The document provides information on adding emphasis and clarity in English sentences through various grammatical structures:
1) Cleft sentences using "it" or "what" can emphasize a specific subject or object.
2) Exceptional use of "do", "did", and "does" can emphasize something strongly felt.
3) Parallel structure and parallel form in sentences should maintain consistent grammatical construction.
Tips on Using Punctuation & Spelling [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/26-spelling-and-punctuation/1-tips-on-spelling-&-punctuation/].
LearningPundits helps Job Seekers make great CVs [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/1-cv-preparation-for-freshers/1-cv-writing-tips-for-freshers/ ] , master English Grammar and Vocabulary [ https://learningpundits.com/course/4-english-grammar/ ] , ace Aptitude Tests [ https://learningpundits.com/course/11-mathematical-aptitude/ ], speak fluently in a Group Discussion [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/6-group-discussion-questions/1-tips-for-speaking-in-a-group-discussion/ ] and perform well in Interviews [ https://learningpundits.com/course/2-personal-interview/ ] We also conduct weekly online contests on Aptitude and English [ https://learningpundits.com/contest ]. We also allow Job Seekers to apply for Jobs [ https://learningpundits.com/applyForJobs ]
Tips on Using Punctuation & Spelling [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/26-spelling-and-punctuation/1-tips-on-spelling-&-punctuation/].
LearningPundits helps Job Seekers make great CVs [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/1-cv-preparation-for-freshers/1-cv-writing-tips-for-freshers/ ] , master English Grammar and Vocabulary [ https://learningpundits.com/course/4-english-grammar/ ] , ace Aptitude Tests [ https://learningpundits.com/course/11-mathematical-aptitude/ ], speak fluently in a Group Discussion [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/6-group-discussion-questions/1-tips-for-speaking-in-a-group-discussion/ ] and perform well in Interviews [ https://learningpundits.com/course/2-personal-interview/ ] We also conduct weekly online contests on Aptitude and English [ https://learningpundits.com/contest ]. We also allow Job Seekers to apply for Jobs [ https://learningpundits.com/applyForJobs ]
Tips on Using Prepositions [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/20-prepositions/1-tips-on-prepositions/ ].
LearningPundits helps Job Seekers make great CVs [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/1-cv-preparation-for-freshers/1-cv-writing-tips-for-freshers/ ] , master English Grammar and Vocabulary [ https://learningpundits.com/course/4-english-grammar/ ] , ace Aptitude Tests [ https://learningpundits.com/course/11-mathematical-aptitude/ ], speak fluently in a Group Discussion [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/6-group-discussion-questions/1-tips-for-speaking-in-a-group-discussion/ ] and perform well in Interviews [ https://learningpundits.com/course/2-personal-interview/ ] We also conduct weekly online contests on Aptitude and English [ https://learningpundits.com/contest ]. We also allow Job Seekers to apply for Jobs [ https://learningpundits.com/applyForJobs ]
Tips on Using Prepositions [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/20-prepositions/1-tips-on-prepositions/ ].
LearningPundits helps Job Seekers make great CVs [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/1-cv-preparation-for-freshers/1-cv-writing-tips-for-freshers/ ] , master English Grammar and Vocabulary [ https://learningpundits.com/course/4-english-grammar/ ] , ace Aptitude Tests [ https://learningpundits.com/course/11-mathematical-aptitude/ ], speak fluently in a Group Discussion [ https://learningpundits.com/module-view/6-group-discussion-questions/1-tips-for-speaking-in-a-group-discussion/ ] and perform well in Interviews [ https://learningpundits.com/course/2-personal-interview/ ] We also conduct weekly online contests on Aptitude and English [ https://learningpundits.com/contest ]. We also allow Job Seekers to apply for Jobs [ https://learningpundits.com/applyForJobs ]
Jeanne Godfrey Power Point Slides - Author of 'The Student Phrase Book' and 'How to Use Your Reading in Your Essays' as well as two Palgrave Pocket Study Skills titles: 'Writing for University' and 'Reading and Making Notes'.
My books- Hacking Digital Learning Strategies http://hackingdls.com & Learning to Go https://gum.co/learn2go
Resources at http://shellyterrell.com/brainstorm & http://shellyterrell.com/grammar
L&D Practices for Modern Workplace LearningJane Hart
The radically changing workplace needs a new definition, new mindset and new L&D practices for Modern Workplace Learning (MWL). Download the PDF with working hyperlinks. Note: this diagram is being continuously updated.
