Question 1:
The artist’s latest exhibit, featuring a collection of abstract paintings has drawn visitors from all over the city.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) paintings has
B) paintings, has
C) paintings; has
D) paintings: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “featuring a collection of abstract paintings” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “paintings, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 2:
Despite the weather forecasts, which predicted heavy rain, the outdoor concert continued as planned, and the attendees ______.
A) were enjoyed
B) enjoyed
C) enjoying
D) enjoys
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The subject “attendees” requires the verb “enjoyed” to match in number and tense, maintaining parallel structure with the rest of the sentence.
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not match the subject and tense of the sentence.
Question 3:
The committee members were debating whether to approve the new policy they decided to postpone the vote until next week.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) policy they
B) policy, they
C) policy; they
D) policy: they
Explanation:
Choice C is the best answer. The semicolon correctly separates the two independent clauses “The committee members were debating whether to approve the new policy” and “they decided to postpone the vote until next week.”
Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not properly separate the independent clauses.
Question 4:
The software engineer, who had been working on the project for months finally completed the coding phase.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) months finally
B) months, finally
C) months; finally
D) months: finally
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who had been working on the project for months” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “months, finally.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 5:
The chef’s special dish, which includes a blend of exotic spices has become a favorite among the restaurant’s patrons.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) spices has
B) spices, has
C) spices; has
D) spices: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which includes a blend of exotic spices” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “spices, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 6:
The proposal, which had been under review for several months was finally approved by the board.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) months was
B) months, was
C) months; was
D) months: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which had been under review for several months” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “months, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 7:
The experiment’s results, although surprising were consistent with the initial hypothesis.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) surprising were
B) surprising, were
C) surprising; were
D) surprising: were
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “although surprising” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “surprising, were.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 8:
The lecture, which covered a range of topics from quantum mechanics to relativity was both informative and engaging.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) relativity was
B) relativity, was
C) relativity; was
D) relativity: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which covered a range of topics from quantum mechanics to relativity” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “relativity, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 9:
The CEO’s announcement, which detailed the company’s new strategy was met with both excitement and skepticism.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) strategy was
B) strategy, was
C) strategy; was
D) strategy: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which detailed the company’s new strategy” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “strategy, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 10:
The volunteers, who had spent the entire weekend cleaning up the park were recognized for their hard work at the ceremony.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) park were
B) park, were
C) park; were
D) park: were
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who had spent the entire weekend cleaning up the park” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “park, were.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 11:
The new policy, designed to improve employee productivity and satisfaction was implemented last week.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) satisfaction was
B) satisfaction, was
C) satisfaction; was
D) satisfaction: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “designed to improve employee productivity and satisfaction” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “satisfaction, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 12:
The documentary, which explores the lives of endangered species around the world has won several awards.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) world has
B) world, has
C) world; has
D) world: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which explores the lives of endangered species around the world” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “world, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 13:
The novel’s protagonist, who is portrayed as a complex and flawed character embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) character embarks
B) character, embarks
C) character; embarks
D) character: embarks
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who is portrayed as a complex and flawed character” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “character, embarks.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 14:
The report, which included comprehensive data analysis and detailed recommendations was presented to the board of directors.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) recommendations was
B) recommendations, was
C) recommendations; was
D) recommendations: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which included comprehensive data analysis and detailed recommendations” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “recommendations, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 15:
The patient’s condition, which had been stable for several weeks suddenly worsened, prompting immediate medical intervention.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) weeks suddenly
B) weeks, suddenly
C) weeks; suddenly
D) weeks: suddenly
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which had been stable for several weeks” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “weeks, suddenly.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 16:
The museum’s new exhibit, showcasing ancient artifacts from various cultures has attracted a large number of visitors.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) cultures has
B) cultures, has
C) cultures; has
D) cultures: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “showcasing ancient artifacts from various cultures” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “cultures, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 17:
The research paper, which was published in a leading scientific journal has received widespread acclaim.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) journal has
B) journal, has
C) journal; has
D) journal: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which was published in a leading scientific journal” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “journal, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 18:
The orchestra’s performance, which included pieces by Mozart and Beethoven was met with a standing ovation.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) Beethoven was
B) Beethoven, was
C) Beethoven; was
D) Beethoven: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which included pieces by Mozart and Beethoven” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “Beethoven, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 19:
The team’s coach, who has led them to victory in the past three seasons is known for his motivational speeches.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) seasons is
B) seasons, is
C) seasons; is
D) seasons: is
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who has led them to victory in the past three seasons” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “seasons, is.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 20:
The journalist’s article, which exposed corruption within the government received widespread attention.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) government received
B) government, received
C) government; received
D) government: received
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which exposed corruption within the government” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “government, received.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 21:
The architect’s design, which incorporates both modern and traditional elements has been praised for its creativity.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) elements has
B) elements, has
C) elements; has
D) elements: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which incorporates both modern and traditional elements” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “elements, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 22:
The city’s mayor, who has been in office for over a decade announced her plans to run for re-election.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) decade announced
B) decade, announced
C) decade; announced
D) decade: announced
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who has been in office for over a decade” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “decade, announced.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 23:
The scientist’s discovery, which has the potential to revolutionize the field of medicine has been met with both excitement and skepticism.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) medicine has
B) medicine, has
C) medicine; has
D) medicine: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which has the potential to revolutionize the field of medicine” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “medicine, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 24:
The company’s CEO, who is known for his innovative ideas has announced a new strategic plan.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) ideas has
B) ideas, has
C) ideas; has
D) ideas: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who is known for his innovative ideas” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “ideas, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 25:
The new initiative, which aims to reduce carbon emissions was launched by the government last week.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) emissions was
B) emissions, was
C) emissions; was
D) emissions: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which aims to reduce carbon emissions” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “emissions, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 26:
The students, who had been preparing for the competition for months performed exceptionally well.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) months performed
B) months, performed
C) months; performed
D) months: performed
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who had been preparing for the competition for months” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “months, performed.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 27:
The book’s author, who is also a well-known historian has published several bestsellers.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) historian has
B) historian, has
C) historian; has
D) historian: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “who is also a well-known historian” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “historian, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 28:
The artist’s latest work, which features a blend of classical and contemporary styles has received critical acclaim.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) styles has
B) styles, has
C) styles; has
D) styles: has
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which features a blend of classical and contemporary styles” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “styles, has.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 29:
The director’s decision, which sparked controversy among the staff was ultimately supported by the board.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) staff was
B) staff, was
C) staff; was
D) staff: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which sparked controversy among the staff” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “staff, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
Question 30:
The professor’s lecture, which covered a wide range of topics including ethics and philosophy was both thought-provoking and informative.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A) philosophy was
B) philosophy, was
C) philosophy; was
D) philosophy: was
Explanation:
Choice B is the best answer. The phrase “which covered a wide range of topics including ethics and philosophy” is a nonrestrictive clause and should be set off with commas. The correct punctuation is “philosophy, was.”
Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not properly set off the nonrestrictive clause.
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