CLEP Practice: Standards of English Conventions

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What is clarity in writing?

Back

Clarity in writing refers to the quality of being easily understood. It involves using precise language, clear structure, and logical flow to convey ideas effectively.

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Define parallelism in writing.

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Parallelism is a rhetorical device that involves using the same grammatical structure in a series of phrases or clauses to create rhythm and balance in writing.

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What is a noun phrase?

Back

A noun phrase is a group of words that functions in a sentence as a subject, object, or prepositional object. It typically includes a noun and its modifiers.

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Explain the importance of punctuation in writing.

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Punctuation is crucial in writing as it helps clarify meaning, indicates pauses, and separates ideas. Correct punctuation ensures that sentences are understood as intended.

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What is a misplaced modifier?

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

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Define subject-verb agreement.

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Subject-verb agreement is the grammatical rule that the subject and verb in a sentence must agree in number (singular or plural). For example, 'He runs' (singular) vs. 'They run' (plural).

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What is a run-on sentence?

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A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction, making the sentence confusing.

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Identify the correct use of a semicolon.

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A semicolon is used to connect closely related independent clauses or to separate items in a complex list. For example: 'I have a big test tomorrow; I can't go out tonight.'

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What is the role of conjunctions in sentences?

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Conjunctions are words that connect clauses, sentences, or words. They can be coordinating (e.g., 'and', 'but') or subordinating (e.g., 'because', 'although').

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Explain the concept of fluency in writing.

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Fluency in writing refers to the smoothness and flow of the text. It involves the ability to express ideas clearly and coherently, making the writing easy to read.