Exploring Parallel Structure in Writing

The video tutorial explains the concept of parallel structure in writing, emphasizing its importance for clarity and coherence. It provides examples of correct and incorrect parallel structures, analyzes sentences to identify parallelism, and offers practice questions to reinforce learning. The tutorial aims to improve writing skills by ensuring consistency in sentence structure.

What is the primary benefit of using parallel structure in writing?

• It enhances the clarity and balance of sentences.

• It simplifies the grammar rules.

• It eliminates the need for punctuation.

• It shortens the length of texts.

Which sentence demonstrates correct parallel structure?

• Eileen was buying shoes, a charm, and went to lunch.

• Eileen decided to buy new shoes, purchasing a gold charm, and treating Maria to lunch.

• Eileen bought new shoes, a gold charm, and treated Maria to lunch.

• Eileen purchased new shoes, a gold charm, and lunch for Maria.

Why is sentence 'A' considered to have non-parallel structure?

• It is too lengthy and complex.

• It uses different verb forms.

• All items start with a noun.

• It lists items without commas.

What error is present in sentence 'B' regarding parallel structure?

• It alternates between past tense and present tense verbs.

• It uses 'ing' verbs inconsistently.

• It starts with a verb and follows with nouns.

• It mixes nouns with verbs.

In the example of Shane, which verb form disrupts the parallel structure?

• Burping

• Burped

• Wiped

• Ate

Which group of words maintains a parallel structure?

• Barking dogs, meowing kittens, and squawking parakeets

• Dogs barking, kittens that meow, and parakeets squawking

• Dogs that bark, meowing kittens, and squawking

• Barking dogs, kittens meowing, and squawking parakeets

What is a common feature of all items in a parallel structured list?

• They all start with a verb.

• They all start with a noun.

• They follow the same grammatical form.

• They are all plural.

Which activity does NOT fit the parallel structure in Samuel's actions?

• Flirting with Brittany

• Eating candy

• Doodling on the assignment sheet

• He ate candy

In the context of parallel structure, what should each item in a series ideally start with?

• A different part of speech

• The same grammatical form

• A conjunction

• An adjective

What mistake is made in the non-parallel structure example involving Shane?

• Omitting verbs

• Using different tenses

• Mixing nouns and verbs

• Using an 'ing' verb form