Globe Fearon Mechanics and Usage

STUDENT PROGRESS CHART
After you finish an exercise and check your work with your teacher, count the
number of questions you answered correctly. This is your score. Write that
number in the column marked "Your Score" in the chart below. Compare your
scores to the other scores to see how well you did (Excellent, Very Good, or
Good). If your score is the same or below the Minimum score, put a check mark
in the "Need More Practice" column. Go back and review the problems in that
exercise that you answered incorrectly. You may need more instruction or
practice in that area to make sure you've really got the hang of it!
Exercise Name Your Score Excellent Very Good Good Minimum Need More
Score Practice
1 Subject-Verb Agreement 17 16 · 15 14
2 Inverted Sentences 16 15 14 13
3 Subject-Verb Agreement 16 15 14 13
with Collective Nouns
4 Subject-Verb Agreement 19 18 17 16
with Compound Subjects
5 Using Helping Verbs 18 17 · 16 15
·
6 Using Problem Verbs 18 17 16 15
Correctly
7 Choosing the Correct Tense : 16 15 14 13
8 Negative Adverbs 16 15 14 13
9 Avoiding Pronoun Shifts 16 15 · 14 13
10 Indefinite Pronouns with 15 14 13 12
· Possessives
11 Using Clear Pronoun
. 15 14 13 12
References (Antecedents)
12 Modifiers 18 17 16 , 15
.
13 Contractions 17 16 15 14
14 Contraction Sound-Alikes 16 15 14 13
15 Using Homonyms 17 16 15 14
.
16 · Choosing Synonyms 18 17 16 15
Choosing the Right
,
17 14 13 12
Preposition
18 Avoiding Wordiness : 10 9 8
19 · Abbreviations 9 8
20 Numbers 16 15 14 13
,
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pre-test ....................................................................... 2
1 Subject-Verb Agreement ...................................................... .4
2 Inverted Sentences ........................................................... 6
3 Subject-Verb Agreement with Collective Nouns ..................................... 8
4 Subject-Verb Agreement with Compound Subjects .................................. 10
5 Using Helping Verbs ......................................................... 12
6 Using Problem Verbs Correctly ................................................. 14
7 Choosing the Correct Tense .................................................... 16
8 Negative Adverbs ............................................................ 18
9 Avoiding Pronoun Shifts ...................................................... 20
10 Indefinite Pronouns with Possessives ............................................ .22
11 Using Clear Pronoun References (Antecedents) ..................................... 24
12 Modifiers .................................................................. 26
13 Contractions ............................................................... 28
14 Contraction Sound-Alikes ..................................................... 30
15 Using Homonyms ........................................................... 32
16 Choosing Synonyms ......................................................... 34
17 Choosing the Right Preposition ................................................. 36
18 Avoiding Wordiness ......................................................... .38
19 Abbreviations ............................................................. .40
20 Numbers ................................................................. .42
Post Test ..................................................................... .44
Reviewer
Sandra R. Evans
Teacher of English/Language Arts
ABC Unified School District
Lakewood, California
Editors: Monica Glina, Renee Beach, Stephanie Cahill, Phyllis Dunsay, Douglas Falk, Jennifer McCarthy
Editorial Assistants: Marilyn Bashoff, Patrice Moncrieff
Designers: Joan Jacobus, Evelyn Bauer, Jennifer Visco
Editorial Development: Pencil Point Studio
Production Editors: Suzanne Keezer, Mark Andreotti
Copyright ©1999 by Globe Fearon, Inc., One Lake Street, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey, 07458, www.globefearon.com.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic,
photographic, mechanical, or otherwise, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and
retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.
Printed in the United States of America

3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 04 03 02 01 00
ISBN 0-130-23245-9
Globe
Fearon
....-....
Globe Fearon
Mechanics and Usage
Pre-test
The following pre-test will help you determine where you need further practice
in Mechanics and Usage. Take the test in one sitting, answering every question.
If you need more practice on any topics, turn to the Exercises listed.
Items 1 through 5 refer to subject-verb agreement. Underline the correct

form of the verb in parentheses.
For more practice.
go to Exercise:
1. Rebecca (balance, balances) her checkbook every month. 1
2. Where (is/are) the directions for the new copier? .2

3. Here (is, are) my office. .2
4. The local committee (meet, meets) once a month. ,3
5. Jamel and Astrid (is, are) designing the courtyard. 4
Items 6 through 13 refer to the following paragraph.

(1) My brother Ramon and his wife have opened their own restaurant.
(2) It have been their dream for a long time. (3) Everyday, Ramon's wife
Tasha buys fresh vegetables for the main dishes. (4) Everyone praises her
wonderful meals. (5) Ramon handles the advertising and all of the
business decisions. (6) They are often tired and hardly have any free time.
(7) Ramon and Tasha feel having their own business is worth the sacrifice.
6. What is the helping verb in Sentence 1? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 5
7. What is the correct verb form of have been in Sentence 2? _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 6
8. Identify the tense of the verb buys in Sentence 3. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 7
9. Identify the indefinite pronoun in Sentence 4. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 10
10. Identify the present tense verb in Sentence 5. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ,7
11. Identify the negative adverb in Sentence 6. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 8
12. Is the pronoun in Sentence 6 singular or plural? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 9
13. In Sentence 7, what is the antecedent of the pronoun their ? _ _ _ _ _ __ 11
Write the adjectives or adverbs in each sentence.

14. The new postal clerk will deliver the mail. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 12
15. She walked slowly down the street. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 12
2 Pre-lest
Write the contraction of the two underlined words in each sentence.
16. I would not take this course again. __________________ .13
17. You should not have to spend too much time on this report. ________ .13
Write the two words that make up the underlined contraction.
18. I've worked at the telephone company for three years. __________
Underline the correct word in parentheses to fit the sentence.

19. I will meet the group (their, they're, there) tomorrow. 14
Underline the correct homonym in parentheses for each sentence.

20. I will (by, buy) a new computer. · 15
21. I have a lunch break at (to, too, two). • 15
Choose a synonym for the underlined word.

22. The firefighter pulled the heavy water hose over the curb. 16
a. jumped b. kicked c. dragged
Underline the prepositional phrase in the sentence.

23. I did not agree with the school board's findings. • 17 .
In order to avoid wordiness, cross out the unnecessary words in the sentence.
24. Balancing your checkbook and checks monthly should be done once a month. 18
Write an abbreviation for the underlined word.

25. Doctor Ortez is an excellent surgeon. _________________ 19
Underline the best way to write the number in parentheses for

the following sentence.
26. Shaheed arrived at exactly (7:30, seven thirty). 20
Pre-test 3
A sentence has two parts. The subject is what the sentence is about,
and the predicate is what the subject does or relates to. Subject-verb
agreement means that the subject and the verb must agree in number.
The women on our team work well together.
I I
Subject Predicate
The simple subject of the sentence, women, and the verb part of the predicate,
work, must agree in number. If the simple subject is singular, the verb must
also be singular. If the simple subject is plural, the verb must be plural.
The word women is plural. It means more than one woman.
The verb work is plural, too. The singular form would be works.
L __. . ______ ~ ______ ~ _____
Underline the simple subject and the verb in each sentence.

