SKILL 1 SUBJECTS AND VERBS

SKILL 1

SUBJECTS AND VERBS

You know that a sentence in English should have a subject and a verb. The most common types of problems that you will encounter in the Structure section of the TOEFL test are related to subjects and verbs; perhaps the sentence is missing either the subject, or the verb, or both; perhaps the sentence has an extra subject or verb.

Example I

______was ringing continuously for hours.

(A) Loudly
(B) In the morning
(C) The phone
(D) The bells

Analysis:

In this example, you should notice immediately that there is a verb, was ringing, but there is no subject. Answer (C) is the best answer because it is a singular subject that agrees with the singular verb was ringing. Answer (A), loudly, and answer (B), in the morning, are not subjects, so they are not correct. Although answer (D), bells, could be a subject, it is not correct because bells is plural and it does not agree with the singular verb was ringing.

Example II

Newspapers _______ every morning and every evening.

(A) delivery
(B) are delivered
(C) on time
(D) regularly



Analysis:

In this example, you should notice immediately that the sentence has a subject, newspapers, but that there is no verb. Because answer (B), are delivered, is a verb, it is the best answer. Answers (A), (C), and (D) are not verbs, so they are not correct.

Example III

The plane __________ landing at the airport in five minutes.

(A) it is
(B) it really is
(C) is descending
(D) will be

Analysis:

This sentence has a subject, plane, and has part of a verb, landing; to be correct, some form of the verb be is needed to make the verb complete. Answers (A) and (B) are incorrect because the sentence already has a subject, plane, and does not need the extra subject it. Answer (C) is incorrect because descending is an extra part of a verb that is unnecessary because of landing. Answer (D) is the best answer; will be together with landing is a complete verb.

SUBJECTS AND VERBS

A sentence in English must have at least one subject and one verb. The first thing you should do as you read a sentence in the Structure section of the TOEFL test is to find the subject and the verb.

EXERCISE 1

Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice in each of the following sentences. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect ( I ).

1. My best friend always helpful with problems. ( I )
    Analysis:
  
    The subject of the sentence above is My best friend, but there is no Verb. So, incorrect.
    The correct sentence should be My best friend is always helpful and with problems.  

2. The bus schedule has changed since last week. (C)
    Analysis:

    The subject is The bus and verb is has changed, so the sentence is Correct.

3. Accidentally dropped the glass on the floor. ( I )
    Analysis:

   The sentence doesn't have a Subject. The verb is dropped, so it is incorrect.
   The correct sentence should be Accidentally she or he dropped the glass on the floor.

4. The customer paying the clerk for the clothes. (I)
    Analysis:

    The sentence doesn't have to be, is. So incorrect
    It should be The customer is paying the clerk for the clothes. 
5. The professor handed the syllabus to the students. (C)
    Analysis:

    The sentence has subject, the professor and verb, handed. So it is correct

6. Each day practiced the piano for hours. (I)
    Analysis:

     The sentence doesn't have subject. The verb is practiced. So incorrect.
     It should be Each day they practiced the piano for hours.

7. The basketball player tossed the ball into the hoop. (C)
    Analysis:

    The sentence has subject, The basket ball player and verb, tossed. So it is correct

8. The new student in the class very talkative and friendly. (I)
    Analysis:
    The sentence has subject, The new student, but no verb. So incorrect.
    The correct sentence can be The new student in the class is very talkative and friendly.
9. Walking with the children to school.(I)
    Analysis:

    The sentence doesn't have a Subject. It has main verb, walking but without tobe. So incorrect.
    The correct sentence could be She/he is walking with the children to school

10. The whales headed south for the winter. (C)

SKILL 2

OBJECTS OF PREPOSITIONS

An object of a preposition is a noun or a pronoun that comes after a preposition such as in, at, of to, by, behind, and on to form a prepositional phrase.(Indonesian Version)

The trip (to the island) (on Saturday) will last (for three hours)

This sentence contains three objects of prepositions. Island is the object of the preposition to; Saturday is the object of the preposition on; hours is the object of the preposition for.

An object of a preposition can cause confusion in the Structure section of the TOEFL test because it can be mistaken for the subject of a sentence.

Example

To Mike ____ was a big surprise.

(A) really
(B) the party
(C) funny
(D) when

In this example, you should look first for the subject and the verb. You should notice the verb was and should also notice that there is no subject. Do not think that Mike is the subject; Mike is the object of the preposition to, and one noun cannot be both a subject and an object at the same time. Because a subject is needed in this sentence, answer (B), the party, is the best answer. Answers (A), (C), and (D) are not correct because they cannot be subjects.
The following chart outlines the key information that you should remember about objects of prepositions.

Now, Let's do and analyze the exercise below:

EXERCISE 2: Each of the following sentences contains one or more prepositional phrases. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the prepositional phrases that come before the verb. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. The name of the baby in the crib is Jack. (C)

     Analysis:

    Subject is The name of baby and Verb is IS. So, it is correct
    The Crib is only object of preposition

2. By the next meeting of the class need to turn in the papers.( I)

    Analysis:

   Verb is need but there is no Subject. So, it is Incorrect
   The next meeting of the class is NOT subject, it is object of preposition

3. The directions to the exercise on page 20 unclear.
    Analysis:

    Subject is The directions but there is no Verb. So, it is incorrect.
    The exercise is not subject, it is object of preposition.

4. Because of the heavy rain throughout the night, the walkways are muddy.
   Analysis:

   Subject is the walkways and Verb is Are. So, it is correct.
   The heavy rain throughout the night is only object of preposition.

5. During the week eat lunch in the school cafeteria.
   Analysis:

   Verb is eat but there is no Subject. So, it is incorrect
   The week is not Subject, it is object of preposition

6. In the morning after the concert was tired.
    Analysis:

   Verb is was but there is no Subject. So, it is incorrect.
   The concert is not Subject, it is object of preposition.

7. In the summer the trip to the mountains is our favorite trip.
    Analysis: 

    Subject is the trip and verb is Is. So, it is correct
   
8. In a box on the top shelf of the cabinet in the hallway of the house.
    Analysis:

    No Subject and No verbs.
   
9. With her purse in her hand ran through the door.
    Analysis:

    Verb is ran but there is no Subject. So, it is incorrect.
    Her purse and her hand are only object of preposition

10. At 1:00 in the morning the alarm clock on the table beside the bed rang.
      Analysis:

      Subject is the alarm clock and Verb is rang. So, it is correct

SKILL 3

PRESENT PARTICIPLES

Present participles can-cause confusion in the Structure section of the TOEFL test because a present participle can be either an adjective or a part of the verb. A present participle is the - ing form of the verb. It is part of the verb when it is preceded by some form of the verb be.(Indonesian Version)

The train is arriving at the station now. (Arriving is VERB)                        

In this sentence, arriving is part of the verb because it is accompanied by is.

A present participle is an adjective when it is not accompanied by some form of the verb be.

The train arriving at the station now is an hour late. (Arriving is ADJECTIVE)

                                                         
In this sentence, arriving is an adjective and not part of the verb because it is not accompanied by some form of be. The verb in this sentence is is.

The following example shows how a present participle can be confused with the verb in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

The film ____ appearing at the local theater is my favorite.

(A) now
(B) is
(C) it
(D) was

In this example, if you look at only the first words of the sentence, it appears that film is the subject and appearing is part of the verb. If you think that appearing is part of the verb, you might choose answer (B), is, or answer (D), was, to complete the verb. However, these two answers are incorrect because appearing is not part of the verb. You should recognize that appearing is a participial adjective rather than a verb because there is another verb in the sentence, is. In this sentence, there is a complete subject, film, and a complete verb, is, so this sentence does not need another subject or verb. The best answer to this question is answer (A).

