Page 33 - Grammar for Great Writing B

Common Errors

Common Error 2.1 Is the simple past form correct?

explained
One group of scientists noted that global warming did explain the decrease in ice thickness in the Arctic.

In contrast, another group of scientists stated that fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas did not
contribute
contributed to global warming.

RemembeR: Use only one past form. Use the simple past form of the verb in affirmative sentences.
Use did + not + the base form of the verb in negative sentences.

ACTIVITY 4 Common Error 2.1

There is one incorrect simple past verb form in each sentence or pair of sentences. Underline and correct
the incorrect verb form.

1. According to U.S. census data from 1900, most people did not lived in large cities; by 1930, the
opposite was true.

2. The medical team did identified the cause of the virus and began to research ways to eliminate it.

3. In the past, employers did often performed background checks on job applicants in order to confirm
their previous work experience.

4. Data from the U.S. Department of Labor shows that from 1938 to 1968, the minimum wage did
increased from 25 cents per hour to $1.60 per hour.

5. Many members of the so-called Traditionalist Generation, people who were born before 1946, did not
viewed work as fun but rather as an obligation.

6. In the story, the main character looked and did see the bright blue sky through her open window; the
window represented her future freedom.

7. In their study, psychologists did compared the grades of students who were procrastinators with
those who were not.

8. Following a regular plan of exercise is not easy for many people. However, one study did showed that
after only one month of exercising three times a week, people’s fitness levels improved.

Common Errors 23

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