BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
KEYS TO GRAMMAR EXERCISES CHAPTER 1: PHRASES
C1, U1: PHRASES ACCORDING TO 4.
(Otto), busily mixing the formula, didn’t STRUCTURES
notice the (water) in the beaker boiling dry. PARTICIPIAL PHRASES 5. Running
to catch a bus, (Doris) tripped and sprained ankle.
Exercise 1: Underline the Participles of
Participial Phrases used as Adjectives and cross 6. Having got home, (he) went to sleep
out the Participles used as Verbs in the following immediately. sentences. 7.
(Alex), looking very unhappy, was leaning 1.
The dancer, gyrating wildly, was discovered to
against the fence, watching the game. be insane. 8. Marching
up to the counters, (the woman) 2.
My brother, taking a calculus class, has
pointed to through the stack of freshly folded forgotten all his algebra. shirts. 3.
The crazy dancer was taking a basket-weaving 9.
Forest fires are often caused by smoldering class instead of calculus.
(embers) left by careless campers or picnickers. 4. Pushing
aside all his inhibitions, my brother
will dance while he is memorizing his 10. Blinded
by the dazzling (snow), almost frozen geometric formulae.
after the long journey, (the explorer) had great
difficulty in finding and striking his matches. 5.
Unfortunately, the Spanish class fulfilling my
language requirement includes my brother and the dancer.
Exercise 3: Wherever possible, change the 6.
Usually, a class harboring insane dancers and
subordinate clauses into participial phrases.
incompetent brothers is a difficult learning environment. 1.
The tune that is being played is quite familiar to me. 7. Rising
out of the sea in front of us, the sun
- The tune that is (being) played is quite started to warm our faces. familiar to me. 8. Printed
on the very first press, the document 2.
When the work was done, they went home. was extremely valuable.
- When The work (being) done, they went 9. Broken
by a government whistle-blower, the home. news is all over the media. 3.
When I had done my work, I went home.
10. These days most people are using email
- Having done my work, I went home. instead of writing letters. 4.
They could not make the trip as they had no money.
- Having no money, they could not make a trip.
Exercise 2: Each of the following sentences 5.
The letter you sent to me arrived safely.
contains one or more participles. Underline all
- The letter you sent to me arrived safely.
of these participles and then circle the word that 6.
Do you know the lady who is just entering the
each participle qualifies. house? 1.
All broken test (tubes) must be replaced by the
- Do you know the lady who is (just) entering chemistry students. the house? 2.
Bill appeared on the stage, his (face) painted 7.
As she was afraid, she did not want to go beyond recognition. home alone.
- Being afraid, she did not want to go home 3.
I saw (him) leaning out the window, shouting and waving at the passer-by. alone. 8.
Although he was badly hurt, he walked all the way home.
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
- (Being) badly hurt, he walked all the way 4.
We weren’t particularly eager to appear in the home.
variety show. (Adverb modifies ‘eager’) 9.
If the weather permits, we shall leave early. 5.
Ann went to Canada to visit relatives for a
- The weather permitting, we shall leave early.
week, and then decided to work there.
(Adverb modifies ‘went’, O of ‘decided’)
10. As I had broken my pen, I had to buy a new one. 6.
Don is sure to forget the key if you don’t
- Having broken my pen, I had to buy a new
remind him. (Adverb modifies ‘sure’) one. 7. To be successful
doesn’t necessarily mean to
be wealthy. (Subject, Object/Complement) GERUND PHRASES 8.
Does Mr Theodore intend to come on Saturday
to play for the auditions? (O of ‘intend’;
Exercise 4: Underline the gerund phrases and Adverb)
then tell their functions. 9.
Sometimes it is hard to understand dad’s 1. Joining club is a good way of meeting new
mood. (Adverb modifies ‘hard’) people. (S of V; O of Prep.)