This is my slide deck from my session at the North Carolina Reading Conference last week in Raleigh, NC. I do staff development to schools and districts all over the country about best practices in literacy instruction. This topic is one of my most requested.
Each month, join us as we highlight and discuss hot topics ranging from the future of higher education to wearable technology, best productivity hacks and secrets to hiring top talent. Upload your SlideShares, and share your expertise with the world!
Not sure what to share on SlideShare?
SlideShares that inform, inspire and educate attract the most views. Beyond that, ideas for what you can upload are limitless. We’ve selected a few popular examples to get your creative juices flowing.
Adjectives are modifiers that modify a noun or noun-like words in a sentence. I have discussed their kinds and usage and the common error we commit while writing or placing them.
1Unit ILesson 6 Grammar and StyleAdjectives and Adverbs.docxfelicidaddinwoodie
1
Unit I
Lesson 6: Grammar and Style
Adjectives and Adverbs
Adjectives
Adjectives are modifiers: Modifiers include words, phrases, and clauses.
Adjectives modify or say something about a noun or a pronoun. Adjectives can tell what color, how many, how big or small, in fact just about anything about the words they modify.
There are several very specific things about adjectives that we have to be aware of as we write and speak:
1. One common error in slang, low diction, and conversational English is to misuse an adjective to modify another adjective.
For example:
He is real tall.
Here the word real is an adjective, but it cannot modify another adjective, tall.
The correct form would be, “He is really tall.” In this case, really, an adverb, can modify the adjective tall.
Another example:
Yesterday I was real sick the whole time at school
Here real attempts to modify the adjective sick. As above, an adjective can never modify another adjective.
The correct form would be, “Yesterday I was really sick the whole time at school.”
2. Adjectives conform to particular and traditional positions, in English usually immediately before what they modify.
Most of the time, adjectives come directly in front of the word they are modifying.
For example:
She drove a new pink Mercedes.
The hot, roaring fire engulfed the house.
In both cases here, there are two adjectives in front of the words they modify.
Another common position for the adjective is at the end of the sentence. This common structure takes the form of subject + linking verb + adjective. Many of these structures, as you will see, are common everyday expressions.
For example:
The quarterback for the opposing team is extremely tall.
Here the adjective tall modifies the subject of the sentence, quarterback.
Sharks in these waters have been known to be very aggressive.
Here the adjective aggressive modifies the subject, sharks.
Food in this part of New Orleans is generally accepted to be very expensive.
Here the adjective expensive modifies the subject, food.
3. Adjectives also normally appear in three different forms, depending on what they are modifying and the context. These are called the positive, what you might call the normal or typical form of the adjective; the comparative, used when you are comparing two items; and the superlative, used when you are comparing one item to three or more other similar items.
For example:
Positive Comparative Superlative
fast faster fastest
good better best
smooth smoother smoothest
Note that adjectives of multiple syllables have to use more and most to make their comparative and superlative forms:
Positive Comparative Superlative
Redolent more redolent most redolent
Note that you could not say redolenter or redolentest.
Fragrant more fragrant most fragrant
Again, there are no such words as fragranter or fragrantest.
Also note that you cannot mix the two forms—that is, add more or most to a form that is made by ...
You have now explored in a practical way a number of different aspects of language and learning, including the difference between implicit and explicit knowledge of rules, rule discovery, the grammar of spoken and written English, phonology, and linguistic and communicative competence. I now want to turn to the significance of grammatical and communicative contexts for understanding words and grammatical structures. For example, in this unit you will study not only the grammar of the passive, but also the contexts in which it is used.
The unit begins with a look at what we can find out about a word in a dictionary and includes an activity to test your knowledge of grammar terminology. It finishes with a look at some of the reasons why words and patterns change over time and the question of what we consider to be 'correct' modern English.
Dictionaries can give teachers and learners an overall view of a word, with information about its many different aspects. So it's a good idea to get to enjoy using dictionaries. I'm therefore starting this unit with an activity to test your knowledge of what a dictionary can tell you about a word.
1. What information might a dictionary give about a word you look up (for example, its pronunciation)? Make a note of your ideas.
2. Now look up the word kneel in a dictionary and see what information is given. Summarize what you found.
Comment
1. Dictionaries can tell you about a word's:
pronunciation (including where the stress lies)
meaning(s)
word class(es)
different forms (for example past tense, plural)
usage
origin.
