Choose the missing word.

The rabbit was ______ in his cage.

My Summer Vacation

I had the most fantastic summer vacation. My family and I went to visit my grandparents in Arizona. I couldn't wait to see my grandparents, but I was also excited about visiting the Grand Canyon. I had read about the Grand Canyon in class and had seen pictures. I could not wait to see it in person. On the road trip to the canyon, I saw lots of new things. I saw flowering cacti and really big mountains. ___________________, we finally arrived. I was amazed! The pictures in my school books do not capture its beauty.

Tami wants to use transition words to connect ideas in her draft.

Which words would best begin the sentence?

In the morning before school, Molly walks around the park with her dog.

Which phrase from the sentence describes where?

Developing patience can bring people more happiness by strengthening their ability to manage difficultys.

Which underlined word is misspelled?

Automobile transportation improved with the invention of the windsheild because it protected people from bad weather and flying objects.

Which underlined word is misspelled?

Which sentence uses commas correctly?

Tony's Aunt Lisa shares fascinating details about her hobbies when she visits.

Dion wants to add the clause "whom he admires" to the sentence.

Which revision shows the correct location for the clause?

People new to watercolor painting are often frustrated with the results. Most of these would-be artists eventually discover that you become better with practice.

How should the underlined words be written to correct the error?

Which sentence is punctuated correctly?

Marta lives in a housing developement in a small suberb. The residants share the ownrship of their apartment house.

Which word corrects an incorrectly spelled word in the passage?

Which sentence avoids a misplaced modifier?

I always knew my older brother Dominic was strong, but I didn't know how strong until last weekend. Dominic was driving me home from ice hockey practice on Saturday afternoon. As we turned into our street, he stopped the car suddenly. An enormous tree limb was lying across our driveway. Before I knew it, Dominic got out of the car and lifted the limb. Then he ______ it across the street to the woods. If I hadn't seen it myself, I never would have believed it.

Which word best shows the strength that was needed to move the tree limb?

What is the correct spelling?

[1] Volunteer firefighters provide an important service to a community. [2] Many of them are former career firefighters who received pay for their work, while some are simply other people from the community who want to help out. [3] They help protect a town's citizens and keep their property safe. [4] Every town should have them.

How should Nate revise his paragraph to correct a vague pronoun?

Shane is writing a research report about the development of the first automobile.

Which two questions will best help him focus the topic?

The great Canadian forest is one of the largest in the world, covering 1.4 billion acres. It is an important home for birds: some 300 species of birds breed in this area. Many of these species fly across the entire United States each year to return to the protection of this forest.

Luis wants to replace the word fly with a more precise word.

Which word would be the best choice?

Which sentence requires a comma between the underlined words?

Which sentence uses the comma correctly?

Which of these is a sentence fragment?

[1] Entomologists study insects. [2] These scientists have discovered that thousands of species of insects serve as food sources for birds, reptiles, fish, and even plants. [3] Often thought of as pests, most insects are beneficial to humans. [4] Various species of moths, butterflies, wasps, bees, and flies, for example, have pollinated fruit trees, vegetables, and flowering plants.

Which revision will correct an inappropriate shift in verb tense?

Skateboarding develops strength, balance, agility, and coordination. With proper equipment, it is as safe as any of the team sports sanctioned by high schools. Several towns have found ways to provide skateboard parks for their youth without getting into legal problems.

Which sentence would be most appropriate to add to this paragraph?

She had been an attentive high school student. She believed she would excel in college.

Which is the most effective way to combine the two sentences?

Which sentence is correctly punctuated?

Dear Firefighter Sanchez,

Thank you for visiting our classroom. Now we know what to do in a fire drill. First, we will line up when we hear the bell. We will wait for our teacher to lead us outside. We will be very quiet the whole time. Thank you for teaching us important things.

Sincerely,
Devin

Devin wants to add a sentence to the end of his letter.

Which sentence best belongs with the letter?

Which sentence correctly uses commas?

On a few days, includeing the first day of National Park Week, visitors are admitted free to all parks that usually charge a fee.

Which underlined word is misspelled?

Franklin often wondered how his life would be different if he was a singer.

How should Alia change the underlined clause to correct a problem with verb mood?

It is important to carefully select the people who will reccommend you for a job.

How should the underlined word be spelled?

My mother has a coleague who has visited twenty different countries.

How should coleague be spelled?

If you amble on over to City Park with any regularity, chances are pretty good you will spot me. ___________. I'm there every day after school—that is, in good weather. During the summertime, I am there early in the morning to try to get in a couple of chess games before I head off to my job. See, I work at the family bakery—A Slice of Heaven. (I know, I know—my grandfather came up with the name.) I work behind the counter at the bakery and help in the kitchen. But this story isn't about me, or the family bakery, or my grandfather, or even about playing chess. It's about my friend James, an absolutely brilliant chess player, and how he almost did not become my friend.

