother.
_______________________________________________________________________________
10. After getting estimates from ten contractors, she decided to do the hard work herself.
_______________________________________________________________________________
11. When my cousin planned to move to Sydney, after she finished high school here.
_______________________________________________________________________________
12. Many of her customers coming back three or four times over the summer.
_______________________________________________________________________________
13. My brother he has been running a charter fishing boat for five years.
_______________________________________________________________________________
14. Because Steven was sure he had heard the same strange story several months ago.
_______________________________________________________________________________
15. To avoid hitting the other coming car, Michael had to move his car across the corner of the lawn
_______________________________________________________________________________
16. She had made the beautiful dress herself when we finally heard that.
_______________________________________________________________________________
17. While waiting for his neighbor to move the car that blocked the driveway.
_______________________________________________________________________________
18. I finally did it, I passed this test after working so hard!
_______________________________________________________________________________
19. In the hiding place that Carol had been using for years to get away from the noisy house.
_______________________________________________________________________________
20. In order to better understand the situation, talk to each member of the forum.
_______________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 6.3 - Coordinating Conjunctions


Choose the coordinating conjunction that most logically links the two parts of the compound sen-
tence, except ‘yet’.
1. I was beginning to feel suspicious, _________I kept it to myself so as not to worry our two
friends.
2. The bowl of squid eyeball stew is hot, creamy, _________ delicious.
3. We can broil chicken on the grill tonight, _________we can just eat leftovers.
4. Sylvia thought she had a good chance to get the job, _______her father was on the company's
board of trustees.
5. She is neither insane _________brilliant.
6. He has always been nervous in large gatherings, _________ it is no surprise that he avoids
crowds of his adoring fans.
7. Rick plays football well, _________his favorite sport is badminton.
8. Rocky, my orange tomcat, loves having his head scratched, _________hates getting his claws
trimmed.
9. The visitors complained loudly about the heat, _________ they continued to play golf every day.
10. Most of the tourists seemed happy just sitting around in the shade, _________it had been a
long, dusty journey on the bus.

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11. That is not what I meant to say, _________should you interpret my statement the way you just
did.
12. Sam terrorizes the Maltese next door _________adores the German shepherd across the street.
13. Of course, I refuse to eat dry cat food, _________ will I ever touch a saucer of bat stew.
14. I hate to waste a single drop of my mom’s famous chicken broth, _________ it is expensive and
time-consuming to make.
15. Even though I added cream to the squid eyeball stew, Tom ignored his serving, _________ I got a
spoon and ate it myself.
16. Neither Mr. Richton_________ Mr. Jackall was available for comment yesterday.

Part 6.4 - COMMA SPLICE AND FUSED SENTENCES


Determine whether the items below are comma splices or fused sentences.
1. Julie is a real hypochondriac when her indicated that English was her least favor-
stomach hurts, she is certain that she has ite subject.
a bleeding ulcer, and if she has a back- A. comma splice
ache, she believes that she has cancer of B. fused sentence
the spine.
A. comma splice 6. When Matt shaved his head, his mother
B. fused sentence worried that he had joined a cult the real
reason for the bald head, however, was
2. My cat Buster loves to nap on warm ap- that Matt could get more attention and
pliances when he sleeps on top of the tel- sympathy from girls who thought he was
evision, his tail swipes the screen like a sick with a deadly disease.
windshield wiper. A. comma splice
A. comma splice B. fused sentence
B. fused sentence
7. Mike loves to play computer games, es-
3. During English class, Anthony kept flirting pecially Tomb Raider, he imagines that all
with RaShaunda because his behavior was of the villains are his problems, and he
keeping Shenicka from understanding the gets great satisfaction blasting them to
lecture, Shenicka whacked him over the bits.
head with her heavy dictionary. A. comma splice
A. comma splice B. fused sentence
B. fused sentence
8. Cindy's mumbling often gets her in trou-
4. In preparation for the quiz, La'Mia studied ble just the other day, in fact, her stylist
comma splices and fused sentences until misunderstood Cindy's instructions and
she thought her brain would burst, finally, dyed her hair blue after Cindy asked him
she put away her notes, convinced that to trim the ends.
she would remember the rules even on A. comma splice
her death bed. B. fused sentence
A. comma splice 9. Clyde knew that he should be saving
B. fused sentence money for next semester's tuition he
spent every paycheck, however, on gold
5. At the back of the classroom, Nina sat jewelry and expensive dinners for his
with her arms crossed, glaring at her greedy girlfriend Gloria.
teacher, Mr. Beane, her body language A. comma splice
B. fused sentence

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10. At the campus coffee cart, Gini makes the A. comma splice
best drinks her sweet cream latte, a blend B. fused sentence
of vanilla ice cream and espresso, will put
on the pounds, but its cool, smooth taste 16. Sima was so sleepy after her marathon
is worth a trip to the gym. studying session for calculus that she or-
A. comma splice dered a triple espresso before going to
B. fused sentence class once the caffeine kicked in, Sima
knew that she would not doze off on Dr.
11. Josie, Don's Cairn terrier, will bark at any- Ribley.
thing that moves, squirrels, wind blown A. comma splice
leaves, passing cars, and her own shadow B. fused sentence
will start her yapping.
A. comma splice 17. Rachel painstakingly ironed her linen shirt
B. fused sentence all the while, she was thinking how point-
less this chore was since linen begins to
12. Because his glasses were so thick, Quincy wrinkle the moment after the last button
refused to get contacts, he worried that is fastened.
equally thick contact lenses would make A. comma splice
him look like a bug-eyed space alien. B. fused sentence
A. comma splice
B. fused sentence 18. Jeremiah likes to put peanut butter on his
pancakes instead of syrup, the smell is
13. Madison believed that the best job in the appealing, but I would not want to eat
universe would be to work as a crew anything so sticky that early in the morn-
member on the star ship Enterprise since ing.
this job existed only on television, Madi- A. comma splice
son settled for clerking at a neighborhood B. fused sentence
comic book store that sold Star Trek
memorabilia. 19. Clarence could not believe that the hard-
A. comma splice ware store was selling garden rakes for
B. fused sentence only $1.99 each when he brought home
twenty of them, his wife Marie just shook
14. Michelle is terrified of spiders, so when her head and squeezed them into a gar-
she found one in the bathroom, she pan- age stuffed full of her husband's other
icked, refusing to shower for three days to "good buys."
use the restroom, she drove to her neigh- A. comma splice
borhood gas station. B. fused sentence
A. comma splice
B. fused sentence 20. Orange juice, toast, and cereal might be a
15. When Jim threw his back out while help- healthy breakfast, but Ricardo always hits
ing his wife Nancy move the sofa, he the snooze button on his alarm too many
feared the treatment the doctor would times all he can grab is a stale pastry and
recommend, a week's worth of bed rest soda.
during the nicest week in April would cer- A. comma splice
tainly wreck Jim's golf plans. B. fused sentence

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Exercise 6.5 - COMMA SPLICE AND FUSED SENTENCES 2


Each sentence below contains three underlined parts, one of which is either a comma splice or fused
sentence. You need to find and fix the problem.

1. Hoping to relax after a busy week at work and school, Cheryl smoothed on some sunscreen, set-
tled onto her pool raft, and opened her new Stephen King novel, then her neighbor cranked up
the lawnmower, ruining the quiet.
2. Derek wanted a ferocious pit bull terrier to scare off burglars, but his apartment complex did not
allow dogs as a result, Derek had to settle for naming his goldfish Mr. Jaws and installing addi-
tional door locks.
3. Sylvia carefully ironed her one good suit to wear to the bank interview the next day all the
while, Buster, her hairy white cat, waited for her to lay the dark gray skirt on the bed so that he
would have a warm spot to nap.
4. Chet decided to get a huge Chinese dragon tattooed across his shoulder blades once the stab-
bing needle pierced his skin, however, Chet quickly changed his mind, opting to pierce an ear
instead.
5. Struggling to capture the nude model on paper, Sima whined that she did not have the right
pencil at the same time, she realized that this complaint was the same as saying that she could
not sink a basketball because she did not have expensive athletic shoes.
6. Hunched over the keyboard for hours, Charlie used two fingers to hunt and peck out the 2,000-
word research paper when lightning caused his computer to crash, Charlie wept more tears
than the thunderclouds spilled rain.
7. After listening for weeks to her boyfriend Steve bragging about his mother's chili, Amy antici-
pated the first delicious spoonful, the hair floating among the beef and beans, however, killed
her appetite.
8. When Javier was supposed to be in trigonometry, he was instead flirting with pretty girls in the
cafeteria needless to say, he was inadequately prepared to make the 98 that he needed on the
final exam to pass the course.
9. Juliana knew that she would never again agree to go out to dinner with James, he expected her
to buy her own meal, tip the waitress, and chip in for gas.
10. At a garage sale, Clarence bought four gallons of exterior latex for only ten dollars then, when
his neighbors saw the nuclear pink, they collected 120 dollars to buy four gallons of primer and
four gallons of forest green paint.
11. When Millie overheard Coach Jones complain that women did not belong on a basketball court,
she became so angry that she picked up a tennis racket and whacked him over the head, the as-
sault and battery charge, in Millie's opinion, was worth it.

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12. Given 1,000 dollars as a graduation gift, Kris wavered between putting the money toward a new
computer or going to Germany to visit his sister, finally Fräuleins and beer won out over
modems and megabytes.
13. When Simone and her husband discovered sixteen jars full of insects in their daughter's room,
they decided to get Maria a dog, tolerating one four-legged animal seemed better than having
fifty six-legged “pets” in the house.
14. Syed finally decided to clean out his disorganized book bag, old US Government handouts, math
notes from Intermediate Algebra, leaky ballpoint pens, and a smashed banana littered the in-
side.
15. With sharp scissors, Thinh tried to even her client's hair, but the woman kept twisting in her seat
to yell at her two small children who were terrorizing the salon, Thinh finally decided that
crooked ends were better than poking out a client's eye.
16. Everyone always invites Marc to the movies, his jeans are so oversized that he can sneak in two
two-liter bottles of soda, which he straps to his thighs, saving his friends from the outrageous
drink prices at the theater.
17. When Minori left Japan to study in the United States, she thought that she would miss her
mother's delicious home cooking, however, after her first taste of a bacon cheeseburger, she
did not care if she ever returned to Japan.
18. The computer began to wail like an ambulance, startling poor Robert, who only wanted to
retrieve his paper, unfortunately, a virus had immobilized the hard drive.
19. Jenny noticed a greasy snail-like trail that snaked from the kitchen counter, onto the floor, and
then over to the hallway, June, Jenny's cat, had stolen another stick of butter and tried to drag
it to the laundry room.
20. After a successful interview at a bookstore, Julio patiently waited by the phone, hoping to hear
that he had gotten a summer job, every call, though, was a twelve-year-old boy calling for
Rosita, Julio's younger sister.

Exercise 6.6 - COMMA SPLICE AND FUSED SENTENCES 3


Each sentence below contains three underlined parts, one of which is either a comma splice or fused
sentence. You need to find and fix the problem.

1. If Chris hopes to survive in his 8 a.m. English class, he needs to discover caffeine even when he
has a test, his head hits the desk by 8:05, and snores soon escape his mouth.
2. Although you might not believe it, Antonio actually benefits from his chicken scratch handwrit-
ing because no one can read it, Antonio does not have to worry about using the right word or
the correct spelling.

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3. If you offer Valerie a piece of watermelon, she will refuse it, the slices look like the wicked smile
of a circus clown who once scared her as a child during a trip to the big top.
4. During the summer when a variety of fruit is in season, Melville always avoids the fresh peach-
es, the fuzzy skin brushing against his lips makes Melville think that he is eating a small rodent.
5. Jean always nibbles around the pit of a cherry, just as if she were eating a peach, because she is
vain about her smile, she does not want to chip a tooth on the hard center.
6. Because Simon thinks that he has big, ugly toes, he insists on wearing socks everywhere that he
goes at the beach, in the shower, or around the house, you will find Simon with socks on his
feet.
7. Sick with the flu, Howard craved a big hot bowl of his grandmother's chicken soup, but in the
refrigerator, Howard had only a jar of olives and a carton of milk, cream of olive soup, Howard
decided, would only worsen how he felt.
8. To gain attention, Christie has pierced each of her ears eight times on breezy days, people hear
the tinkling sounds of Christie's unique wind chimes as the jewelry blows in the wind.
9. Since he was sound asleep on the library sofa, William was oblivious to his twenty-eight algebra
classmates, who were sweating, sighing, and wracking their brains as they tried to ace their final
exam, poor William was quietly earning a zero.
10. Sparkling with jewelry conned from ex-boyfriends, Sylvia keeps an eye out for new victims with
fat wallets, she still needs a pair of diamond earrings to complement a necklace that she man-
aged to coerce Ricardo into buying.
11. As her teachers had recommended, Madison tried to study in the library but discovered that
the good music, unlimited soda, and big tables at the campus café made a great place to do
homework during fall semester, Madison must have eaten 150 pizza slices while she slogged
through Fundamentals of Biology.
12. Davina, a good friend in my biology class, has more interest in what is under a guy's skin than
what's under his clothes, for this reason, she is pursuing a degree in radiography.
13. Jackie always made it a point to sit in the front row because she liked to focus on the lecture and
take good notes, the excessive spitting of her Latin professor, however, drove her to the back of
the room.
14. Latoya tried to concentrate on Dr. Lemon's dull art history lecture, but the darkened classroom
and endless slide show soon had her dozing in her seat, Latoya knew that Beverly would poke
her with a pencil if Dr. Lemon bothered to glance their way.
15. Todd is an amazing cook, he can look into a nearly empty refrigerator and put together an inter-
esting dinner; yesterday, for example, he made a sliced pickle and mayonnaise sandwich, using
an old blueberry muffin as bread.

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16. Watching the Home Shopping Network late one evening, Clarence saw handheld televisions ad-
vertised for only $49.99, so he bought ten of them, in his lifetime, Clarence was certain that he
would need them all.
17. When Robert is riding his Honda motorcycle, he drives recklessly, weaving dangerously through
rush hour traffic, Robert does not care that he might leave a kneecap or chunk of thigh speared
on a car bumper.
18. During the fall semester, parking on campus is very difficult, students circle the lots like
vultures, waiting for an empty space, and most students soon realize that taking a 7 a.m. class,
despite the effort it takes to get up that early, at least cures their parking woes.
19. Jacques, a self-taught computer whiz, always hates going to his Introduction to Microcomputers
class the reason is that both his textbook and professor are at least a year behind when they
discuss software or internal components.
20. Belinda hates her psychology class, although her professor is an interesting lecturer, the audito-
rium is right next to the copy center, and the whump, whump, whump of the machines always
makes Belinda drowsy.

Exercise 6.7 - COMMA SPLICE AND FUSED SENTENCES 4


Choose the correct way to fix the underlined problem in each sentence.

