Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers Practice

Front

What is a dangling modifier?

Back

A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence, often leading to confusion about what is being modified.

Front

What is a misplaced modifier?

Back

A misplaced modifier is a word or phrase that is improperly separated from the word it modifies, causing ambiguity or confusion in the sentence.

Front

Identify the error: 'Wearing a scarf for the winter parade, the parade worker saw lawn chairs lining the street.'

Back

This sentence is written correctly; the modifier 'Wearing a scarf for the winter parade' clearly describes 'the parade worker'.

Front

Identify the error: 'Jake sat on the couch watching television, but studying in the other room.'

Back

This sentence contains a dangling modifier; it suggests that 'studying' is happening on the couch, which is incorrect.

Front

Identify the error: 'My dad needed a break, building a shed, from the heat.'

Back

This sentence contains a misplaced modifier; it suggests that 'building a shed' is the break, which is misleading.

Front

What is the purpose of modifiers in a sentence?

Back

Modifiers provide additional information about a noun or verb, helping to clarify or enhance the meaning of the sentence.

Front

How can you correct a dangling modifier?

Back

To correct a dangling modifier, ensure that the word or phrase being modified is clearly stated in the sentence.

Front

How can you correct a misplaced modifier?

Back

To correct a misplaced modifier, reposition it in the sentence so that it is next to the word it is intended to modify.

Front

Provide an example of a dangling modifier.

Back

'After reading the book, the movie was disappointing.' (This suggests the movie read the book.)

Front

Provide an example of a misplaced modifier.

Back

'She almost drove her kids to school every day.' (This suggests she almost drove, not that she did drive.)