Isaac needs to more fully introduce the story's narrator.

Which sentence should he add to the blank to best achieve this goal?

A good example of parallelism would be found in which of these quotations?

Which of these sentences has correct parallel structure?

Letter:

May 22, 2012

Anne Halloran
Avenues to Academics
2015 St. Helens Drive
Vancouver, WA

RE: Report on Critical-Reasoning Conference
Dear Ms. Halloran:

Thank you for sending me to the Critical-Reasoning Conference in Seattle. The conference was a valuable source of information and contacts. Every meeting I attended provided practical information and a chance to ask questions. As you said before the conference, the material presented was above my grade level. This gave me an idea of what to expect next year in college-prep classes, and it provided an opportunity to try out some new note-taking techniques. Each presenter gave examples of how to apply critical thinking skills in daily life. They also suggested many online book sources for additional ideas.

My two favorite meetings of the twelve I attended were:

Is the final paragraph of the draft an appropriate conclusion to the letter?

Continuation of the letter:

My two favorite meetings of the twelve I attended were:

1. 1. Logical structure of arguments; and

2. 2. The habits of critical thought.

Both of these concepts are useful for high school students who might need to adjust their thinking for college-prep classes and research. The information would also help students who are preparing to take college-entrance exams. The presenters covered their topics thoroughly, they added practical examples adapted for teens, and gave useful handouts.

I found the discussion sessions after each meeting to be valuable as well. These provided an opportunity to explore new ideas and to meet students from other high schools. It was interesting to discuss differences among learning experiences, and I was surprised to hear a large variety of student goals. I hope that these connections will be the basis for future relationships.

[A] So, anyway, I can't tell you how awfully grateful I am for the experience. [B] I absolutely recommend this kind of thing for other interested students—the skills the conference covered are great no matter what your age. [C] The skills I learned have already changed the way I view information, and I know they will make my student career easier. [D] As you requested, I have enclosed a copy of the conference schedule and the handouts I received. [E] Again, thank you for the opportunity to attend.

Is the final paragraph of the draft an appropriate conclusion to the letter?

Elliot is leading a group discussion on sports and whether or not sports figures should be paid as much as they are. He asks the group the following question: Which sports figure has consistently made the most money per season?

Will this question likely provide more than one point of view for Elliot's report?

The day began with an icy blast [1] the kind that shakes an entire house. Molly lay in bed [2] and tried to speculate on what effect the cold wind would have on her cross-country race that day. She reasoned that the wind blows on everybody [3] moreover, she had moved to North Carolina from Minnesota. If there was anything she was used to [4] it was cold weather.

Where should a semicolon be placed?

Which group of words is spelled correctly?

The hungry guests satisfied their glutonous appetites at tables groaning with food.

How should the underlined word be spelled?

Geothermal Energy: A Smart Solution

More and more people are using geothermal energy to heat their homes. Geothermal energy comes from deep below Earth's surface where rocks give off large amounts of heat. By drilling into Earth, we can tap these sources of heat to heat homes and businesses. The environmental benefits of using geothermal energy are substantial. Its use greatly reduces our carbon footprint, since it does not require the use of fossil fuels.

Geothermal energy is reliable and cost-efficient. I have experienced great savings in my own winter heating costs by using geothermal energy. My customers also have seen their heating costs decrease. The cost of installing a geothermal heating system is balanced by the lack of monthly heating bills. The one-time installation expense results in decades of toasty warm homes at no additional heating cost.

Complaining about high energy costs and the effects of burning fossil fuels doesn't help. Exploring new ways to meet human needs while we act as caretakers of Earth is proactive. Considering geothermal heating as a solution to our heating energy needs is one important approach.

posted by Glenn Hanson
October 3, 2009

Marcus needs to evaluate the blog to decide if it is a reliable, unbiased source.

Which statement from the blog will be most helpful to Marcus in judging this source?

[1] Imagine walking from Mexico to Canada! [2] Each year, hundreds of people attempt such a walk by hiking the Pacific Crest Trail through California, Oregon, and Washington. [3] Rambling over 2,650 miles of rough and highly varied terrain, this long-distance trail traverses snow-clad mountains, parched deserts, and moss-draped rain forests. [4] Thru-hikers, who aim to make it all the way to the Canadian border, setting aside about 5 months to complete their hike. [5] These hardy hikers may trek 20 or more miles each day!

Which sentence is a fragment?

The path through the park had been worn smooth by countless visitors__ by tribes of passing children, by families with picnic baskets, by hikers with their dogs.

What version of the text is correctly punctuated?

On Monday, the city council created a new program to encourage citizens to recycle. This clever, cutting-edge program will help to put our city on the map. Some difficult citizens, who do not appreciate the environment, will probably try to boycott the program.

Myra wants to edit the underlined sentences so that they use objective language.