2. You could have found the following information about kneel:
how it is pronounced
that it is a verb
that it is intransitive (see below)
that it has alternative past tense forms: knelt or kneeled
that kneeled is used particularly in the United States
that kneel down is a phrasal verb
that it means fall or rest on the knees or a knee
that it comes from an old English word, cneowlian.
In a dictionary like Cobuild or The Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English, you will also find examples showing you how the word can be used: for example, He kneels beside the girl or Lottie knelt down to pray. We are also given the -ing form of the verb and an example: The kneeling figure was Mary Darling.
Transitive and intransitive verbs
A dictionary always tells you whether a verb is transitive or intransitive, that is, whether it can be followed by an object or not.
The verb 'lost' is transitive because we can put a noun after it. The verb yawned is intransitive because we can't put a noun after it.
Active and passive sentences
Sentences in English are either active or passive. Teachers of English need to understand the grammar of each of them and to be clear under what circumstances it is appropriate to use either the passive or the active. Let's start with the grammar.
Source: https://ebookschoice.com/words-and-their-context/
Model Attribute Check Company Auto PropertyCeline George
In Odoo, the multi-company feature allows you to manage multiple companies within a single Odoo database instance. Each company can have its own configurations while still sharing common resources such as products, customers, and suppliers.
Welcome to TechSoup New Member Orientation and Q&A (May 2024).pdfTechSoup
In this webinar you will learn how your organization can access TechSoup's wide variety of product discount and donation programs. From hardware to software, we'll give you a tour of the tools available to help your nonprofit with productivity, collaboration, financial management, donor tracking, security, and more.
Biological screening of herbal drugs: Introduction and Need for
Phyto-Pharmacological Screening, New Strategies for evaluating
Natural Products, In vitro evaluation techniques for Antioxidants, Antimicrobial and Anticancer drugs. In vivo evaluation techniques
for Anti-inflammatory, Antiulcer, Anticancer, Wound healing, Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Cardio protective, Diuretics and
Antifertility, Toxicity studies as per OECD guidelines
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
How to Make a Field invisible in Odoo 17Celine George
It is possible to hide or invisible some fields in odoo. Commonly using “invisible” attribute in the field definition to invisible the fields. This slide will show how to make a field invisible in odoo 17.
June 3, 2024 Anti-Semitism Letter Sent to MIT President Kornbluth and MIT Cor...Levi Shapiro
Letter from the Congress of the United States regarding Anti-Semitism sent June 3rd to MIT President Sally Kornbluth, MIT Corp Chair, Mark Gorenberg
Dear Dr. Kornbluth and Mr. Gorenberg,
The US House of Representatives is deeply concerned by ongoing and pervasive acts of antisemitic
harassment and intimidation at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Failing to act decisively to ensure a safe learning environment for all students would be a grave dereliction of your responsibilities as President of MIT and Chair of the MIT Corporation.
This Congress will not stand idly by and allow an environment hostile to Jewish students to persist. The House believes that your institution is in violation of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, and the inability or
unwillingness to rectify this violation through action requires accountability.
Postsecondary education is a unique opportunity for students to learn and have their ideas and beliefs challenged. However, universities receiving hundreds of millions of federal funds annually have denied
students that opportunity and have been hijacked to become venues for the promotion of terrorism, antisemitic harassment and intimidation, unlawful encampments, and in some cases, assaults and riots.
The House of Representatives will not countenance the use of federal funds to indoctrinate students into hateful, antisemitic, anti-American supporters of terrorism. Investigations into campus antisemitism by the Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Committee on Ways and Means have been expanded into a Congress-wide probe across all relevant jurisdictions to address this national crisis. The undersigned Committees will conduct oversight into the use of federal funds at MIT and its learning environment under authorities granted to each Committee.
• The Committee on Education and the Workforce has been investigating your institution since December 7, 2023. The Committee has broad jurisdiction over postsecondary education, including its compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, campus safety concerns over disruptions to the learning environment, and the awarding of federal student aid under the Higher Education Act.
• The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is investigating the sources of funding and other support flowing to groups espousing pro-Hamas propaganda and engaged in antisemitic harassment and intimidation of students. The Committee on Oversight and Accountability is the principal oversight committee of the US House of Representatives and has broad authority to investigate “any matter” at “any time” under House Rule X.
