Vocabulary Workshop Level B Final Mastery Test Answers

Combining Sentences Quiz 1

Introduction

Sentence combining is a technique for improving writing skills by joining two or more short, simple sentences to make one longer sentence. This can be done by using a variety of methods, such as adding conjunctions, coordinating phrases, and subordinate clauses.

Combining sentences can help to improve writing in a number of ways. It can make writing more concise and easier to read, by eliminating unnecessary repetition and redundancy. It can also make writing more interesting and engaging, by adding variety to sentence structure and word choice.

There are a number of resources available to help students learn how to combine sentences. These resources include books, articles, and online tutorials.

Combining sentences is a valuable skill for all writers. It can help to improve the clarity, conciseness, and interest of your writing.

Here are some common ways to combine sentences with example sentences:

1-Using a coordinating conjunction:

And: Jane walked her dog, and she took him to the park.

But: She wanted to go to the movie, but she had too much homework.

Or: We can go out to eat, or we can cook dinner at home.

Yet: He studied hard, yet he still failed the test.

For: She missed class today, for she was feeling sick.

2-Using a subordinating conjunction:

Because: She went to bed early, because she had to wake up at 5am.

Although: Although he studied hard, he did not do well on the test.

Since: Since they had no food left, they went grocery shopping.

After: After she graduated, she started looking for jobs.

While: While I was cooking dinner, my wife set the table.

3-Using a semicolon:

She loves to read novels; he prefers nonfiction books.

The rain poured all night; the streets were flooded when we woke up.

4-Using a conjunctive adverb:

However: She studied every day. However, she struggled on the exam.

Therefore: I missed my flight. Therefore, I had to take a later one.

Consequently: She forgot her homework. Consequently, she got a zero.

Meanwhile: John was watching TV. Meanwhile, his brother was doing homework.

5-Embedding/subordinating one sentence into another:

The cat that was wandering in the garden climbed a tree.

After she finished her homework, Laura went to the movies.

I burned the soup because I forgot to set a timer.

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Combining Sentences Quiz 1

DIRECTIONS 

Read the sentences in each box. Then, read the sentences that follow each box. Choose the answer that most clearly and correctly combines the sentences in the box without changing their meaning.

FAQs

Q1. What does combining sentences mean?

A1. Combining sentences is merging two or more sentences to create a longer, more cohesive one.

Q2. Why is combining sentences important?

A2. It improves writing flow, reduces redundancy, and makes texts more engaging.

Q3. How can I combine sentences effectively?

A3. Use coordinating conjunctions, subordinating conjunctions, or semicolons.

Q4. Can I combine sentences of different lengths?

A4. Yes, you can merge short and long sentences to create variety in writing.

Q5. What are some common conjunctions for combining sentences?

A5. Coordinating: "and," "but," "or." Subordinating: "because," "although," "while."

Q6. How can I avoid run-on sentences when combining them?

A6. Use appropriate punctuation (comma, semicolon) and conjunctions.

Q7. Can I combine sentences in different tenses?

A7. Yes, but be cautious with tense consistency to ensure clarity.

Q8. Are there any examples of incorrectly combined sentences?

A8. Yes, combining unrelated ideas or using inappropriate connectors.

Q9. How can I practice combining sentences?

A9. Write short sentences and try different ways to combine them.

Q10. What's the best way to teach combining sentences to others?

A10. Use interactive activities, exercises, and real-life examples.

Resources

1. Grammarly: An online grammar checker that provides real-time feedback on writing, suggesting corrections and improvements.
2. The Elements of Style by William Strunk Jr. and E.B. White: A classic and concise guide to English grammar and writing style.
3. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary: A trusted resource for checking word definitions, usage, and correct spelling.
4. The Blue Book of Grammar and Punctuation by Jane Straus: A comprehensive guide covering grammar rules and punctuation usage.
5. Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing by Mignon Fogarty: A podcast and website offering practical grammar tips and insights.
6. The Chicago Manual of Style: A widely used style guide for writers, editors, and publishers, covering grammar, punctuation, and citation rules.
7. Writing Excuses: A podcast featuring discussions on various aspects of writing, including grammar and storytelling techniques.
8. Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab): An online resource from Purdue University with extensive writing and grammar guides.
9. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft by Stephen King: Not only a memoir but also a valuable resource for writers, including tips on grammar and writing.
10. GrammarBook.com: A website offering grammar rules, quizzes, and interactive exercises to enhance language skills.