1. Lorna did not last long in Mr. Wolcott's busy 4. My cat Buster is always tipping over the gar-
office, her long fingernails made accurate typing bage can then he searches through the trash for
impossible, and her abrasive manner scared milk jug caps, which he bats around the floor,
away too many potential clients. the cat version of playing ice hockey.
A. office her A. can, then
B. office, because her B. can, but then
C. office. Her C. can, and then

2. Bo was craving a cold slice of watermelon, 5. Susan ducked down when she saw Mr. Hay-
but he had money only for hotdogs and buns, den, her English teacher, walk into Tito’s Taco
Bo was pretty sure that sticking the huge fruit Palace, unfortunately, a burrito was not big
under his shirt and pretending that he was enough to hide behind, so poor Susan had to
pregnant would not fool the cashiers. explain why she had missed his class again.
A. buns Bo A. Palace unfortunately
B. buns. Bo B. Palace; Unfortunately
C. buns, but Bo C. Palace. Unfortunately

3. Fighting the urge to crawl under her desk, 6. Mark searched the nearly empty refrigerator
Adriana looked at the clock, there was still a for a midnight snack his only choices were cur-
half hour left of class, more than enough time dled milk, stale pizza, and grape jelly, any com-
to do her poorly prepared, ten-minute speech. bination of which he could not stomach.
A. clock there A. snack, his
B. clock; there B. snack, but his
C. clock, so there C. snack, so his

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7. Sherian refuses to let her kids have a puppy, several trips a day to the bathroom to dust the
she is convinced that dogs are just big germs sneakers with toilet paper.
and refuses to follow one around with a sponge A. shoes he
and bottle of bleach. B. shoes, but he
A. puppy she C. shoes, so he
B. puppy, but she
C. puppy, for she 14. Poor Paola listened to her stomach rumbling
loudly, she would have to wait twenty more
8. Running through the parking lot, Aisha hoped minutes before she could dash to the cafeteria
to get to her car before the rain began when for a quick donut and soda.
she found the doors locked and saw her keys A. loudly she
lying on the front seat, she knew that she was in B. loudly; she
for a soaking. C. loudly, so she
A. began, when
B. began; When 15. For two weeks, Todd refused to go to his
C. began. When accounting class because Professor Gastineau
would not allow students to wear hats in class,
9. Bored with the lecture on comma splices and under no circumstance would Todd allow any-
fused sentences, Jayson started poking Kim with one to see the butcher job his stylist had done
the sharp tip of his pencil finally she whirled to his hair.
around and slugged him in the mouth. A. class under
A. pencil, finally she B. class, and under
B. pencil, as a result she C. class, therefore under
C. pencil; finally, she
16. Tracy always knows the right answer in Eng-
10. Sighing heavily, Melody tried to summon lish class but is too shy to volunteer whenever
the energy to get to her next class her heavy Miss Simmons asks a question, Tracy's hand
book bag and the long walk, however, seemed feels as if it weighs 1,000 pounds.
impossible challenges. A. volunteer, whenever
A. class, her B. volunteer, therefore whenever
B. class; her C. volunteer; whenever
C. class but her
17. Slouched in his seat, Michael tried to pay
11. Alphonso does not care as much about com- attention to the grammar lecture the only prob-
fort as he does about style he will wear, for ex- lem was that NBA statistics and images of pretty
ample, a long sleeve shirt and a leather jacket in women in tight miniskirts were more interesting
the middle of a Florida summer if they are the than subordinate clauses and participle phrases.
perfect complement to his new pair of khakis. A. lecture, the
A. style, he B. lecture, however the
B. style, but he C. lecture. The
C. style; he
18. Nathalia likes to get good grades but hates
12. Tajuana is a very conscientious student when her friends call her a nerd, sometimes
when she makes a B, she is so upset that she Nathalia will claim that she got a 77 on a test
lies awake at night, staring at the ceiling and when, in reality, she earned a 97.
worrying about the effect this "bad" grade will A. nerd sometimes
have on her GPA. B. nerd, so sometimes
A. student, when C. nerd, but sometimes
B. student. When
C. student, therefore when

13. Wally did not want to do anything to ruin his


new pair of athletic shoes, he always stayed on
the sidewalks, sidestepped puddles, and made

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19. Neil's day revolves around sugar, he antici- 20. Carla has difficulties getting to her 8 a.m.
pates the pastry he will choose for breakfast, English class on time, she always watches too
the candy bar he will eat for lunch, and the ice many late night movies and then hits the
cream he will have as dinner. snooze button on her alarm once too often.
A. sugar he A. time she
B. sugar, for he B. time, because she
C. sugar, but he C. time, for she

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Exercise 6.8 - COMMA SPLICE AND FUSED SENTENCES 5


Choose the correct way to fix the underlined problem in each sentence.
1. Gustavo can tolerate any lecture, no matter ping through their dictionaries for the correct
how boring the instructor is, in his mind, Gus- spellings of words.
tavo imagines that he is on board the starship A. desk her
Enterprise, blasting Romulans from his post B. desk while her
on the bridge. C. desk, moreover, her
A. is in
B. is; In 7. Ingie looked at his wife's collection of cook-
C. is; in books and sighed, although there were thou-
sands of recipes for delicious meals, he knew
2. Sylvia shivered in her silk shirt, the differ- Valerie would want to order another pepper-
ence in temperature between the hot road oni and mushroom pizza for dinner.
and the cold library was extreme. A. sighed although
A. shirt the B. sighed. Although
B. shirt, for the C. sighed; Although
C. shirt, because the
8. Mike has terrible eating habits when he
3. Many road signs warned Tommy of the opened his lunch bag, we saw a bag of potato
construction work ahead, he did not realize chips, two candy bars, cellophane-wrapped
that his lane was closed, though, until he cupcakes, and a carton of chocolate milk.
mowed down a traffic barricade with the A. habits, when
front of his car. B. habits, but when
A. ahead he C. habits; when
B. ahead but he
C. ahead. He 9. While flirting on the phone with the satel-
lite dish salesman, Rose forgot about the
4. The grip of the pantyhose, the stranglehold omelet cooking in the kitchen, she did not
of the scarf, and the bite of the tight shoes expect the stovetop fire that filled the house
made Rachel want the interview to end, she with smoke.
longed for a cotton T-shirt and jeans. A. kitchen she
A. end she B. kitchen, so she
B. end; however, she C. kitchen, consequently; she
C. end. She
5. Ryan is highly allergic to cats, he requires at 10. Several students sat sneezing and sniffling
least twenty god-bless-yous every time he in their seats, Jason always wore too much
visits Mariko and her seven Siamese. cologne, and allergic reactions kicked into
A. cats he high gear as the odor wafted through the
B. cats, so he classroom.
C. cats, as a result, he A. seats Jason
B. seats, and Jason
6. Mrs. Britton was grading papers at her C. seats. Jason
desk, her students were slaving over their in-
class compositions, sighing heavily and flip-

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11. Sandra spent every dime on her vacation B. dry; when


to Cancun, Mexico, where she went shopping, C. dry, as a result, when
dancing, swimming, and sightseeing, she does
not care that her rent will be late and that she 16. As Irene scooped stuffing out of the
will have to eat macaroni and cheese for a Thanksgiving turkey, she saw gold glinting
week. from the breadcrumbs, finally, she had found
A. sightseeing she her earring, which she had lost early that
B. sightseeing, nevertheless, she morning.
C. sightseeing; she A. breadcrumbs finally
B. breadcrumbs, finally at last
12. The terrified passengers aboard the 747 C. breadcrumbs; finally
gripped their armrests as the jet bucked in a
bad stretch of turbulence after a ride like this 17. No foot powder, no shoe insert, no expen-
one, everyone knew that five minutes on Dis- sive soap can kill the odor of Bartholomew's
ney's Space Mountain would feel like relaxing feet, when he takes off his shoes, even the
in a rocking chair. goldfish gag.
A. turbulence, after A. feet when
B. turbulence; After B. feet. When
C. turbulence. After C. feet, thus when

13. Richard squeezed, thumped, and shook 18. Ursula clutched her head, trying to re-
the empty shampoo bottle, hoping for a few member the correct formula to solve the sta-
drops to wash his dirty hair, since the bottle tistics problem, the only thing she could focus
was completely empty, Richard worked up a on, however, was the stupid fight she had in
lather with a few sprinkles of bathroom the car with her boyfriend, Mac.
cleanser instead. A. problem the
A. hair since B. problem, consequently, the
B. hair; since C. problem; the
C. hair, consequently, since
19. Quang wants a degree in business admin-
14. After the thunderstorm, Teresa splashed istration, he fantasizes about yelling at future
through the puddles left on the street, she employees who are too afraid of losing their
enjoyed feeling the cool rainwater on her hot jobs to talk back.
feet. A. administration he
A. street she B. administration, because he
B. street, because she C. administration since he
C. street, for she
20. In Dr. Ribley's calculus class, Yi-Ping tapes
15. Fred blew and blew on the globs of liquid every lecture and carefully rewrites her notes,
white-out, but they refused to dry when the she is planning to sell these guides to desper-
professor called time, Fred closed the cover of ate freshmen next semester.
his exam book and hoped the pages would A. notes she
not cement together. B. notes, because she
A. dry, when C. notes, for she

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Exercise 6.9 – Fragments 1


Read each short passage that follows. Determine which part is the fragment.

1. A Maria was not watching her plate of barbecue very carefully. B So Santana, the family beagle,
snatched a chicken leg hanging over the edge. C As baked beans and potato salad slid onto
Maria's new sandals.
2. A Ever since Andre peeked at Melissa's paper during the biology exam. B Guilt has consumed
him. C Even the blueberries floating in his cereal bowl seem like the accusing eyes of Dr. Grego-
ry, his microbiology instructor.
3. A James opened the door of his cluttered refrigerator. B Which caused a pint of blueberries to
fall to the floor. C The fruit bounced and rolled everywhere in an explosion of indigo.
4. A Richie loves to walk his friends' dogs at Lake Eola Park. B For example, Kim's Labrador retriever
Murphy or Gary's bulldog Kembo. C Beautiful women, Richie has learned, gravitate toward guys
with cute dogs.
5. A Head down, Lela stared at the textbook on her desk. B She understood the fragment practice
that Mrs. Markham was going over in class. C But was too shy to raise her hand and volunteer an
answer.
6. A Joshua found the pressure from the gas in his stomach unbearable. B Although he didn't want
to be rude in the middle of geology class. C An explosive belch erupted from his mouth.
7. A Phillip left work early. B To memorize the vocabulary that his Spanish midterm would test the
next day. C But all that he could think about was Beatrice, the cute new sales associate who
worked in the camera department.
8. A Chewing the dry, tough, whole-grain bread bought from the health food store. B Lorena tried
to enjoy her lunch. C Fantasizing about a juicy cheeseburger on a soft white bun did not improve
the taste of the soy product sandwiched between leaves of organic lettuce.
9. A My cat Fuzz loves to sleep in inconvenient places. B Lately she prefers the computer table. C
Where her long hair sticks to the mouse pad, covers the keyboard, and clings to the screen of
the monitor.
10. A Rocking and thrashing like a wild horse that cowboys had lassoed. B The washer complained
about its overloaded tub. C At the other end of the laundromat, Bobby quietly read an old maga-
zine, pretending that it was not his machine.
11. A Day after day, thunderclouds rolled in during the early afternoon. B Making Madison's grass
thrive from all of the water. C Her neighbors, however, prayed for a sunny afternoon so that
Madison could finally mow the jungle that was the front yard.
12. A While cleaning under his bed, Glen heard the vacuum cleaner suck up something hard and me-
tallic. B Glen wanted to know what the object was. C But had no intention of digging through a
bag of dust, dead bugs, cat litter, and bathroom hair to find out.
13. A Farah woke Kirby, the family's ancient German shepherd. B To see if he had fallen asleep on
the remote control. C The growl that Kirby rumbled in protest convinced Farah to use the chan-
nel buttons on the front of the television instead.
14. A Raja knew that his roommate Tina had cupcakes hidden in the apartment. B He looked every-
where. C Including in the clothes hamper, on top of the bookcases, behind the sofa—even under
his own bed!—all to no avail.

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15. A Peering around the other students in line, Sylvia tried to see the lunch choices. B The cafeteria
selections were disappointing. C For example, greasy fried chicken, soupy sweet-n-sour pork,
and a gray mystery meat floating in translucent, lumpy gravy.
16. A Struggling up three flights of stairs, her arms filled with the heavy texts for four classes, her
backpack loaded with notebooks and other supplies. B Jamala huffed and puffed. C Never again
would she register for all of her classes back-to-back on the same days of the week.
17. A As quietly as possible, Sherri tried to open the one-pound bag of candy on her lap. B Finally,
the tough plastic split open. C Causing an explosion of chocolate balls that bounced and rolled
down the aisles of Dr. Wilson's chemistry class.
18. A Each morning when Helene is fixing her hair in the bathroom. B She applies many sticky hair
products. C During a typical day, she catches more bugs in her coif than most spiders manage to
land in their webs in a week.
19. A Ralph spent all of his savings on a diamond ring to give to his girlfriend Melanie. B A greedy
young woman who had a box full of expensive trinkets from ex-boyfriends. C Melanie was al-
ways looking for the man with the fattest wallet.
20. A Emily pounded on the bedroom door, demanding a little quiet so that she could study for her
physics midterm. B Her sister Amy ignored the request. C And continued banging on the drum
set that she bought at a garage sale.

Exercise 6.10 – Fragments 2


Read each short passage that follows. Determine which part is the fragment.

1. A While Cynthia dressed for her sister's wedding, Murphy, the golden retriever, ate the straps
off the only shoes that matched Cynthia's pale blue dress. B Her replacement options were in-
appropriate. C Like rubber flip-flops, running shoes, fuzzy pink rabbit slippers, or brown leather
pumps.
2. A When Will stepped out of the shower, he panicked. B Realizing that all of his underwear was
still in the washing machine. C Damp jockey shorts were not a good way to start his day.
3. A Joey idolizes his older brother David. B Combing his hair in the style that David wears, drinking
coffee black with five sugars, and giving teachers the same lame excuses for late homework. C As
a consequence, everyone calls Joey “David” by mistake!
4. A While thunder boomed in the distance, Margaret started off on her daily five-mile run. B Con-
fident that she had plenty of time before the storm arrived. C Wet hair and clothes plastered to
her body proved that she could not outpace Mother Nature.
5. A Whenever Coach Moody sees behavior that she doesn't like—either on or off the court. B The
members of the girls' basketball team pay during the next practice. C When Frankie was caught
smooching her boyfriend Larry in the hallway, everyone had to run two extra miles that after-
noon.
6. A Making his anxious students relax would have required very little effort. B Like a smile when
he walked into class or a "Good job" written at the bottom of an essay. C Professor Marshall re-
fused to do more than scowl and read from his yellowed lecture notes.
7. A Marcus has no consideration for the ecosystem rich with life in his backyard. B When he cuts
the lawn, he slows for nothing. C As toads, lizards, and insects jump to the sanctuary of bushes
to avoid the deadly mower blades.