• The Committee on Ways and Means has been investigating several universities since November 15, 2023, when the Committee held a hearing entitled From Ivory Towers to Dark Corners: Investigating the Nexus Between Antisemitism, Tax-Exempt Universities, and Terror Financing. The Committee followed the hearing with letters to those institutions on January 10, 202
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
1. Page 1 of 11
A Complement to Session (3) 16-6-2015
- Gram: Adding Emphasis in English -Pronunciation Tip: Clear and Dark (L)
Adding Emphasis in English - Special Forms
Cleft Sentences: It
Sentences introduced by 'It is' or 'It was' are often used to emphasize a specific subject or object. The introductory clause is
then followed by a relative pronoun.
Examples: It was I who received the promotion.
It is the awful weather that drives him crazy.
Cleft Sentences: What
Sentences introduced by a clause beginning with 'What' are also used to emphasize a specific subject or object. The clause
introduced by 'What' is employed as the subject of the sentence as is followed by the verb 'to be'.
Examples: What we need is a good long shower.
What he thinks isn't necessarily true.
Exceptional Use of "Do, Did and Does"
You have probably learned that the auxiliary verbs 'do, does and did' are not used in positive sentences - for example: He went
to the store. NOT He did go to the store. However, in order to emphasize something we feel strongly these auxiliary verbs can
be used as an exception to the rule.
Examples: No, that's not true. John did speak to Mary.
I do believe that you should think twice about this situation.
Note this form is often used to express something contrary to what another person believes.
Ex: Rewrite:
1- I made all the beds yesterday. I swear!
2- I really like it but its high price makes me hesitate.
3- Please, don't misunderstand me. I like your pieces of writing. They're really creative!
4- This is true! She writes her short stories on trains!
5- I lied! He did his homework.
Pronunciation Tips:
Dark or Clear (L)?
- The (L) is dark when It's not followed by a vowel: medial: (milk, hold, bold, culture) or final: (final, local, call, trial, ball, well)
- It's clear when it's followed by a vowel: lamp, layers, local, lord, brilliant
2. Page 2 of 11
Session (4) 20 -6-2015
- Grammar: Misplaced Modifiers
- Pronunciation Tips: - Hard and Soft C and G - Sound Changes - Linking Sounds
MISPLACED LIMITING MODIFIERS Limiting modifiers are words that restrict or limit the meaning of the word or word group
they modify. Place limiting modifiers in front of the word or words you wish to modify. Be sure to create the precise effect you
want to have on your reader. The following is a list of some limiting modifiers:
Only- Just – Almost – - Even - Hardly - barely - At first – Simply – Scarcely – Exactly – Merely – Nearly – Always
If a limiting modifier does not precede the subject or noun, the meaning of an entire sentence is changed. Notice the difference
in the following sentences:
Only Jessica wants pizza. This sentence implies that Jessica is the only person in a group who wants pizza.
Jessica wants only pizza. This sentence indicates Jessica wants pizza and nothing else.
He has just made a silly mistake. (a moment ago)
He has made just a silly mistake. (no worse than a silly mistake)
Confusing: He barely kicked that ball twenty yards.
Accurate: He kicked that ball barely twenty yards.
The instructor did not even call me once.
The writer is focusing on the fact that the instructor not only didn't do other things, he/she didn't even call her.
The instructor did not call me even once.
The writer focuses only on the act of calling, noting that the instructor didn't do it even one time.
After the end of the feast, they realized they had almost eaten all of the Thanksgiving turkey.
Although the author means that everyone ate, the sentence actually says "they had almost eaten," meaning they came close to
eating but in fact didn‘t eat at all! Almost needs to precede all, the word it is intended to limit.
Misplaced Modifiers (Clauses and Phrases): Modifiers are words, phrases, or clauses that describe other words, phrases, or
clauses. Modifiers are misplaced if readers are unable to determine what the modifiers describe or explain. To correct a
sentence with a misplaced modifier, either move the modifier to a new position or rewrite the sentence.
WRONG: Marching across the field, the fight song rang out for all to hear.
RIGHT: Marching across the field, the band played for all to hear.
The band, not the fight song, is doing the marching.
WRONG: To be successful in business, long hours of work are required.
RIGHT: To be successful, a business person must spend long hours at work.
Placing the words long hours next to business implies that long hours—not a person—are doing the working.
WRONG: Randall found a twenty-dollar bill walking home.
RIGHT: While walking home, Randall found a twenty-dollar bill.
