Problem 16 - 8 Practice Tests for the ACT 3rd

Question

F. NO CHANGE G. captivated, by H. captivated by, J. captivated by

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

J. captivated by

Step 1: Understand the sentence context

Read the sentence carefully to determine how the word 'captivated' fits grammatically. Look for the intended meaning and the structure of the sentence around this word to understand its use.

Step 2: Review comma usage rules

Remember that commas are used to separate elements in a list, to join independent clauses with a conjunction, to set off introductory elements, and to set off non-essential information. In this case, determine if 'by' after 'captivated' needs a comma according to these rules.

Step 3: Try each option in the sentence

Place each option (F, G, H, J) into the sentence and read it aloud. Determine if a pause (indicating a comma) is naturally necessary for clarity or meaning. Notice if the sentence flows smoothly without the comma.

Step 4: Identify correct punctuation

Option F suggests using no comma. Option G and H both suggest placing a comma, but they position it differently. Option J suggests removing the comma entirely. Use the rules of step 2 to identify that 'captivated by' functions as one cohesive phrase and does not need to be separated by a comma.

Step 5: Select the best option

Based on step 4, the correct choice should maintain readability without unnecessary punctuation. The phrase 'captivated by' should not be split by a comma. Thus, option J is the most grammatically correct and fluid choice.

Key Concepts

comma usage

Commas are small, but they play a powerful role in our writing. They help us add clarity and meaning to sentences. Without them, our sentences might become confusing or hard to read. Let's dive into some key points about comma usage.

Commas are used in four principal ways:

• To separate items in a list. For instance: 'I bought apples, oranges, and bananas.'
• To join independent clauses with a conjunction like 'and', 'but', or 'or'. An example: 'She wanted to go to the park, but it started to rain.'
• To set off introductory elements. For example: 'After the movie, we went for dinner.'
• To set off non-essential information. For example: 'The car, which was red, sped past.'

In the exercise, our task is to determine if 'by' after 'captivated' requires a comma. Using the rules above, we see that 'captivated by' is a cohesive phrase and doesn't need a comma.

sentence structure

Sentence structure is crucial in writing clear and effective sentences. It involves the arrangement of words in a sentence to convey meaning.

• An independent clause contains a subject and a predicate and expresses a complete thought, like 'She studies hard.'
• A dependent clause, on the other hand, cannot stand alone as a sentence, for example: 'Because she studies hard.'
• Combining independent and dependent clauses can add complexity and depth to your writing: 'Because she studies hard, she gets good grades.'

In our exercise, 'captivated by' forms part of the predicate and works tightly with the subject to form a cohesive thought. This is why it doesn't need to be separated by a comma.

grammar

Grammar comprises the rules and structure that govern how we use language. It's essential for conveying clear and precise meaning. Here are some key aspects:

• Parts of Speech: Including nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, conjunctions, prepositions, and interjections.
• Sentence Parts: Subjects, predicates, objects, and clauses.
• Agreement Rules: Ensuring subjects and verbs, pronouns and antecedents agree in number and gender.
• Punctuation: Using marks like commas, periods, and question marks correctly to clarify meaning.

In our grammar exercise, knowing how punctuation works and how clauses fit together helps us understand why 'captivated by' should be left without a comma. This proper structure ensures fluidity and correctness in the sentence.