Question 1
Is "The classroom was a zoo" a metaphor or a simile?
- A. Metaphor
- B. Simile
Show answer and explanation
Answer: Metaphor
It says the classroom was a zoo without using like or as.
Common misconception: Thinking any comparison is a simile.
English Practice Questions
6 questions. Work each one out before revealing the answer.
Question 2
Choose the correct word: "The weather will ___ our plans." (affect/effect)
- A. affect
- B. effect
Show answer and explanation
Answer: affect
Here a verb meaning to influence is needed, and affect is the usual verb.
Common misconception: Using effect as the verb.
Question 3
Which of these is the strongest thesis statement for an essay?
- A. Pollution is bad.
- B. This essay is about pollution.
- C. City governments should limit private car use because it reduces air pollution more cost-effectively than other measures.
- D. Many people think about pollution.
Show answer and explanation
Answer: City governments should limit private car use because it reduces air pollution more cost-effectively than other measures.
The strongest thesis is specific and arguable and gives a reason. The others are too general or merely announce a topic.
Common misconception: Writing a topic or a fact instead of a claim.
Question 4
Complete the sentence: "The cat licked ___ paws." (its/it's)
- A. its
- B. it's
Show answer and explanation
Answer: its
Its shows possession. It's would mean it is or it has.
Common misconception: Adding an apostrophe to show possession.
Question 5
Why does a paraphrase of someone else's idea still need a citation?
Show answer and explanation
Answer: The idea belongs to the original author, even if the words are yours.
Citations credit ideas as well as exact words.
Common misconception: Believing that changing the wording removes the need to cite.
Question 6
Which sentence contains a simile?
- A. Time is a thief.
- B. She was as brave as a lion.
- C. The wind whispered.
- D. Life is a journey.
Show answer and explanation
Answer: She was as brave as a lion.
A simile compares using like or as.
Common misconception: Confusing similes with metaphors.
Study guides
- Essay Structure BasicsCornerstone guide
- Writing a Strong Thesis StatementSupporting explainer
- Commonly Confused WordsVocabulary reference
- Metaphor vs SimileVocabulary reference