Question

A) NO CHANGE B) parks their C) parks-their D) parks, their-

Short answer

Based on grammar rules and proper punctuation, the most suitable answer is option B) parks their, as it uses the possessive pronoun 'their' correctly and has proper punctuation. However, without knowing the full context of the sentence, a definitive answer cannot be determined.

Step-by-step solution

1. Understand the context of the sentence

Read the sentence provided and pay attention to the structure and context.

2. Analyze options A, B, C, and D and consider grammar rules

Evaluate each option based on grammar rules and word usage. A) NO CHANGE B) parks their C) parks-their D) parks, their

3. Eliminate options based on incorrect grammar usage and improper punctuation

Remove options that do not follow proper grammar rules or punctuation Option C) parks-their - Incorrect due to improper usage of the hyphen between the words 'parks' and 'their.' Hyphens should not be used in this context. Option D) parks, their - Incorrect due to improper usage of a comma between the words 'parks' and 'their.' The sentence's possessive pronoun should not be separated with a comma in this context.

4. Choose the appropriate option

Based on the correct grammar rules and punctuation, the remaining options are: A) NO CHANGE B) parks their Since we are unable to see the full sentence in this particular exercise, it's difficult to definitively choose between options A and B, as either option could be correct depending on the context of the entire sentence. However, assuming there was a mistake in the original sentence, we would choose option B) parks their because it uses the possessive pronoun 'their' and has proper punctuation.

Key concepts

Grammar Rules

Understanding grammar rules is vital when selecting the correct answer in writing exercises. Grammar rules help ensure that sentences are structured correctly, making writing clear and effective. In the SAT Writing and Language section, these rules are tested frequently. Key aspects include subject-verb agreement, proper usage of pronouns, and correct verb tense.

• Subject-Verb Agreement: The subject of a sentence must agree with its verb in number. Singular subjects take singular verbs, and plural subjects take plural verbs. Pay attention to compound subjects to determine the correct verb form.
• Pronouns: Ensure proper pronoun referents. A pronoun should refer clearly to a noun in the sentence to avoid confusion. Pronouns must also agree in number and gender with the noun they are replacing.
• Verb Tense: Maintain a consistent verb tense, unless a change in time frame is required. Consistency helps preserve the clarity of the sentence.

When handling multiple-choice questions like in the exercise, apply these rules to eliminate options with grammatical errors.

Punctuation

Punctuation is the tool that guides readers through the sentence, showing them where to pause or stop. Using punctuation correctly is essential for clarity and meaning. It involves the correct use of commas, periods, colons, semicolons, hyphens, and dashes. Each punctuation mark has specific rules:

• Commas: Use commas to separate items in a list, after introductory elements, and to set off nonessential information. They help prevent misreading by indicating brief pauses.
• Hyphens: These are used to connect words serving together to modify another word, as in 'well-known fact.' Hyphens are not used between independent words or phrases.
• Dashes: Slightly longer than a hyphen, dashes add emphasis or introduce a list or explanation. They can be used as parentheses to enclose additional information.

In the exercise context, improper punctuation usage—like the incorrect placement of a hyphen or comma—can change a sentence's meaning or make it grammatically incorrect. Understanding punctuation's role allows us to recognize and correct such errors.

Possessive Pronouns

Possessive pronouns are used to indicate ownership or possession. Words like 'my,' 'your,' 'his,' 'her,' 'its,' 'our,' and 'their' function as possessive pronouns. These pronouns are not followed by an apostrophe, unlike possessive nouns.

• Function: They help streamline sentences by avoiding repetition. Instead of repeating nouns, possessive pronouns neatly replace them. For example, "This is Mary's book" becomes "This is her book."
• Agreement: Like other pronouns, possessive pronouns must agree in number and gender with the noun they refer to. 'Their' is used for plural nouns or when gender is unknown.
• Usage: Possessive pronouns can also indicate relationships or characteristics, such as "our team" or "its color."

While assessing exercises, pay attention to proper usage of possessive pronouns, deciding between potential answers based on which word correctly shows possession. Understanding this concept helps make informed choices that are consistent with grammatical rules.