Randall, not the twenty-dollar bill, was walking home.
3. Page 3 of 11
SQUINTING MODIFIERS A modifier that could refer to the preceding or following words is said to squint. Be sure to place
modifiers where the reference is clear. Try moving phrases around so that your meaning is unambiguous.
WRONG: He said before noon he'd be here. RIGHT: Before noon, he said he'd be here.
In the unrevised sentence above, before noon could refer to either He said or he'd be here.
WRONG: Our human resource representatives who work here often hire new employees.
The meetings held on Tuesdays usually run long.
RIGHT: Our human resource representatives who work here hire new employees often.
Or: Our human resource representatives who often work here hire new employees.
The meetings held on Tuesdays run long usually. Or: The meetings held usually on Tuesdays run long.
Pronunciation Tips:
To read new names of persons, titles, cities, states…etc:
Hard and Soft C:
- C letter is soft like /s/ ONLY when it is followed by (e/ i/ y): cinema, cyber, percent, accident, succeed, UNICEF …etc.
- C letter is hard like /k/ everywhere else: cupboard, cassette, computer.
Hard and Soft G:
- G letter is soft like in /geography/ ONLY when it is followed by (e/ i/ y): gym, giraffe, geometry, George… etc
- G letter is hard like /go/ everywhere else: gang, Goofy, Gabriella, good, guide… etc
Sound Changes:
Sound changes occur with several common phrases. We change letters or sounds.
Examples are with ―what are you‖ and ―what do you‖. The resulting linked words become ―whaddaya“.
Listen to these sound changes. The first phrase is with proper pronunciation, the second phrase is with the sound changes.
Listen on this website: http://pronunciationtips.com/
Examples: What are you‘ and ‗what do you‘ becomes Whaddaya
What are you doing? becomes Whaddaya doing?
What are you drinking? becomes Whaddaya drinking?
What do you say? becomes Whaddaya say?
What do you want? becomes Whaddaya want?
What do you want? becomes Whaddaya want?
Linking
One of the reasons non-native speakers have problems understanding and pronouncing English is because of linking.
Linking occurs when a word ends in a consonant and the following word starts with a vowel. The consonant sound is linked with
the vowel when it is pronounced.
For example in the phrase ‗that‘s enough‘- the ‗s‘ in (that‘s) is linked to the ‗e‘ in enough and sounds like thats senough.
Look and listen to the examples below. The linked letters are in bold and underlined. The first sentence will be with proper
pronunciation and the second with linked pronunciation. Listen to the items below on how to pronounce linking sounds.
On this website: http://pronunciationtips.com/
That‘s enough. (That‘s senough)
Sit on an orange crate. (Sit ton nan norange crate.)
Bring an apple and a book. (Bring gan napple and da book.)
Now is a time for all of us to pack it in. (Now wis sa time for rall lof vus to pack kit tin)
Pack it in = stop doing something annoying
Lemons and oranges are not available in autumn. (Lemons sand doranges are not tavailable in nautumn)
A car is only as good as its‘ engine. (A car ris sonly yas good das sits‘ sengine)
4. Page 4 of 11
Session (5) 23 -6-2015
- Grammar: -Parallel Sentences -Concise sentences
- Pronunciation Tips: Contractions
Note: One of the best grammar websites is: http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/quiz_list.htm
It's a guide for: grammar, writing, and punctuation with a lot of quizzes.
PARALLEL FORM: This principle, parallel construction, requires that expressions of similar content and function
should be similar.
Students should also visit the section on Sentence Variety, which has material on the repetition of phrases and structures..
Also in this Guide is a definition of the idea of a college, a lovely example of parallel form. Students are also familiar
with Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address, which abounds with examples of parallel form. Clicking on the title above will
allow you to read this famous speech and view a brief "slide-show" demonstration of the parallel structures within Lincoln's
famous text. (The Library of Congress maintains a site at which you can inspect two different drafts of the Gettysburg
Address in Lincoln's own handwriting.)
Unskillful writers often violate this principle, from a mistaken belief that they should constantly vary the form
of their expressions. It is true that in repeating a statement in order to emphasize it writers may have need to vary
its form. But apart from this, writers should follow carefully the principle of parallel construction.
Faulty Parallelism Corrected Version
Formerly, science was taught by the textbook method, while
now the laboratory method is employed.
Formerly, science was taught by the textbook method; now it is
taught by the laboratory method.
