English and Language Usage TEAS

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D because the comma after the word 'delicious' is unnecessary. This comma creates a comma splice, where two independent clauses are improperly connected. Removing this comma would result in a correct sentence structure. Choice A is incorrect because the comma after 'market' is necessary to separate the introductory clause. Choice B is incorrect as the comma after 'beef' is needed to separate items in a list. Choice C is also incorrect as the comma after 'celery' is crucial for clarity in the list of items.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (D): 1. The language in the passage suggests the writer focuses on creative expression and storytelling. 2. Descriptive and imaginative language is used, indicative of a literary style. 3. Lack of technical or scientific terms implies a focus on artistic expression over factual accuracy. 4. The tone and themes align more closely with literature than business, research, or academic writing. Summary of Incorrect Choices: A: The passage does not contain typical business language or jargon. B: The lack of scientific terms or methodology in the passage does not support a research context. C: The absence of academic references or formal structure does not indicate a student writing a draft.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Exclamation mark. In this context, the sentence expresses excitement or admiration, which is indicated by an exclamation mark. It is used to convey strong emotions or exclamatory statements. The other choices are incorrect because a comma (A) is used to separate items in a list or clauses in a sentence, a semicolon (C) is used to connect closely related independent clauses, and a question mark (D) is used to indicate a direct question.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: By Sunday, they were ready to raze the old building, and everyone gathered to watch. Rationale: 1. "Raze" is a homophone of "raise." 2. Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings. 3. In this sentence, "raze" is used incorrectly instead of "raise." 4. The use of the incorrect homophone makes this sentence the correct choice. Summary: A: Does not contain any homophones. B: Does not contain any homophones. D: Does not contain any homophones. C: Contains the homophone "raze" instead of "raise," making it the correct choice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Very large. In the context of the sentence, "prodigious" is used to describe the Mayan pyramid, implying that it is exceptionally large or impressive. The word "prodigious" often means extraordinary in size or extent, which aligns with the description of the pyramid as being distant and imposing. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not capture the intended meaning of "prodigious" in this context. "Famous" (B), "Very old" (C), and "Fancy" (D) do not convey the sense of immense size or grandeur associated with the Mayan pyramid.