Parallel Structure

Provide an example of a sentence using correct parallel structure.

• The coach emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and hard work.

• The coach emphasized teamwork, discipline, and was hardworking.

• The coach emphasized the importance of teamwork, being disciplined, and hard work.

• The coach emphasized the importance of teamwork and discipline, and he worked hard.

What is an example of parallel structure in a famous quote?

• The phrase 'To be or not to be' from Shakespeare's Hamlet.

• The phrase 'I have a dream' from Martin Luther King Jr.'s speech.

• The phrase 'Ask not what your country can do for you' from John F. Kennedy's inaugural address.

• The phrase 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times' from A Tale of Two Cities.

What is the effect of using parallel structure in speeches?

• It creates confusion and makes the message unclear.

• It can create rhythm, emphasize key points, and make the message more memorable.

• It reduces the impact of the speech and makes it less engaging.

• It is primarily used to lengthen the speech without adding value.

How can you fix a sentence with parallel structure issues?

• Ensure that all elements in a list or series are in the same grammatical form.

• Use different grammatical forms for each element in the list.

• Add more elements to the list to create variety.

• Remove the list entirely and rewrite the sentence.

Can parallel structure be used in poetry?

• Yes, parallel structure is often used in poetry to create rhythm and enhance the emotional impact of the poem.

• No, parallel structure is not suitable for poetry.

• Only in certain types of poetry, like sonnets.

• Parallel structure is only used in prose, not poetry.

What is an example of incorrect parallel structure?

• He enjoys hiking, biking, and to run.

• She likes reading, writing, and to swim.

• They enjoy playing soccer, basketball, and tennis.

• He enjoys hiking, biking, and running.

Identify the error in this sentence: 'The committee will meet to discuss the budget, to plan the event, and making decisions.'

• The error is in 'making decisions.' It should be 'and to make decisions' for parallel structure.

• The error is in 'to discuss the budget.' It should be 'discussing the budget.'

• The error is in 'to plan the event.' It should be 'planning the event.'

• The error is in 'The committee will meet.' It should be 'The committee meets.'

How can parallel structure improve academic writing?

• It makes arguments clearer and more persuasive, helping to convey complex ideas effectively.

• It allows for more complex sentence structures that confuse the reader.

• It reduces the need for citations and references in academic work.

• It eliminates the need for a thesis statement in essays.

Identify the correct parallel structure: 'She likes reading, writing, and to swim.'

• She likes reading, writing, and swimming.

• She likes to read, to write, and to swim.

• She likes reading, to write, and swimming.

• She likes to read, writing, and swimming.

Why is parallel structure important in writing?

• It makes sentences longer and more complex.

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

• It allows for more creative expression in writing.

• It is a requirement for academic writing.