Mastering Sentence Fragments for the SAT

The video tutorial focuses on analyzing a text-based question about beavers, specifically addressing punctuation choices. It explains how to identify independent clauses and sentence fragments, and how to choose the correct punctuation to connect ideas. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of understanding sentence structure and provides strategies for tackling punctuation questions effectively.

Why is it recommended to start a sentence or two back when looking at a text-based question?

• To find the main idea of the passage.

• To pick up useful context along the way.

• To identify the author's tone.

• To understand the structure of the paragraph.

What term do scientists use to describe beavers due to their impact on their habitat?

• Water Regulators

• Ecosystem Engineers

• Environmental Architects

• Habitat Modifiers

What is the main effect of beaver dams on their habitat?

• They decrease the water level.

• They prevent fish from swimming upstream.

• They alter the ecological makeup by regulating water flow.

• They increase the water temperature.

Which punctuation mark is NOT an option in the given question?

• Em dash

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Period

What is the first step when encountering a punctuation question?

• Identify the main idea.

• Determine the author's intent.

• Look for independent clauses.

• Check for sentence fragments.

What is an independent clause?

• A sentence fragment.

• A sentence that cannot stand on its own.

• A phrase that needs a helper verb.

• A sentence that can stand on its own.

Why is 'by regulating water flow in streams' considered a sentence fragment?

• It is too short to be a sentence.

• It lacks both a subject and a main verb.

• It lacks a main verb.

• It lacks a subject.

Which punctuation mark correctly separates an introductory phrase from the rest of the sentence?

• Period

• Em dash

• Comma

• Semicolon

What is the correct punctuation to use after an independent clause?

• Comma

• Semicolon

• Colon

• Em dash

What should you do if you encounter a sentence fragment in a punctuation question?

• Introduce a new error.

• Choose the option that retains the error.

• Ignore the fragment.

• Choose the option that fixes it.