Write singular or plural on the line.
1. My cousin works at the convenience store at night.
2. My uncles drive big rigs cross-country.
3. Janette keeps her keys under the doormat.
4. Edward completes his projects on time.
5. Our neighbors leave their car in the driveway at night.
6. The price of milk goes up every month.
Choose the correct verb in parentheses for each sentence.
7. Our company (donate, donates) used books to the library.
8. Our customers (like, likes) fresh vegetables.
9. Mr. and Mrs. Henson (have, has) the newspaper delivered.
10. Gasoline (get, gets) more expensive every day.
11. The committee (vote, votes) on the issue tomorrow.
4
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 14. Sentence 3: Schools require a birth
each item. Circle the number of the correct certificate and immunization records
answer. for a child entering kindergarten.
What is the simple subject of this
sentence?
Items 12 through 17 refer to the following
paragraph. (1) records
(2) kindergarten
(1) Every household needs a safe place
(3) certificate
to store family records. (2) Important records
(4) Schools
include legal and medical documents.
(5) child
(3) Schools require a birth certificate and
immunization records for a child entering
15. Sentence 4: Insurance companies often
kindergarten. (4) Insurance companies often
ask to see a patient's medical history.
ask to see a patient's medical history.
(5) Potential employers request proof of What are the simple subject and verb
citizenship. (6) Many families keep multiple in this sentence?
files. (7) One person may take responsibility
(1) Insurance companies and see
for them.
(2) patient's and ask
(3) Insurance companies and ask
(4) history and see
12. Sentence 1: Every household needs
(5) ask and see
a safe place to store family records.
What are the simple subject and verb 16. Sentence 5: Potential employers request
in this sentence? proof of citizenship.
(1) place and store What is the verb in this sentence?
(2) household and needs
(1) employers
(3) family and records
(2) request
(4) every and household
(3) proof
(5) family and store
(4) Potential
(5) citizenship
13. Sentence 2: Important records include
legal and medical documents.
17. Sentence 6: Many families keep
How would you describe the simple multiple files.
subject and verb in this sentence?
How would you describe the simple
(1) plural subject and verb subject and verb in this sentence?
(2) singular subj ect and plural verb
(1) plural subject and verb
(3) singular subject and verb
(2) singular subject and plural verb
(4) plural subject and singular verb
(5) none of the above
(4) plural subject and Singular verb
s
~.,.ercige
==0~~~~n=.c~v=_e" , "~."""rt"""~=~=,~"",,S===e~n~t=e=n===c~e=s=~~=~=="=~~~._"
In an inverted sentence, the subject comes after the verb. The simple
subject and verb must agree.
Usual: The glossary ~ at the back of the book.
Inverted: At the back of the book ~ the glossary.
Sentences that begin with there. here, and where are frequently
inverted. In these sentences, the subject comes after the verb, and
the simple subject and verb must agree.
SIMPLE SUBJECT VERB
There was a music store on Front Street. store
Here ~ my final report. report
Where are the grapes? grapes
~-~-"---~ -
... .. -~ -- ------------------
Write the subject and verb for each sentence on the lines.
1. Where were you yesterday? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __
2. Next to the desk is my bookcase. Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ __
3. Are we there yet? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __
4. What seat am I in? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ __
5. At the end of the alley is a parked car. Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __
6. There (is, are) a strange dog in the yard.
7. How cold (was, were) it last night?
8. Here (come, comes) the bride!
9. (Is, Are) dinner ready yet?
10. Enclosed (is, are) two copies of Steve's report.
6
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 4: There were a meeting of the
each item. Circle the number of the correct town council.
answer.
What correction should be made to this
sentence?
Items 11 through 16 refer to the following (1) Change meeting to meetings.
paragraph. (2) Change council to councils.
(3) Change were to will.
(1) There was not enough rainfall this year.
(4) Change were to was.
(2) What are the reservoirs like? (3) How low
(S) No change is needed.
is the water? (4) There were a meeting of the
town counciL (S) Something had to be done.
14. Sentence 6: Here is the solution the
(6) Here is the solution the council decided
council decided upon.
upon. (7) They would send people a notice
about watering lawns. (8) Is there new What are the simple subject and verb
regulations this year? (9) What days are we in this sentence?
allowed to sprinkle the lawn?
(1) council and is
(2) solution and is
(3) solution and decided
11. Sentence 2: What are the reservoirs like?
(4) Here and is
What are the simple subject and verb (S) council and upon
in this sentence?
15. Sentence 8: Is there new regulations
(1) reservoirs and are
this year?
(2) What and are
(3) are and like What correction should be made to this
(4) What and the sentence?
(S) What and reservoirs
(1) Change Is to Are.
(2) Change regulations to regulation.
12. Sentence 3: How low is the water?
(3) Change Is to Isn't.
What is the simple subject in this (4) Change there to their.
sentence? (S) No change is needed.
(1) How
16. Sentence 9: What days are we allowed to
(2) low
sprinkle the lawn?
(3) is
(4) water What correction should be made to this
(S) There is no subject in this sentence. sentence?
(1) Change days to day.
(2) Change sprinkle to water.
(3) Change are to is.
(4) Change allowed to allowing.
(S) No change is needed.
7
Subject-Verb Agreement
with Collective Nouns
Collective nouns name a group of persons, animals, or things. Collective

nouns usually take a singular verb because they name a single group.
The team is ready to go on the field.
I
Collective noun
If other words come between a collective noun that is a simple subject

and the verb, the subject must still agree with the verb in number.
The team with the blue uniforms is ready to go on the field.
The simple subject of the sentence, team, is singular. Although
uniforms is plural, the verb ~ must be singular.
The subjects of the following sentences are collective nouns. Underline the subject
and the verb in each sentence.
1. A family of five children goes to the day care center.
2. A committee of parents is working with the teachers.
3. The audience applauded loudly after the performance.
4. The panel has a full day of hearings.
S. A team of mothers is helping to plan a picnic in June.
6. A jury of twelve people (is, are) chosen.
7. The members may (serve, serves) for two weeks or more.
8. The pool of prospective jurors often (wait, waits) several days for a call.
9. A panel of lawyers (interview, interviews) all the prospective jurors.
10. Sometimes a whole group of jurors (is, are) excused.
8
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: Our group have a team
each item. Circle the number of the correct leader and four specialists.
answer.
sentence?
Items 11 through 16 refer to the following (1) Change group to team.
paragraph. (2) Change leader to leaders.
(3) Change have to has.
(1) A committee of managers reorganized
(4) Change group to groups.
our office into three teams. (2) The office
(5) No change is needed.
team I work with is smalL (3) Our group have
a team leader and four specialists. (4) The
14. Sentence 4: The leaders from each team
leaders from each team meet once a week.
meet once a week.
(5) Then, the subcommittee of specialists has
a session with the team leader to plan the What are the simple subject and verb
project. (6) So far, the members of our team in this sentence?
like this arrangement.
(1) leaders and meet
(2) team and meet
(3) each and meet
11. Sentence 1: A committee of managers
(4) meet and week
reorganized our office into three teams.
(S) leaders and week
What are the simple subject and verb in
this sentence? 15. Sentence S: Then, the subcommittee of
specialists has a session with the team
(1) managers and reorganized
leader to plan the project.
(2) committee and managers
(3) office and teams What group of words comes between the
(4) committee and reorganized simple subject and verb in this sentence?
(S) managers and our office
(1) the subcommittee
(2) with the team leader
12. Sentence 2: The office team I work
(3) of specialists
with is small.
(4) has a session
What is the collective noun in this (5) to plan
sentence?
16. Sentence 6: So far, the members of our
(1) office
team like this arrangement.
(2) team
(3) I What is the verb in this sentence?
(4) small
(1) members
(S) There is no collective noun in this
(2) arrangement
sentence.
(3) like
(4) team
(5) this
9
~y.ercise Subject-Verb Agreement
CD with Compound Subjects
t~ compound S-Ubject is-:ade up -o~-two or more subjects ~-SUaIlY joined ----

I by the word and. A compound subject is plural because there is more
than one subject. Compound subjects take plural verbs.
Davis and Toby have breakfast together on Sundays.
I I
Compound subject Plural verb
Underline the subject or subjects in each sentence. Then, place a check mark next to
each sentence that has a compound subject.
1. Mara and I plan the menus for the week on Saturday morning.
2. My sister is a vegetarian and a finicky eater.
3. Kevin, Stacy, and Caleb only eat vegetables.
4. Stacy and Caleb want to lose weight.
S. Kevin needs plenty of protein because he's in a growth spurt.
6. I can't believe our grocery bills!
7. The doctor and nurse (say, says) the patient (need, needs) to gain some weight.
8. Sara and her co-workers (prefer, prefers) morning meetings.
9. Computers and telephones (is, are) big expenses for small businesses.
10. The owners of the store and the employees (share, shares) the cost of health insurance.
11. Good skills and some experience (help, helps) you find a job.
12. Marra and Bill (work, works) the late shift at the factory.
13. Carrots and broccoli (are, is) the ingredients in this soup.
10
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 16. Sentence 3: Fries, burgers, and shakes
each item. Circle the number of the correct are not on the list.
answer.
What is the compound subject in this
sentence?
Items 14 through 19 refer to the following (1) Fries, burgers
paragraph. (2) burgers, and shakes
(3) Fries, burgers, and shakes
(1) Because of his weak heart, Willie's
(4) the list
nutritionist and doctor advise him to lose
(5) shakes are not
weight. (2) The doctor and nutritionist gave
him a diet to follow. (3) Fries, burgers, and
17. Sentence 4: Willie and his wife, Alva,
shakes are not on the list. (4) Willie and his
now pack healthy lunches to take to
wife, Alva, now pack healthy lunches to take
work.
to work. (5) Alva and Willie want to begin
walking regularly, too. (6) The nutritionist and What is the verb in this sentence?
Alva expect Willie to lose about 30 pounds.
(1) work
(2) lunches
(3) pack
14. Sentence 1: Willie's nutritionist and
(4) take
doctor advise him to lose weight.
(5) to work
What is the compound subject of this
sentence? 18. Sentence 5: Alva and Willie want to
begin walking regularly, too.
(1) lose weight
(2) Willie's nutritionist and doctor What are the compound subject and verb
(3) him in this sentence?
(4) Willie's
(1) Alva and Willie and want
(5) nutritionist
(2) Alva and Willie and begin
(3) Willie and want to begin
15. Sentence 2: The doctor and nutritionist
(4) Alva and begin walking
gave him a diet to follow.
(5) Willie and begin walking
What is the underlined part of this
sentence? 19. Sentence 6: The nutritionist and Alva
expect Willie to lose about 30 pounds.
(2) singular subject What correction should be made to this
(3) plural subject and verb sentence?
(4) compound subject
(1) Change nutritionist to nutritionists.
(5) collective noun
(2) Change expect to expects.
(3) Insert they after Alva.
(4) Change lose to loses.
11
Helping verbs are words that are added to the main verb to make
a verb phrase.
I am working on the crossword puzzle.
In this sentence, the verb phrase is am working.
The word am is a helping verb. The -ing form of the main verb is used
with the helping verbs am, is, are, was, and were.
8@. you working with the new machine?
Larry was waiting on the corner.
Some other helping verbs are have, has, and had; do, does, and did;
can and could; will and would.
Our list of clients has grown since last summer.
Can you help the new receptionist?
---.---------------
Underline the verb phrase in each sentence. Write the helping verb on the line.
1. We are leaving for Boston tomorrow.
2. Randall is hoping to find a job there.
3. When does Lakeesha start her new job?
4. Randall has sent out letters and resumes.
S. Randall and I will share the drive to Boston.
6. The children are traveling with us this year.
7. They can ride in the back of the van.
8. Randall will decide if he wants to spend a week with the Torrances.
9. Brenda Torrance is working at home today.
10. Her sister will return in about an hour.
11. Brenda has finished the budget sheets for the week.
12. Tomorrow, she will give the file to Mr. Woods.
12
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 15. Sentence 3: Mr. Lindsay is going to help
each item. Circle the number of the correct her practice on weekends.
answer.
Which is the helping verb in this
sentence?
Items 13 through 18 refer to the following (1) going
paragraph. (2) is
(3) to
(1) Mrs. Lindsay is learning to drive this
(4) help
summer. (2) She are enrolling at the E-Z Drive
(5) her
School. (3) Mr. Lindsay is going to help her
practice on weekends. (4) He will taking her
16. Sentence 4: He will taking her for her
for her driving test in August. (5) Mrs. Lindsay
driving test in August.
has worked hard. (6) She is determined to pass
the test. (7) Mrs. Lindsay planned to get a job What correction should be made to this
as a school bus driver some day. sentence?
(1) Change will to was.
(2) Change driving to drive.
13. Sentence 1: Mrs. Lindsay is learning
(3) Change taking to take.
to drive this summer.
(4) Change will to has.
What are the subject and the verb phrases (5) Change taking to taken.
in this sentence?
17. Sentence 5: Mrs. Lindsay has worked
(1) Mrs. Lindsay and learning
hard.
(2) Mrs. Lindsay and to drive
(3) learning and drive Which is the helping verb in this
(4) Mrs. Lindsay and is learning sentence?
(5) is learning and to drive
(1) has
(2) hard
14. Sentence 2: She are enrolling at the E-Z
(3) worked
Drive School.
(4) Mrs.
What correction should be made to this (5) Lindsay
sentence?
18. Sentence 7: Mrs. Lindsay planned to get
(1) Change are to be.
a job as a school bus driver some day.
(2) Change enrolling to enroll.
(3) Change are to is. What helping verb and main verb can
(4) Change enrolling to enrolled. be used to rewrite this sentence?
(5) No correction should be made.
(1) Change planned to have planned.
(2) Change planned to is planning.
(3) Change planned to are planning.
(4) Change planned to will have planned.
(5) Change planned to is planned.
~'f..8rcife
-C£j Using Problem Verbs Correctly
The helping verbs has and have are usually followed by the -ed form of the main
verb. It is the same word as the past tense verb. When helping verbs are combined
with the main verb, they form a verb phrase.
I worked at the telephone company two years ago. ___ Past tense
I have worked there for four years. .. Helping verb/Main verb
Some verbs use special forms after the helping verbs.