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8. A Each morning, Darren adds guava juice, raw egg, protein powder, raisins, and sardines to a
blender. B After mixing these ingredients on high for a few seconds, he has breakfast. C A drink
that will give him plenty of energy and shiny hair.
9. A Horrified, Sherri stared at her reflection in the mirror. B Hair sticking out in seventeen different
directions, a spot of whipped cream on her chin, and a green pen mark across her nose. C Why
hadn't her friends at the table mentioned her disarray?
10. A Lying awake in the dark room, staring up at the shadows that danced across the ceiling. B Ja-
son worried about the shuffling and thumps that he heard outside. C Raccoons—not hungry
zombies with grabbing arms—were prowling behind the house.
11. A Like amber honey, Helene's long hair dripped over her shoulders and spilled down her back. B
Styling products, moreover, made the tresses as sticky as pancake syrup. C Catching pieces of
thread, feathers, dust, and even an occasional insect that buzzed too close.
12. A While eating the plate of sesame chicken, Maria was thankful for her skill with chopsticks. B
Eating utensils that required only one hand to use. C For Maria's left hand was pinned to the
booth by Hunter, her five-year-old son who lay sleeping after a long day of shopping at the mall.
13. A To stay awake for a long evening of chemistry homework. B Beth made a huge pot of coffee.
C Unfortunately, her heart beat so fast and her legs jiggled so violently that the poor girl could
not concentrate.
14. A Diane picked at the slice of cheesecake with her car keys. B While Nick sucked whipped cream
off his fingers. C Horrified, Rachel watched her roommates decimate the dessert that she had
spent three hours preparing.
15. A Cringing with anxiety at the grade that she might find. B Nancy peeked at the last page of the
essay. C The big red A sent waves of relief radiating through her body.
16. A Jonathon often tries to shock his English teacher, Mrs. Mauzy, with weird paper topics. B Such
as eating tarantulas or wearing women's underwear. C Mrs. Mauzy remains nonplussed, scan-
dalized only by the number of fragments in Jonathon's essays.
17. A To save enough money to pay tuition, Tanisha keeps a strict budget. B She never carries more
than three dollars in her wallet. C To avoid making impulse purchases like a pizza or CD that will
cause her to come up short when registration begins.
18. A To keep the cat from sleeping on her new convertible's canvas top. B Kim leaves the garden
hose out. C Like a gunslinger in a Western, she "duels" with Rocky, the family's orange tom, who
hisses as vehemently as the forceful spray of water.
19. A Dr. Gregory surveyed the auditorium full of nervous, sweating biochemistry students. B Her
gaze often stopped on Bryan. C Whose test anxiety manifested in the loud popping of his knuck-
les and the high-speed bouncing of his left leg.
20. A To save money on a haircut that he badly needed. B Raja let Tina, his roommate and an aspir-
ing stylist, trim his shaggy head. C Honestly, a blender or a weed whacker could have done a bet-
ter job!

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Exercise 6.11 – Fragments 3


Find and fix the fragments in the passage below.

1Marina, the beautiful mermaid, wanted some tuna salad. 2But had a small problem since she was

allergic to celery. 3At Sammy’s Sub Shop, Marina hoped to find tuna salad free of this dangerous

vegetable. 4Flopping across the tiled floor to the counter. 5Marina placed her order and then

checked her sandwich for celery. 6Not noticing, however, the spoiled mayonnaise. 7At five o'clock

that evening, Marina became violently ill with food poisoning. 8When a lifeguard at the beach dis-

covered the problem, he called 911. 9Even though the mermaid had fishy breath. 10A handsome

paramedic gave her mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. 11Wailing like a sick dog, the ambulance sped

off to the hospital. 12Where the doctor on call refused to treat a sea creature with a scaly tail. 13A

kind nurse, however, had more sympathy. 14After she found some Pepto-Bismol. 15Marina drank

the entire bottle of pink liquid, feeling an immediate improvement. 16The mermaid told the rude

doctor never to swim in the ocean. 17For she would order hungry sharks to bite off the doctor's legs.

18While sharp-clawed crabs plucked out his eyes. 19Tossing her long hair, Marina thanked the nurse

for the Pepto-Bismol. 20And took a mint from David, the handsome paramedic.

Exercise 6.12 – Fragments 4


Choose the option that corrects an error in the underlined portions. If no error exists, choose “No
change is necessary.”

1. With her heavy dictionary, (A) Donna 3. Karlene drove slowly through the heavy
thumps the top of her ancient computer traffic. (A) Anticipating a bag of microwave
monitor. (B) Whenever the color tint flick- popcorn (B) and a couple of hours in front
ers (C) from normal to sickly yellow. of the television (C) as her reward for a
A. ... dictionary Donna ... hard day at work.
B. ... monitor whenever ... A. ... traffic, anticipating ...
C. ... flickers. From ... B. ... popcorn, and ...
D. No change is necessary. C. ... television. As ...
D. No change is necessary.
2. When Kate saw the gray worm on the dis-
section tray. (A) She folded her arms (B) 4. Because of all his responsibilities at work
and refused to pick up the scalpel (C) even and school, (A) Michael had no time to
though she would earn a zero in lab. devote to the yard, (B) so weeds, vines, and
A. ... tray, she ... insects thrived in this jungle. (C) That
B. ... arms. And ... neighbors looked on with disapproval.
C. ... scalpel. Even though ... A. ... school. Michael ...
D. No change is necessary. B. ... yard so ...
C. ... jungle that ...

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D. No change is necessary. And reminds herself that everything tastes


better (C) if there is a little cat hair in it.
5. Citing writer's block as the reason (A) that A. ... counter Lorna ...
she did not have her essay, (B) Yao received B. ... sighs and ...
no sympathy from Mrs. Santos. (C) Who C. ... better, if ...
will only accept "breather's block" as a D. No change is necessary.
legitimate excuse for late work.
A. ... reason, that ... 11. Piling into the car, Jorge and his friends
B. ... essay. Yao ... drove to Little Anthony's Pizzeria (A) and
C. ... Mrs. Santos, who ... gorged on house specialties, (B) such as, (C)
D. No change is necessary. garlic knots, meatballs, and sausage pizza.
A. ... Pizzeria. And ...
6. Mackenzie had to leave the room, (A) for B. ... specialties such ...
her father was noisily crunching raw rad- C. ... as garlic ...
ishes, (B) which produced so annoying a D. No change is necessary.
sound (C) that studying was impossible.
A. ... room. Because her ... 12. My appliances are always hungry. (A) For
B. ... radishes. Which ... example, the dryer will eat underwear, (B)
C. ... sound; that ... and the microwave will suck off half a fro-
D. No change is necessary. zen dinner (C) while it is cooking.
7. Because he had eaten a stack of twelve
pancakes, (A) Emanuel heard his stomach A. ... hungry, for ...
begin to rumble (B) as it processed the B. ... underwear and ...
food. (C) Gurgling loudly to protest the C. ... dinner, while ...
huge meal. D. No change is necessary.
A. ... pancakes. Emanuel ...
B. ... rumble. As ... 13. While Dr. Kinser bounced down the stairs
C. ... food, gurgling ... (A) and strode through the hallway. (B) A
D. No change is necessary. brightly colored tie streamed over his
shoulder, (C) flapping in his wake.
8. Although fans blew in every room, (A) Faye A. ... stairs, and ...
found the house unbearably hot. (B) And B. ... hallway, a ...
wished that the air conditioning repairman, C. ... shoulder flapping ...
(C) who was already three hours late, would D. No change is necessary.
pull into her driveway.
A. ... room. Faye ... 14. Despite her parents' disapproval, (A) Tran
B. ... hot and ... continues to date Charlie. (B) A nice young
C. ... repairman. Who ... man (C) whose only fault is not being born
D. No change is necessary. Vietnamese.
A. ... disapproval Tran ...
9. A student fascinated with all things ancient B. ... Charlie, a ...
Egyptian. (A) Kemette squinted at the C. ... man. Whose ...
computer screen, (B) hoping to find the in- D. No change is necessary.
formation she needed (C) to finish her re-
search paper on Old Kingdom art. 15. Anyone who visits Neil will find uneaten
A. ... Egyptian, Kemette ... fruit all over his apartment. (A) Such as rot-
B. ... screen. Hoping ... ting bananas on the kitchen counter, (B)
C. ... needed, to ... desiccated grapes in a bowl on the coffee
D. No change is necessary. table, (C) and a drippy apple on the bureau
by the bed.
10. Whenever one of her six cats jumps on the A. ... apartment. For instance, he has
kitchen counter, (A) Lorna just sighs. (B) rotting ...
B. ... counter. Desiccated ...

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C. ... table. And ... B. ... window. While ...


D. No change is necessary. C. ... wastefully staining ...
D. No change is necessary.
16. Searching travel websites (A) to compare
room and flight rates, (B) Shaquita fanta- 19. His arms full of expensive science fiction
sized about a spring break vacation to Ha- paperbacks, (A) Cary remembered (B) that
waii. (C) As her unfinished algebra home- next semester's tuition was due in two
work lay ignored on her desk. weeks. (C) Making a trip to the library in-
A. ... websites, to ... stead of the bookstore a better financial
B. ... rates Shaquita ... decision.
C. ... Hawaii as ... A. ... paperbacks Cary ...
D. No change is necessary. B. ... remembered, that ...
C. ... weeks, making ...
17. Paulie is a daredevil (A) who enjoys skydiv- D. No change is necessary.
ing, motorcycle racing, and boxing. But (B)
won't eat raw cookie dough (C) because he 20. With the huge number of confusing rules
is afraid of bacteria from uncooked eggs. colliding in her head, (A) Cindy took the
A. ... daredevil. Who ... quiz on fragments (B) and hoped, (C) that
B. ... But he will not ... she would remember enough of the mate-
C. ... dough, because ... rial to pass.
D. No change is necessary. A. ... head. Cindy ...
18. The potted geranium wilted (A) from lack B. ... fragments, and ...
of water on Terry's kitchen window (B) C. ... hoped that ...
while the faucet dripped wastefully, (C) D. No change is necessary.
staining the porcelain sink with rust.
A. ... wilted, from ...

Exercise 6.13 – Fragments 5


Choose the option that corrects an error in the underlined portions. If no error exists, choose “No
change is necessary.”

1. After Deidre saw the tiny balance on her 3. When the cell phone began to chime in her
ATM receipt, (A) she realized, (B) that her book bag, (A) Jasmine froze in her seat (B)
meals for the next week would consist of as all eyes in the room darted from her to
cheap food, (C) such as peanut butter Mr. Williams. (C) A professor who tolerated
sandwiches and instant soup. no interruptions during a lecture.
A. ... receipt. She ... A. ... bag. Jasmine ...
B. ... realized that ... B. ... seat. As ...
C. ... food. Such ... C. ... Williams, a ...
D. No change is necessary. D. No change is necessary.

2. Smiling with satisfaction (A) Michelle typed 4. As Alex squeezed down the narrow row of
the last sentence of her research paper. chairs. (A) His heavy book bag bumped the
Then a bolt of lightning crashed nearby, (B) large soda perched on a desk, (B) sending a
extinguishing the electricity (C) and making shower of diet cola into Teresa’s lap, (C)
poor Michelle wish that she had invested in soaking her jeans.
a surge protector. A. ... chairs, his ...
A. ... satisfaction, Michelle ... B. ... desk. Sending ...
B. ... nearby. Extinguishing ... C. ... lap soaking ...
C. ... electricity. And ... D. No change is necessary.
D. No change is necessary.

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5. You might think (A) that a floor-length 10. Once classes were over, (A) Maria used to
dress is conservative (B) until you see the meet her lab partner Chris at the diner near
one that Christina wears. (C) A psychedelic campus (B) until she discovered that Chris
swirl of pinks and purples that attracts eve- preferred, (C) to flirt with the waitresses
ryone’s attention. instead of discussing their chemistry
A. ... think, that ... homework.
B. ... conservative. Until ... A. ... over Maria ...
C. ... wears. It is a ... B. ... campus, until ...
D. No change is necessary. C. ... preferred to ...
D. No change is necessary.
6. As all of her classmates were sharing results
(A) Melody quietly left the room (B) and 11. Coated with dust, (A) the blinds filtered
found a quiet corner in the hallway (C) so shadowy light into Adrian's cluttered
that she could see her grade without apartment, (B) where clothing and empty
embarrassing herself in front of her friends. take-out boxes littered the floor. (C) As flies
A. ... results, Melody ... buzzed around rotting bananas on the
B. ... room, and ... kitchen counter.
C. ... hallway. So that ... A. ... dust the ...
D. No change is necessary. B. ... apartment. Where ...
C. ... floor as ...
D. No change is necessary.
7. Gloria and Scooby stood in front of the
bathroom mirror, (A) bitterly complaining 12. Hands covered in cookie dough, (A) Made-
about the difficult midterm and stern teach- line ran to the phone, (B) hoping that the
ing in their biology course. (B) As Mrs. Per- call was from Eric. (C) Her boyfriend who
ry, their professor, (C) eavesdropped from had broken his promise to call the day be-
inside a far stall. fore.
A. ... mirror bitterly ... A. ... dough Madeline ...
B. ... course as ... B. ... phone hoping ...
C. ... professor eavesdropped ... C. ... Eric, her ...
D. No change is necessary. D. No change is necessary.

8. One day in class, Shantrell rested her head 13. Wendy pushed her glasses up her nose, (A)
against the wall (A) and discovered (B) that and blew loose strands of hair from her
she could hear the classical music that Mr. eyes, (B) hoping that clearer vision would
Nguyen played in his office on the other help her make sense of the difficult algebra
side. (C) The music promptly put her to problem (C) that she was trying to solve.
sleep. A. ... nose and ...
A. ... wall. And ... B. ... eyes. Hoping ...
B. ... discovered, that ... C. ... problem, that ...
C. ... side. Which ... D. No change is necessary.
D. No change is necessary.
14. To get on his mother's good side, (A) Rufus
9. While Professor Koopman explained the offered to unpack the groceries, (B) but
consequences of the French Revolution, (A) dropped the carton of eggs that Mom
Tiffany and Faith sniffled uncomfortably in would later need (C) to make chocolate-
their seats, (B) suffocated by the cheap broccoli muffins for the church bake sale.
shaving lotion (C) that Henry always wore. A. ... side Rufus ...
A. ... Revolution. Tiffany ... B. ... groceries. But he dropped ...
B. ... seats. Suffocated ... C. ... need, to ...
C. ... lotion, that ... D. No change is necessary.
D. No change is necessary.
15. Circling the parking lot, (A) Dominique
searched for an empty space close to the

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mall entrance (B) so that an afternoon Homes and Gardens, studying decorating
thunderstorm would not drench her (C) ideas (C) to spruce up his first apartment.
while she was loaded down with good buys. A. ... bookstore, Boris ...
A. ... lot Dominique ... B. ... camouflage but ...
B. ... entrance. So ... C. ... ideas, to ...
C. ... her, while ... D. No change is necessary.
D. No change is necessary.