EXERCISE 3: Each of the following sentences contains one or more present participles. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the present participles, and label them as adjectives or verbs. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

 1. The crying baby needs to be picked up. (C)
             ADJ.

2. The clothes are lying the floor should go into the washing machine. (I)
                          VERB

3. The waitress bringing the steaming soup to the waiting diners.

4. Most of the striking workers are walking the picket line.

5. For her birthday, the child is getting a talking doll.

6. The setting sun creating a rainbow of colors in the sky.

7. The ship is sailing to Mexico is leaving tonight.

8. The letters needing immediate answers are on the desk.

9. The boring class just ending a few minutes ago.

10. The fast-moving clouds are bringing freezing rain to the area.

SKILL 4

PAST PARTICIPLES

Past participles can cause confusion in the Structure section of the TOEFL test because a past participle can be either an adjective or a part of the verb. The past participle is the form of the verb that appears with have or be. It often ends in -ed, but there are also many irregular past participles in English.
(Indonesian Version)

The mailman has left a letter in the mailbox. (Left is VERB)       

The classes were taught by Professor Smith. (Taught is VERB)

In the first sentence, the past participle left is part of the verb because it is accompanied by has. In the second sentence, the past participle taught is part of the verb because it is accompanied by were.

A past participle is an adjective when it is not accompanied by some form of be or have.

The letter left in the mailbox was for me. (Left is ADJECTIVE)

The classes taught by Professor Smith were very interesting. (Taught is ADJECTIVE)

In the first sentence, left is an adjective rather than a verb because it is not accompanied by a form of be or have (and there is a verb, was, later in the sentence). In the second sentence, taught is an adjective rather than a verb because it is not accompanied by a form of be or have (and there is a verb, were, later in the sentence).

The following example shows how a past participle can be confused with the verb in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

The bread _____ baked this morning smelled delicious.

(A) has
(B) was
(C) it
(D) just

In this example, if you look only at the first few words of the sentence, it appears that bread is the subject and baked is either a complete verb or a past participle that needs a helping verb. But if you look further in the sentence, you will see the verb smelled. You will then recognize that baked is a participial adjective and is therefore not part of the verb. Answers (A) and (B) are incorrect because baked is an adjective and does not need a helping verb such as has or was. Answer (C) is incorrect because there is no need for the subject it. Answer (D) is the best answer to this question.

EXERCISE 4: Each of the following sentences contains one or more past participles. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the past participles, and label them as adjectives or verbs. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. The food is served in this restaurant is delicious. (Incorrect)

    Analysis:

    The sentence should be "The food served in this restaurant is delicious".
    is served is incorrect, it should be served (past participle as an Adjective).
    Subject is The food and Verb is IS

2. The plane landed on the deserted runway. (Correct)

   Analysis:

   Subject is The place and Verb is landed
   Deserted is past participle as an adjective
   
3. The unexpected guests arrived just at dinnertime. (Correct)

    Analysis:

    Subject is unexpected guests and Verb is arrived
    Unexpected is past participle as an adjective

4. The courses are listed in the catalogue are required courses. (Incorrect)

    Analysis:

    The sentence should be The course listed in the dialogue are required courses.
     Subject is The course and Verb is are required.
     are listed is inccorect, but it should be listed (be past participle as an adjective)

5. The teacher found the lost exam. (Correct)

     Analysis:

     Subject is The teacher and Verb is found
     Lost is past participle as an adjective

6. The small apartment very crowded and disorganized. (Incorrect)

     Analysis

     Subject is the small apartment but there is no Verb
     The sentence should be The small apartment is very crowded and disorganized.
     Crowded and disorganized are past participle as adjectives.

7. The photographs developed yesterday showed Sam and his friends. (Correct)

    Analysis:

    Subject is The photograph and Verb is showed

    Developed is past participle as adjective

8. The locked drawer contained the unworn jewels. (Correct)

    Analysis:

    Subject is the locked drawer and Verb is contained
    Locked and unworn are past participle as adjectives

9. The tree was blown over in the storm was cut into logs. (Incorrect)

    Analysis;

    The sentence should be The tree blown over in the storm was cut into logs
    was blown should be blown (past participle as adjective)
    Subject is The tree and verb is was cut

10. The students registered in this course are listed on that sheet of paper. (Correct)

     Analysis:

      Subject is The students and Verb is are listed
      Registered is past participle as adjective
      listed is past participle as verb

SKILL 5

COORDINAT CONNECTORS

Many sentences in English have more than one clause. (A clause is a group of words containing a subject and a verb.) When you have two clauses in an English sentence, you must connect the two clauses correctly. One way to connect two clauses is to use and, but, or, or so between the clauses.
(Indonesian Version)

The sun was shining and the sky was blue.

The sky was blue, but it was very cold.

It may rain tonight, or it may be clear.

It was raining outside, so I took my umbrella.

In each of these examples, there are two clauses that are correctly joined with a coordinate connector—and, but, or, or so—and a comma (,).

The following example shows how this sentence pattern could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

I forgot my coat, ____ I got very cold.

(A) then
(B) so
(C) later
(D) as a result

In this example, you should notice quickly that there are two clauses, I forgot my coat and I got very cold. This sentence needs a connector to join the two clauses. Then, later, and as a result are not connectors, so answers(A), (C), and (D) are not correct. The best answer is answer (B) because so can connect two clauses in this manner.

                                  
The following chart lists the coordinate connectors and the sentence pattern used with them.

EXERCISE 5: Each of the following sentences contains more than one clause. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the connectors. Then indicate if the sentences are correct ‘(C) or incorrect (I).

1. The lawn needs water every day, or it will turn brown. (C)

Analysis:

§  Both clauses are correct and coordinate connector is correct.

2. The book was not long, it difficult to read. (I)

Analysis:

§  Second clause should be it is difficult to read. There is not coordinate connector.

3. It was raining, so decided not to go camping. (I)

Analysis:

§  Second clause has no Subject.

4. The material has been cut, and the pieces have been sewn together. (C)

Analysis:

§  Both clauses are correct and coordinate connector is correct too.

5. The patient took all the medicine, he did not feel much better. (I)

Analysis:

§  Both clauses are correct but there is no coordinate connector

6. The bill must be paid immediately, or the electricity will be turned off. (C)

Analysis:

§  Both clauses are correct and coordinate connector is correct, too

7. The furnace broke so the house got quite cold. (I)


Analysis:

§  Both clauses are correct, but there is no comma.

§  It should be The furnace broke, so the house got quite cold.

8. The dress did not cost too much, but the quality it seemed excellent. (I)

Analysis:

§  Second clause has two subject; the quality and it. It should be the quality seemed excellent.

§  Coordinate connector is correct.

9. The leaves kept falling off the trees, and the boys kept raking them up, but the yard was still covered. (C)

Analysis:

§  All clauses and coordinate are connectors correct, too.

10. The mail carrier has already delivered the mail, so the letter is not going to arrive today, it probably will arrive tomorrow. (I)

Analysis:

§  All clauses are correct, but coordinate connector So is wrong. So should be changed with but.

SKILL 6

ADVERB CLAUSA CONNECTORS

Sentences with adverb clauses have two basic patterns in English. Study the clauses and connectors in the following sentences:

(Indonesian Version)

He is tired because he has been working so hard.

Because he has been working so hard, he is tired.

In each of these examples, there are two clauses: he is tired and he has been working so hard. The clause he has been working so hard is an adverb clause that is introduced with the connector because. In the first example, the connector because comes in the middle of the sentence, and no comma (,) is used. In the second example, the connector because comes at the beginning of the sentence. In this pattern, when the connector comes at the beginning of the sentence, a comma (,) is required in the middle of the sentence.

The following example shows how this sentence pattern could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

_____ arrived at the library, he started to work immediately.

(A) The student
(B) When
(C) He
(D) After the student

In this example, you should recognize easily that the verb arrived needs a subject. There is also another clause, he started to work immediately. If you choose answer (A) or answer (C), you will have a subject for the verb arrived, but you will not have a connector to join the two clauses. Because you need a connector to join two clauses, answers (A) and (C) are incorrect. Answer (B) is incorrect because there is no subject for the verb arrived. Answer (D) is the best answer because there is a subject, student, for the verb, arrived, and there is a connector, after, to join the two clauses.
The following chart lists common adverb connectors and the sentence patterns used with them.