I saw you at the rally yesterday. I have seen you at other special meetings.
Toni took the customer's order. She has taken customer orders before.
---_._-
Underline the verb phrase in each sentence. Write it on the line.
1. Kee has driven away in the pickup truck.
2. She has gone to the hospital with her brother.
3. Allison has taught computer skills for two years.
4. I had hoped to hear from you sooner.
S. The clerk has attached the page to the report.
6. I have (take, took, taken) the damaged tapes back to the video store.
7. My nephew Ralph has (drive, drove, driven) there before.
8. He had (see, saw, seen) me before I saw him.
9. Olivia has (choose, chose, chosen) the smaller desk for her office.
10. The manager (speak, spoke, spoken) at the conference.
11. Carlos (break, broke, broken) the heavy tape on the box.
12. Kim (forget, forgot, forgotten) to return the folders to the file cabinet.
14
Directions: Choose the one best answer to IS. Sentence 3: They has given me a $2,000
each item. Circle the number of the correct loan at 80/0 interest.
answer.
sentence?
Items 13 through 18 refer to the following (1) Change given to give.
paragraph. (2) Change has given to had gave.
(3) Change has given to have gave.
(1) I have taken out a loan from the credit
(4) Change has given to have given.
union. (2) I having spoken to a credit union
(5) No correction is needed.
officer about payment options. (3) They has
given me a $2,000 loan at 80/0 interest. (4) The
16. Sentence 4: The check arrived in the
check arrived in the mail yesterday. (5) I had
mail yesterday.
went shopping for a computer that afternoon.
(6) So far, I seen several computers and printers What correction should be made to this
on sale at good prices. sentence?
(1) Change arrived to is arriving.
(2) Change arrived to have arrived.
13. Sentence 1: I have taken out a loan from
(3) Change arrived to is arrived.
the credit union.
(4) Change arrived to anive.
What is the verb phrase in this sentence? (5) No correction is needed.
(1) taken out
17. Sentence 5: I had went shopping for
(2) taken
a computer that afternoon.
(3) have taken
(4) I have What correction should be made to this
(5) from the sentence?
(1) Change had went to had go.
14. Sentence 2: I having spoken to a credit
(2) Change had went to have went.
union officer about payment options.
(3) Take out had.
What correction should be made to this (4) Take out went.
sentence? (5) No correction is needed.
(1) Change having spoken to had spoke.
18. Sentence 6: So far, I seen several
(2) Change spoken to to spoken for.
computers and printers on sale at good
(3) Change having spoken to has spoken.
prices.
(4) Change having spoken to have spoken.
(5) No correction is needed. What correction should be made to this
sentence?
(1) Change I seen to We seen.
(2) Change seen to have seen.
(3) Change seen to saw.
(4) Change I seen to I was seen.
15
The tense of a verb tells the time something happens. If two verbs in a
sentence refer to the same event, both verbs should be in the same tense.
A verb that shows something happening in the present is in the present tense.
Jen writes one letter every day.
A verb that shows something that has already happened is in the past tense.
Regular verbs form the past tense by adding -d or -ed. Irregular verbs form the
past tense differently.
Yesterday, she packed a huge box to send to the shipping department.
The clerk brought the package to the mailroom.
A verb that shows action that will take place in the future is in the future tense.
Tomorrow, Jen will write a long letter to her customer.
Underline the verb or verb phrase in each sentence. Write present, past, or future on the line.
1. Biba thinks it is time for a change.
2. She decides to look for a new apartment.
3. She has lived in the same place for eight years.
4. She found her last apartment through a newspaper ad.
5. This time she will look for an apartment with two bedrooms.
In each sentence, write the correct form of the verb in parentheses on the line.
6. When Biba started her search, she (think) _ _ _ _ _ _ _ it would take a long time
to find the right place.
7. Then, she fell in love with the second apartment she (see)
8. However, the rent was higher than she (want) to pay.
9. The landlord said he (call) Biba tomorrow.
10. It seems someone else also (want) to rent the apartment.
16
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: BR means bedroom, and 2BR
each item. Circle the number of the correct showed that there are two bedrooms.
answer.
sentence to keep the present tense?
Items 11 through 16 refer to the following (1) Change means to mean.
paragraph. (2) Change there to their.
(3) Change 2 to two.
(1) Classified ads for apartments to rent
(4) Change showed to shows.
usually begin with the location of the building.
(2) Most ads listed the number of rooms and
use abbreviations for the names of rooms and
14. Sentence 4: Sometimes the ad describes
special features. (3) BR means bedroom, and
the apartment as "charming" or "newly
2BR showed that there are two bedrooms.
painted."
(4) Sometimes the ad describes the apartment
as "charming" or "newly painted." (5) Finally, What is the verb in this sentence?
the classified ad tells how much the rent was
(1) painted
and whether the renter pays for utilities.
(2) describes
(6) With all that information, you can decide
(3) charming
whether this is an apartment you have wanted
(4) as
to look at.
(5) newly
15. Sentence 5: Finally, the classified ad tells

11. Sentence 1: Classified ads for apartments
how much the rent was and whether
to rent usually begin with the location of
the renter pays for utilities.
the building.
What change should be made to this
What would the next word be if you
sentence?
rewrote this sentence? A classified ad for
an apartment to rent usually _ _ _ __ (1) pays to pay
(2) tells to tell
(1) start
(3) rent to rents
(2) always
(4) how to who
(3) begins
(5) was to is
(4) is beginning
(5) have started
16. Sentence 6: With all that information,
you can decide whether this is an
12. Sentence 2: Most ads listed the number
apartment you have wanted to look at.
of rooms and use abbreviations for the
names of rooms and special features. What correction should be made to this
sentence?
sentence to keep the present tense? (1) Change decide to decided.
(2) Change have wanted to had wanted.
(1) Change listed to list.
(3) Change can to could.
(2) Change use to using.
(4) Change look to see.
(3) Change number to amount.
(5) Change have wanted to will want.
(4) Change use to uses.
17
Negative adverbs can change the meaning of a verb from positive to
negative. Not and never are negative adverbs. The subject and verb
must agree when there is a negative adverb in a sentence.
Positive: The office manager is going to order new supplies.
Negative: The office manager is not going to order supplies this month.
Negative: The supplies never seem to arrive on time.
Sometimes the negative adverb must be used with a form of the helping
verb do.
Negative: I did not pack all the boxes last night.
Other negative adverbs include: nowhere, hardly, and scarcely.