16. If his friends walked into the bookstore (A)


Boris had a stack of car magazines as cam-
ouflage, (B) but he was really reading Better

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17. To make his long shift at Bernie’s Burger 19. Mrs. Neal loves chocolate cake. (A) But
Emporium tolerable, (A) Kelvin used couldn't accept the slice that her student
ketchup, (B) to make smiley faces on the Michael offered (B) because she knew
burgers (C) that he assembled at the grill. that it was a bribe (C) for a better grade
A. ... tolerable. Kelvin ... on his midterm essay.
B. ... ketchup to ... A. ... cake but ...
C. ... burgers, that ... B. ... offered. Because ...
D. No change is necessary. C. ... bribe, for ...
D. No change is necessary.
18. Darryl has the messiest book bag (A) of
anyone Rachel knows; (B) he essentially 20. Dressing for her interview with the
has a compost pile rotting in the main recruiters, (A) Leisha debated wearing
compartment. (C) For instance, pistachio four hoops in each ear and a nose ring (B)
shells, pencil shavings, and a brown bana- or removing the jewelry (C) and tolerating
na. convention during the college job fair.
A. ... bag, of ... A. ... recruiters Leisha ...
B. ... knows, he ... B. ... ring. Or ...
C. ... compartment. For instance, there C. ... jewelry, and ...
are pistachio ... D. No change is necessary.
D. No change is necessary.

VII. CORRELATIVE CONJUNCTIONS


Exercise 7.1 – Parallel Structure 1
Determine whether the sentences below contain errors in parallel structure. Fix any problems that
you find.

1. Monica brewed espresso, steamed milk, and told jokes as she prepared Mike’s latte. (/ )
2. Natasha tried holding her breath, chewing a piece of gum, and poking her belly, but she could
not quiet her empty stomach, which rumbled during the chemistry exam. (/ )
3. In the restroom, Tishena was brushing her hair, freshened her lip-gloss, and took deep breaths,
trying to work up the courage to walk to her first speech class. (/ )
4. Celine looked behind the toilet, in the laundry basket, and checked under the bed, but she could
not find Squeeze, her nine-foot albino python. (/ )
5. Not only did Dennis apply an extra layer of deodorant to his armpits, but he also polished each
tooth with special care. He did not want to offend Malinda with any unpleasant odors. (/ )
6. For his first date with Malinda, Dennis bought not only a dozen roses but he also purchased a
box of chocolates. (/ )
7. Not only did Malinda squeal at the sight of the beautiful bouquet, but she also was tearing open
the box and eating chocolates all the way to the restaurant. (/ )

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8. Dennis tried to be thoughtful and generous, yet Malinda refused to give him not only a kiss good
night but also a single chocolate from the nut and caramel sampler. (/ )
9. Chelsea had to paddle past a school of jellyfish, kick a small sand shark in the nose, and untangle
seaweed from her surfboard before she reached her favorite point break. (/ )
10. Spiders that bite, hissing snakes, and squealing rodents fill the aquariums in Desmond’s base-
ment. (/ )
11. Class with Dr. Rogers was a nightmare: the clock seemed stuck in place, the air conditioner blew
inadequate cool, and a fluorescent bulb buzzed overhead. (/ )
12. Ernie is too noisy as a seatmate. Crunching on apple slices, slurping hot coffee, and the rings of
his notebook snapped open and shut all contribute to the cacophony. (/ )
13. Neither the scowls from her neighbors nor the disapproval of her husband will deter Larissa
from painting her house hot pink with orange and white trim. (/ )
14. Larissa will either add a flock of plastic pink flamingos, or she will purchase a family of ceramic
gnomes for the front lawn. (/ )
15. Until the Weavers arrived home at 5 p.m., the clock ticked, the refrigerator hummed, and the
dog snoring in the otherwise quiet house. (/ )
16. Jessica has found that neither background music nor potato chips makes writing her research
essay any easier. (/ )
17. Mark looked under the bed, in the hamper, and he even searched his brother’s closet, but he
could not find his favorite University of Florida T-shirt. (/ )
18. After you eat tuna salad from the campus cafeteria, not only will your stomach rumble, but you
will also sneeze for hours from the generous addition of MSG. (/ )
19. Natalia blinked her eyes, she wiped her glasses, and then squinted at the screen, but she could
not decipher the small text crammed onto the presentation slide. (/ )
20. Neither the unhappy man with the cold soup nor the irate woman with an empty glass of iced
tea could get Gloria’s attention, for this waitress was too busy flirting with Jose. (/ )

Exercise 7.2 – Parallel Structure 2


Determine whether the sentences below contain errors in parallel structure. Fix any problems that
you find.

1. Pancakes dripping with syrup, coffee steaming in big mugs, and bacon frying on the stove make
breakfast at Grandma’s house a real treat. (/ )
2. Le’Ron scowled at Professor Nguyen, was muttering under his breath, and sighed heavily, but in
truth he loved taking algebra exams. (/ )

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3. Skipping the directions, hurrying to finish first, and neglecting to recheck her work have caused
Claudia to fail every calculus exam this semester. (/ )
4. At the family reunion, we ate Grandma’s barbecued ribs, Aunt Sally’s potato salad, and heaping
plates of jiggling banana Jell-O prepared by Cousin Sue. (/ )
5. Claude glanced at his watch, took a last sip of coffee, and began his trek to Dr. Grayson’s three-
hour snooze fest on the French Revolution. (/ )
6. Vacuuming under the furniture, dusting the ceiling fans, and scrubbing the tile grout with a
toothbrush, Jerry prepared the house for his ultra-picky mother-in-law. (/ )
7. The sky grew pink, seagulls began to cry, and waves rolled onshore as Diane took her morning
stroll on the beach. (/ )
8. During the exam, Mary sucked the ends of her hair, chewed the top of her pencil, and all the
while she was picking at a scab on her elbow, but she could not remember the third cause of the
French Revolution. (/ )
9. Solita has packed an orange soda not only for herself but also for Josh. (/ )
10. Josh neglected not only to thank Solita, but he also gave a sip of orange soda to Reva, Solita's
rival. (/ )
11. Reva not only drank from the bottle of orange soda but also got hot pink lipstick on the rim. (/
)
12. Josh thinks Annie is the most beautiful woman in Springfield, so he has no interest in dating
either Solita or going out with Reva. (/ )
13. Frances searched the car trunk, on the pantry shelves, and the top of the refrigerator, but she
could not find the box of cornflakes she remembered buying. (/ )
14. Waves that crash against the shore, chanting monks, and chirping birds are the sound files Wen-
dell enjoys on his iPod. (/ )
15. Filled with holiday spirit, Ximena bought a Christmas present not only for her boyfriend Andre
but also for his obnoxious younger brother Pierre. (/ )
16. Eli held the phone on his lap, trying to work up the courage to call the beautiful Leodine. All the
while, his foot jiggled, his nostrils flared, and sweat was collecting on his upper lip. (/ )
17. On school mornings, Rachel can sleep through anything, even with the alarm clock buzzing or
when Mom bangs on the bedroom door. (/ )
18. On vacation, Patrick can trust neither his roommates nor the veterinary staff with Squeeze, his
9-foot albino python, so he hides his beloved reptile in a suitcase and sneaks him into hotel
rooms. (/ )

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19. While Patrick is sightseeing, Squeeze will either find a patch of sunlight under a window or he
will curl up under a table lamp. (/ )
20. Squeeze shocked neither the maid who cleaned the room nor the valet who brought room ser-
vice. (/ )

Exercise 7.3 – Parallel Structure 3


Choose the option that maintains parallel structure in the sentence.
1. When Delores realized that her father had A. tightened her shoelaces
made lima beans and rice for dinner, she B. was tightening her shoelaces
__________, claimed to feel nauseous, C. did tighten her shoelaces
and excused herself from the table. The
bag of stale popcorn in her room would 7. We searched the car trunk, __________,
tide her over until breakfast. and the top of the refrigerator, but we
A. clutched her stomach could not find the box of cornflakes that
B. was clutching her stomach we remember buying.
C. did clutch her stomach A. looked on the pantry shelves
B. on the pantry shelves
2. Not only did Hank despise the way June C. the pantry shelves
chewed with her mouth open, _________
finding her wet towels all over the bath- 8. Bonkers, our ninety pound golden
room floor. retriever, chews on furniture,
A. but also disliked __________, and snots up the car win-
B. but also disliking dows—inconveniences we did not antici-
C. but he also disliked pate when we adopted him.
A. would drag us around the neighbor-
3. To protect her delicate hands, Fran will hood during walks
not rake the yard, do the dishes, or B. he drags us around the neighborhood
__________. during walks
A. refuses to scrub the bathtub C. drags us around the neighborhood
B. won't scrub the bathtub during walks
C. scrub the bathtub
9. Belinda saw very little of the horror
4. When Diane takes her beagle for a walk, movie, for she shut her eyes __________,
Santana enjoys sniffing for edible garbage, when she heard the monster's footsteps
__________, and lunging at squirrels. in the dead leaves, and when characters
A. howls at bicyclists started screaming.
B. howling at bicyclists A. when the violins began to play
C. she howls at bicyclists B. while listening to the violins play
C. during the violin music
5. After Amanda cashes her paycheck, the
money goes to her savings account, 10. In Mrs. Curall's office, Ruben feigned the
cappuccino fund, and __________. flu. He hoped to be excused from class,
A. paying her credit card bill get an extension on his paper, and
B. toward her credit card balance __________.
C. credit card balance A. spend the afternoon playing tennis
with his friends
6. In preparation for her run, Alicia B. to spend the afternoon playing tennis
__________, applied sunscreen, and with his friends
increased the volume on her iPod.

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C. then to spend the afternoon playing C. playing loud music by the inconsider-
tennis with his friends ate neighbors

11. Carlos not only missed his one-year anni- 16. We looked everywhere for the car keys—
versary with Adrianna __________. under the sofa cushions, __________, and
A. but he also forgot his mother's birth- on the counters and tabletops. All along,
day Andrew had them in the front pocket of
B. but also forgot his mother's birthday his jeans!
C. but also forgetting his mother's birth- A. our search included the trashcan
day B. searching for them in the trashcan
C. in the trashcan
12. Teresa was expecting a visit from her
mother, so she spent the day cleaning the 17. Laura and Diane bang on Boen's door
shelves of the refrigerator, scrubbing when they need heavy furniture moved,
mold from the bathroom tile grout, and after they have clogged the garbage dis-
__________. posal, and __________.
A. she removed dog hair from the sofa A. having discovered a spider in the
cushions bathtub
B. removing dog hair from the sofa cush- B. upon the discovery of a spider in the
ions bathtub
C. removed dog hair from the sofa cush- C. if they find a spider in the bathtub
ions
18. Bathing Noodle, our poodle, requires four
13. When Noodle the poodle realized that the arms to hold him in the tub, towels to
leash meant a bath, not a walk to the mop up the water, and __________.
park, he growled, pulled, and A. raincoats which will keep us dry
__________. B. raincoats to keep us dry
A. was leaping like a fish on a line C. raincoats as protection against the
B. he was leaping like a fish on a line oncoming deluge
C. leaped like a fish on a line
19. We hate having dinner at Aunt Ida's
14. With the humans out of the house, house because she is a vegan health nut.
Skeeter had to decide either to shred a Baked tofu, __________, and decaffeinat-
roll of toilet paper or __________. ed tea do not make a satisfying meal!
A. chew another hole in the sofa arm A. vegetables steamed with no oil or
B. chewing another hole in the sofa arm seasoning
C. if he wanted to chew another hole in B. steamed vegetables
the sofa arm C. vegetables that are flavorless

15. Neither __________ nor the ineffective 20. Tonia kicked the back of Vincent’s desk,
air conditioner rattling in the window will __________, and poked his arm with her
deter Tiffany from loving the freedom of sharp pencil, but he would not bend to
her first apartment. the side so that she could get a glimpse of
A. when the inconsiderate neighbors his quiz answers.
played loud music A. blew on his neck
B. the inconsiderate neighbors playing B. she blew on his neck
loud music C. blowing on his neck

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Exercise 7.4 – Parallel Structure 4


Choose the option that maintains parallel structure in the sentence.
1. Ironing a clean shirt, __________, and A. see a movie at the theater
buying a pack of gum for fresh breath B. she planned to see a movie at the
were the tasks Aaron completed before theater
the first day of spring semester. C. planning to see a movie at the theater
A. the printout of a course schedule
B. printing a course schedule 7. Because Alex is always flirting with Becky,
C. making sure that he had printed a Bridgette will neither lend him an eraser
course schedule nor __________.
A. will she let him peek at her score
2. Stuart wiggled his foot, drummed a Jimi sheet
Hendrix riff with his pencil, and B. let him peek at her score sheet
__________, but he could not burn off C. agreeing to let him peek at her score
the caffeine-induced energy from an extra sheet
large cup of coffee.
A. chewed a mouthful of gum 8. Mrs. Martin, the hiring manager, ex-
B. was chewing a mouthful of gum plained that she would consider an inter-
C. his jaw worked a mouthful of gum view if Lester remembered to wear shoes,
comb the crumbs out of his beard, and
3. The blonde who sucked the ends of her __________.
hair, the athlete who blinked nervously, A. replace the shark-tooth necklace with
and __________ would not share their al- a tie
gebra homework with Jake. B. he needed a tie, not a shark-tooth
A. the rebel slouching in his seat necklace
B. the slouching rebel C. she wanted to see a tie, not a shark-
C. the rebel who slouched in his seat tooth necklace, around his throat
4. __________, no recognition for her skills,
and a dislike for the polyester uniform 9. After no rabbit popped out of the hat, Lori
made Kelsey quit the ping-pong team. decided she had neither the patience nor
__________ to tolerate another of
A. Because she was frustrated with the Darren's poorly performed magic tricks.
coach A. the good humor
B. Frustration with the coach B. did she have the good humor
C. Having become frustrated with the C. the ability to muster the good humor
coach
10. Elizabeth wanted to enjoy the plate of
5. The hike through the canyon exhausted nachos that she and Jared shared, but she
Kim. The steep incline made her thigh worried about black beans sticking to her
muscles throb, __________, and the re- teeth, cheese dripping from her chin, and
lentless sun burned her skin. __________.
A. the heavy pack caused her shoulders A. the possibility that chip crumbs might
to ache catapult from her mouth
B. aching shoulders from the heavy pack B. whether or not chip crumbs would
C. shoulders that ached from the heavy catapult from her mouth
pack C. chip crumbs catapulting from her
mouth
6. Instead of finishing her chemistry home-
work, Terry wanted to spend her birthday
money at the mall, __________, and eat
pizza in the food court.