By this principle, an article or a preposition applying to all the members of a series must either be used only
before the first term or else be repeated before each term.
Faulty Parallelism Corrected Version
The French, the Italians, Spanish, and Portuguese The French, the Italians, the Spanish, and the Portuguese
In spring, summer, or in winter In spring, summer, or winter (In spring, in summer, or in winter)
Correlative expressions (both, and; not, but; not only, but also; either, or; first, second, third; and the like)
should be followed by the same grammatical construction. Many violations of this rule can be corrected by
rearranging the sentence.
Faulty Parallelism Corrected Version
It was both a long ceremony and very tedious. The ceremony was both long and tedious.
A time not for words, but action A time not for words, but for action
Either you must grant his request or incur his ill will. You must either grant his request or incur his ill will.
My objections are, first, the injustice of the measure;
second, that it is unconstitutional.
My objections are, first, that the measure is unjust; second, that it
is unconstitutional.
5. Page 5 of 11
When making comparisons, the things you compare should be couched in parallel structures whenever
that is possible and appropriate.
Faulty Parallelism Corrected Version
My income is smaller than my wife. My income is smaller than my wife's.
HOMEWORK: Select the sentence that illustrates the use of proper parallel construction.
Phuong Tran has wit, charm, and she has an extremely pleasant personality.
Phuong Tran has wit, charm, and a pleasing personality.
In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and to appreciate good prose.
In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems critically and she appreciated good prose.
Raoul's QPA is higher than Ralph.
Raoul's QPA is higher than Ralph's.
He wanted three things out of college: to learn a skill, to make good friends, and to learn about life.
He wanted three things out of college: to learn a skill, to make good friends, and learning about life.
Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and a wise friend.
Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and friend.
We found the film repulsive, offensive, and we thought it was embarrassing.
We found the film repulsive, offensive, and embarrassing.
Mr. Nguyen kept his store clean, neat, and he made it conveniently arranged.
Mr. Nguyen kept his store clean, neat, and conveniently arranged.
Professor Ali rewarded his students for working hard on the final project and going beyond the call of duty.
Professor Ali rewarded his students for their hard work on the final project and going beyond the call of duty.
There's nothing I like better than finding a good trout stream, setting up camp, and spending a couple of days fishing.
There's nothing I like better than finding a good trout stream, setting up camp, and to spend a couple of days fishing.
6. Page 6 of 11
WRITING CONCISE SENTENCES
Vigorous writing is concise. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences, for the
same reason that a drawing should have no unnecessary lines and a machine no unnecessary parts. This requires not that the
writer make all his sentences short, or that he avoid all detail and treat his subjects only in outline, but that every word tell.
— William Strunk Jr.
in Elements of Style
PRUNING THE REDUNDANT
Avoid saying the same thing twice.
- Many uneducated citizens who have never attended school continue to vote for better schools.
A phrase that repeats itself—like "true fact," "twelve noon," "I saw it with my own eyes"—is sometimes called a pleonasm.
Redundant phrases are bad habits just waiting to take control of your writing. Beware of the following.
Redundancy The Concise Version
12 midnight Midnight
12 noon Noon
3 am in the morning 3 am
absolutely
spectacular/phenomenal
spectacular/phenomenal
a person who is honest an honest person
a total of 14 birds 14 birds
biography of her life Biography
circle around Circle
close proximity Proximity
completely unanimous Unanimous
consensus of opinion Consensus
cooperate together Cooperate
each and every Each
enclosed herewith Enclosed
end result Result
exactly the same the same
final completion Completion
frank and honest exchange frank exchange or
honest exchange
Redundancy The Concise Version
free gift Gift
he/she is a person who . . . he/she
important/basic essentials Essentials
in spite of the fact that Although
in the field of
economics/law enforcement
in economics/law
enforcement
in the event that If
job functions job or functions
new innovations Innovations
one and the same the same
particular interest Interest
period of four days four days
personally, I think/feel I think/feel
personal opinion Opinion
puzzling in nature Puzzling
refer back Refer
repeat again Repeat
return again Return
revert back Revert
shorter/longer in length shorter/longer
small/large in size small/large
7. Page 7 of 11
Redundancy The Concise Version
square/round/rectangular in
shape
square/round/rectangular
summarize briefly Summarize
surrounded on all sides Surrounded
surrounding circumstances circumstances
Redundancy The Concise Version
the future to come the future
there is no doubt but that no doubt
usual/habitual custom Custom
we are in receipt of we have received
Phrases to Single WordsReducingReducing Clauses to Phrases,
Be alert for clauses or phrases that can be pared to simpler, shorter constructions. The "which clause" can often be shortened
to a simple adjective. (Be careful, however, not to lose some needed emphasis by over-pruning; the word "which," which is
sometimes necessary [as it is in this sentence], is not evil.)