--------------------------------- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ------------
Underline the subject and verb in each sentence. Write the verb, including any negative
adverbs, on the line.
1. Shanti works at the supermarket in the evenings.
2. She does not like her job very much.
3. She is not home until 10 P.M. most nights.
4. The manager has encouraged her to apply for a different shift.
5. Shanti is not sure she wants to do that.
Underline the correct negative adverb in parentheses for each sentence.
6. Ben (does not, hardly) had time to get to school this morning.
7. He (was not, were not) up late last night.
8. He (do not, did not) work a very long day either.
9. Lately, he (seem, never seems) to have any energy.
10. We (can, cannot) let him sleep any later.
18
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: Her husband says they never
each item. Circle the number of the correct needed one before, but now that they is
answer. not home for dinner at the same time,
they do.
sentence?
paragraph.
(1) Change before to never.
(1) The Braggas do not own a microwave
(2) Change is not to are not.
oven. (2) Now, Mrs. Bragga can hardly manage
(3) Change do to do not.
without one. (3) Her husband says they never
(4) Change needed to needs.
needed one before, but now that they is not
home for dinner at the same time, they do.
(4) They are going shopping for a microwave
14. Sentence 4: They are going shopping for
until Saturday, because Mr. Bragga gets paid on
a microwave until Saturday, because
Friday. (5) Mrs. Bragga do not want to spend
Mr. Bragga gets paid on Friday.
more than $100 for the microwave, so she has
been watching for sales. (6) So far, she have not What correction should be made to this
seen what she wants. sentence?
(1) Change gets paid to does not get paid.
(2) Change are going to never go.
11. Sentence 1: The Braggas do not own
(3) Change are going to are not going.
a microwave oven.
(4) Change until to before.
What is the negative word in this sentence? (5) No correction is needed.
(1) do
15. Sentence 5: Mrs. Bragga do not want to
(2) not
spend more than $100 for the microwave,
(3) own
so she has been watching for sales.
(4) own a microwave
(5) oven What correction should be made to this
sentence?
12. Sentence 2: Now, Mrs. Bragga can hardly
(1) Change do not to does not.
manage without one.
(2) Change do not to cannot.
What correction should be made to this (3) Change has been to has not been.
sentence? (4) Change has been to been.
(1) Change can to cannot.
(2) Change can to do not.
16. Sentence 6: So far, she have not seen what
(3) Change can to does not.
she wants.
(4) Change can to never.
(5) No correction is needed. What correction should be made to this
sentence?
(1) Change she have not to she will not.
(2) Change she have not to she has not.
(3) Change she have not to she does not.
(4) Change she have notto she never did.
19
i-- A sentence must be consistent in person and number to avoid pronoun
I shifts. There are three persons of pronouns. Person tells to whom the
I pronoun refers.
I Shift: The managers worked with his employees.
I Consistent: The managers worked with their employees.
The first person pronoun refers to the speaker.
Singular: I my me
Plural: we our us
The second person pronoun refers to the person spoken to.
Singular: you your you
Plural: you your you
The third person refers to the person spoken about.
Singular: he, she, it his, her, its him, her, it
Plural: they their them
Underline the pronoun in each sentence. Write S for singular or P for plural on the line.
1. Sandy and I are taking the bus to Los Angeles.
2. We have plans to visit the Perez family.
3. They will meet the bus at the station.
4. Sandy and I will stay there for a week or two.
5. Sandy is hoping you can come, too.
Underline the correct pronoun in parentheses for each sentence.
6. The Burkes have invited us to come to (her, their) house for a barbecue.
7. When you go to the Burkes, (we, you) always have a good meal.
8. You want to be ready to eat when (they, you) are invited to the Burkes.
9. George is famous for (their, his) barbecued ribs.
10. If Hal wants it, George will probably give (you, him) the recipe.
20
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: I like to use the ribs I buy
each item. Circle the number of the correct at the Smart Market on Front Street.
answer.
What person and number are the
pronouns in this sentence?
Items 11 through 16 refer to the following (1) second person, singular
paragraph. (2) first person, singular
(3) third person, plural
(1) When you want to barbecue, the first
(4) first person, plural
thing Hal needs is a hot fire on a safe grill.
(5) second person, plural
(2) Then, he needs a good recipe if you want
tasty ribs. (3) I like to use the ribs I buy at the
14. Sentence 4: Marinate the ribs in the
Smart Market on Front Street. (4) Marinate the
barbecue sauce for at least two hours
ribs in the barbecue sauce for at least two
before he is ready to cook.
hours before he is ready to cook. (5) In the
meantime, you can make potato salad, and If you change the word he to you in this
they will be ready when the barbecue is done. sentence, what other change must you
(6) If you toss some corn on the grill, you will make?
have a perfect summer supper.
(1) Change is to can.
(2) Change marinate to marinates..
(3) Change before to until.
11. Sentence 1: When you want to barbecue,
(4) Change is to are.
the first thing Hal needs is a hot fire on a
(5) Change two to 2.
safe grill.
What correction should be made to rewrite 15. Sentence 5: In the meantime, you can
this sentence in the second person? make potato salad, and they will be
ready when the barbecue is done.
(1) Change you to one.
(2) Change needs to need, is. What correction should be made to this
(3) Change Hal needs to you need. sentence?
(4) Change is to are.
(1) Change meantime to meanwhile.
(5) No change is necessary.
(2) Change you to he.
(3) Change can to are.
12. Sentence 2: Then, he needs a good recipe
(4) Change will to can.
if you want tasty ribs.
(5) Change they to it.
What correction should be made to rewrite
this sentence in the second person? 16. Sentence 6: If you toss some corn
on the grill, you will have a perfect
(1) Change he needs to you need.
summer supper.
(2) Change he to Hal.
(3) Change recipe if to recipe, if What person and number are the
(4) Change you to he. pronouns in this sentence?
(1) first person, plural
(2) second person, Singular or plural
(3) third person, singular
(4) first person, singular
(5) third person, plural
21
Indefinite pronouns do not refer to a specific person, place, or thing.
Most indefinite pronouns are singular. They are used with the singular
possessive pronouns his, her; hers, and its. Use his or her when you are
not sure if a group is male or female.
Anyone can learn to use a keyboard.
Each woman in the class will have her own keyboard for practice.
Every student should have his or her own workbook.
The common singular indefinite pronouns are:
each one anyone someone everyone no one
every either anybody somebody everybody nobody
The common plural indefinite pronouns are:
both few many several
Underline the indefinite pronoun in each sentence.
1. Every book has its own label.
2. Does anybody have his or her watch on?
3. Few people brought their cameras to the game.
4. No one finished his or her dinner.
S. Both of the men are wearing their hard hats.
Choose the correct possessive pronoun in parentheses for each sentence.
6. Nobody likes to lend out (his or her, their) tools.
7. Both of the men brought (his or her, their) own tools to the job.
8. Many of (our, ours) expensive tools are missing.
9. Few borrowers keep (his or her, their) promise to return someone else's tools.
10. Each of my brothers has borrowed a tool from me and kept it for (his, their) own workshop!
22
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: Soon, somebody raised their
each item. Circle the number of the correct hand and asked the supervisor where
answer. the crew would be working for the day.
What correction should be made to
this sentence?
paragraph. (1) Change somebody to someone.
(2) Change the crew to her crew.
(1) Each woman was ready to begin their
(3) Change their to her.
first day on the job as a survey taker. (2) No one
(4) Change their hand to their hands.
knew what she should expect when she got on
the bus. (3) Soon, somebody raised their hand
and asked the supervisor where the crew would
14. Sentence 4: The supervisor said that
be working for the day. (4) The supervisor said
everyone would be assigned to her own
that everyone would be assigned to her own
corner on Travis Street.
corner on Travis Street. (5) Anyone who didn't
like their aSSignment could ask for a change. What correction should be made to this
(6) Several of the women asked to have their sentence?
assignments changed.
(1) Change her to their.
(2) Change everyone to anyone.
(3) Change on to of.
11. Sentence 1: Each woman was ready
(4) Change said that everyone to
to begin their first day on the job as
said, everyone.
a survey taker.
sentence? 15. Sentence 5: Anyone who didn't like their
assignment could ask for a change.
(1) Change Each to Every.
(2) Change their to them. How could this sentence be rewritten?
(3) Change woman to women.
(1) Each who didn't like their assignments
(4) Change their to her.
could ask for a change.
(2) Anyone who didn't like her assignment
could ask for a change.
12. Sentence 2: No one knew what she
(3) People who didn't like his assignment
should expect when she got on the bus.
could ask to be changed.
What is the indefinite pronoun in this (4) Someone who didn't like their
sentence? assignment could ask for a change.
(5) Few who didn't like his or her
(1) she
assignment could ask for a change.
(2) No one
(3) when
(4) what
(5) one
Using Clear Pronoun
References (Antecedents)
----- ~~~~--
The antecedent of a pronoun is the word it refers to. A pronoun must be in the
same number, person, and gender (masculine or feminine) as its antecedent.
Ken handed his license and registration to the police officers.
The pronoun his refers to the noun Ken. The pronoun his
is singular, third person, and masculine.
Ken asked the officers why they had stopped him.
The plural pronoun they refers to the plural noun officers.
Sometimes a pronoun reference is not clear. Rewrite the sentence

