Page 131 - Grammar for Great Writing B

Common Errors

Common Error 9.1 Is the article a or an missing?

a a
In some cultures, it is uncommon for man to shake hands with woman.
^ ^
a
In 1964, the Beatles introduced new type of music to listeners in the United States.
^
An analogy
Analogy is the comparison of an unfamiliar item to a familiar one.

REMEMBER: Use a or an with singular count nouns.

ACTIVITY 3 Common Error 9.1

Add the missing articles a or an in the correct locations. Change capitalization as needed. The number of
missing articles is in parentheses.

1. Taking short quiz is effective way to prepare for exam. (3)

2. Psychology is science. It is the scientific study of mental processes and human behavior. (1)

3. Paralegal assists lawyer with tasks such as conducting research, organizing files, and preparing for
meetings, trials, and hearings. (2)
4. Andrew Carnegie, leader in the U.S. steel industry in the late nineteenth century, said, “When fate
hands us lemon, let’s try to make lemonade.” (2)

5. Lionfish is invasive fish that poses threat to humans and other fish in the waters off the United
States. (3)

6. “The Interlopers” is short story by H. H. Munro, who wrote under the name of Saki. The story is
about two men who are involved in longtime family disagreement. (2)

7. Professional dancer is athlete, someone who trains every day to perfect his or her performance. (2)

8. Fossil fuels, such as oil, natural gas, or coal, are nonrenewable energy source. (1)

Common Errors 121

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