PSAT prep #2
The PSAT writing test is timed and in multiple-choice format. You will average less than a minute to answer a question. You will be scored on the number of correct answers, so answer the easier questions first. If you have time, try to answer the more difficult questions afterwards. Do not devote most of your time attempting to answer time-consuming questions. With minutes left at the end of the test, make sure you have answered all questions. Apply all the strategies, especially the process of elimination and reading questions first before reading the text.
Try answering today’s question, remembering the advice given in PSAT prep #1:.
Football, played on fields around the city, has always been popular in Dearborn.
- no change
- playing
- which is played
- that was played
The example in PSAT prep #1 was of an adjective, popular, modifying the subject playing. Today’s example is different in that the subject is modified by a participle, a verb used as an adjective, played. Participles can be present–playing, and past–played. The correct answer is a because the verb is passive: football is played by people. B is incorrect because playing is active: football is not playing; people play football. C and d violate the style rule of simplicity: use only necessary words to express an idea.
To make this lesson knowledge you can apply to your writing, in your own words restate what you have learned. Write an example sentence with a present participle and one with a past participle. Remember participles are verbs used as adjectives.