EXERCISE 6: Each of the following sentences contains more than one clause. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the connectors. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. After the plane circled the airport, it landed on the main runway. (C)

Analysis:
Both clauses have subject and verb.
The connector "when" is correct, too.

2. The registration process took many hours since the lines so long. (I)

Analysis:
The second clause has no verb. It should be the lines were so long.
The connector "since" is correct.

3. This type of medicine can be helpful, it can also have some bad side effects. (I)

Analysis:
Both clauses are correct but there is no connector.

4. The waves were amazingly high when the storm hit the coastal town. (C)

Analysis:
Both clauses and connector are correct.

5. We need to get a new car whether is on sale or not. (I)

Analysis:
Second clause has no subject. It should be it is on sale or not
Connector "whether" is correct 

6. Just as the bread came out of the oven, while a wonderful aroma filled the kitchen. (I)


Analysis:
There are two connectors; Just and While. 
"While" should be erased, so the sentence becomes a wonderful aroma filled the kitchen.

7. Everyone has spent time unpacking boxes since the family moved into the new house. (C)

Analysis:
Both clauses and connector are corretc.

8. Although the area is a desert many plants bloom there in the springtime. (I)

Analysis:
There is no comma after the first clause. It should be the area is a desser, 

9. The drivers on the freeway drove slowly and carefully while the rain was falling heavily because they did not want to have an accident. (C)

Analysis:
All three clauses are correct and the connectors are correct, too.

10. If you plan carefully before you take a trip, will have a much better time because the small details will not cause problems. (I)

SKILL 7

NOUN CLAUSE CONNECTORS

A noun clause is a clause that functions as a noun; because the noun clause functions as a noun, it can be used in a sentence as an object of a verb (if it follows a verb) or an object of a preposition (if it follows a preposition). Study the clauses and connectors in the following sentences.

A. I don't Know
B. Why did she like facebook

If we combine them:

I don't Know why she like faccebook

In the first example, there are two clauses, I don’t know and she liked facebook . These two clauses are joined with the connector why. Why changes the clause he said such things into a noun clause which functions as the object of the verb don’t know.

The following example shows how these sentence patterns could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFL test

ExampleThe citizens worry about ____ is doing.

(A) what the government
(B) the government
(C) what
(D) what the government it

In this example, the sentence contains the main subject and verb, the citizens worry, and it also contains an additional verb, is doing. The sentence needs a subject for the verb is doing and a connector to join the two clauses. The best answer is answer (A) because it has the connector what and the subject government. Answer (B) is incorrect because it does not have a connector. Answer (C) is incorrect because it does not have a subject for is doing. Answer (D) is incorrect because it has two subjects for is doing.

EXERCISE 7:

Each of the following sentences contains more than one clause. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the connectors. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. It is unfortunate that the meal is not ready yet. (C)

    Analysis:
    Both clauses are correct because they have subject and verb 

2. She told me when should pick up the children. (I)

    Analyisis:
     should pick up the children is incorrect. It should be  I should pick up the children. 

3. The instructor explained where was the computer lab located. (I)

    Analysis:
    Where was the computer lab located is incorrect. It should be where the computer lab was located.

4. We could not believe what he did to us. (C)

    Analysis:
    Both clauses are correct.

5. Do you want to know if it going to rain tomorrow? (I)

   Analysis:
   If it going to rain tomorrow is incorrect. It should be If it is going to rain tomorrow.

6. We never know whether we will get paid or not. (C)

    Analysis:
    Both clauses are correct

7. This evening you can decide what do you want to do. (I)

    Analysis:
     Second clause: what do you want to do is incorrect. It should be what you want to do.

8. The manager explained how wanted the work done. (C)

    Analysis:
    Second clause: how wanted the work done is incorrect. It should be how he wanted work done. 

9. The map showed where the party would be held. (C)

     Analysis:
     Both clauses are correct

10. Can you tell me why was the mail not delivered today? (I)

      Analysis:

      Second clause: why was the mail not delivered today is incorrect. It should be why the mail was not

      delivered today.

SKILL 8

NOUN CLAUSE CONNECTORS/SUBJECT

In Skill 7 we saw that noun clause connectors can be used to introduce noun clauses. In Skill 8 we will see that in some cases a noun clause connector is not just a connector; a noun clause connector can also be the subject of the clause at the same time. Study the clauses and connectors in the following sentences.

I know what happened yesterday

 NOUN CLAUSE AS OBJECT OF VERB

We are thinking about what happened yesterday.

  NOUN CLAUSE AS OBJECT OF PREPOSITION

In the first example, there are two clauses: I know and what happened yesterday. These two clauses are joined by the connector what. It is important to understand that in this sentence the word what serves two functions. It is both the subject of the verb happened and the connector that joins the two clauses.

In the second example, there are two clauses. In the first clause we is the subject of are thinking. In the second clause what is the subject of happened. What also serves as the connector that joins the two clauses. The noun clause what happened yesterday functions as the object of the preposition about.

The following example shows how this sentence pattern could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

The company was prepared for ________ happened with the economy.

(A) it
(B) the problem
(C) what
(D) when

EXERCISE 8: Each of the following sentences contains more than one clause. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the connectors. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. The teacher heard who answered the question. (C)

    Analysis:

    Who answered the question is a noun clause connector, and the sentence is correct.

2. I do not understand it went wrong. (I)

    Analysis:

    it went wrong is a noun clause connector/subject. But, the sentence is incorrect.
    It should be what went wrong

3. Of the three movies, I can’t decide which is the best. (C)

   Analysis:

   Which is the best is a noun clause connector/subject. The sentence is correct.
    
4. She did not remember who in her class. (I)

   Analysis:

   Who in her class is a noun clause connector, but the sentence is incorrect.
   It should be Who is in her class.

5. No one is sure what did it happen in front of the building. (I)

   Analysis:

   What did it happen in front of the building is a nouc clause connector, but the sentence is incorrect.
   It should be what happened in front of the building.

6. We found out which was her favorite type of candy. (C)

    Analysis:

   Which was her favorite type of candy is a noun clause connector/subject, and the sentence is correct.
   
7. Do you know what caused the plants to die? (C)

   Analysis:

   What caused the plants to die is a noun clause connector/subject and the sentence is correct.

8. I am not sure which it is the most important course in the program. (I)

   Analysis:

   which it is the most important course in the program is a nou clause connector/subject, but it is
   incorrect.
   It should be which is the most important course in the program.

9. We thought about who would be the best vice president.(C)

    Analysis:

   Who would be the best vice president is a noun clause connector, and the sentence is correct.

10. She saw what in the box in the closet. (I)

   Analysis:

   What in the box in the closet is a noun clause connector, but it is incorrect.
   It should be what is in the box in the closet.

SKILL 9

ADJECTIVECLAUSE CONNECTORS

An adjective clause describes a noun. Because the clause is an adjective, it is positioned directly after the noun that it describes.

A, This is the house
B, I want to buy it

If we combine them:

This is the house that/which I want to buy

In the first example, there are two clauses: this is the subject of the verb is, and I is the subject of the verb want. That/which is the adjective clause connector that joins these two clauses, and the adjective clause that I want to buy describes the noun house.

A, The house is big
B. I want to buy it

If we combine:

The house that/which I want to buy is big


In the second example, there are also two clauses: house is the subject of the verb is, and I is the subject of the verb want. In this sentence also, that is the adjective clause connector that joins these two clauses, and theadjective clause that I want to buy describes the noun house.

                            

The following example shows how these sentence patterns could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFL test.

