| Grammar
Proficiency Study Packet |
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This study packet is
designed for students who want to improve their scores on the NHC
Grammar Proficiency Exam or to improve their grammar skills. These
topics are covered:
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Menu
Sentence
Patterns
Sentence Fragments and Run-ons
Colons and Semicolons
Agreement
of Subject and Verb
Pronoun and Antecedent
Agreement
Parallel Structure
Misplaced Modifiers
Shifts
Comma
Apsostrophe
Quotation Marks
Capitalization
Usage
Grammar Proficiency Exam (Study
Version)
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Each topic
begins with a short explanation followed by a practice exercise.
Study the explanation first, and then do the exercises. You can
check your work with the answer key in the Writing Center.
How
can I get more help?
If you
are enrolled in an English class, begin by asking your teacher how
much grammar will be reviewed in class. Then, study your own textbook,
and take advantage of any class discussions on proofing and editing.
The NHC
Writing Center offers more support: free tutors, handouts and answer
keys, a practice version of the Grammar Proficiency Exam (hardcopy
or on-line), and computer software. See a member of the Writing
Center staff for help in finding the materials you need.
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| Usage |
| Grammar usage refers to spelling and word choice such as lie/lay,
rise/raise, sit/set, to/too/two. There are too many different usage
choices to explain in one handout. Instead, look in your own textbook
to review the section on usage and word choice. If you cannot find
this section in your textbook, your teacher or a writing tutor can
help you find it. |
| Another usage resource is the Alan Meyers workbook, Writing With
Confidence, 3rd edition. See chapters 15, pp. 344-366, for examples
and practice. This text is on reserve at the Main Desk, with the answer
key available in the teacher's manual. |
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| Conclusion |
| Once this packet is complete,
you should take the practice Grammar Proficiency Test (Form Z), which
is available on-line or on paper. Ask for it in the Writing Center.
A score of 26 is passing. Your score on the practice test will let
you know whether you are ready to take the actual test. After you
take the practice test, you may want to take your results to a writing
tutor to go over the errors you made. Your goal is not only to obtain
a passing score of the exam, but also to write clearly and correctly
in your English class, your other college classes, and in your profession.
Good luck! |
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Assembled
by Pete Gregson, 7/90
Revised by Pete Gregson and Barbara Drow, 1/91
2nd Revision by Barbara Drow, 6/93
3rd Revision by Tara Edwards and Pat Szmania, 6/99
Rewritten by Tara Edwards, 1/00; Revised 5/00 |
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Montgomery County Community College District
North Harris College
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