ACT Prep English: Parallelism

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What is parallelism in writing?

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Parallelism is the use of similar grammatical structures to express related ideas, creating balance and clarity in writing.

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Why is parallelism important in sentences?

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Parallelism enhances readability and flow, making sentences easier to understand and more persuasive.

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Identify an example of parallel structure: 'I like swimming, biking, and to run.'

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The correct parallel structure is: 'I like swimming, biking, and running.'

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What is the effect of using parallelism in lists?

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Using parallelism in lists ensures that each item is presented in a consistent format, improving clarity and impact.

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How can you correct a sentence that lacks parallel structure?

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Identify the elements that are not parallel and revise them to match in form, such as changing verbs to the same tense.

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What is an example of faulty parallelism?

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An example of faulty parallelism is: 'She enjoys reading, to jog, and cooking.' It should be: 'She enjoys reading, jogging, and cooking.'

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What is the role of conjunctions in parallelism?

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Conjunctions like 'and' or 'or' are used to connect parallel elements, ensuring they are presented in a balanced way.

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How does parallelism contribute to persuasive writing?

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Parallelism can emphasize key points and make arguments more compelling by creating rhythm and reinforcing ideas.

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What is an example of parallelism in a famous quote?

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An example is Martin Luther King Jr.'s 'I have a dream' speech, where he repeats the phrase to emphasize his vision.

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What should you avoid when using parallelism?

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Avoid mixing different grammatical forms or structures, as this can confuse the reader and weaken the writing.