if needed.
Tom told Bill that he was hired. Who was hired? Tom or Bill?
Tom told Bill that Bill was hired or Tom was hired, and he told Bill about it.
---~-~~~-------~~
Underline the pronoun and its antecedent in each sentence.
1. Ken did not know that his registration had expired.
2. Mrs. West said she would take care of renewing the registration.
3. The police officer took out his pad and gave Ken a ticket.
4. Both police officers said that they would have to file a report.
5. Ken and his wife had three days to get the registration renewed.
Write the correct pronoun on the line. Underline the antecedent of the pronoun.
6. Tara will have _ _ _ _ _ _ _ car inspected on Saturday.
7. Tara said _ _ _ _ _ _ _ would drive to the gas station.
8. Mr. and Mrs. Weber take good care of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ car.
9. The car has lost most of _ _ _ _ _ _ _ shine.
10. Tara and her sister wanted to wash the car, so _ _ _ _ _ _ _ washed it together.
24
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: Rusty explains the problem
each item. Circle the number of the correct to Gary and tells him how much the
answer. repairs will cost.
What is the best way to rewrite the
underlined part of this sentence?
paragraph. (1) told him how much it will cost him
(2) tells him how much money the cost will
(1) Gary trusts the mechanics who work at
amount to
the tire store where they bought new tires last
(3) tells him how much the work might cost
year. (2) The mechanic, Rusty, calls Gary
to get done
whenever he sees a possible problem with his
(4) should have told Gary what it would
car. (3) Rusty explains the problem to Gary
cost to fix the problem
and tells him how much the repairs will cost.
(4) Gary often follows Rusty's advice, but
sometimes they can't afford the repairs.
14. Sentence 4: Gary often follows Rusty's
(5) Rusty lets Gary know if the work can wait
advice, but sometimes they can't afford
or if it must be done right away. (6) Gary is a
the repairs.
good customer, so the store owners let him pay
in installments. What correction should be made to this
sentence?
(1) Change the repairs to them.
11. Sentence 1: Gary trusts the mechanics
(2) Change they to he.
who work at the tire store where they
(3) Change advice, but to advise but.
bought new tires last year.
(4) Change follows to follow.
What correction should be made to this (5) No change is needed.
sentence?
15. Sentence 5: Rusty lets Gary know if the
(1) Change who to whose.
work can wait or if it must be done
(2) Change they to he.
right away.
(3) Change work to works.
(4) Change Gary to He. What is the antecedent of the pronoun
(5) No change is needed. it in this sentence?
(1) Gary
12. Sentence 2: The mechanic, Rusty, calls
(2) Rusty
Gary whenever he sees a possible
(3) right away
problem with his car.
(4) if
What is the best way to rewrite the (5) the work
(1) he saw a possible problem with his car
(2) Rusty sees a possible problem with his car
(3) he sees a possible problem with their car
(4) he sees a possible problem with Gary's car
(5) they saw a possible problem with Gary's
car
25
Modifiers describe or explain a word or words in a sentence. A modifier can
be one word or a group of words. A modifier should come as close as
possible to the word it modifies. If it does not, the sentence may not be clear.
We were safe riding in the boat wearing our life iackets.
The writer doesn't mean that the boat is wearing life jackets.
The phrase wearing our life jackets should be moved closer
to the word it modifies, safe.
We were safe wearing our life jackets while riding in the boat.
1_ _ _ _ _ _ _ "" _ __
Underline the adverb or adjective in each sentence. Write the word

it modifies on the line.
1. The new customer gets a discount at the office.
2. The idea seemed perfect to Janice.
3. Francis picked up the heavy package.
4. Jerome's latest project is completed.
s. The heavy crate crashed to the floor.

6. Elaine drove slowly to the garage.
Circle the modifier that is out of place in each sentence below. Draw
an arrow to show where the modifier should go.
7. Janice is thinking in her home about opening her own day care.
8. Janice had an idea when she was walking home from work suddenly.
9. Some of her friends have asked her to sit with their children who have night jobs.
10. Janice could start a "night care" center and keep her day job still.
11. Many parents in a "night care" center would be interested.
12. Perhaps Janice should this idea seriously consider.
26
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 15. Sentence 3: Luis spoke Spanish at home
each item. Circle the number of the correct and English when he was growing up at
answer. school.
What modifier is in the wrong place?
paragraph. (1) at home
(2) when he was growing up
(1) When Luis was a baby, the language
(3) growing
he heard and learned to speak was Spanish
(4) at school
first. (2) Luis was two years old when his
(5) and English
parents began to speak to him in English as
welL (3) Luis spoke Spanish at home and
16. Sentence 4: He decided that he wants to
English when he was growing up at schooL
study bilingual education last week.
(4) He decided that he wants to study bilingual
education last week. (5) He found a summer Where should the underlined part of this
job as a tour gUide so that he can earn some sentence be moved to?
money for college. (6) Since he is bilingual,
(1) after study
this is the perfect job for Luis.
(2) after decided
(3) after wants
13. Sentence 1: When Luis was a baby, the
(4) after education
language he heard and learned to speak
(5) before to study
was Spanish first.
How can this sentence be rewritten? 17. Sentence 5: He found a summer job as
a tour guide so that he can earn some
(1) As a baby, the language Luis heard and
money for college.
learned to speak was Spanish first.
(2) Luis was a baby who first heard and What correction should be made to this
learned to speak Spanish. sentence?
(3) When Luis was a baby, the language
(1) Change guide so to guide, so.
he heard and learned to speak first was
(2) Move as a tour guide after college.
Spanish.
(3) Change summer job to job this summer.
(4) Luis learned first to hear and speak
(4) Move He found a summer job to the
Spanish as a baby.
end of the sentence.
(5) First, Luis heard Spanish and learned
to speak it as a baby.
18. Sentence 6: Since he is bilingual, this
14. Sentence 2: Luis was two years old when
is the perfect job for Luis.
his parents began to speak to him in
English as well. What word modifies job in this sentence?
Where should the underlined part of this (1) bilingual
sentence be moved to? (2) the
(3) perfect
(1) after him
(4) Since
(2) after began
(5) is
(3) after English
(4) after parents
27
A contraction is one word made by combining two words. When the words
are combined, an apostrophe replaces the letter or letters that are taken out.
is + not = isn't I + have = I've
A contraction can be made up of a verb or helping verb and a negative adverb.

We aren't ready to go yet. aren't = are + not
A contraction can also be made up of a pronoun or other word and a verb.

We're not ready to go yet. we're = we + are
There's plenty of time. there's = there + is
- - - - - - _..•__........-_......
Underline the contractions in these sentences. Then, write the two words that make
up the contraction on the line.
1. Val wasn't in the mood for Italian food.
2. "Let's have Chinese, then," Tina said.
3. "I'm not in the mood for Chinese either," Val replied.
4. "Well, I'm getting hungry," Tina said.
5. "Can't you make another decision?" asked Val.
6. "There's a new Mexican place we can try," Tina suggested.
Write the contraction from the phrase in parentheses on the line in each sentence.
7. "We (have not) got much time," Tina said.
8. "Do you think (they have) got a drive through?"
9. "We (should not) eat in the car," Val said. "I just cleaned it."
10. "(You are) so picky tonight," Tina muttered.
11. "(Let us) just go home to eat," Val said.
28
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 14. Sentence 3: Preheat your oven while
each item. Circle the number of the correct you're getting everything ready, and
answer. see what you have in the refrigerator.
sentence?
paragraph. (1) Change you're to your.
(2) Change you're to yo'ure.
(1) Here's an idea for a quick and healthy
(3) Change you have to youv'e.
meal when your family wants to know "Whats
(4) Change your to you're.
for dinner?" (2) Youll need to start with a
(5) No correction is necessary.
pizza shell, sauce, and some shredded cheese.
(3) Preheat your oven while you're getting
15. Sentence 4: Are'nt there some leftover
everything ready, and see what you have in
veggies in the back of that drawer?
the refrigerator. (4) Are'nt there some leftover
veggies in the back of that drawer? (5) Chop What correction should be made to this
up all the veggies you have found and pile sentence?
them on the pizza shell along with your
(1) Change Are'nt to Aren't.
favorite spices. (6) Top with cheese, pop in
(2) Change leftover to left'over.
the hot oven for about ten minutes, and you
(3) Change veggies to veggie's.
are ready to serve dinner!
(4) Change thatto that's.
12. Sentence 1: Here's an idea for a quick
16. Sentence 5: Chop up all the veggies you
and healthy meal when your family
have found and pile them on the pizza
wants to know "Whats for dinner?"
shell along with your favorite spices.
What correction(s) should be made to this
sentence?
sentence?
(1) Change Here's to Heres.
(1) Change Chop up to Chop'up.
(3) Change Whats to What's.
(3) Change all to all's and you have to
(4) Change quick and to quick.
you'd.
(4) Change you have to youve.
13. Sentence 2: Youll need to start with a
pizza shell, sauce, and some shredded
17. Sentence 6: Top with cheese, pop in the
cheese.
hot oven for about ten minutes, and
What correction should be made to this you are ready to serve dinner!
sentence?
What words in this sentence could be
(1) Change shell to she'll. rewritten as a contraction?
(2) Change Youll to You'll.
(1) you are
(3) Change Youll to You'd.
(2) ten minutes
(4) Change shell and to shell, and.
(3) are ready
(4) pop in
(5) Top with
29
Some contractions sound like words that are not contractions. Read the
sentence to understand the meaning of the word. Then, use the correct word.
You're home at last! You're is the contraction of you and are
Where is your home? your is the possessive pronoun form of you
CONTRACTIONS SOUND-ALIKES
here's here is hears verb
it's it is its possessive pronoun
let's let us lets verb
they're they are there adverb
their possessive pronoun
there's there is theirs possessive pronoun
we've we have weave verb
who's who is whose possessive pronoun
you're you are your possessive pronoun
_._..---_.- --~-
Underline the contraction or its sound-alike. Write the word it sounds like on the line.
1. There's never enough time to do all the chores on the weekend.
2. Just as you're finished sorting the laundry, the baby begins to cry.
3. Then the telephone rings, and you wonder who's calling.
4. The dog hears it, too, and begins to howl.
5. So you answer the phone, and it's a recording!
Underline the correct word in parentheses in each sentence.
6. Then (your, you're) sister calls, and you say, "(Lets, Let's) have dinner."
7. She asks, "(Whose, Who's) house? Yours or ours?"
8. But (their, they're) house is always a mess!
9. "Come over here," you say. "(Weave, We've) got a steak."
10. So now (theirs, there's) another chore to be done!
30
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 13. Sentence 3: Your boss has told you that
each item. Circle the number of the correct he will be working this morning.
answer.
sentence?
Items 11 through 16 refer to the following (1) Change Your to You're.
paragraph. (2) Change Your to You are.
(3) Change you to you'll.
(1) Its seven o'clock on Saturday morning,
(4) Change boss has to boss's.
and you're thinking about going back to sleep.
(2) Then you remember that theirs a pile of
work on your desk at the office. (3) Your boss
14. Sentence 4: Here's a chance to let him
has told you that he will be working this
know you really care about your job.
morning. (4) Here's a chance to let him know
you really care about your job. (5) On the What correction should be made to this
other hand, whose going to know if you don't sentence?
go in? (6) Lets do it, you tell yourself, or
(1) Change Here's to Heres.
there'll just be more work on Monday.
(2) Change your to yours.
(3) Change chance to to chance, to.
(4) Change let to let's.
11. Sentence 1: Its seven o'clock on Saturday
morning, and you're thinking about
going back to sleep.
15. Sentence 5: On the other hand, whose
What correction should be made to this going to know if you don't go in?
sentence?
What word in this sentence is a possessive
(1) Change you're to your. pronoun that should be rewritten as a
(2) Change o'clock to oclock. contraction?
(3) Change Its to It's.
(1) don't
(4) Change seven to 7.
(2) you
(3) other
(4) whose
12. Sentence 2: Then you remember that
(5) know
theirs a pile of work on your desk at the
office.
16. Sentence 6: Lets do it, you tell yourself,
What correction should be made to this or there'll just be more work on
sentence? Monday.
(1) Change Then to When. What correction should be made to this
(2) Change theirs to there's. sentence?
(1) Change there'll to their'll.
(4) Change you to I.
(2) Change Lets to Let's.
(3) Change yourself to you're self
(4) Change there'll to there will.
31
Homonyms are words that sound alike but have different meanings and different
spellings. Using the wrong homonym makes a sentence confusing.
Let's .bJl some fresh fruit and meet for dinner.
This writer really wants to buy fruit and meat, not get together for dinner.
Buy is a verb that means to purchase. By is a preposition.
Meat is a noun that means something to eat, such as hamburger.
Meet is a verb that means to get together.
Some commonly misused homonyms are:

