ATI TEAS English and Language Usage

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The word 'swirling' is describing the snow, making it an adjective. Adjectives modify nouns or pronouns to provide more information about them. In this sentence, 'swirling' is providing a specific quality or characteristic of the snow, indicating how it is falling. It is not an interjection, which is a word or phrase used to express emotion. It is not an article, which is a determiner used to specify a noun. It is also not an adverb, which typically modifies verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. Therefore, 'swirling' is correctly identified as an adjective in this context.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Words that sound the same. Homophones are words that are pronounced the same but have different meanings and often different spellings. For example, "to," "too," and "two" are homophones. Choice A is incorrect because words with opposite meanings are antonyms, not homophones. Choice C is incorrect because synonyms are words with similar meanings. Choice D is incorrect because words with similar spellings are not necessarily homophones.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The context clue that helps define the word 'emulate' in the sentence is the word "imitate." Emulate means to imitate or copy someone's actions or behavior. In the sentence, it directly states that Felicia would often imitate the way her big sister spoke, moved, and dressed, which aligns with the definition of 'emulate.' A: 'tried' is too general and does not directly relate to the meaning of 'emulate.' B: 'often' does not provide a direct clue to the meaning of 'emulate.' D: 'way' is too vague and does not offer a specific connection to the definition of 'emulate.' Therefore, the correct answer is C, as it directly links to the concept of imitation which is synonymous with 'emulate.'

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: After I finish my homework. This is a dependent clause because it cannot stand alone as a complete sentence. It relies on the independent clause "I finish my homework" to make sense. The subordinating conjunction "after" also indicates that it is dependent. Choice A: Over the course of the day is a prepositional phrase, not a clause. Choice C: I can't use my mother's car is an independent clause. Choice D: Through the tunnel is a prepositional phrase, not a clause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Proofreading. In the last step of the writing process, proofreading is done to correct errors in grammar, punctuation, spelling, and formatting. This ensures the final piece is polished and error-free. Brainstorming is an early step to generate ideas, not part of the final step. Citing primary sources is part of the research process, not specifically the last step of writing. Identifying a thesis is typically done in the early stages of writing to establish the main argument. Proofreading is crucial in the final step to ensure clarity and coherence.