Example

The job _____ started yesterday was rather difficult.
(A) when
(B) was
(C) after
(D) that he

In this example, you should notice quickly that there are two clauses: job is the subject of the verb was, and the verb started needs a subject. Because there are two clauses, a connector is also needed. Answers (A) and (C) have connectors, but there are no subjects, so these answers are not correct. Answer (B) changes started into a passive verb; in this case the sentence would have one subject and two verbs, so answer (B) is not correct. The best answer to this question is answer (D). The correct sentence should say: The job that he started yesterday was rather difficult. In this sentence job is the subject of the verb was, he is the subject of the verb started, and the connector that joins these two clauses.

EXERCISE 9: Each of the following sentences contains more than one clause. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the connectors. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. I did not believe the story that he told me. (C)

   Analysis:

   First Clause                            : I did not believe the story
   Second Clause                       : He told me
   Adjective clause connector     : that

2. Ms. Brown, whom did you recommend for the job, will start work tomorrow.(I)

    Analysis:

    First clause                         : Ms. Brown will start work tomorrow
    Second clause                    : Did you recommend for the job (incorrect)
                                                It should be you recommended for the job
    Adjective clause connector : whom

    The correct sentence is Ms. Brown, who you recommended for the job, will start work tomorrow.

3. The lecture notes which lent me were not clearly written.(I)

     Analysis:

     First clause                       : The lecture notes were not clearly written
     Second clause                  :  lent me (incorrect)
                                               It should be I lent
     Adjective clause connector : which

     The correct sentence is the lecture notes which I lent were not clearly written

4. Sally has an appointment with the hairdresser whom you recommended. (C)

    Analysis:

     First clause                         : Sally has an appointment with the hairdresser
     Second clause                    : you recommended
     Adjective clause connector : whom

5. The phone number that you gave me.

    Analysis:

     First clause                        : The phone number (incorrect: no verb)
     Second clause                   : you gave me
     Adjective clause connector : that
     The correct sentence is The phone number that you gave me IS wrong

6. She is able to solve all the problems which did she cause.(I)

     Analysis:

      First clause                       : She is able to solve the problems
      Second clause                  : did she cause (incorrect)
                                                It should be she caused
      Adjective clause connector: She is able to solve all the problems which she caused
   
7. The day that she spent on the beach left her sunburned. (C)

      Analysis: 

      First clause                         : The day left her sunburned
      Second clause                     :  she spend on the beach
      Adjective clause connector :  that

8. Next week I am going to visit my cousins, whom have not seen in several years.(I)

    Analysis:

    First clause                           : Next week I am going to visit my cousins
    Second clause                      :  have not seen in several years (incorrect)
                                                   It should be I have not seen in several years
    Adjective clause connector   : whom
    The correct sentence is Next week I am going to visit my cousins, whom i have not seen in several years

9. Did you forget the promise whom you made? (C)

    Analysis:

    First clause                            : Did you forget the promise
    second clause                        : you made?
    Adjective clause connector    : whom

10. The teacher whom the students like the most is their history teacher.

   Analysis:

   First clause                             : The teacher is their history teacher
   Second clause                        :  the students like the most
   Adjective clause connector     :  whom

SKILL 10

ADJECTIVECLAUSE CONNECTORS/SUBJECTS

In Skill 9 we saw that adjective clause connectors can be used to introduce clauses that describe nouns. In Skill 10 we will see that in some cases an adjective clause connector is not just a connector; an adjective clause connector can also be the subject of the clause at the same time.
A. We a re looking for a house
B. The house is quite expensive

If we combine them:

We are looking for a house that/which is quite expensive

In the first example, there are two clauses: we is the subject of the verb are looking, and that is the subject of theverb is. These two clauses are joined with the connector that. Notice that in this example the word that serves two functions at the same time: it is the subject of the verb is, and it is the connector that joins the two clauses. Theadjective clause that is quite expensive describes the noun house.

A. The house seems like a great house
B. The house is quite expensive

If we combine them:

The house  that  is quite expensive   seems like a great house

In the second example, there are also two clauses: house is the subject of the verb seems, and that is the subject of the verb is. In this example, that also serves two functions: it is the subject of the verb is, and it is the connector that joins the two clauses. Because that is quite expensive is an adjective clause describing the noun house, it directly follows house.

The following example shows how these sentence patterns could be tested in the Structure section of the TOEFLtest.

Example

______ just dropped off a package for you is my sister.

(A) The woman
(B) The woman who
(C) Because the woman
(D) With the woman

In this example, you should notice immediately that the sentence has two verbs, dropped and is, and each of them needs a subject. The only answer that has two subjects is answer (B), so answer (B) is the correct answer. The correct sentence should say: The woman who just dropped off a package for you is my sister. In this sentence woman is the subject of the verb is, and who is the subject of the verb dropped. Who is also the connector that joins the two clauses?

SKILL 11

AGREEMENTS AFTER PREPOSIONAL OF PHARASES

Subject/verb agreement is simple: if the subject of a sentence is singular, then the verb must be singular; if the subject of the sentence is plural, then the verb must be plural. An s on a verb usually indicates that a verb is singular, while an s on a noun usually indicates that the noun is plural. (Do not forget irregular plurals of nouns such as women, children, and people.)

The dog barks at night.

The dogs bark at night.

In the first example, the singular subject dog requires a singular verb, barks. In the second example, the plural subject dogs requires a plural verb, bark.

Sometimes prepositional phrases can come between the subject and the verb on the TOEFL test, and this can cause confusion. If the object of the preposition is singular and the subject is plural, or if the object of the preposition is plural and the subject is singular, there can be a problem in making the subject and verb agree.

In the first example, you might think that rooms is the subject because it comes directly in front of the verb are. However, rooms is not the subject because it is the object of the preposition to. The subject of the sentence is door, so the verb should be is. In the second example, you might think that room is the subject because it comes directly in front of the verb is. You should recognize in this example that room is not the subject because it is the object of the preposition to. Because the subject of the sentence is doors, the verb should be are.

The following chart outlines the key information that you should understand about subject/verb agreement with prepositional phrases.

EXERCISE 11: Each of the following sentences has one or more prepositional phrases between the subject and verb. Put parentheses around the prepositional phrases. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. The subject (of the lectures) was quite interesting. (C)

    Analysis:

§   The subject is SUBJECT  and was is VERB. (Correct)

§    "Lectures" is not SUBJECT, it is object after preposition "OF".

2. The supplies (for the camping trip) needs to be packed. (I)

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is The supplies and VERB is needs.( incorrect).

§  Needs should be Need because The supplies is plural

§  "the camping trip" is only object after prepositional "FOR".

3. The chairs under the table in the dining room is quite comfortable. (I)

     Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is "The chairs" and VERB is  "is". (Incorrect).

§  "is" should be "are" because "The chairs" is plural.

§  "the dining room" is only object after prepepostion    

4. The players on the winning team in the competition were very talented. (C)

     Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is The players and VERB is were. (correct)

5. The food for the guests at the party are on the long tables.

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is The food and VERB is are. (Incorrect)

§  "are" should be "is" because The food is uncountable noun/singular

6. The cost of the clothes was higher than I had expected. (C)

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is The cost and VERB is was. (Correct)

7. The rugs in the front rooms of the house are going to be washed today.(C)

     Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is The rugs and VERB is are. (Correct)

8. The servers in this restaurant always does their job efficiently. (I)

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is "The servers" and VERB is "does". (incorrect).

§  "does" should be "do" because the servers is plural.

9. The lights in the corner of the room need to be kept on all night.(C)

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is "The lights" and VERB is "need". (Correct)

10. The meeting of the members of the council begins at 3:00 in the afternoon. (C)

    Analysis:

§  SUBJECT is "the meeting" and VERB is "begins". (Correct)

SKILL 12

AGREEMENTS AFTER PREPOSIONAL OF QUANTITY

A particular agreement problem occurs when the subject is an expression of quantity such as all, most, or somefollowed by the preposition of. In this situation, the subject (all, most, or some) can be singular or plural, depending on what follows the preposition of

Most (of the meal) was delicious.
             SINGULAR

Most (of the meals) were delicious.
               PLURAL

Most (of the food) was delicious.
       UNCOUNTABLE

In the first example, the subject most refers to the singular noun meal, so the correct verb is therefore the singular verb was. In the second example, the subject most refers to the plural noun meals, so the correct verb is the plural verb were. In the third example, the subject most refers to the uncountable noun food, so the correct verb is therefore the singular verb was.