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11. Neither the carrots rotting in the bottom C. with utter disrespect, she began
bin nor __________ will make a suitable painting her fingernails
side for the chicken you are planning to
bake for dinner. 16. In a car, Wesley wants __________, a
A. the broccoli that is crusting over with sound system that vibrates with booming
freezer burn bass, and a style that attracts beautiful
B. the broccoli which has crusted with women.
freezer burn A. an engine that roars with power
C. the broccoli crusted with freezer burn B. an engine roaring with power
C. a powerful engine
12. Horatio tickled the pads of Samson's feet,
blew in his ears, and __________, but the 17. In a girlfriend, Wesley wants a shapely
ancient German shepherd refused to body, a smart head, and __________.
leave the sofa for a walk in the rain. A. a wallet that is fat
A. she hushed him from the sofa cush- B. a fat wallet
ions C. a fat wallet that is bursting with cash
B. hushing him from the sofa cushions
C. hushed from the sofa cushions 18. In a home, Wesley wants windows show-
casing the skyline of Los Angeles, steel
13. While sitting in English class, Peterson and glass furniture sparkling in the sun-
wonders how Dr. Jones can speak so pas- light, and __________.
sionately about comma splices, why she A. a Great Dane sleeping on the white
would spend her free evenings voluntarily shag carpeting
reading Shakespeare, and __________. B. a Great Dane who sleeps on the white
A. when she manages to have some real shag carpeting
fun C. a sleeping Great Dane on the white
B. does she ever have some real fun shag carpeting
C. ever having any real fun
19. In reality, Wesley has a bus pass, an Ange-
14. __________, a dirty hamster cage, and a lina Jolie poster, and __________ in the
glass of old milk all contribute to the un- room he shares with his brother.
bearable stench emanating from Wilson's A. sleeping in the bottom bunk
bedroom. B. the bottom bunk
A. Gym socks that are smelly from sweat C. the bunk which is on the bottom
B. Sweaty gym socks
C. Sweaty gym socks that smell 20. Everyone points to Jeannine as an exam-
ple of an excellent student because she
15. Natalya quietly unzipped her book bag, has an attentive attitude, detailed class
removed a bottle of pink polish, and notes, and __________.
__________ while Dr. Adams droned on A. never is the one who yawns in class
and on about the Mesopotamians. B. a bright smile
A. began painting her fingernails C. the fact that she gets As on every-
B. she began painting her fingernails thing

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Exercise 7.5 – Parallel Structure 5


Fill in the blanks with the additional information provided for each item. Be sure that you maintain
parallel structure.

1. Lenora flipped through her notebook, rummaged through her book bag, and
__________________________________________________, but she could not find Mark's
completed calculus homework which she had borrowed to copy.
Lenora also went outside to search the backseat of her car.

2. Watching reruns of Battlestar Galactica, shopping for new shoes online, and
__________________________________________________ were the procrastination methods
Kendrick used to avoid starting his research essay.
Kendrick also took the dog for a walk.

3. A basketball, a court, and __________________________________________________ are Jor-


dan’s three favorite things.
Jordan also likes an aggressive, tall, fast opponent whose skills test Jordan’s own ball-handling
competence.

4. This year in karate class, Andrew hopes to master the high roundhouse kick,
__________________________________________________, and win all of his matches.
Breaking a 2-inch board with his bare hands is another goal Andrew has.

5. Noodles swimming in butter, __________________________________________________, and


vegetables glistening with oil made Daisy’s dinner a caloric nightmare.
In addition, Daisy drenched the steak in hollandaise sauce.

6. We love when Christina closes the coffee shop because the next morning we find shiny counters,
a clean floor, and __________________________________________________.
Christina always fills the napkin dispensers.

7. Hawks, cats, and __________________________________________________ make raising ba-


bies difficult for mother squirrels.
Six-foot black snakes that crawl into the trees and raid the nests are another danger for the
squirrel pups.

8. Professor Hayden requires a pen, an exam book, and __________________________


________________________ at his midterm and final examinations.
In addition, having a brain stuffed with accurate dates, full names, and other historical details
will help.

9. Ecstatic that Keisha had agreed to a date, Shaun opened the car door for her, let her choose the
restaurant, and __________________________________________________.
In addition, he had no reservations paying for the expensive lobster dinner.

10. Gerald cannot only charm a dragonfly to land on his finger but also ______________________
____________________________.
Moreover, Gerald is good at coaxing the neighborhood cats to twine around his ankles.

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11. After chewing the sofa arm, barking at strangers passing on the street, and
__________________________________________________, Rowdy curled up on Miranda’s
new sweater and fell asleep.
Rowdy also ate a roll of toilet paper.

12. Gurjeet tightened the shoelaces of his inline skates, adjusted his helmet, and
__________________________________________________ before pushing off down the steep
hill. Saying a little prayer is another of Gurjeet's rituals.

13. Miranda wants her dog to sit on command, stop chasing the cat, and ___________________
_______________________________, but Rowdy behaves as he pleases.
Coming when he's called is another behavior Miranda would like to see Rowdy demonstrate.

14. Sylvia’s home is spotless. Every day she wipes down all surfaces, vacuums all floors, and
__________________________________________________.
Dusting over one hundred ceramic squirrels is another chore Sylvia completes daily.

15. Ragged jeans, a torn T-shirt, and _________________________________________________


made Theodora reconsider her decision to go out with Tommy.
Tommy’s sneakers were also dirty, which did not impress Theodora.

16. Charday crunched ice, clicked her pen, and ____________________________________


______________, but she could not solve the last problem of calculus homework.
Shuffling through her notes was another strategy Charday tried to find the solution for the
problem.

17. Joshua remains asleep when thunderclaps shake the house, when commuter jets rumble over-
head, and __________________________________________________.
Joshua can sleep even if his mother is yelling his name.

18. At the family reunion, Natasha sampled the homemade ice cream, Jasper ate a cheeseburger hot
off the grill, and __________________________________________________.
A tall glass of lemonade was nursed by Lori.

19. Anthony smiled, __________________________________________________, and touched her


arm before asking to borrow a pencil for the twenty-third time.
Anthony also gave Wanda a compliment about her necklace.

20. Either a bagel with peanut butter or _________________________________________________


makes a perfect breakfast for Fiona.
Fiona also enjoys a chocolate-broccoli muffin with cream cheese frosting warmed in a micro-
wave and eaten off a sheet of paper towel.

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Exercise 7.6 – Parallel Structure 6


Fill in the blanks with the additional information provided for each item. Be sure that you maintain
parallel structure.

1. A bathroom sink filled with hair, counter surfaces piled with paper and books, and
__________________________________________________ dissuaded Beverly from sharing
the apartment with Tina.
In addition, Tina's refrigerator had shelves stuffed with moldy leftovers.

2. To make his weight class for the wrestling match, Bart sipped a diet soda, nibbled carrot sticks,
and __________________________________________________.
Refusing Sam's offer of a slice of pizza was another strategy Bart used to lose weight.

3. The presence of a vampire, a space alien, or ________________________________


__________________ will make Noreen reject a movie.
Noreen also refuses to watch any film that includes a zombie serial killer who is wielding a
knife or a chainsaw.

4. If we manage to pass our calculus class, we will celebrate by shouting, high-fiving, and
__________________________________________________.
Moreover, we might dump a bucket of Gatorade over Professor Nguyen's head.

5. At the library, Francis hoped to complete his math homework, research Da Vinci for his Renais-
sance art class, and __________________________________________________.
Carving "Francis loves Dawn" in the wood table was another goal for the afternoon.

6. Mara always refuses Andre's offer to style her hair because she fears a bald head, an odd color,
and __________________________________________________.
Mara also worries that Andre will make the ends of her hair frizzy.

7. Tardiness, absences, and __________________________________________________ are the


behaviors that have gotten Brendan in trouble with his boss, Mr. Powell.
In addition, Mr. Powell is annoyed when Brendan shows disrespect to the customers and fel-
low employees.

8. This semester, Sam hopes to pass Microbiology, not faint in his speech class, and
__________________________________________________.
Convincing Gloria to go out with him is another goal that Sam hopes to meet.

9. Because Frank allowed Grumpy the bulldog in the apartment, Sandy kept her pet off the furni-
ture, bathed him regularly, and __________________________________________________.
In addition, Sandy didn't mind vacuuming every day.

10. Keisha will not only share an extra pen with the handsome Jonathon but also
__________________________________________________.
Moreover, if he asks, Keisha will give Jonathon some loose-leaf paper.

11. Our beagle Reliable is no protector; he hides under the bed while the washing machine spins, if
the fire alarm goes off, and __________________________________________________.
The neighbors knocking at the door will also send Reliable running into the bedroom.

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12. Crisp apple slices, crunchy carrot sticks, and ______________________________


____________________ were all ground to a pulp by Simone's hardworking molars.
Simone also ate several green stalks of celery that were firm with freshness.

13. At the Halloween party, Patrick will either drape Squeeze, his nine-foot albino python, over his
shoulders or __________________________________________________.
Dressing as a vampire is another costume option that Kenny is considering.

14. Before his solo in the church choir, Kurtis could feel his stomach churning, his knees knocking,
and __________________________________________________.
Kurtis also felt his skin begin to sweat.

15. To keep our beagle Reliable from whimpering, sighing, and _________________________
_________________________, we put him outside during dinner.
Moreover, Reliable drools a flood of saliva that hangs from his jowls and puddles on the floor.

16. Broken glasses, chipped dishes, and __________________________________


________________ are the reasons that we will no longer let Fernando wash the dishes after
dinner.
In addition, we found the spoons still greasy from use.

17. Cookies stuffed with raisins, scones drizzled with orange glaze, and
__________________________________________________ called to Nicole from the pastry
case at the coffee shop.
Nicole also desired the donuts that bakers had sprinkled with powdered sugar.

18. Chatting with the handsome trainer, socializing at the juice bar, and
__________________________________________________ are the strategies that Carla em-
ploys to avoid sweating at the gym.
Carla also primps in front of the restroom mirror, sometimes for fifteen minutes straight.

19. When she stepped out on her porch, Maud glared at the unraked lawn, weedy flower beds, and
__________________________________________________ that made up the Harringtons'
front yard.
In addition, Maud disliked seeing the bushes that needed trimming.

20. Professor Hollister has three pet peeves: unstapled homework, bare feet, and
__________________________________________________.
He also gets annoyed when students walk in late and disrupt his lecture.

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VIII. CAUSE
Exercise 8.1 – Cause
Rewrite these sentences using the given conjunctions.

1. Since there was a terrible storm, we stayed home.


Due (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
2. On account of snow-covered runways, airplanes were grounded.
Because (front)
____________________________________________________________________
3. I said nothing about it because of his wife being here.
Since (front)
____________________________________________________________________
4. Because there was not enough government funding, the project was abandoned.
Due (front)
____________________________________________________________________
5. Because I am retired, I can travel around the world.
Therefore
____________________________________________________________________
6. My loss of appetite was due to a stomachache.
As (front)
____________________________________________________________________
7. Because he was too short, he could not be a basketball player.
Account (front)
____________________________________________________________________
8. Because we were cold, we went inside.
Owing (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
9. Her lateness was due to her forgetfulness.
As (front)
____________________________________________________________________
10. He cannot see things easily because he is very old
Of (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

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Exercise 8.2 – Cause Extended


Rewrite these sentences using the given conjunctions.

1. He walked slowly because he had a bad leg.


Due (Front)
____________________________________________________________________
2. He failed to appear, so we went without him.
Therefore
____________________________________________________________________
3. Because the weather was cold, Sally put on her coat.
Owing (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
4. There was a violent storm and the walls collapsed.
Result
____________________________________________________________________
5. Our lateness is because of the heavy traffic.
Since (Front)
____________________________________________________________________
6. My brother helped me a lot so I passed the exam.
Thanks (Front)
____________________________________________________________________
7. The cause for the collision was ice on the road
Since (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
8. The heat made her leave the room.
Because of (Front)
____________________________________________________________________
9. A signaling fault occurred. Thus, the train crash happened.
Of (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
10. A blizzard was the cause of the closure of the schools.
As (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
11. The heavy snowfall was due to El Nino
Therefore
____________________________________________________________________
12. The crash occurred because the other driver was drunk
Because of (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
13. We are in trouble because of her selfish behavior.
As (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
14. The rain has caused an accident at the corner of Wilson St. and Reid St.
As (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________
15. She wore a baseball cap; she did not want others to find out her bruises.
As (Middle)
____________________________________________________________________

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IX. PURPOSE
Exercise 9.1 – Purpose
Rewrite these sentences using the given conjunctions.

1. She changed her name for privacy.


To (front)
____________________________________________________________________

2. All those concerned must work together in order that agreement can be reached on this issue.
To (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

3. She arrived early in order to get a good seat


So (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

4. In order to get a complete picture, further information is needed.


For (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

5. She did not want people to recognize her; that is why she wore sun-glasses
As (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

6. We went early so as to get good seats.


Order that (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

7. I did not tell her this because I did not want to hurt her.
To (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

8. We are willing to work hard because we want this company to advance.


For (front)
____________________________________________________________________

9. He swerved the car so that the girl was not hit.


As (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

10. Reforestation must be done to limit global warming.


Order that (mid)
____________________________________________________________________

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Exercise 9.2 – Purpose Extended


Rewrite these sentences using the given conjunctions.

1. I have to eat a lot of nutritious food to expedite my recovery.


Order that (front)
____________________________________________________________________
2. So that she could avoid being scolded by her teacher, she did not go to school.
To (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
3. The bride had to go under strict diet to fit in her wedding dress.
For (front)
____________________________________________________________________
4. Mia puts her baby in a baby car seat because Mia wants her to be safe.
For (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
5. Girls have to brush their hair properly. Otherwise, they cannot impress boys.
Order (front)
____________________________________________________________________
6. In order to skip classes, I have to make up a reason.
That (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
7. The government built a zoo to keep animals from extinction.
So that (front)
____________________________________________________________________
8. I have to take painkillers every three hours in order to ease my pain.
For (front)
____________________________________________________________________
9. For the medication to work effectively, you have to take it within 30 minutes after your break-
fast.
So that (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
10. Do not skip classes if you do not want the government to deport you.
Not to (front)
____________________________________________________________________
11. To avoid the increasing cost of maintenance, the management decided to sell the building.
Not to (front)
____________________________________________________________________
12. For our happiness, we must think positively.
Order (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
13. In order to get to the office on time, I sped my car.
That (front)
____________________________________________________________________
14. Drink as much as 1 liter of water a day to rehydrate your body.
For (front)
____________________________________________________________________
15. In order that we can avoid cavity, the dentists recommend us to brush our teeth twice a day.
So as not to (front)
____________________________________________________________________

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X. CONTRADICTION
Rewrite these sentences using the given conjunctions.