to knew know whole hear
too new no hole here
two
Underline the correct homonym in each sentence.
1. While trying to bake a cake, Andrew spilled (flour, flower) all over the floor.
2. Mter he (maid, made) the cake, he had to wash the kitchen floor.
3. Mopping didn't (seam, seem) so hard to Andrew when someone else did it.
4. Andrew finished mopping and emptied the (pail, pale) of water.
5. He picked up the wet mop to (ring, wring) it out.
6. When Sara saw him, she said, "That's not the (write, right) way to do it."
7. "You can't be (week, weak) about it," she said. "Give it a good twist."
8. "Twist the (whole, hole) mop up nice and tight," she added.
9. Andrew was happy that Sara (knew, new) what to do.
10. The next time he cooked, he (wood, would) be more careful in the kitchen.
11. "You did a (great, grate) job!" Sara exclaimed.
12. "Thank you," said Andrew. "1 (knead, need) you with me in the kitchen all
of the time."
32
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 15. Sentence 3: Perhaps there has been an
each item. Circle the number of the correct introductory visit to the kindergarten
answer. classroom to meat the teacher.
sentence?
paragraph. (1) Change been to bin.
(2) Change meat to meet.
(1) The first day of school can be as hard
(3) Change there to they're.
for a parent as it is four the child. (2) Before
(4) Change to to two.
that first day comes, parents have scene to it
that the child has received all the required
inoculations. (3) Perhaps there has been
16. Sentence 4: Often, there is a trial run on
an introductory visit to the kindergarten
the school bus so that both child and
classroom to meat the teacher. (4) Often, there
parent no the route and the schedule.
is a trial run on the school bus so that both
child and parent no the route and the What correction should be made to this
schedule. (5) When the big day comes, the sentence?
child is ready and eager to go, but the parents
(1) Change there to their.
are seldom prepared to see a sun or daughter
(2) Change route to root.
begin this next stage of life.
(3) Change so to sew.
(4) Change no to know.
13. Sentence 1: The first day of school can
be as hard for a parent as it is four the
17. Sentence 5: When the big day comes, the
child.
child is ready and eager to go, but the
What correction should be made to this parents are seldom prepared to see a sun
sentence? or daughter begin this next stage of life.
(1) Change be to bee. What correction should be made to this
(2) Change a parent to apparent. sentence?
(3) Change for to four.
(1) Change sun to son.
(4) Change four to for.
(2) Change to to too.
(3) Change are to our.
(4) Change see to sea.
14. Sentence 2: Before that first day comes,
parents have scene to it that the child has
received all the required inoculations.
sentence?
(1) Change scene to seen.
(2) Change to to too.
(3) Change all to awl.
(4) Change have to half.
A synonym is a word that means the same, or almost the same, as another word.
Ahmed is lean.
Ahmed is thin.
Lean and thin mean nearly the same thing.
' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - _ . _.. _-_ ... - ......._......-
Choose a synonym for the word underlined in each sentence from the list below.
Write it on the line.
abandoned arrive bitter charged cozy destruction grabbed

praised roused scorch trembling wisely
1. The awful smell of smoke drifted through the window.
2. Geraldo woke his wife, Aleta.
3. Flames had already begun to burn the wooden structure next door.
4. Aleta picked up the phone.
5. With shaking fingers, she dialed 911.
6. Geraldo ran down the hall to the children's room.
7. He pulled the twins from their warm beds.
8. Within minutes, the family had left their home.
9. Together they watched the fire engines come.
10. The fire caused very little damage to their home.
11. Aleta and Geraldo acted intelligently in this emergency.
12. The firefighters complimented their calm behavior and quick action. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __
34
Directions: Choose the one best answer to Hi. Sentence 3: The first line of defense in
each item. Circle the number of the correct the home is a good smoke detector.
answer.
Which of the following words could best
replace the underlined word?
Items 13 through 18 refer to the following (1) working
paragraph. (2) used
(3) plastic
(1) When there is a fire in a home, the
(4) brand
smoke is also a serious problem. (2) You can
(5) heavy
take steps at home to stop loss of life in case of
a fire. (3) The first line of defense in the home
16. Sentence 4: The batteries in a smoke
is a good smoke detector. (4) The batteries in
detector should be changed regularly.
a smoke detector should be changed regularly.
(5) Smoke and the smoke detector tell you that Which of the following words could best
there is a fire somewhere in the house. replace the underlined word?
(6) There is only one thing to do in case of
(1) checked
a fire: get out of the building right away.
(2) replaced
(3) moved
(4) both 1 and 2
13. Sentence 1: When there is a fire in
(5) both 2 and 3
a home, the smoke is also a serious
problem.
17. Sentence 5: Smoke and the smoke
Which of the following words could best detector tell you that there is a fire
replace the underlined word? somewhere in the house.
(1) event Which of the following words could
(2) hazard replace the underlined word?
(3) puzzle
(1) say
(4) item
(2) inform
(5) trouble
(3) warn
(4) both 1 and 2
14. Sentence 2: You can take steps at home
(5) 1,2, and 3
to stop loss of life in case of a fire.
Which of the following words could best 18. Sentence 6: There is only one thing
replace the underlined word? to do in case of a fire: get out of the
building right away.
(1) cease
(2) end Which of the following words could not
(3) finish replace the underlined words?
(4) prevent
(1) fast
(5) block
(2) slowly
(3) at once
(4) immediately
(5) quickly
is
~---------.-- .. _...•.• _.••._--_.• _---,
Sometimes it is difficult to choose the right prepositional phrase.
The most difficult prepositions are those most frequently used.
These include: at, by, from, in, of, on, to, and with.
In order to choose the right preposition, you need to know the words and
prepositions that are used together. Here is a list of some combinations.
according to accused by accused of
angry at agree to agree with
angry with approve of blame for
capable of characteristic of differ about
differ from disagree with independent of
in search of involved with need for
try to vary from vary with
Underline the word and preposition combination in each of these sentences.
1. According to the forecast, today will be sunny.
2. I do not agree with the terms of this contract.
3. There is a need for low-cost housing throughout the city.
4. James was accused of violating the company rules.
5. Kareem's views about the incident differ from Allison's views.
Write the correct preposition in parentheses on the line in each sentence.
6. Television viewing habits vary (with, from) _________ family to family.
7. Many adults have a distaste (for, to) _ _ _ _ _ _ __ children's programming.
8. To become acquainted (on, with) _________ their children's viewing choices,