These sentences contain examples of the types of problems that are common on the TOEFL test.

All (of the book) were* interesting.

Half (of the students) is* late to class.

In the first example, the plural verb were should be the singular verb was because the subject all refers to the singular noun book. In the second example, the singular verb is should be the plural verb are because the subject half refers to the plural noun students.

The following chart outlines the key information that you should understand about subject/verb agreement after expressions of quantity.

EXERCISE 12: Each of the following sentences has a quantity expression as the subject. Underline the subjects once and the verbs twice. Circle the objects that the verbs agree with. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).



1. Half of the students in the class arrive early. (C)

   Analysis:

§  Object is Students (plural) and Verb is arrive (plural Verb), so the sentence is correct

2. Some of the fruit are rotten. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Fruit and are (Verb) are not match. It should be ".....fruit is ...

3. All of the next chapter contains very important information. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The next chapter (singular noun) and contains (singular verb) are match. (correct)

4. Most of the people in the room is paying attention.(I)

    Analysis:

§  The people (plural noun) and is (singular verb) are not match. It should be".....of the people ......are ..."

5. Part of the soup is left on the stove. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The soup (uncountable noun) and is (singular verb) are match.

6. Some of the movie were just too violent for me.  (I)

    Analysis:

§  The movie (singular noun) and were (plural verb) are not match. It should be "....the movie was ...."

7. All of the details in the report needs to be checked. (I)

    Analysis:

§  The details (plural noun) are needs are not match. It should be "....the details ........need...."

8. Most of the money is needed to pay the bills. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The money (uncountable noun) and is are match.

9. The first half of the class consists of lecture and note taking. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The class (singular noun) and consists (singular verb) are match.

10. Some of the questions on-the test was impossible to answer. (I)

     Analysis:

§  The questions (plural noun) and was (singular verb) are not match. It should be '....the questions ......were....."

SKILL 13

AGREEMENTS AFTER CERTAIN WORDS

Certain words in English are always grammatically singular, even though they might have plural meanings.

Everybody in the theater are watching* the film attentively.

Even though we understand from this example that a lot of people are watching the film, Everybody is singular and requires a singular verb. The plural verb are watching should be changed to the singular verb is watching.

The following chart lists the grammatically singular words that have plural meanings.

Exercise 13.

Each of the following sentences contains one of the words that are grammatically singular but they have a plural meaning.

1. Anybody are welcome at the party. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Anybody is singular, so the verb is not "are" but "is".

2. No one here is afraid of skysiving. (C)

    Analysis:

§  No one is singular and Verb "is" is singular, too. So the sentence is correct.

3.  Everyone in the world needs love and respect. (C)

     Analysis:

§  Everyone is singular and Verb " Needs" is singular verb, too. So the sentence is correct.

4. Someone have to clean up the house. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Someone is singular, but verb "have to" is plural verb. So it is incorrect.

5. Each plant in the garden appear healthy and strong. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Each plant is singular, but verb "appear" is plural verb. So it is incorrect. 

§  Appear should be appears.

6. You should understand that anything is possible. (C)

    Analysis:

§  Anything is singular and IS is singular verb, too. So It is correct.

7. Everything in the salad are good for you. (I)

   Analysis:

§  Everything is singular, but verb "ARE" is plural. So it is incorrect

§  It should be "Everything ..........is ....."

8. Nobody in the class have completed the assignment on time. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Nobody is singular, but subject "have" is plural. So, it is incorrect.

§  It should be 'Nobody........has ......"

9. I am sure that every detail have been considered. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Every detail is singular, but verb "have" is plural. So, it is incorrect.

§  It should be ".....every detail has been ...."

10. Everybody know the rules, but somebody is not following them. (I)

     Analysis:

§  Everybody is singular, but verb "know" is plural. So, it is incorrect.

§  It should be "Everybody knows...."

SKILL 14

PARARELLEL STRUCTURE WITH COORDINATE CONJUNCTIONS

The job of the coordinate conjunctions (and, but, or) is to join together equal expressions. In other words, what is on one side of these words must be parallel to what is on the other side. These conjunctions can join nouns, or verbs, or adjectives, or phrases, or clauses; they just must join together the same structures. Here are examples of equal structures correctly joined by coordinate conjunctions:

He discussed the problem with the nurse and the doctor

The professor was knowledgeable but boring

She hikes, jogs, or rides her bicycle whenever she can.

There are meetings in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening

You can do the work because you want to do it or because you have to do it

In the first example, two nouns are joined by the coordinate conjunction and. In the second example, two adjectives are joined by the coordinate conjunction but. In the third example, three verbs are joined by the coordinate conjunction or. In the fourth example, three phrases are joined by the coordinate conjunction and. In the last example; two clauses are joined by the coordinate conjunction or.

The sentences that follow show the types of errors in parallel structure that are common on the TOEFL test.

The evening dress was beauty* but expensive.

The student reads each chapter, takes a lot of notes, and memories* the material.

In the first example, the coordinate conjunction but joins the noun beauty and the adjective expensive. The adjective beautiful is needed in place of beauty. In the second example, the coordinate conjunction and joins the verb reads, the verb takes, and the plural noun memories. The verb memorizes is needed in place of memories.

The following chart outlines the use of parallel structures with coordinate con junctions.

EXERCISE 14: Each of the following sentences contains words or groups of words that should be parallel. Circle the word that indicates that the sentence should have parallel parts. Underline the parts that should be parallel. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. The pastries in that shop are very expensive but quite deliciously. (I)

     Analysis:

§  before BUT  and after BUT must have the same structure. EXPENSIVE is adjective, but deliciously is adverb. So, it is incorrect.

§  It should be ....very expensive but quite delicious.

2. You can find some change to buy a paper in the drawer, on top of the dresser, or in the jar. (C)

     Analysis:

§  in the drawer, on top of the dresser, or in the jar are all in same structure (adverb). So, it is correct.

3. The living room was decorated with expensive paintings and elegance lamps. (I).

    Analysis:

§  expensive (adjective) painting and elegance (noun) lamps have different structure. So, it is incorrect.

§  It should be ....expensive painting and elegant lamps.

4. He knew that the financial problems were serious, that the situation was not going to improve, and that he needed to get a job.

    Analysis:

§  ......that the situation was not going to improve and that he needs to get a  job have the same structure. Both sentences are clauses. So, it is correct

5. All day long during the trip to the mountains, they were skiing, sledding, or played in the snow. (I)

   Analysis:

§  ...skiing, sledding, or played....(incorrect). It should be ..skiing, sledding, or playing.

6. The car needs new tires but not a new engine. (C)

    Analysis:

§  ...new tires (phrase) but not a new engine (phrase). So, it is correct

7. He stops working when he gets too tired to continue or when he has finished. (C)

    Analysis:

§  ...when he gets too tired to continue (clause) or when he has finished (clause). So, it is correct

8. To get to the office, you should go through this door, turn to the left, and continuation down the hall. (I)

    Analysis:

§  ...go (verb) through this door, turn (verb) to the left, and continuation (noun) down the hall. So it is incorrect.

§  It should be ".....go......, turn, and continue,,,,,,,"

9. For dessert we could serve lemon pie, fruit tarts, chocolate cake, or butter cookies.(C)

    Analysis:

§  ....lemon pie, fruit tarts, chocolate cake and butter cookies are all phrases. So, it is correct.