1. Despite not having an umbrella, I walked home in the rain.


Although (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
2. We lost the game although we practiced all week.
Spite (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
3. Although he has a car, he does not drive it often.
Despite (front)
____________________________________________________________________
4. In spite of my interest in the sweater, I did not buy it.
Though (at the end)
____________________________________________________________________
5. The skier wanted to compete though he broke his ankle.
Notwithstanding (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
6. I voted for him despite his lack of experience.
Even so
____________________________________________________________________
7. She passed although she did not study.
Despite (front)
____________________________________________________________________
8. Anne was fond of Tim despite his annoying behaviour.
However
____________________________________________________________________
9. We disliked each other. Nevertheless, we agreed.
Despite (mid)
____________________________________________________________________
10. The toy was cool. It was a bit smelly, though.
Notwithstanding (front)
____________________________________________________________________

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XI. CONJUNCTION AND TRANSITION


Exercise 11.1 – Conjunction and Transition 1
Choose items from left and right boxes to complete these sentences in an appropriate way. Note the
punctuation at the ends of the sentences and phrases already given.

• when • the acting was superb


• at the time • I was still late for work
• before • She began her story
• then • India has increased production by 35%
• though • She was working as a librarian
• by contrast • We met each other
• nevertheless • The snow began to fall

1. The World output of sugar has been in slow decline since 1984.
By contrast, Cuba has increased production by 35%.
2. I set the alarm clock and got up early.
____________________________________________________________________
3. He was gardening.
____________________________________________________________________
4. Danielle Steel published her first novel in 1927.
____________________________________________________________________
5. She waited until the audience was silent.
____________________________________________________________________
6. We had shared the same block of flats for 5 years.
____________________________________________________________________
7. The film plot was predictable.
____________________________________________________________________

Exercise 11.2 – Conjunction and Transition 2


Choose the correct alternative.

1. It was the best football game seen in the stadium (before that /since) Harvard beat Yale in 1989.
2. Mrs. Sheila Town is away on holiday, (so / in consequence) we should not count her in.
3. We were all sitting on the sofa gloomily (meanwhile / while) Vincent smiled to himself.
4. The bus came to an abrupt stop (as / meanwhile) the children were approaching the bridge.
5. I can see why you did what you did. (However / Although), I do not agree with it.
6. Some of her books had gained recognition and won several awards in competitions. (So that /
Consequently), she thought of herself as a professional author.
7. The features in that new smartphone I purchased are good. (Even so / Even though), I never
used some of them.
8. They did not raise prices and cut production. (Though/Instead), they cut costs.
9. I first saw Kelly Clarkson on TV in the American idols. (After / After that), I always bought her
latest album.
10. I was walking up the stairs very carefully. (Even so / Even though), I nearly fell twice.

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11. He has been our neighbor for years, (yet / however) we hardly ever see him.
12. Danielle had been living in the village for 20 years. (Even though / Nevertheless), the locals still
considered her an outsider.
13. (Even so / Even though) I read the sign “no trespassing”, I walked up to the property.
14. I listened (while / at the same time) Robert read to her in low voice.
15. They first met for tea at a café in Oxford Street and (afterwards / since) they went shopping.

Exercise 11.3 – Conjunction and Transition 3


Fill in the blank with suitable conjunction or transition.

1. Visibility is poor today __________air pollution


2. It is not an idea around which the Community can unite. __________, I see it as one
that will divide us.
3. Allow about eight hours for the drive from Calais. _________, you can fly to Brive.
4. There was still a long way to go. _______, some progress had been made.
5. He despised William Pitt ___________ the similar views they both held.
6. Some months ago angry demonstrators mounted a noisy demonstration beneath his
window. His neighbours,________, insisted upon more security.
7. He was faced with the problem of not having much money, __________ that did not
stop him.
8. Recording companies provide promotion of artists’ work; _____________, an indi-
vidual artist wants to promote his or her own work.
9. A treaty was adopted to control chemicals, __________ they have been polluting our
air and water.
10. A healthy person has more than just physical health. _____________, this person
has mental, social and spiritual well-being.
11. ___________ the construction work can be finished on time, more workers are
needed.
12. ___________did Alice pull the poor kitten’s tail, she tied a rubber band around its
neck as well.
13. _________, William should not have risked his life by chasing the armed robber.
____________, this act paid off as he managed to foil a robbery attempt.
14. He was rude ____________disrespectful.
15. ____________ his wife’s stern behavior when dealing with children, Mr. Lee took a
softer approach.
16. I do believe in people being able to do what they want to do ___________ they are
not hurting someone else.
someone
17. ____________ anyone was following me, I made an elaborate detour.
18. Brush the aubergines with oil and add salt.____________, heat the remaining oil in a
heavy pan.
19. It is necessary to heat the mixture to 85° __________ the desired results will not be
achieved.
20. (opening a new topic) ____________________ the spatial filters involved, three
model types are included.

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Exercise 11.4 – Conjunction and Transition 4


Choose the most effective word or phrase within the context suggested by the sentence(s).

1. To impress Agatha, his date, Ryan worked that crews restored electricity in twelve
hard on the chicken broth; __________, short hours.
she was offended that he was serving A. as a result
meat after she had explained her B. moreover
vegetarianism. C. however
A. furthermore D. on the other hand
B. moreover
C. however 4. Natassya’s clarinet squealed like a
D. additionally screaming pig, __________ she had not
practiced in weeks.
2. __________ Kevin scores a 100 on the A. because
final exam, he cannot pass English 101, a B. for
class he is taking for the third time. C. since
A. Because D. unless
B. So
C. As a result, 5. __________ Grandpa tasted the spaghet-
D. Unless ti sauce, he declared that it needed more
basil and salt.
3. The Chans were relieved when the giant A. Unless
oak did not tumble in the hurricane B. Although
winds; __________, they gave thanks C. Whereas
D. After

Exercise 11.5 – Conjunction and Transition 5


Choose the most effective word or phrase within the context suggested by the sentence(s).

6.
A. Madison and I decided to eat ice cream for dinner so that we had burned enough calories
earlier at the gym.
B. Madison and I decided to eat ice cream for dinner because we had burned enough calories
earlier at the gym.
C. Although Madison and I decided to eat ice cream for dinner, we had burned enough calories
earlier at the gym.

7.
A. We decided to skip breakfast, for a spider crawled out of the cereal box.
B. We decided to skip breakfast, and a spider crawled out of the cereal box.
C. We decided to skip breakfast, so a spider crawled out of the cereal box

8.
A. Andre mowed the lawn while Celia watched soap operas on television.
B. While Andre mowed the lawn Celia watched soap operas on television.
C. While Andre mowed the lawn Celia, on the other hand, watched soap operas on television.

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9.
A. Bonkers retrieves anything round, but put away those CDs if you do not want teeth marks in
them.
B. Bonkers retrieves anything round, and put away those CDs if you do not want teeth marks in
them.
C. Bonkers retrieves anything round, so put away those CDs if you do not want teeth marks in
them.

10.
A. Even though Hank vacuumed the rental car, he failed to remove all the hair of Bonkers, his
golden retriever.
B. Unless Hank vacuumed the rental car, he failed to remove all the hair of Bonkers, his golden
retriever.
C. Since Hank vacuumed the rental car, he failed to remove all the hair of Bonkers, his golden
retrieve

Exercise 11.6 - Coordinating, Subordinating Conjunctions


vs. Conjunctive Adverbs
Join the two related sentences below with coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, or
conjunctive adverbs correctly and sensibly.

THE MAYAN PREDICTION FOR APOCALYPSE

1. The Mayans were an ancient native civilization in modern day South Mexico, Belize, and Nicara-
gua, somewhere in the Yucatan Peninsula. They were an awesome civilization that was very de-
voted to astrology.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
2. The Mayan built pyramids. Some of the pyramids have been known to be Mayan Calendars and
have 365 steps.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
3. There is a strong tradition of "world ages" in Mayan literature. The record has been distorted.
This fact leaves several possibilities open to interpretation.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
4. A man named Jose Arguelles was the original messenger of the Mayan prophecy of 2012. He
was responsible for turning the eyes of the world to the Mayan Time Science. He passed away
in March 2011.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

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5. Both the Hopis and Mayans recognize that we are approaching the end of a World Age. In both
cases, the Hopi and Mayan elders do not prophesy that everything will come to an end. This is a
time of transition from one World Age into another.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
6. The Mayan has an extremely complicated method of keeping track of time, based on three sep-
arate calendars. The most important of these calendars holds the `Long Count': the period from
the beginning until the end of time. On December 21st, 2012, the Long Count expires. It will be
point zero.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
7. The Mayans were very good at prophecy. The Mayans predicted in what year their civilization
would be overrun by foreigners coming from over the seas. Legend has it they even predicted
the world wars.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
8. Some say that the Mayans never predicted anything gloomy about 2012. When the Spanish
ransacked the land, they burnt literally every Maya book they could find. Only a handful of
scriptures survived.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
9. The Mayans did not really believe in endings. Their conception of time was circular, with every
end being the beginning of something new. The year 2012 should not be an exception.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
10. Other doomsayers had foreseen doom and destruction. December 21st will be the day the Earth
will be destroyed. Some think it will be because of some nuclear wars. Some say it will be because
it is biblical judgment day.
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 11.7 – Conjunction and Transition 6


Choose the sentence that best combines the sentences into one.

1. He did not return from his camping trip a. He did not return from his camping trip
until 6:00 a.m. We were all frantic with until 6:00 a.m.; however, we were all
worry. frantic with worry.

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b. While we were all frantic with worry, b. Feeding on vegetable matter, the owl
he did not return from his camping trip parrot looks like a bird of prey.
until 6:00a.m. c. Looking like a bird of prey, the owl par-
c. He did not return from his camping trip rot feeds on vegetable matter.
until 6:00 a.m., whether we were all d. The owl parrot feeds on vegetable
frantic with worry. matter, and it looks like a bird of prey.
d. Because he did not return from his
camping trip until 6:00 a.m., we were 6. Mr. Markley has an unpleasant personali-
all frantic with worry. ty. Mr. Markley is a crook.
a. Mr. Markley has an unpleasant per-
2. Everyone likes Earl. I think he is sneaky. sonality, and furthermore he is a crook.
a. That everyone likes Earl, I think he is b. Mr. Markley has an unpleasant per-
sneaky. sonality, although he is a crook.
b. Everyone likes Earl, whereas I think he c. While he is a crook, Mr. Markley has an
is sneaky. unpleasant personality.
c. Everyone likes Earl, when I think he is d. Being a crook, Mr. Markley has an un-
sneaky. pleasant personality.
d. Everyone likes Earl, or I think he is
sneaky.
7. We never had food fights in our cafeteria
or ditched classes. We did smoke in the
3. Maya is an intelligent woman. Maya
Girls' Room.
cannot read or write.
a. We never had food fights in our cafete-
a. Maya cannot read or write, while she is
ria or ditched classes, but we did
an intelligent woman.
smoke in the Girls' Room.
b. Maya cannot read or write and is an in-
b. Because we never had food fights in
telligent woman.
our cafeteria or ditched classes, we
c. Although Maya cannot read or write,
smoked in the Girls' Room.
she is an intelligent woman.
c. We never had food fights in our cafete-
d. Being an intelligent woman, Maya can-
ria or ditched classes, so we did smoke
not read or write.
in the Girls' Room.
d. We never had food fights in our cafete-
4. This area of the country is called "tornado
alley." Many tornadoes roar through here ria or ditched classes and smoke in the
every spring. Girls' Room.
a. Many tornadoes roar through here
every spring, while this area of the 8. I was afraid of the dark. I always slept
country is called "tornado alley." with the light on.
b. Many tornadoes roar through here a. I was afraid of the dark, to where I al-
every spring, but this area of the coun- ways slept with the light on.
try is called ''tornado alley." b. Although I was afraid of the dark, I al-
c. Many tornadoes roar through here ways slept with the light on.
every spring; therefore, this area of the c. I always slept with the light on being
country is called "tornado alley." afraid of the dark.
d. This area of the country is called "tor- d. I was afraid of the dark, so I always
nado alley''; meanwhile, many torna- slept with the light on.
does roar through here every spring.
9. Insomnia does not usually begin as a phys-
5. The owl parrot looks like a bird of prey. ical problem. It can affect one's physical
The owl parrot feeds on vegetable matter. health.
a. The owl parrot looks like a bird of prey;
however, it feeds on vegetable matter.

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a. Insomnia is not usually a physical prob- hours, yet narcolepsy is extremely


lem; therefore, it can affect one's phys- dangerous.
ical health. d. True narcolepsy is the sudden and irre-
b. Insomnia is not usually a physical prob- sistible onset of sleep during waking
lem, yet it can affect one's physical hours, and it is extremely dangerous.
health.
c. Insomnia not usually a physical prob- 11. There has been much interest in dreams
lem can affect one's physical health. throughout the ages. The empirical, scien-
d. Insomnia is not usually a physical prob- tific study of dreams is relatively new.
lem, so it can affect one's physical a. Despite much interest in dreams
health. throughout the ages, the empirical,
scientific study of dreams being rela-
10. True narcolepsy is the sudden and irresist- tively new.
ible onset of sleep during waking hours. b. There has been much interest in
True narcolepsy is extremely dangerous. dreams throughout the ages, yet the
a. While true narcolepsy is the sudden empirical, scientific study of dreams is
and irresistible onset of sleep during relatively new.
waking hours and is extremely danger- c. While much interest in dreams
ous. throughout the ages, although the em-
b. The sudden and irresistible onset of pirical, scientific study of dreams is rel-
sleep during waking hours, which is atively new.
true narcolepsy but extremely danger- d. There has been much interest in
ous. dreams throughout the ages, for the
c. True narcolepsy is the sudden and irre- empirical, scientific study of dreams is
sistible onset of sleep during waking relatively new.

Exercise 11.8 – Conjunction and Transition 7


Choose the sentence that best combines the sentences into one.