Smith College, which was founded in 1871, is the premier all-women's college in the United States.
Founded in 1871, Smith College is the premier all-women's college in the United States.
Citizens who knew what was going on voted him out of office.
Knowledgeable citizens voted him out of office.
Recommending that a student copy from another student's paper is not something he would recommend.
He wouldn't recommend that a student copy from another student's paper.
(Or "He would never tell a student to copy . . . .")
Phrases, too, can sometimes be trimmed, sometimes to a single word.
Unencumbered by a sense of responsibility, Jasion left his wife with forty-nine kids and a can of beans.
Jasion irresponsibly left his wife with forty-nine kids and a can of beans.
(Or leave out the word altogether and let the act speak for itself.)
Phrases You Can Omit
Remove the sounding phrases that add nothing to the meaning of a sentence. Such phrases quickly put a reader to sleep.
Many but not all of these unnecessary phrases have been taken from Quick Access: Reference for Writers by Lynn Quitman
Troyka. Simon & Schuster: New York. 1995. The examples, however, are our own. No political inferences should be drawn from
these examples; they are merely models of form.
all things considered All things considered, Connecticut's woodlands are in better shape now than ever before.
All things considered, Connecticut's woodlands are in better shape now than ever before.
as a matter of fact As a matter of fact, there are more woodlands in Connecticut now than there were in 1898.
as a matter of fact, There are more woodlands in Connecticut now than there were in 1898.
as far as I'm concerned As far as I'm concerned, there is no need for further protection of woodlands.
As far as I'm concerned, there Further protection of woodlands is not needed.
8. Page 8 of 11
at the present time This is because there are fewer farmers at the present time.
This is because there are fewer farmers now.
because of the fact that Woodlands have grown in area because of the fact that farmers have abandoned their
fields.
Woodlands have grown in area because farmers have abandoned their fields.
by means of Major forest areas are coming back by means of natural processes.
Major forest areas are coming back through natural processes. (or naturally)
by virtue of the fact that Our woodlands are coming back by virtue of the fact that our economy has shifted its
emphasis.
Our woodlands are coming back by virtue of the fact that because our economy has shifted
its emphasis.
due to the fact that Due to the fact that their habitats are being restored, forest creatures are also re-
establishing their population bases.
Due to the fact that Because their habitats are being restored, forest creatures are also re-
establishing their population bases.
Exists The fear that exists among many people that we are losing our woodlands is uncalled for.
The fear that exists among many people that we are losing our woodlands is uncalled for.
for all intents and purposes The era in which we must aggressively defend our woodlands has, for all intents and
purposes, passed.
The era in which we must aggressively defend our woodlands has, for all intents and
purposes, passed.
for the most part For the most part, people's suspicions are based on a misunderstanding of the facts.
For the most part, p People's suspicions are based on a misunderstanding of the facts.
for the purpose of Many woodlands, in fact, have been purchased for the purpose of creating public parks.
Many woodlands, in fact, have been purchased for the purpose of creating as public parks.
have a tendency to This policy has a tendency to isolate some communities.
This policy has a tendency tends to isolate some communities.
in a manner of speaking The policy has, in a manner of speaking, begun to Balkanize the more rural parts of our
state.
The policy has, in a manner of speaking, begun to Balkanize the more rural parts of our
state.
in a very real sense In a very real sense, this policy works to the detriment of those it is supposed to help.
In a very real sense, this This policy works to the detriment of those it is supposed to help.
in my opinion In my opinion, this wasteful policy ought to be revoked.
In my opinion, this This wasteful policy ought to be revoked.
in the case of In the case of this particular policy, citizens of northeast Connecticut became very upset.
Citizens of northeast Connecticut became very upset about his policy.
in the final analysis In the final analysis, the state would have been better off without such a policy.
In the final analysis, the The state would have been better off without such a policy.
in the event that In the event that enough people protest, it will probably be revoked.
If enough people protest, it will probably be revoked.
in the nature of Something in the nature of a repeal may soon take place.