some parents agree (to, for) a family plan.
9. There is a great need (for, of) _________ parents to become involved with the
television viewing habits of their children.
36
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 12. Sentence 4: They learn many of the skills
each item. Circle the number of the correct that are characteristic to good readers.
answer.
sentence?
Items 10 through 14 refer to the following (1) Change many of to many.
paragraph. (2) Change skills that to skills which.
(3) Change that are to that's.
(1) Television can be educational.
(4) Change characteristic to to
(2) Many parents approve with the excellent
characteristic of.
programs for very young children.
(3) Children become involved for learning
letters and numbers through television
13. Sentence 5: Many television programs
programs. (4) They learn many of the skills
encourage early reading with sparking
that are characteristic to good readers.
children's interest in books.
(5) Many television programs encourage early
reading with sparking children's interest in Which of the following is the best way
books. (6) Children who watch such television to rewrite this sentence?
programs before starting school are often
(1) Many television programs encourage
ready to read.
early reading with sparking children's
interest with books.
10. Sentence 2: Many parents approve with
early reading by sparking children's
the excellent programs for very young
interest in books.
children.
(3) Many television programs could
What correction should be made to this encourage early reading with sparking
sentence? children's interest in books.
(1) Change approve to may approve.
early reading of sparking children's
(2) Change approve with to approve and.
interest in books.
(3) Change approve with to approve, with.
(4) Change approve with to approve of.
14. Sentence 6: Children who watch such
television programs before starting
11. Sentence 3: Children become involved
school are often ready to read.
for learning letters and numbers
through television programs. What correction should be made to
this sentence?
Which of the following is the best way to
rewrite the underlined portion of this (1) Change watch such to watch many.
sentence? If you think the original is the (2) Change before to before to.
best way, choose option (1). (3) Change ready to to ready for.
(4) Change are otten to are to.
(1) involved for learning letters
(2) involved with learning letters
(3) involvement in learning letters
(4) involved to learn letters
(5) involved at learning letters
Unnecessary words can make a sentence confusing to read. The underlined
words in this sentence can be eliminated, and the sentence will be clearer.
Wordy: In my opinion. I think too many people were lined up
waiting in line to get into the movie theater to see the
movie, so Risa and I we decided we shouldn't stay and
decided to leave and not to stay.
Clearer: Too many people were waiting to get into the movie, so Risa
and I decided not to stay.
Cross out any unnecessary words and phrases in these sentences.
1. Planning a birthday party for a young preschool age child to have a birthday
is never a simple, easy job or task for anyone, especially anyone who has
a young child.
2. Before you begin to start inviting children, you need to think about how much
room you have in your house for the number of children you are inviting.
3. If you have too many children, especially young children, and there is not
enough space for them to run around, you can find yourself ending up with
unhappy and restless kids.
4. Deciding ahead of time many days before what kind of food to serve and to give
them, the children, to eat is an important part of figuring out how to have a
successful party if you really want to have a good party.
5. Always choose things that you are sure all children especially young ones
will want to eat, such as pizza, hot dogs, and hamburgers, and etc. instead
of exotic dishes.
6. When you call up to invite children to the party, try to find out from their
parents if they are allergic to any special foods that you are planning to prepare.
38
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 8. Sentence 2: I want to order the sweater
each item. Circle the number of the correct in a size 12. and I want a blue sweater.
answer.
What is the best way to rewrite the
Items 7 through 10 refer to the following (1) in a size 12, blue
paragraph. (2) a blue sweater in size 12
(3) in a size 12 and in blue
(1) I would like to order sweater C-S that
(4) I wantto order it in a size 12, blue
you have shown on page 39 of your catalog that
(5) in a blue size 12 sweater
you sent to me. (2) I want to order the sweater
in a size 12, and I want a blue sweater. (3) You
9. Sentence 4: There is a check for $24.6S
can send the sweater to me at my address which
enclosed in this here envelope for you.
is typed in above. (4) There is a check for $24.6S
enclosed in this here envelope for you. (S) It Which is the best way to rewrite this
includes the cost of the sweater and the amount sentence?
of the sales tax plus also the charge for shipping
(1) A check is enclosed in this envelope.
and for handling.
(2) A check for $24.65 is enclosed in this
envelope.
(3) There is a check for $24.65 enclosed.
7. Sentence 1: I would like to order sweater
(4) Here is a check for $24.65 for you.
C-S that you have shown on page 39 of
(5) There is a check in this here envelope.
your catalog that you sent to me.
Which of the following is the best way to 10. Sentence 5: It includes the cost of the
rewrite this sentence? sweater and the amount of the sales tax
plus also the charge for shipping and
(1) I would like to order the sweater that you
for handling.
have shown on page 39 of the catalog
that you sent to me. What is the best way to rewrite the
(2) Please send me the sweater C-5 that is underlined part of this sentence?
on page 39 of your catalog.
(1) and the amount of the sales tax, plus
(3) I want to order sweater C-5 on page 39
shipping and handling
of your catalog.
(2) plus the sales tax and also the shipping
(4) I would like to order from you sweater
and the handling
C-5 on page 39 of the catalog that you
(3) with the amount of the sales tax plus the
sent to me.
amount of the shipping and handling
(5) Please order sweater C-5 on page 39 of
(4) also plus the sales tax and the shipping
your catalog.
and handling
(S) plus sales tax, shipping charges, and
handling charges
39
Abbreviations are short forms of words. Most titles used before people's
names are abbreviations. These abbreviations are used in ordinary writing.
Dr. Rafael Ortiz Mrs. Holmes Mr. Wu
Here is a list of other abbreviations. These are used on envelopes and forms.
Titles: Mr., Mrs., Ms., V. P.
(Vice President) and Dr.
Parts of addresses: Ave., ~ J2r". Blvd.
Directions as parts of addresses: L 17th St., Elm Street, S.W.
Names of states: NY, GA, UT. and TX
(without periods)
Special business words: Inc. (Incorporated), Co. (Company),
Ltd. (Limited)
Measurements: it ~ in., 1b and oz
Time: A.M. and P.M.
Names of days and months: Wed., Frio, Jan., Dec.
Rewrite each of the following addresses using abbreviations for the words underlined.
1. Mister and Mrs. Thomas Burke 2. Ms. Althea Rogers, Vice President
24 Storey Avenue Southwest 14-42 East Holly Drive
Latham, New York 12205 Tucker, Georgia 30084
3. Mrs. Helen Jones, Director 4. Doctor Omar Hurst