1. Watching a TV show is a passive behavior. we should question everything, even


Playing a computer game is an interactive the law.
one. b. Socrates taught that we should ques-
a. Watching a TV show is a passive be- tion everything, even the law, so he
havior, or playing a computer game is was both greatly loved and profoundly
an interactive one. hated.
b. Watching a TV show is a passive be- c. Socrates taught that we should ques-
havior, for playing a computer game is tion everything, even the law, which
an interactive one. he was both greatly loved and pro-
c. Watching a TV show is a passive be- foundly hated.
havior, but playing a computer game is d. Socrates taught that we should ques-
an interactive one. tion everything, even the law, for he
d. Being that playing a computer game is was both greatly loved and profoundly
an interactive one, watching a TV show hated.
is a passive behavior.
3. Sailors are said to catch albatrosses with
2. Socrates taught that we should question baited hooks let down into the ship's
everything, even the law. He was both wake. Then release them again. To kill the
greatly loved and profoundly hated. albatross was thought to be bad luck.
a. That he was both greatly loved and a. Sailors are said to catch albatrosses
profoundly hated, Socrates taught that with baited hooks let down into the

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ship's wake, then release them again, b. The French philosopher Voltaire was
for to kill the albatross was thought to greatly respected with almost a year
be bad luck. imprisoned in the Bastille.
b. With baited hooks let down into the c. The French philosopher Voltaire was
ship's wake, sailors are said to catch greatly respected, or he spent almost a
albatrosses then release them again, year imprisoned in the Bastille.
so to kill the albatross was thought to d. The French philosopher Voltaire was
be bad luck. greatly respected, yet he spent almost
c. Sailors are said to catch albatrosses a year imprisoned in the Bastille.
with baited hooks let down into the
ship's wake, then release them again, 6. I must buy some new shoes to wear to
or to kill the albatross was thought to the prom. My date. Donnie, will be upset
be bad luck. if I wear my flip-flops.
d. To kill the albatross was thought to be a. Unless my date, Donnie, will be upset
bad luck, sailors are said to catch alba- if I wear my flip-flops, I must buy some
trosses with baited hooks let down in- new shoes to wear to the prom.
to the ship's wake, then release them b. I must buy some new shoes to wear to
again. the prom, and my date, Donnie, will be
upset if I wear my flip-flops.
4. The symptoms of diabetes often develop c. I must buy some new shoes to wear to
gradually and are hard to identify at first. the prom, for my date, Donnie, will be
Nearly half of all people with diabetes do upset if I wear my flip-flops.
not know they have it. d. My date, Donnie, will be upset if I wear
a. The symptoms of diabetes often de- my flip-flops while I must buy some
velop gradually and are hard to identi- new shoes to wear to the prom.
fy at first, so nearly half of all people
with diabetes do not know they have 7. Sylvia is loaded with money. She can af-
it. ford that trip to Silver Dollar City.
b. The symptoms of diabetes often de- a. Sylvia is loaded with money, or she can
velop gradually and are hard to identi- afford that trip to Silver Dollar City.
fy at first, yet nearly half of all people b. Sylvia is loaded with money, but she
with diabetes do not know they have can afford that trip to Silver Dollar City.
it. c. Sylvia is loaded with money, so she can
c. Nearly half of all people with diabetes afford that trip to Silver Dollar City.
do not know they have it, and the d. Sylvia is loaded with money, yet she
symptoms of diabetes often develop can afford that trip to Silver Dollar City.
gradually and are hard to identify at
first. 8. The rules of statistics say that it is possi-
d. The symptoms of diabetes often de- ble for all the air in a room to move to
velop gradually for nearly half of all one corner. Or this is extremely unlikely.
people with diabetes do not know they a. The rules of statistics say that it is pos-
have it and are hard to identify at first. sible for all the air in a room to move
to one corner, or this is extremely un-
5. The French philosopher Voltaire was likely.
greatly respected. Voltaire spent almost a b. The rules of statistics say that it is pos-
year imprisoned in the Bastille. sible for all the air in a room to move
a. The French philosopher Voltaire was to one corner, but this is extremely un-
greatly respected, so he spent almost a likely.
year imprisoned in the Bastille. c. This is extremely unlikely in that the
rules of statistics say that it is possible

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for all the air in a room to move to one pressive behavior of ordinary people, as
corner. well.
d. For all the air in a room to move to one a. Art can be found not only in the muse-
corner, this is extremely unlikely, ac- um or concert hall, and it can be found
cording to the rules of statistics saying in the expressive behavior of ordinary
that it is possible. people, as well
b. In the museum or concert hall, art can
9. I must buy my dog a new license. If I be found not only there and in the ex-
don't, I will have to pay a fine. pressive behavior of ordinary people,
a. I must buy my dog a new license, and I as well.
will have to pay a fine. c. Although in the expressive behavior of
b. I must buy my dog a new license; I will ordinary people, as well, art can be
have to pay a fine. found not only in the museum or con-
c. Unless I buy my dog a new license, I cert hall.
will have to pay a fine. d. Art can be found not only in the muse-
d. I will have to pay a fine since I must um or concert hall, but in the expres-
buy my dog a new license. sive behavior of ordinary people, as
well.
10. Bats are not rodents. Bats bear a surface
resemblance to a winged mouse. 12. In lucid dreams, the dreamer knows she is
a. Bats are not rodents although they do dreaming. It gives her a sense of unlim-
bear a resemblance to a winged ited freedom.
mouse. a. In lucid dreams, the dreamer knows
b. Bats are not rodents that they bear a she is dreaming, although it gives her a
surface resemblance to a winged sense of unlimited freedom.
mouse. b. In lucid dreams, the dreamer knows
c. Bats are not rodents when they bear a she is dreaming while it gives her a
surface resemblance to a winged sense of unlimited freedom.
mouse. c. In lucid dreams, the dreamer knows
d. Bats are not rodents if they bear a sur- she is dreaming, where it gives her a
face resemblance to a winged mouse. sense of unlimited freedom.
d. In lucid dreams, the dreamer knows
11. Art is not only found in the museum or she is dreaming, which gives her a
concert hall. Art can be found in the ex- sense of unlimited freedom.

Exercise 11.9 – Conjunction and Transition 8


Choose the sentence that best combines the sentences into one.

1. The airport is called the Glynco Jetport. travel systems refer to the location as
The airline reservations and travel sys- Brunswick, Georgia.
tems refer to its location as Brunswick, c. Even though the airline reservations
Georgia. and travel systems refer to the loca-
a. Where the airport is called the Glynco tion as Brunswick, Georgia, the airport
Jetport, the airline reservations and is called the Glynco Jetport.
travel systems refer to the location as d. When the airport is called the Glynco
Brunswick, Georgia. Jetport, the airline reservations refer
b. But the airport is called the Glynco to the location as Brunswick, Georgia,
Jetport, the airline reservations and and the travel systems.

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2. Plato believed that boys and girls should tunities that is unmatched in the pri-
be given an equal education. This idea is vate sector.
rarely mentioned in textbooks. c. Because of its diversity of jobs and ge-
a. Plato believed that boys and girls ographic locations, the federal gov-
should be given an equal education, ernment offers flexibility in job oppor-
where this idea is rarely mentioned in tunities that is unmatched in the pri-
textbooks. vate sector.
b. Plato believed that boys and girls d. The federal government has diversity
should be given an equal education, an of jobs and geographic locations, so it
idea that is rarely mentioned in text- offers flexibility in job opportunities
books. that is unmatched in the private sec-
c. Believing that boys and girls should be tor.
given an equal education, Plato's idea
is rarely mentioned in textbooks.
d. Plato believed that boys and girls 5. The Greeks thought that the halcyon, or
should be given an equal education, kingfisher, nested on the sea. All birds
whereupon this idea is rarely men- nest on land.
tioned in textbooks. a. Whereupon all birds nest on land, the
Greeks thought that the halcyon, or
3. Recently there have been government kingfisher, nested on the sea.
cutbacks in funds. Experts foresee steady b. The Greeks thought that the halcyon,
hiring in the government's future. or kingfisher, nested on the sea,
a. Despite recent government cutbacks in whereas all birds nest on land.
funds, experts foresee steady hiring in c. Whenever all birds nest on land, the
the government's future. Greeks thought that the halcyon, or
b. Whereupon recent government cut- kingfisher, nested on the sea.
backs in funds, experts foresee steady d. The Greeks thought that the halcyon,
hiring in the government's future. or kingfisher, nested on the sea, as all
c. So that there have been recent gov- birds nest on land.
ernment cutbacks in funds, experts
foresee steady hiring in the govern- 6. The old brain is called the Reptilian brain.
ment's future. It does not know passion, but only stolid
d. Nonetheless there have been recent obedience to its own genetic dictates.
government cutbacks in funds, experts a. After the old brain is called the Reptili-
foresee steady hiring in the govern- an brain, it does not know passion, but
ment's future. only stolid obedience to its own genet-
ic dictates.
4. The federal government has diversity of b. The old brain, called the Reptilian
jobs and geographic locations. The federal brain, does not know passion, but only
government offers flexibility in job oppor- stolid obedience to its own genetic
tunities that is unmatched in the private dictates.
sector. c. The old brain is called the Reptilian
a. In spite of its diversity of jobs and geo- brain, whereupon it does not know
graphic locations, the federal govern- passion, but only stolid obedience to
ment offers flexibility in job opportuni- its own genetic dictates.
ties that is unmatched in the private d. Unless the old brain, called the Reptili-
sector. an brain, does not know passion, only
b. No matter its diversity of jobs and ge- stolid obedience to its own genetic dic-
ographic locations, the federal gov- tates.
ernment offers flexibility in job oppor-

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7. There have been great strides in the prac-


tical application of quantum physics in the 9. Some people believe fairy tales are
last decade. We are no closer to actually merely children's stories. Some people
understanding it than were the physicists believe fairy tales carry important psycho-
of the 1920s. logical truths for adults.
a. Unless there have been great strides in a. When some believe they carry im-
the practical application of quantum portant psychological truths for adults,
physics in the last few decades, we are some people believe fairy tales are
no closer to actually understanding it merely children's stories.
than were the physicists of the 1920s. b. Some people believe fairy tales are
b. In the last few decades, we are no merely children's stories, whereupon
closer to actually understanding it than some believe they carry important
were the physicists of the 1920s, until psychological truths for adults.
there have been great strides in the c. Because some believe fairy tales carry
practical application of quantum phys- important psychological truths for
ics. adults, some people believe fairy tales
a. Although there have been great strides are merely children's stories.
in the practical application of quantum d. Some people believe fairy tales are
physics in the last few decades, we are merely children's stories, yet some be-
no closer to actually understanding it lieve they carry important psychologi-
than were the physicists of the 1920s. cal truths for adults.
c. In the last few decades, if there have
been great strides in the practical ap- 10. Most species of the bacterium Strepto-
plication of quantum physics we are no coccus are harmless. Some species of
closer to actually understanding it than Streptococcus are dangerous pathogens.
were the physicists of the 1920s. a. Whereas most species of the bacte-
rium Streptococcus are harmless, some
8. The wisdom of the hedgehog is applauded are dangerous pathogens.
in medieval bestiaries. The hedgehog b. Since most species of the bacterium
builds a nest with two exits and, when in Streptococcus are harmless, some are
danger, rolls itself into a prickly ball. dangerous pathogens.
a. The wisdom of the hedgehog is ap- c. As most species of the bacterium
plauded in medieval bestiaries, while Streptococcus are harmless, some are
the hedgehog builds a nest with two dangerous pathogens.
exits and, when in danger, rolls itself d. Because most species of the bacterium
into a prickly ball. Streptococcus are harmless, some are
b. The hedgehog builds a nest with two dangerous pathogens.
exits and, when in danger, rolls itself
into a prickly ball, so its wisdom is ap- 11. The man nodded politely. His expression
plauded in medieval bestiaries. was bewildered.
c. The hedgehog builds a nest with two a. Nodding politely, the man's expression
exits and, when in danger, rolls itself was bewildered.
into a prickly ball, but its wisdom is b. The man nodded politely his expres-
applauded in medieval bestiaries. sion was bewildered.
d. Its wisdom applauded in medieval bes- c. The man nodded politely, his expres-
tiaries, the hedgehog builds a nest sion bewildered.
with two exits and, when in danger, b. The man nodded politely, since his ex-
rolls itself into a prickly ball pression was bewildered.

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XII. SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS


Exercise 12.1—Subordinating Conjunctions
Choose the correct subordinating conjunction for the sentence. Clue: Not a single subordinating con-
junction is repeated.

1. _________ he is known to only a few, his reputation among them is very great.
2. We looked on top of the refrigerator _________ Jenny will often hide a bag of chocolate chip
cookies.
3. ___________ the numbers of such developments are relatively rare, the potential market is
large.
4. _________her teeth were chattering in fear, Lynda clenched her jaw muscle _________waiting
for her turn to audition.
5. ____________ Samson blew out the birthday candles atop the cake, he burned the tip of his
nose on a stubborn flame.
6. ____________ you come to depend on these systems, you will almost never be independent
anymore.
7. They spent his early life in Sri Lanka ____________ moving to England.
8. Russell begins to sneeze violently_________ he opens the door to greet a fresh spring day.
9. Stir with a metal spoon _________ the sugar has dissolved.
10. _________ you are fit, I see no reason why you should not go on playing.
11. When I am going out in the evening I use the bike if I can _________ the car.
12. So much has changed in the city _________ I was a teenager.
13. __________ munching his food, he kept on talking.
14. We were so tired after the long journey _________we felt asleep right afterwards.
15. ___________you meet all the requirements for the position, they will probably accept you.
16. He took her arm and hurried her upstairs _________ they would not be overheard.
17. I hate him because he always talks _________ he knew everything.
18. We cannot understand disease __________ we understand the person who has the disease.

Exercise 12.2 Coordinating VS Subordinating Conjunctions


Join the two related sentences below with coordinating or subordinating conjunctions correctly and
sensibly.

1. Wolves once lived in every state in the nation. By the 1930s they were nearly extinct.
_______________________________________________________________________________

2. Wolves were once part of the landscape in many Western states. They were killed in any possible
way in the twentieth century in the operation called the Bounty Hunting.
_______________________________________________________________________________

3. Wild wolves from Canada were reintroduced in Montana and Wyoming in the mid-1990s. Many
people were happy to have wolves back in the United States.
_______________________________________________________________________________

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4. The wolves were endangered. Hunting them was illegal by the federal Endangered Species Act.
_______________________________________________________________________________

5. Unhappy ranchers opposed the wolves' presence. Ranchers can use dogs to protect their live-
stock.
_______________________________________________________________________________

6. Ranchers demanded compensation for animals killed by wolves. Environmental groups had to pay
for livestock losses.
_______________________________________________________________________________

7. Wolf policies became a heated controversy in 2002. The government paid for the killing of an en-
tire wolf pack.
_______________________________________________________________________________

8. The government spent $15,000 to hunt down the pack. The wolves killed just a few hundred
dollars worth of livestock.
_______________________________________________________________________________

9. The wolves were wearing radio collars. Government hunters were able to track and kill the wolves
with the help of those collars.
_______________________________________________________________________________

10. A wildlife organization had donated the collars to help biologists. The group decided not to pro-
vide any more radio collars.
______________________________________________________________________________

11. Most humans hate to see a dead wolf. Most ranchers don't hate wolves.
______________________________________________________________________________

12. Yellowstone was chosen for the wolf reintroduction site. Federal officials believed there would
be less wolf/livestock conflict in that area than anywhere else.
____________________________________________________________________________

XIII. APPOSITIVE PHRASE


Exercise 13.1 – Appositive Phrase 1
Underline the appositive phrase in each of the following sentences.