10. The sick child needs some medicine, some juice, and to rest. (I)

      Analysis:

§  some medicine, some juice and to rest. (incorrect)

§  It should be "..some medicine. some juice and some rest"

SKILL 15

PARARELLEL STRUCTURE WITH PAIRED CONJUNCTIONS

The paired conjunctions both …… and, either …… or; neither …… nor; and not only ….. but also require parallel structures.

The lecture was both informative and enjoyable

Either the history exam or the physics exam is on Tuesday.

The missing papers are neither on his desk nor in the file

He visited not only his cousin but also his grandmother.

The following is not parallel and must be corrected:

They want either to play tennis or golf*.
It is not correct because to play tennis is not parallel to golf It can be corrected in different ways.

They want either to play tennis or to play golf

They want to play either tennis or golf.

When you are using these paired conjunctions, be sure that the correct parts are used together. The following are incorrect:

He lent me both some paper or a pencil

Either breakfast nor* lunch is included in the price.

These sentences are incorrect because the wrong parts of the paired conjunctions are used together. In the first example, and should be used with both. In the second example, or should be used with either.

EXERCISE 15: Each of the following sentences contains words or groups of words that should be parallel. Circle the word or words that indicate that the sentence should have parallel parts. Underline the parts that should be parallel. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. He either lied or telling an unbelievable story. (I)

    Analysis:

§  either ......or..... (correct), but

§  before and after OR  should have the same structure: telling should be told.

2. The music at the concert was neither well played nor well liked. (C)

     Analysis:

§  neither ......nor...(correct). well played and well liked have same struture, too. So it is correct.

3. He regularly studies both in the morning or in the evening. (I)

    Analysis:

§  both......or ......(incorrect). it should be both.....and.....

4. The play that we saw last night was not only rather delightful but also quite meaningful. (I)

    Analysis:

§  not only .............but also.....(correct)

5. He married her neither for her ability to cook nor her ability to clean house. (C)

    Analysis:

§  neither .............nor....(Correct)

6. The discussion was both exciting and interest. (I)

    Analysis:

§  both ............and.......(Correct), but 

§  before  and after and should have same structure. Exciting is adjective, but interest is noun.  Interestshould be interesting.

7. He withdrew all the money not only from the checking account but also from the savings account. (C)

    Analysis:

§  ..not only ...but also...(correct)

8. Neither the teacher or the students are ready to leave the classroom. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Neither.....or...(Incorrect). It should be Neither .....nor.

9. You can meet with me either in the next few minutes or at 4:00. (C)

     Analysis:

§  either.....or...(correct)

10. John is an adventurous person who enjoys not only skydiving but also goes parasailing. (C)

SKILL 15

PAST PARTICIPLES AFTER HAVE

Whenever you see the verb have in any of its forms (have, has, having, had), be sure that the verb that follows it is in the past participle form.

We had complete* the work.

They have went* to the market.

In the first example, complete should be the past participle completed because it is after had. In the second example, went should be the past participle gone because it is after have.

The following chart outlines the use of verb forms after have.

EXERCISE 16:

Each of the following sentences contains a verb formed with have. Underline the verbs twice. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. We have already hearing the good news. (Incorrect)

    Analysis: have hearing should be have heard

2. She has ridden her bicycle to school every day. (Correct)

    Analysis: has ridden is correct

3. I have always believe you. (Incorrect)

    Analysis : have always believe is incorrect, it should be have always believed.

4. He has find the missing car keys. (Incorrect)

    Analysis :  has find is incorrect. It should be has found.

5. They have put their money in a savings account. (Correct)

    Analysis : have put is correct

6. Their parents have allowed them to stay up late. (Correct)

     Analysis: have allowed is correct

7. She has never ran away from home before. (Incorrect)

    Analysis:  have never ran is correct. It should be have never run.

8. Have you ever saw a ghost? (Incorrect)

    Analysis:  saw is incorrect. It should be seen.

9. They have taken three tests already this week. (correct)

    Analysis: have taken is correct.

10. He has offer me a high-paying job. (Incorrect)

    Analysis: has offer is incorrect. It should be has offered.

SKILL 17

PRESENT PARTICIPLES OR PAST PARTICIPLES AFTER BE

The verb be in any of its forms (am, is, are, was, were, be, been, being) can be followed by another verb. This verb should be in either the present participle or the past participle form.

They are turn* on all the lamps.

The office door is lock* in the evening.

In the first example, turn on should be turning on because it is after are. In the second example, lock should be locked because it is after is.

The following chart outlines the use of verb forms after be.

EXERCISE 17:

Each of the following sentences contains a verb formed with be. Underline the verbs twice. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. She was study the textbooks all night long. (I)

    Analysis:

§  study should be studying because after be should present participle (-ing)

2. The pie was cut into six equal pieces. (C)

    Analysis:

§   " was cut" is correct because after was should be past participle.

3. Today the teacher is allow the students to leave class a few minutes early. (I)

    Analysis: 

§  allow should be allowing because after is should be present participle.

4. The class is teach every other semester. (I)

§  teach should taught because after is should be past participle.

5. Tom is bringing some drinks to the party. (C)

    Analysis:

§   "is bringing" is correct because after is should be "present participle (bringing)".

6. The sick child was taken to see a doctor. (correct)

    Analysis:

§   "was taken" is correct because after was should be past participle (taken).

7. The children are swim in the backyard pool. (I)

    Analysis:

§  swim should be swimming because after are should be present participle.

8. The diamond jewelry is always keep in a safe place. (I)

   Analysis:

§  keep should be kept because after is should be past participle.

9. The teacher is preparing a difficult exam for the students. (C)

    Analysis:

§  "is preparing" is correct because after is should be present participle.

10. Dinner is served from 6:00 to 8:00.

      Analysis:

§  "is served" is correct because after is should be past participle.

SKILL 18

BASE FORM VERBS AFTER MODALS

Whenever you see a modal such as will, would, shall, should, can, could, may, might, or must, you should be sure that the verb that follows it is in its base form.

You must telling* her the truth.

The child may comes* in now.

§  In the first example, telling should be the base form tell because it follows must.

§  In the second example, comes should be the base form come because it follows may.

The following chart outlines the use of verb forms after modals.

EXERCISE 18

Each of the following sentences contains a verb formed with a modal. Underline the verbs twice. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. You should try to respond politely. (C)

2. Everyone must leaves the room immediately. (I)

    Analysis:

§  leaves should be leave

3. I could sat on the beach for hours. (I)

   Analysis: 

§  sat should be sit

4. She will asking you many difficult questions. (I)

   Analysis: 

§  asking should be ask

5. You can look at the book, but you cannot borrow it. (C)

 6. He may lies to you because he is not very truthful. (I)

    Analysis:

§  lies should be lie

7. He knew that he would forgot the phone number. (C)

    Analysis:

§  forgot should be forget

8. The weatherman said that it might snowing tonight. (I)

    Analysis:

§  snowing should be snow

 9. Perhaps we could bought a new car this year.(I)

    Analysis:

§  bought should be buy

10. This course will satisfy the graduation requirement. (C)

SKILL 19

SINGULAR AND PLURAL NOUN

A problem that is common in the Written Expression section of the TOEFL test is a singular noun used where a plural noun is needed, or a plural noun used where a singular noun is needed.

He just finished several book*.

She studied each chapters

In the first example, several indicates that the plural books is needed. In the second example, each indicates that the singular chapter is needed.

In the Written Expression section of the TOEFL test you should watch very carefully for key words such as each, every, a, and single that indicate that a noun should be singular. You should also watch carefully for key wordssuch as many, several, and three that indicate that a noun should be plural.

The following chart lists the key words that indicate to you whether a noun should be singular or plural.

EXERCISE 19:

Each of the following sentences contains at least one key word to tell you if a noun should be singular or plural. Circle the key words. Draw arrows to the nouns they describe. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. She talked to each people in the room. (I)

    Analysis:

§  after each is singular object, so each people should be each person.

2. There is not a single bit of food in the refrigerator. (C)

    Analysis:

§  after single is singular noun, so a single bit is correct.

