Understanding Sentences and Fragments

Questions and Answers

What does a sentence require to express a complete thought?

At least two clauses

Only a predicate

A subject and a predicate (correct)

Only a subject

Which of the following correctly describes a fragment?

An independent clause

A group of words missing either a subject or a predicate (correct)

A group of words expressing a complete idea

A type of sentence that does not require a subject

How can one correct a run-on sentence?

By combining the sentences with a semicolon without any transitional expression

By adding a coordinating conjunction and a comma (correct)

By separating the sentences into independent clauses without conjunctions

By removing all punctuation

Which of the following indicates a major characteristic of a semicolon?

It serves the same function as a period Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of comma splice?

Joining two complete sentences with only a comma Signup and view all the answers

Which sentence restructuring technique involves integrating a fragment into a complete sentence?

Attaching the fragment to an adjacent sentence Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Sentences and Their Components

A sentence is a complete thought with both a subject and a predicate.
The predicate indicates what the subject does or did.
The subject identifies who or what the sentence is about.

Sentence Fragments

A fragment lacks a complete thought, missing a subject or predicate, and often forms a dependent clause.
Common beginnings for fragments include subordinate adverbs like whenever, because, since, until, although, and even if.

Fixing Sentence Fragments

Combine the fragment with a nearby sentence (e.g., "On that morning, I sat in my usual spot. On the old wooden chair in the corner of my grandmother’s kitchen" can be integrated).
Alternatively, convert the fragment into a complete sentence.

Run-On Sentences

A run-on sentence occurs when two independent sentences are fused without conjunction or punctuation.
Use a coordinating conjunction (and, but, or, nor, for, so, yet) to separate ideas correctly.

Using Semicolons

A semicolon functions similarly to a period, acting as a full stop between closely related independent clauses.
Transitional expressions may accompany a semicolon to enhance clarity but are not mandatory.

Structuring Sentences

Separate independent clauses into distinct sentences for clarity.
Restructure sentences as needed to improve flow and coherence.

Comma Splices

Comma splices occur when two independent clauses are linked only by a comma, without a conjunction. These should be avoided for proper sentence structure.

Description

This quiz focuses on the fundamental elements of sentence structure, including subjects, predicates, and fragments. It explores how to identify complete thoughts and recognize incomplete ones. Challenge your understanding and reinforce your grammar skills.