Something in the nature of like a repeal may soon take place.
9. Page 9 of 11
in the process of Legislators are already in the process of reviewing the statutes.
Legislators are already in the process of reviewing the statutes.
it seems that It seems that they can't wait to get rid of this one.
It seems that they They can't wait to get rid of this one.
Manner They have monitored the activities of conservationists in a cautious manner.
They have cautiously monitored the activities of conservationists.
the point I am trying to
make
The point I am trying to make is that sometimes public policy doesn't accomplish what it set
out to achieve.
The point I am trying to make is that some Sometimes public policy doesn't accomplish what
it set out to achieve.
type of Legislators need to be more careful of the type of policy they propose.
Legislators need to be more careful of the type of policy they propose.
what I mean to say is What I mean to say is that well intentioned lawmakers sometimes make fools of themselves.
What I mean to say is that well Well intentioned lawmakers sometimes make fools of
themselves.
10. Page 10 of 11
Pronunciation Tips:
Contractions:
They are commonly used in English. Contractions are the reductions in word sounds by the dropping of a letter or letters in the
word. Listen to the items below on how to pronounce contractions. Website: http://pronunciationtips.com/
Listen to the following contraction of pronouns and names
I will I'll I'll be there by 7 am.
you will you‘ll You‘ll have to do it yourself.
he will he‘ll He‘ll never agree.
she will she‘ll She‘ll probably be here late.
we will we‘ll We‘ll get together later.
they will they‘ll They‘ll be going to Spain nex year.
It will it‘ll It‘ll probable rain tomorrow.
John will John‘ll John‘ll be a doctor when he grows up.
Clancy will Clancy‘ll Clnacy‘ll be a clown in the circus.
what will what‘ll What‘ll you do in the meantime?
who will who‘ll Who‘ll you be seeing tonight?
where will where‘ll Where‘ll you go when this is all over?
there will there‘ll There‘ll be donuts and coffee served during the breaks.
that will that‘ll That‘ll be the day.
this will this‘ll This‘ll do for now.
Pronunciation of the contraction of "to be" verbs
we are we‘re We‘re celebrating the holiday in Aspen.
they are they‘re They‘re glad you came.
it is it‘s It‘s cold in here.
car is car‘s My car‘s running well after the tune-up.
Bob is Bob‘s Bob‘s never going to amount to much.
what is what‘s What‘s the matter with you?
Note: (they‘re, there, and their) are all pronounced the same.
Note: When the past tense ‗were‘ is contracted, it sounds just like the
contraction for ‗are‘. Because of this, ‘were‘ is not usually
contracted because it causes confusion for listeners.
Pronunciation of the contraction of modal verbs
should have should‘ve You should‘ve done your homework.
could have could‘ve I could‘ve had a V-8.
must have must‘ve He must‘ve answered incorrectly.
might have might‘ve She might‘ve eaten it already.
Visit the pronunciation tips website (http://pronunciationtips.com/), contractions link, to find out and listen to the pronunciation of
- Wh-question words + has/ have: how have how’ve …. etc.
- Wh-question words + did/ would/ had: where did where'd
- Negative contractions: wouldn‘t wouldn’ without (t) …etc.
11. Page 11 of 11
A Grammar + Pronunciation Exam …… / 20 ……. %
Date: Sat. 27-6-2015 Name: ……………………………………………….
A) Grammar:
1- Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a caring mentor, and a friend. (Parallel the sentence)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
2- As far as I'm concerned, there is no need for further protection of woodlands. (Prune redundancy)
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
3- Smith College, which was founded in 1871, is the premier all-women's college in the United States.
(Reduce the medial phrase to a single word)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
4- Randall found a twenty-dollar bill walking home. (Replace the misplaced modifier)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
5- A time not for words, but action. (Parallel the correlative expression)
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
6- Please, don't misunderstand me. I like your pieces of writing. They're really creative! (Add emphasis)
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
7- We need a good teacher. (Add emphasis)
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
8- We print pictures only on Fridays. (Replace the squinting limiting modifier)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
9- …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
10- We take computer courses in summers. (This summer)
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
B) Pronunciation:
1- They‘re, There, Their
2- Sit on an orange crate. (Linking)
3- Cilantro café
4- Garrett Lakes Festival
5- Tropical
6- Lemons
7- Laughed
8- Rolled up
9- His opinion conflicted with hers.
10- Bang