3. You need two piece of weight loss pills (I)

    Analysis:

§  after two is plural noun, so two piece should be two pieces

 4. Both classes started on time. (C)

    Analysis:

§  After both is plural noun, so both classes is correct

 5. We took a new routes to the beach house.(I)

     Analysis:

§  after a is singular noun, so a new routes is incorrect and it should be a new route

6. He gave many different reasons for his actions. (C)

   Analysis:

§  after many is plural noun, so many different reasons is correct.

7. You must answer every questions on the test. (I)

    Analysis:

§  after every is singular noun, so every question is incorrect and it it should be every question.

8. She tried several times to call me. (C)

    Analysis:

§  after several is plural noun, so several times is correct.

9. He offered me only one glass of water. (C)

   Analysis:

§  after one is singular noun, so one glass is correct.

10. We had various kind of drinks with the meal.(I)

     Analysis:

§  after various is plural noun, so various kind is incorrect, it should be various kinds.

SKILL 20

COUNTABLE AND UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS

A problem that is common in the Written Expression section of the TOEFL test is a singular noun used where a plural noun is needed, or a plural noun used where a singular noun is needed.

He just finished several book*.

She studied each chapters

In the first example, several indicates that the plural books is needed. In the second example, each indicates that the singular chapter is needed.

In the Written Expression section of the TOEFL test you should watch very carefully for key words such as each, every, a, and single that indicate that a noun should be singular. You should also watch carefully for key words such as many, several, and three that indicate that a noun should be plural.

The following chart lists the key words that indicate to you whether a noun should be singular or plural.

EXERCISE 19:

Each of the following sentences contains at least one key word to tell you if a noun should be singular or plural. Circle the key words. Draw arrows to the nouns they describe. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. She talked to each people in the room. (I)

    Analysis:

§  after each is singular object, so each people should be each person.

2. There is not a single bit of food in the refrigerator. (C)

    Analysis:

§  after single is singular noun, so a single bit is correct.

3. You need two piece of weight loss pills (I)

    Analysis:

§  after two is plural noun, so two piece should be two pieces

 4. Both classes started on time. (C)

    Analysis:

§  After both is plural noun, so both classes is correct

 5. We took a new routes to the beach house.(I)

     Analysis:

§  after a is singular noun, so a new routes is incorrect and it should be a new route

6. He gave many different reasons for his actions. (C)

   Analysis:

§  after many is plural noun, so many different reasons is correct.

7. You must answer every questions on the test. (I)

    Analysis:

§  after every is singular noun, so every question is incorrect and it it should be every question.

8. She tried several times to call me. (C)

    Analysis:

§  after several is plural noun, so several times is correct.

9. He offered me only one glass of water. (C)

   Analysis:

§  after one is singular noun, so one glass is correct.

10. We had various kind of drinks with the meal.(I)

     Analysis:

§  after various is plural noun, so various kind is incorrect, it should be various kinds.

SKILL 21

SUBJECT AND OBJECT PRONOUNS

Pronouns are words such as he, she, or it that take the place of nouns. One common problem with pronouns on the TOEFL test is that subject and object pronouns are confused, so you should be able to recognize these two types of pronouns.

A subject pronoun is used as the subject of a verb. An object pronoun can be used as the object of a verb or the object of a preposition. Compare the following two sentences.

In the second sentence, the subject pronoun she is replacing the noun Marie. The object of the verb it is replacing the noun phrase the film, and the object of the preposition him is replacing the noun Barry.

The following are examples of the types of subject or object pronoun errors that you might see on the TOEFL test

Me* and my friend are taking a trip.

Our neighbors are going with you and I*

1.      In the first example, the object pronoun me is incorrect because this pronoun serves as the subject of the sentence. The object pronoun me should be changed to the subject pronoun I. It can be difficult to recognize that me is the subject because the verb are has a double subject, me and my friend.

2.      In the second example, the subject pronoun I is incorrect because this pronoun serves as the object of the preposition with. The subject pronoun I should be changed to the object pronoun me. It can be difficult to recognize that I is the object of the preposition with because the preposition with has two objects: the correct object you and the incorrect object I.

EXERCISE 21: Each of the following sentences contains at least one subject or object pronoun. Circle the pronouns. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. You should do it for her. (C)

    Analysis:

§  It is correct it functions as Object pronoun

2. They helped she with the work. (I)

    Analysis:

§  She is Subject Pronoun.

§  But, the sentence needs Object Pronoun "her". So, the correct sentence is They helped her with the work. 

3. Her and Bob came over to visit me. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Her is Object pronoun.

§  It should be Subject Pronoun " She". So, the correct sentence is She and Bob came over to visit me

4. I brought it for you and them.

    Analysis:

§  Subject Pronoun "I" is correct.

§  Object pronoun "You and Them" is correct too.

 5. He opened the refrigerator and took some food from it. (C)

    Analysis:

§  Subject pronoun "He" is correct and Object pronoun "it" is correct, too.

 6. She lent it to you and I. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Subject pronoun "She" is correct.

§  Object pronoun "I" is incorrect. It should be "me" as object pronoun.

7. She spent all the money on them.(C)

    Analysis:

§  Subject pronoun "She" is correct.

§  Object Pronoun "Them" is correct, too

 8. You forgot to give it to they. (I)

      Analysis:

§  Object pronoun "it" is correct.

§  Subject pronoun "they" is incorrect. It should be Object pronoun "them". So the correct sentence is You forgot to give it to them.

 9. We offered she a place to stay. (I)

     Analysis:

§  Subject pronoun "she" is incorrect. It should be object pronoun "her"

10. They watched us play with it. (C)

      Analysis:

§  Object pronoun "us" and " it" is correct

SKILL 22

POSSESSIVES

Possessive adjectives and pronouns both show who or what “owns” a noun. However, possessive adjectives and possessive pronouns do not have the same function, and these two kinds of possessives can be confused on the TOEFL test. A possessive adjective describes a noun: it must be accompanied by a noun. A possessive pronoun takes the place of a noun: it cannot be accompanied by a noun.

Notice that in the first example the possessive adjective her is accompanied by the noun television. In the second example, the possessive pronoun hers is not accompanied by a noun.

The following chart outlines the possessives and their uses.

These examples show the types of errors that are possible with possessive adjectives and possessive pronouns on the TOEFL test.

The students turned in theirs* papers.

I would like to borrow your*.

§  In the first example, the possessive pronoun theirs is incorrect because it is accompanied by the noun papers, and a possessive pronoun cannot be accompanied by a noun. The possessive adjective their is needed in the first example. 

§  In the second example, the possessive adjective your is incorrect because it is not accompanied by a noun, and a possessive adjective must be accompanied by a noun. The possessive pronoun yours is needed in the second example.

EXERCISE 22: Each of the following sentences contains at least one possessive pronoun or adjective. Circle the possessives in these sentences. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. She cut hers hair recently. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Hers should be her.

2. We will take our car or theirs. (C) 

3. Please lend me yours notes from the history lecture. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Yours should be your

 4. I like his ideas and hers. (C)

5. The tree fell on its side during the storm. (C)

6. My desk is located near hers. (C)

7. Theirs suggestion was unrealistic. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Theirs should be their

8. Our appointment is just after your. (I)

    Analysis:

§  your should be yours

9. Your friends and my friends are coming to our party. (C)

10. You don’t have yours gloves with you, but I have mine. (I)

     Analysis:

§  yours should be your

SKILL 23

PRONOUNREFERENCE

After you have checked that the subject and object pronouns and the possessives are used correctly, you should also check each of these pronouns and possessives for agreement. The following are examples of errors of this type that you might find on the TOEFL test.

The cookies are for you, so please take it*.

Each person has to sign their* application form.

Analysis:

§  In the first example, the singular pronoun it is incorrect because it refers to the plural noun cookies. This pronoun should be replaced with the plural pronoun them.

