15 Questions
What is the main idea behind the comparison of building a house and writing a sentence?
To illustrate the importance of proper arrangement of components in achieving a desired outcome
What is the primary reason why sentence structure is important in English?
Because of the use of modifiers in sentences
What is the effect of putting a modifier in the wrong place in a sentence?
It adds confusion to the sentence
What is the difference between the sentences 'Only I love you!' and 'I love only you!'?
The meaning of the sentences is different
What type of modifier is often problematic in sentences?
Dangling modifiers
What is the result of having all the necessary parts of a sentence in the wrong order?
A sentence that lacks style and function
What is the purpose of improving sentence structure in writing?
To make the writing more stylish and effective
What is a common consequence of poorly structured sentences?
Sentence fragments occur
What is the primary issue with passive voice sentences?
They are difficult to follow
Why is it important to ensure the information within a sentence is clear?
To ensure the reader can easily follow along
What is the purpose of transitional words in a sentence?
To help the reader follow along
What should be done with subordinate clauses in a sentence?
Use them to begin or end a sentence
What type of sentence is easier to read and understand?
Active voice sentence
What is the benefit of using active verbs in a sentence?
They make the sentence easier to read
What is the result of following traditional grammatical rules?
Good sentence structure
Study Notes
The Importance of Improving Sentence Structure
- Sentence structure matters because of the use of modifiers in English, which can add confusion instead of clarity to a sentence if not placed correctly.
Modifiers and Sentence Structure
- A modifier is a word or phrase that provides description in a sentence.
- Putting a modifier in the wrong place can add confusion to a sentence.
- Example: 'Only I love you!' vs. 'I love only you!'
Dangling Modifiers
- A dangling modifier is a modifier that is not clearly linked to the word it modifies.
- Example: 'To improve his building skills, a video was watched.' vs. 'In order to improve his building skills, our friend watched a video.'
Sentence Fragments
- A sentence fragment is an incomplete sentence.
- Sentence fragments can be incomplete because they are no longer attached to their clauses.
- Example: 'It is important to eat vegetables every day. Having a variety.' vs. 'Having a variety of vegetables can help us consume more of them.'
Run-on Sentences
- A run-on sentence occurs when two or more independent clauses are joined without appropriate punctuation or conjunction.
Passive Voice
- Passive voice makes a sentence harder to follow.
- In passive voice, the target of an action is put in the subject position even though they aren't doing anything.
- Example: 'The doll was bathed by Sally.' vs. 'Sally bathed the doll.'
Improving Sentence Structure
- Ensure the information within the sentence is clear.
- Use transitional words to help the reader follow along.
- Use care with subordinate clauses, placing them at the beginning or end of the sentence.
- Use active voice and active verbs to make sentences easier to read and understand.
- Follow traditional grammatical rules, including using commas appropriately, using complete sentences, and following appropriate spelling rules.
Learn how to effectively construct sentences to convey your message clearly and avoid common writing mistakes. Practice your skills with this quiz and take your writing to the next level!
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