Comfort Personnel, Incorporated University Medical Company
5 Comfort Boulevard York Street
Logan, Utah 84321 University Park, Texas 76308
40
Directions: Choose the one best answer to 7. Sentence 3: Mr. Grolsher is the son of
each item. Circle the number of the correct Paul and Emily Grolsher of W. Lorimer
answer. PI. in Indianapolis.
How would the underlined part of this
sentence be written if it were not
abbreviated?
paragraph.
(1) Miss Roseanne Andrews and Mr. Paul
(1) w. Lorimer Place
(2) West Lorimer Place
Grolsher, Jr., have announced their engagement.
(3) Lorimer Place W.
(2) The future bride is the daughter of Mister
(4) West Lorimer
Don Andrews and Mrs. Audra Rodes of Putnam
(5) West Lorimer PI.
Rd., Alton. (3) Mr. Grolsher is the son of Paul
and Emily Grolsher of W. Lorimer PI. in
8. Sentence 4: A wedding is planned for
Indianapolis. (4) A wedding is planned for Sat.,
Sat., Mar. 8, at 10 A.M. at the Dayton
Mar. 8, at 10 A.M. in the Dayton Hotel in Alton.
Hotel in Alton.
(5) Miss Andrews is a lab assistant at Alton
HospitaL (6) Mr. Grolsher, who graduated from What are the abbreviations in this
Alton High School in 1989, is a sr. manager at sentence?
Kokomo Industries.
(1) Sunday, March, and before noon
(2) Saturday, May, and after morning
(3) Saturday, eight, and ten
5. Sentence 1: Miss Roseanne Andrews and
(4) Saturday, May, and Altonville
Mr. Paul Grolsher, Jr., have announced
(5) Saturday, March, and before noon
their engagement.
What correction should be made to this 9. Sentence 6: Mr. Grolsher, who graduated
sentence? from AIton High School in 1989, is a sr.
manager at Kokomo Industries.
(1) Change Miss to Misses.
(2) Change Jr. to Junior. What word in this sentence should not be
(3) Change Mr. to Mister. abbreviated?
(4) Change Miss to Mrs.
(1) Mr.
(2) sr.
(3) Alton
6. Sentence 2: The future bride is the
(4) all of the above
daughter of Mister Don Andrews and
Mrs. Audra Rodes of Putnam Rd., AIton.
What word in this sentence should be
abbreviated?
(1) Road
(2) Mister
(3) Alton
(4) all of the above
41
Generally, numbers ten and below are written out.
Only eight chairs were available at the hearing.
If the number is the first word in a sentence, it is always written out. Numbers
that tell the order of things are also written out.
Twenty-four people actually showed up.
The superintendent sits in the third seat and the chairman sits in the fifth.
Numbers, rather than written words, are used in the following cases.
Numbers larger than ten: We expect 56 people at the meeting.
Addresses: The address is 108 Union Street.
Specific times: We'll start at 8: 15 P. M.
Dates: The meeting is scheduled for January 16.
Money: We have $83.74 in the treasury.
-----------------------
Underline the best way to write the number in parentheses for each sentence.
Then, write it on the line.
1. The PS (twelve, 12) _____ PTA meeting was scheduled for October (tenth, 10) _ _ __
2. Charise was at the door at exactly (seven ten, 7:10) _ _ _ _ _ _ P. M.
3. She wasn't happy with her daughter's (fourth, 4th) _ _ _ _ _ _ grade class.
4. There were (thirty-three, 33) _ _ _ _ _ _ children in the class.
5. The classroom has been built for (twenty-five, 25) _ _ _ _ _ _ children.
6. (Seventeen, 17) _ _ _ _ _ _ teachers were at the meeting.
7. Charise was the (third, 3rd) _ _ _ _ _ _ parent to arrive at the meeting.
8. She introduced herself to the principal (first, 1st) , then joined her friends.
9. Charise sat in the (second, 2nd) row.
10. Nearly every seat was filled by (8:00, eight o'clock) _ _ _ _ _ _ P.M.
11. (2, Two) _ _ _ _ _ _ hours later, the meeting ended.
42
DiIections: Choose the one best answer to 14. Sentence 3: This month's meeting will be
each item. Circle the number of the correct on Tuesday. November eighteenth. at
answer. 6:30 P.M.
Which is the best way to rewrite the
paragraph. (1) Tuesday, November 18, at 6:30 P.M.
(2) Tuesday, November eighteen at 6:30 P.M.
(1) Board of Education meetings are usually
(3) Tuesday, 11/18, at 6:30.
scheduled for the second Wednesday of the
(4) Tuesday, November 18th at six-thirty.
month; however, this month's meeting will be
(5) Tuesday, November 18, at six-thirty P.M.
on the 3rd Tuesday. (2) All parents who live in
the Sixth District are encouraged to attend.
15. Sentences 5 and 6: Seating capacity of
(3) This month's meeting will be on Tuesday,
Room 22 is 124. Since we expect about
November eighteenth, at 6:30 P. M. (4) The
160 people to attend, an additional 35
Board meets at 504 Broad Street, Room 22.
chairs will be brought in.
(5) Seating capacity of Room 22 is 124. (6) Since
we expect about 160 people to attend, an What number in these sentences could be
additional 35 chairs will be brought in. (7) The written as a word?
first agenda item is a review of the 8500 budget
(1) 22
allocation for a part-time soccer coach.
(2) 124
(3) 160
(4) 35
12. Sentence 1: Board of Education meetings
are usually scheduled for the second
Wednesday of the month; however, this
16. Sentence 7: The first agenda item is a
month's meeting will be on the 3rd
review of the 8500 budget allocation for
Tuesday.
a part-time soccer coach.
What correction should be made?
How should the underlined section of this
(1) Change second to Second. sentence be rewritten?
(2) Change second to 2nd.
(1) 8 thousand 500 dollars
(3) Change 3rd to third.
(2) 8 thousand 5 hundred dollars
(4) Change 3rd to 3.
(3) 8,500 dollars
(4) $8,500
(5) $8,000 and $500
13. Sentence 2: All parents who live in the
Sixth District are encouraged to attend.
sentence?
(1) Change Sixth to 6th.
(2) Change Sixth to 6.
(3) Change Sixth to sixth.
(4) Change Sixth to six.
Post Test
• - - ___ 0
The following post test will help you determine where you need further practice
in Mechanics and Usage. Take the test in one sitting, answering every question. If
you need more practice on any topics, return to the Exercises listed.
Items 1 through 5 refer to subject-verb agreement. Underline the correct

form of the verb in parentheses.
For additonal review.
go to Exercise:
1. The guppies (swim, swims) in their aquarium. 1
2. How long (was, were) the hot dogs roasting? '2

3. There (is, are) a blue sweater on sale in the store window. .2
4. A panel of writers (judge, judges) the essay contest. 3
5. Parents and students (donate, donates) cans for our food drive. ,4
Items 6 through 13 refer to the following paragraph.

(1) Jose and I have gone to the movies often. (2) We has been
going together since we were eight. (3) Jose purchases the tickets
at the ticket window. (4) Then we join everyone in the theater.
(5) I pay for the popcorn, peanuts, and drinks. (6) Sometimes we
do not like a particular movie. (7) Nevertheless, Jose and I enjoy
our visits to the show.
6. What is the helping verb in Sentence 17 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 5
7. What is the correct verb form of has been in Sentence 2? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ (;
8. Identify the tense of the verb purchases in Sentence 3. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ ,7

9. Identify the indefinite pronoun in Sentence 4. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 10
10. Identify the present tense verb in Sentence 5. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ :7
11. Identify the negative adverb in Sentence 6. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ '8
12. Is the pronoun in Sentence 6 singular or plural? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 9
13. In Sentence 7, what is the antecedent of the pronoun our? _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 11
Write the adjectives or adverbs in each sentence.

14. The tiger darted quickly from its den. , 12
15. The tiny, spotted kitten jumped into its bowl. i 12
44 Post Test
Write the contraction of the two underlined words in each sentence.
16. Khanh has not run a 5K race before. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 13
17. Hiroshi could not afford his car insurance. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 13
Write the two words that make up the underlined contraction.

18. They've waited two hours in line for concert tickets. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 13
Underline the correct word in parentheses to fit the sentence.
19. Is that gum stuck to (you're, your) shoe? , 14
Underline the correct homonym in parentheses for each sentence.
20. (Principle, Principal) Scott led the Pledge of Allegiance. 15

21. The marine (through, threw) his uniform on the bunk. 15
Choose a synonym for the underlined word.
22. The photographer asked the Salazar family to pose for a portrait. 16
a. relax b. sit c. wait
Underline the prepositional phrase in the sentence.
23. We installed the computer in the family room. 11
In order to avoid wordiness, cross out the unnecessary words in the sentence.
24. Together, both dogs raced across the yard and across the driveway. 18
Write an abbreviation for the underlined word.

25. The restaurant is on River Boulevard. _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 19
Underline the best way to write the number in parentheses for

the following sentence.
26. Our mail is delivered around (1:30, one thirty).
Post Tes. 45

Globe Fearon Mechanics and Usage

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STUDENT PROGRESS CHART

Printed in the United States of America

Mechanics and Usage

Items 1 through 5 refer to subject-verb agreement. Underline the correct

2. Where (is/are) the directions for the new copier? .2

Items 6 through 13 refer to the following paragraph.

12. Is the pronoun in Sentence 6 singular or plural? _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ __ 9

13. In Sentence 7, what is the antecedent of the pronoun their ? _ _ _ _ _ __ 11

Write the adjectives or adverbs in each sentence.

Underline the correct word in parentheses to fit the sentence.

Underline the correct homonym in parentheses for each sentence.

21. I have a lunch break at (to, too, two). • 15

Choose a synonym for the underlined word.

Underline the prepositional phrase in the sentence.

Write an abbreviation for the underlined word.

Underline the best way to write the number in parentheses for

Underline the simple subject and the verb in each sentence.

1. My cousin works at the convenience store at night.

2. My uncles drive big rigs cross-country.

3. Janette keeps her keys under the doormat.

4. Edward completes his projects on time.

5. Our neighbors leave their car in the driveway at night.

6. The price of milk goes up every month.

Choose the correct verb in parentheses for each sentence.

7. Our company (donate, donates) used books to the library.

8. Our customers (like, likes) fresh vegetables.

9. Mr. and Mrs. Henson (have, has) the newspaper delivered.

10. Gasoline (get, gets) more expensive every day.

11. The committee (vote, votes) on the issue tomorrow.

1. Where were you yesterday? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __

2. Next to the desk is my bookcase. Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ __

3. Are we there yet? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __

4. What seat am I in? Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ __

5. At the end of the alley is a parked car. Subject: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ Verb: _ _ _ _ _ _ __

Choose the correct verb in parentheses for each sentence.

6. There (is, are) a strange dog in the yard.

7. How cold (was, were) it last night?

8. Here (come, comes) the bride!

9. (Is, Are) dinner ready yet?

10. Enclosed (is, are) two copies of Steve's report.

Collective nouns name a group of persons, animals, or things. Collective

If other words come between a collective noun that is a simple subject

1. A family of five children goes to the day care center.

2. A committee of parents is working with the teachers.

3. The audience applauded loudly after the performance.

4. The panel has a full day of hearings.

S. A team of mothers is helping to plan a picnic in June.

Choose the correct verb in parentheses for each sentence.

6. A jury of twelve people (is, are) chosen.

7. The members may (serve, serves) for two weeks or more.

9. A panel of lawyers (interview, interviews) all the prospective jurors.

10. Sometimes a whole group of jurors (is, are) excused.

t~ compound S-Ubject is-:ade up -o~-two or more subjects ~-SUaIlY joined ----

2. My sister is a vegetarian and a finicky eater.

3. Kevin, Stacy, and Caleb only eat vegetables.

4. Stacy and Caleb want to lose weight.

S. Kevin needs plenty of protein because he's in a growth spurt.

6. I can't believe our grocery bills!

Choose the correct verb in parentheses for each sentence.

8. Sara and her co-workers (prefer, prefers) morning meetings.

1. We are leaving for Boston tomorrow.

2. Randall is hoping to find a job there.

3. When does Lakeesha start her new job?