Example:
Stefani Joanne, better known by her stage name Lady Gaga, is an American singer and songwriter.

1. Jerry is visiting Wyoming, his old home town.


2. Jonathan Perry, the pro at the country club, is giving me free golf lessons.
3. Our dog, a golden retriever, is ten years old.

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4. Our math teacher, Miss Theresa, has been teaching for over two decades.
5. Mrs. Nollan, the president of the company, will speak at the dinner.
6. The poem, one of Robert Frost's best, is called "The Death of the Hired Man."
7. Have you ever heard of The Pearl, a novel written by John Steinbeck?
8. The mall, an old and crumbling one, is nevertheless always crowded.
9. Groucho Marx, the star of many film comedies, also had his own television show.
10. Adolf Hitler, one of most evil rulers of all time, ruled Germany for twelve years.
11. Danielle Steele's book, Daddy, has been filmed twice.
12. Mr. and Mrs. Suaves, our neighbors and best friends for the past eight years, are moving to
Bangkok.
13. Robert prepared the salad, a tossed one with French dressing.
14. My brother, a graduate of Purdue University, is now studying law.
15. They enjoy jogging, an exercise which requires no great skill.
16. I have been looking for my notebook, the one I use for English class.
17. All my cousins helped us repair our television set, a nineteen-year-old portable.
18. Physics, Harry’s favorite subject, is easy for him.
19. Tommy's new suit, a gray flannel one, makes him look far more mature.
20. The garage, a two-car one, is separated from the house.

Exercise 13.2 – Appositive Phrase 2


Change the adjective clauses to appositive phrases. Use the same punctuation as the adjective claus-
es have.

Examples:
a. The little girl, the only survivor of the plane crash, was rushed to the hospital at once.
The little girl, the only survivor of the plane crash, was rushed to the hospital at once.
b. The convict, who served thirty years, came out to a world completely different from the one he
had left.
The convict, free after thirty years, came out to a world completely different from the one he
had left.

1. A student should always do his work in a place that is conducive to study.


_______________________________________________________________________________

2. Adam, who is their eldest son, is going to university this year.


_______________________________________________________________________________

3. Biology, which was once her favorite subjects, no longer interests her.
_______________________________________________________________________________

4. In the story of sleeping beauty, the princess, who had been asleep for a hundred years, found
that she was with the prince when she awoke.
_______________________________________________________________________________

5. My mother, who was just out of the hospital, failed to provide the care for the house for several
days.
_______________________________________________________________________________

6. The budding prince, who was proud of his royal blood, vowed to preserve his heritage.
_______________________________________________________________________________

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7. The company will hire anyone who is willing to work under pressure and fit into a team.
_______________________________________________________________________________

8. The old man, who was once a world-renowned opera singer, talks nothing else but his glorious
old days.
_______________________________________________________________________________

9. The speaker on How to Improve Your Writing is Professor Nelson, who is an expert in Semantics
and applied linguistics.
_______________________________________________________________________________

10. The Tans, who were back from their long holiday trip, began to update their Facebook accounts.
_______________________________________________________________________________

11. The volcano, which has been dormant for over two centuries, exploded with great violence.
_______________________________________________________________________________

12. The woman, who was as completely petrified under the gun, looked at the hunter piteously.
_______________________________________________________________________________

13. We want to see the manager who is in charge of the purchasing department.
_______________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 13.3 – Appositive Phrase 3


Change the italicized adjective or adverbial clauses to appositive phrases with special care for the
punctuation. Note all possible positions for these phrases.

Examples:
a. Because she was expecting to receive a promotion, the young woman worked very hard.
Expecting to receive a promotion, the young woman worked very hard.
OR The young woman, expecting to receive a promotion, worked very hard.
b. The widower, who was afraid to be seen crying, dried his tears quickly.
The widow, afraid to be seen crying, dried his tears quickly.
OR Afraid to be seen crying, the widower dried his tears quickly.
OR The widower dried his tears quickly, afraid to be seen crying.
c. Although she was once nice and caring towards others, she became eccentric and self-centered
in her old age.
Once nice and caring towards others, she became eccentric and self-centered in her old age.

1. Although he was a despotic ruler in the office, at home he was sweet and kind.
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Although he was generally rude and blunt, he was very gentle with children.
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. The Wilkinsons, who were extremely curious about their new neighbors, jumped at the first op-
portunity to visit them.
_______________________________________________________________________________

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4. The young man, who was fed up with college, decided to drop out and start working.
_______________________________________________________________________________
5. Because she was seriously ill, the girl had to be rushed to the hospital at once.
_______________________________________________________________________________
6. Because the company was desperate about the corporate finances, the company decided to de-
clare bankruptcy.
_______________________________________________________________________________
7. The British immigrant, who was homesick for his native land, saved enough money to go back for
a long visit.
_______________________________________________________________________________
8. Although they were once the best friends, the two women stopped speaking to each other be-
cause of a man.
_______________________________________________________________________________
9. Because he was very afraid of airplanes, he took the train whenever he could.
_______________________________________________________________________________
10. Because she was by far the best student in the class, Chloe was chosen to participate in a youth
forum in Thailand.
_______________________________________________________________________________
11. The city, which was once a prosperous trade centre, is now completely deserted.
_______________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 13.4 – Appositive Noun Phrase


Combine the following sentences so that one sentence in each group becomes an appositive phrase.

1. A new generation has been established since the war. It is no more eager to win the battle than
the previous generation.
_______________________________________________________________________________
2. Ahead of us appeared the desert. It was serene and majestic against the early morning sky.
_______________________________________________________________________________
3. Children are fond of excitement in any form. They enjoy exciting games as well as interesting
books.
______________________________________________________________________________
4. Freedom of speech is one of our most cherished basic human rights. This right has sometimes
been violated by different groups in this country.
______________________________________________________________________________
5. He has gone back to San Francisco. San Francisco is the town where he was born.
______________________________________________________________________________

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6. Her husband is hungry and tired when he is back from work. He is always in this terrible mood
until he rests for a while.
______________________________________________________________________________
7. Joan of Arc was content to become a martyr for the cause of France. She was certain that histo-
ry would remember her someday.
______________________________________________________________________________
8. John was never aware of the criticisms made of him. He found it very hard to follow the basic
social norms.
______________________________________________________________________________
9. Most people who participated in the revolution had high expectation. These hopes were dashed
by subsequent turns of events.
______________________________________________________________________________
10. My favorite pianist is Lang Lang. He is a genius of great intensity and complexity.
______________________________________________________________________________
11. My friend's daughter is a great collector of stamps. She always asks me for every foreign stamp
that I get after I go overseas.
______________________________________________________________________________
12. Next week I will be leaving for Singapore. This is the city where everything is smaller but more
expensive.
______________________________________________________________________________
13. She has looks, brains, and charm. These are qualities which will help further her great ambition.
______________________________________________________________________________
14. The harbor is now deserted. It was once a hubbub of arriving and departing ships and excited
conversation from thousands of people.
______________________________________________________________________________
15. The leaves are falling from the trees. This is a sign that winter is imminent.
______________________________________________________________________________
16. The ship eventually arrived in the harbor. Its condition was much worse for wear after its long
journey.
______________________________________________________________________________
17. The speaker droned on and on. She was unaware that many people had fallen asleep.
______________________________________________________________________________
18. This heater is provided with a thermostat. A thermostat is a device to control the temperature.
______________________________________________________________________________
19. This is the story of a boy. He is proud of his family, his friends, his community. He loves what he
does: school and sports.
______________________________________________________________________________
20. Uncle Andy is a veteran soldier of World War Two. He hopes he won't have to participate in
World War Three.
______________________________________________________________________________

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XIV. SENTENCE COMBINATION & SENTENCE VARIETY


Exercise 14.1
Sentence Combination and Sentence Variety 1
Use the spaces provided to combine the sentences in each of the following groups.

1. He is only thirteen. He is an expert boxer. He has won international recognition.


__________________________________________________________________________________
2. An accident happened. The accident was a hit and run. Shattered glass lay on the street.
__________________________________________________________________________________
3. Aunt Jane went to the grocery store. She bought orange juice. The orange juice was in a glass bot-
tle. The bottle was in the grocery bag. Aunt Jane made a mess. The mess was on her hands.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
4. The baseball hit the picture window. The picture window belonged to Mr. Strauss. The glass broke
in a thousand pieces.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. There was a storm. The snow fell. Snow fell on the streets. It was two feet deep. I could not drive
on. I had nothing to do. I waited for help. I made phone calls. I played some games. Time passed
slowly.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6. The Earth revolves around the sun. It takes about 365 days for a revolution. The Earth rotates on
its axis. One rotation occurs every 24 hours. The revolution determines the length of the year. The
rotation determines the duration of a day.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
7. Aristotle lived over 2,000 years ago. He was a student of Plato. He lived in ancient Greece. He
contributed to mathematical logic. His theory of logic accounted for the core of deductive inference.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
8. Music has a mystical power. Music often transports people’s minds. People imagine and think
while listening to music. Music is involved with emotion. It serves as a source of income to human
life
__________________________________________________________________________________

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__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
9. Every human has a skull. A skull is made up of bones. The skull has twenty two bones. Eight bones
make up the cranium. The cranium protects the brain. Fourteen bones are used to form the face and
jaw.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
10. The Dayaks are the native people of Borneo. The Dayaks are descendants of a larger Austrone-
sian migration from Asia. The Dayaks have their own dialect, customs, laws, territory and culture.
The Dayaks were animist in belief. Many of the Dayaks converted to Christianity. Some of the Dayaks
embraced Islam more recently.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________

Exercise 14.2
Sentence Combination and Sentence Variety 2
In the following item, combine the sentences into one sentence using several methods (appositive, -
ing verb form, -ed verb form, adjective clause)

1. In 1976, John Lydon was an intelligent, creative English teenager. He was bitter at the lack of
opportunities for working-class men and women in England. John Lydon was wearing a Pink Floyd T-
shirt with the words I Hate.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
2. Most popular rock music in the mid-1970s was complicated and difficult to play. This rock music
intimidated many young music fans. The first Sex Pistols gig attracted broader attention.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
3. John Lydon met three other young men. McLaren convinced them to start rehearsing with Lydon.
They were learning to play guitar, bass, and drums.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________

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4. Lydon auditioned for their band by singing along with a jukebox. The jukebox was playing an Alice
Cooper song. The performance drove the others to laughter.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
5. John Lydon was the band's lead singer. John Lydon was rechristened "Johnny Rotten" because of
his bad dental hygiene. John Lydon came in with green hair.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
6. The manager owned a clothing store. The band's manager gave the group the name "Sex Pistols.".
The name of the manager was Malcolm McLaren.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
7. The Sex Pistols knew how to play only a few chords. The Sex Pistols played direct, simple rock
music. The Pistols were soon playing other important venues.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
8. The pistols’ lyrics were mostly controversial and intentionally outrageous. British radio banned
some of the Sex Pistols' songs because of the pistols’ lyrics. The Pistols were soon banned from both
the Nashville and the Marquee.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
9. The term "punk rock" was invented to honour the Sex Pistols. In spite of the mass media re-
sistance to "punk rock," the band attracted many angry young fans. Rolling Stone praised their
album as "just about the most exciting rock & roll record of the Seventies”.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
10. In 1978, the Sex Pistols broke up during their U.S. tour. The Sex Pistols continue to inspire new
generations of independent musicians afterwards. In 2004, the magazine ranked the Sex Pistols #58
on its list of the "100 Greatest Artists of All Time.
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________

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XV. OTHER TYPES OF PUNCTUATIONS


Exercise 15.1 – Punctuation 1
Punctuate the sentences properly with commas, semi-colons, dashes, quotation marks and hyphens.

1. When your lifelong partner passes away part of yourself dies too.
2. We took photographs of the city highlights in Singapore the Esplanade.
3. Picture this a Neanderthal man deep in the wood devours the yummiest of his time fruits berries
anything sweet and pluck able.
4. Last week we read To Kill a Mockingbird a classic American novel by Harper Lee.
5. Our two grandchildren Kelly and Tom have decided to start their show business.
6. When in doubt keep quiet when in trouble speak up.
7. An American devotion to Burger King rests in part on uniformities associated with all Burger
Kings restaurants setting architecture food ambience acts and utterances.
8. Some golf players hit the ball and stand waiting and expecting for it to land others turn away and
leave it to the caddy.
9. Many of New York’s proudest structures were crumbled by man himself into ruins because dy-
namite was lavishly used but there was no withstanding the onrush of the flames.
10. Jennifer who lives in a trailer with a canary and some scrappy dogs and cats has been the town
fire warden for almost two decades.
11. The old woman is wearing pink stretch pants blue eyelids and a hive-shaped head of hair that
looks both in color and texture exactly like 25-cents worth of cotton candy.
12. Hurling which has been the national sport of Ireland since legendary times is to American eyes
like a soccer game played at ice-hockey speed.
13. While on maneuvers in South Africa Stephen Jackall played hymns he knew from childhood.
14. Guiding the ball through the upper chutes down a run over lane off the slingshot bumpers to the
flippers I cradled it there bouncing it back and forth until I had a perfect shot through the lighted
spinner.
15. The subway train its metal wheels squeaking as they spin along the silver tracks rolls faster now.

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XVI. FOR EXAMPLE AND SUCH AS


Exercise 16.1
The following sentences use the phrases of for example, for instance, such as, and e.g. While some
numbers are already correct, identify the incorrect ones and fix them.

1. Food, such as, hot dogs, fries, and hamburgers are not really junk food; they contain a lot of
protein and vitamins.
2. The history has recorded a number of leaders who made an attempt to rule the world. For
instance, Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar and Adolf Hitler.
3. Natassya has studied many Asian languages for instance Mandarin, Japanese, and Thai.
4. Angela has taken many science classes e.g. MATH 124, PHYS 121 and CSE 142.
5. I love singers from the American Idols such as Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, and Jordin
Sparks.
6. My sister has met many famous people. For example: one time she met Lee Min Ho.
7. Cats are great to have to kill all the critters around the house, e.g. bugs, spiders, mice and in-
sects.
8. When I plan to study the whole night, I prepare a lot of things. For example, a cup of coffee, my
textbooks, and some highlighters.
9. When I visit Japan, I want to go to many cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nagasaki.
10. My mother loves old TV shows, for example, Bewitched, Bing Crosby Show, and Hawaii Five-0.

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