Which revision accomplishes this?

Working with partners, the ability to design the studies, and even logging the data are reasons Thomas loves his job.

Which revision to the sentence uses parallel structure correctly?

Which sentence is correctly punctuated?

Which sentence uses correct subject/verb agreement?

Many humans seem to naturally understand that spending time in nature feels good. This can explain the popularity of hiking, camping, boating, and similar outdoor activities. __________, it has not been clear how far this extends. Could images of nature scenes have the same effect? Scientists are beginning to believe that watching nature programs can offer similar benefits. Such shows can increase happiness and even improve brain performance. That is especially good news for those times that it is too hard to get outside to enjoy the great outdoors!

Which transitional phrase, if used in the blank, would best clarify the relationship between Melanie's ideas?

Most students of English history know the legend of Henry V. The commonly repeated story of Henry V involves the transformation of a young, wild prince named Hal into a responsible, pious leader. His youthful recklessness and wanton behavior caused many political and personal problems, including a strained relationship with his father. Legendarily, Henry made an elaborate quasi-religious apology to his father and received a generous pardon in return. This version of history then tells us that a more tempered Henry became a strong, conscientious king. However, the real history of Henry V is much less glamorous.

Which revision corrects the punctuation error in the underlined sentence?

Which series of words is spelled correctly?

Which verb is spelled correctly?

Which punctuation should be used between the two sentences to show that text has been omitted?

One of Venice's most famous Renaissance artists was known as Titian. __________. Titian painted in nearly every format available at the time. He painted altarpieces for churches and portraits of leaders. Like his teacher and partner Giorgione, he also created landscape paintings. Late in his career, he took private contracts to create decorative pieces for people's homes. Many of these pieces featured subjects from Roman mythology, especially Venus, the goddess of love.

Which sentence, if added to the blank, would best maintain the style used in the essay?

In which sentence is the subject-verb agreement correct?

Everyone wanted to listen to the story about the dog that rescued the little boy.

What is the function of the clause "that rescued the little boy" in the sentence?

Hummingbirds are small birds that often have brightly colored feathers. There are more than 320 different species of hummingbirds. The smallest hummingbird species measures only about 2 inches. Hummingbirds can fly at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour. The wings appear blurred because they move so quickly, beating up to 75 times per second. A long, thin bill allows hummingbirds to feed on nectar, as they ______ from flower to flower. They also eat insects. Using plant fibers, moss, and spider webs, the hummingbird constructs a tiny nest on a branch, leaf, or rock.

Alicia wants to add a word to describe how hummingbirds move.

Which verb is the best choice to complete the paragraph?

"Leonardo da Vinci was a painter and inventor who created designs of the helicopter, the airplane, and even the parachute. He is best known for the painting Mona Lisa."

This excerpt will be quoted in a research paper, and the underlined words will be left out.

How should the shortened excerpt be punctuated?

Julie wants to add a sentence that emphasizes the donation over the donor.

Which sentence should be added to the paragraph to most effectively achieve this goal?

"Tyler and Tyrell were identical twins. There was one way, one very clear way, to tell the boys apart."

Serena wants to use part of this quote in a paper she is writing.

What is the correct way to use an ellipsis in the quoted sentence?

Choose the missing word.

The cat was ______ on the windowsill.

During the summer, my sister and I decided to build a treehouse in our backyard. We gathered all the materials we needed, and then we ______ the treehouse together. It was a fun project that took us all weekend.

Which word best describes the action we took to create the treehouse?

Continuation of the letter:

My two favorite activities during the summer were:

1. 1. Swimming at the lake; and

2. 2. Camping under the stars.

Both of these activities are enjoyable for families looking to spend quality time together. They provide opportunities for relaxation and adventure, and I cherish the memories made during these times.

Is the final paragraph of the draft an appropriate conclusion to the letter?

Which sentence contains a misplaced modifier?

Which sentence is punctuated correctly?

Which of the following sentences uses the correct form of the verb?

During the summer, many people enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, and camping. __________, these activities can also promote physical health and well-being.

Which transitional phrase, if used in the blank, would best clarify the relationship between the ideas?

Many students find it challenging to balance their academic responsibilities with extracurricular activities. __________, effective time management skills can help them succeed in both areas.

Which transitional phrase, if used in the blank, would best clarify the relationship between the ideas?

Reading is a fundamental skill that can enhance a person's knowledge and understanding of the world. __________, it is essential for academic success and lifelong learning.

Which transitional phrase, if used in the blank, would best clarify the relationship between the ideas?

Which of the following sentences contains a misplaced modifier?

Identify the sentence that uses the semicolon correctly.

Which sentence is an example of a run-on sentence?

Which of the following sentences demonstrates correct subject-verb agreement?

Which of these sentences is a run-on sentence?

Identify the sentence that contains a misplaced modifier.