§  In the second example, the plural possessive adjective their is incorrect because it refers to the singular each person. This adjective should be replaced with the singular his or her.

The following chart outlines what you should remember about checking pronoun reference.

EXERCISE 23: Each of the following sentences contains at least one pronoun or possessive. Circle the pronouns and possessives. Draw arrows to the nouns they refer to. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. If my friend calls, please tell them that I will return the call. (I)

    Analysis:

§  The pronoun them is in correct because it refers to my friend.

§  The pronoun them should be replaced by him or her.

2. I don’t like the idea because it is too costly. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The subject pronoun it is correct because it refers to singular noun the idea.

 3. The tables at the restaurant are so large that it can seat 12 people. (I)

      Analysis:

§  The subject pronoun it is incorrect because it refers to plural object the tables.

§  The subject pronoun it should be replaced by they.

 4. The soup needs more salt because he does not taste very good. (I)

     Analysis:

§  The subject pronoun he is incorrect because it refers to the soup.

§  The subject pronoun he should be replaced by it.

5. The girls ran too fast, and she fell down. (I)

    Analysis:

§  The subject pronoun she is incorrect because it refers to plural noun the girls.

§  The subject pronoun she should be replaced by they.

6. In the autumn, the tree lost its leaves. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The possessive pronoun its is correct because it refers to singular noun the tree.

7. The windows were open, so I closed it. (I)

    Analysis:

§  The object pronoun it is incorrect because it refers to plural noun the windows.

§  The object pronoun it should be replaced by them.

8. The travelers lost their way in the storm. (C)

     Analysis:

§  The possessive pronoun their is correct because it refers to the travelers.

9. The boy got the box, and he opened it carefully. (C)

    Analysis:

§  The subject pronoun he is correct because it refers to singular noun The boy.

10. The woman left their earrings at home, so she wasn’t wearing them. (I)

     Analysis:

§  Possessive pronoun their is incorrect because it refers to singular noun The woman.

§  Possessive pronoun their should be replaced by her.

SKILL 24

ADJECTIVE AND ADVERBS

Sometimes in the Written Expression section of the TOEFL test, adjectives are incorrectly used in place of adverbs, or adverbs are incorrectly used in place of adjectives. Adjectives and adverbs have very different uses in sentences. Adjectives have only one job: they describe nouns or pronouns.

§  In the first example, the adjective delicious describes the noun meal.

§  In the second example, the adjective delicious describes the pronoun it.

Adverbs have three different uses. They can describe verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs.

§  In the first example, the adverb quickly describes the verb writes. 

§  In the second example, the adverb quickly describes the adjective written (which describes the noun letter). 

§  n the third example, the adverb extremely describes the adverb quickly, which describes the adjective written (which describes the noun letter).

The following are examples of incorrect sentences as they might appear on the TOEFL test.

§  In the first example, the adverb largely is incorrect because the adjective large is needed to describe the noun table. 

§  In the second example, the adjective soft is incorrect because the adverb softly is needed to describe the verb talked. 

§  In the third example, the adjective extreme is incorrect because the adverb extremely is needed to describe the adjective long.

§  In the last example, the adjective unbelievable is incorrect because the adverb unbelievably is needed to describe the adverb quickly.

The following chart outlines the important information that you should remember about the use of adjectives and adverbs.

EXERCISE 24:
1. Her hair was an unusually color of red. (I)
   Analysis:

§  the adverb unusually is incorrect. It should be unusual (adjective) to describe the color (noun)

 2. The weather is really comfortable. (C)
   Analysis:

§  Really (adverb) is correct because it describes comfortable (adjective)

3. We attended a poor planned conference. (I)
   Analysis:

§  Adjective poor is incorrect. It should be poorly (adverb) because it describes planned (adjective).

4. He talked slowly and carefully. (C)
   Analysis:

§  Adverb Slowly and carefully are correct because they describe talked (verb)

5. The composition was careful prepared.(I)
    Analysis:

§  Adjective careful is incorrect. It should be carefully (adverb) because it describes prepared (adjective)

6. She had an incredible story about her long trip. (C)
    Analysis:

§  adjective incredible is correct because it describes story (noun).

7. He sent me a quickly written note. (C)
   Analysis:

§  adverb quickly is correct because it describes written (adjective).

§  adjective written is correct because it describes note (noun).

8. The cat meowed sad. (I)
    Analysis:

§  adjective sad is incorrect. It should be sadly (adverb) because it describes meowed (verb)

9. The children are hungry and tired. (C)
    Analysis:

§  Adjective hungry and tired are correct because they describe children (subject)

10. The lecturer spoke extremely loud. (I)
     Analysis:

§  Adjective loud is incorrect. It should be loudly (adverb) because it describes spoke (verb).

SKILL 25

ADJECTIVE AFTER LINKING VERBS

Generally an adverb rather than an-adjective will come directly after a verb because the adverb is describing the verb.

§  In this example, the verb spoke is followed by the adverb nicely. This adverb describes the verb spoke.

 However, you must be very careful if the verb is a linking verb. A linking verb is followed by an adjective rather than an adverb.

§  In this example, the linking verb looks is followed by the adjective nice. This adjective describes the subject she.

You should be sure to use an adjective rather than an adverb after a linking verb. Be careful, however, because the adjective that goes with the linking verb does not always directly follow the linking verb.

§  In this example, the adjective nice, which describes the subject he, is itself described by the adverb unusually. From this example, you should notice that it is possible to have an adverb directly after a linking verb, but only if the -adverb describes an adjective that follows.

These sentences show the types of errors with linking verbs that are common on the TOEFL test.

The test looks easily* to me.

Sally feels unbelievable* happy about the news.

§  In the first example, the linking verb looks should be followed by the adjective easy rather than the adverb easily. 

§  In the second example, the linking verb feels is followed by the adjective happy. The incorrect adjective unbelievable should be the adverb unbelievably because it describes the adjective happy.

The following chart lists commonly used linking verbs and outlines the differ ent uses of adjectives and adverbsafter regular verbs and linking verbs.

EXERCISE 25: Each of the following sentences contains at least one adjective or adverb. Indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

1. Kathy looks gorgeously in that dress. (I)

    Analysis:

§  Looks is linking Verb and should be followed by adjective gorgeous, not gorgeously.

§  So, the correct sentence should be Kathy looks gorgeous in that dress.

2. The children have grown considerably. (C)

    Analysis:

§  grown is regular verb and followed by adverb, considerably. So it is correct.

3. Steve walked rapid to the corner to catch the bus. (I)

   Analysis:

§  walk is regular verb and rapid is adjective. Rapid should be rapidly. So it incorrect.

§  The correct sentence should be Steve walked rapidly to the corner to catch the bus.

4. The boys became sick with the flu. (C)

    Analysis:

§  became is linking verb and sick is adjective. So , it is correct.

5. The mother closed the door careful. (I)


    Analysis:

§  closed is regular verb and careful is adjective. So it is incorrect.

§  careful should be carefully (Adverb)

6. Tom appeared rather unhappily at what had happened.(I)


    Analysis:

§  appeared is linking verb and unhappily is adverb, So it is incorrect.

§  unhappily should be happy (adjective)

7.The choir members sang enthusiastically. (C)


   Analysis:

§  sang is regular verb and enthusiastically is adverb. SO it is correct.

8. The soup tastes too salty. (I)

    Analysis:

§  tastes is linking verb and salty is adverb. So it is incorrect.

§  the correct sentence should be The soup tastes too salt.

9. The book seemed easily for the students.

    Analysis:

§  seemed is linking verb and easily is adverb. So it is incorrect.Easily should be easy (adjective)

§  The correct sentence should be The book seemed easy for the students.

 10. In the late afternoon, the sun set slow in the west.

      Analysis:

§  set is regular verb and slow is adjective. So it incorrect. Slow should be slowly (Adverb).

§  The correct sentence should be ......., the sun set slowly.....