10. She wants to know if anyone has an umbrella 2.
Harold doesn’t like making speeches in front
to lend her. (O of ‘wants’, Adverb modifies of the class. (O of V)
‘has’/Adjective modifies ‘umbrella’) 3. Standing
next to Ed made Joan appear taller than she is. (S of V) PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES 4.
All Bill’s friends have been worrying about his
quitting school in June. (O of prep)
Exercise 6: Underline the Prepositional Phrases
and circle the Preposition in the following 5.
We ended by going downtown and watching sentences. the parade. (O.s of Prep.s)
Example: The cat is hiding behind the door . 6.
Without a doubt dancing helps in developing
grace, poise, and confidence. (S of V; O of 1. The teenager in the red jacket ran past the Prep.) door. 7.
After looking all over the house for the 2. Under the tree in the back of the lawn is a
missing copy of Hamlet, Helen stopped wrecked car.
searching and bought a new one. (O of Prep; O of V) 3. Among young men
, suits and ties are not the fashion. 8.
Without having stirred from his chair, Nero
Wolfe had succeeded in solving the . mystery 4.
I would love to dance in The Nutcracker like you. (O of Prep; O of Prep) 9.
The reporter’s constant worry is meeting a 5. Between you and me
, I think this exercise is too easy. deadline. (Complement)
10. Larry’s first job, interviewing Mickey Mantle, 6. We will be back in a few days .
made him the envy of the staff. (Appositive) 7.
We’ve got a new television with a thirty one inch screen. 8. The lion was killed by the hunter . 9. Helen is the girl in the red dress . INFINITIVE PHRASES
Exercise 5: Underline the infinitive phrases in 10. They drove to Glasgow .
the following sentences and tell their functions in the sentence. 1.
Doris’s only ambition is to become a great actress. (complement)
Exercise 7: Underline the prepositional phrases
in the following sentences and tell whether the 2.
Young people should learn to think for
phrase is used as an Adjective or Adverb.
themselves. (Object of ‘learn’) 1.
We scrambled over the fence and ran through 3.
Bert’s summer job, clerking in a store, helped
the orchard at break-neck speed .
(to) pay his college expenses. (O of ‘helped’) (Adverb, Adverb, Adverb)
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 2.
The girl with black hair is Jerry’s cousin from 5. My hands
were so cold I dropped the script
Washington D.C. (Adjective, Adjective)
several times. S of V, O of V, modifier of V 3. By Friday
the girls in the first tent were no 6. Our closest friends have just bought longer speaking to each other. a new house
in the village. S of V, O of V, O of (Adverb, Adjective, Adverb) prep. 4.
Martha piled Tommy’s toys behind Dad’s 7.
Both of my younger brothers are married. O of
chair, flicked dust cloth over the tables, and prep. smoothed the cushions . ( on the sofa Adverb, 8. The eight-year-old boy attempted to rob a Adjective, Adjective)
sweet shop with a pistol. S of V, O of V, O of 5.
The sweet potatoes in the vegetable bin are prep.
green with mold. (Adjective, Adverb) 9.
That attractive young woman in the blue dress 6.
The new tennis ball rolled off the table and
sitting over there in the corner is my aunt. S of
bounced down the porch stairs into a puddle of V
water. (Adverb, Adverb, Adverb)
That attractive young woman in the blue dress
sitting over there in the corner is my aunt. 7.
He quickly stood up from an arm-chair and O of
stepped out of the room. (Adverb, Adverb) prep., O of prep., SC 10. Many
buildings were destroyed in the 8. In spite of his sarcasm I knew he was happy earthquake.
about his job. (Adverb, Adverb) S of V, O of prep. 11. Akbar's son
Prince Sultan Salim, later known 9.
Ken was sitting between Alice and Sue in the
as Jehangir wrote that nobody could make out
booth near the window. (Adv, Adv, Adv)
that Akbar was an illiterate. S of V, Appositive,
10. Because of her encouraging remarks , he has SC
been working like a steam engine.
12. Akbar was a very hard-working King. (Adverb, Adverb) SC
13. Birbal is surely one of the most popular figures
in Indian history equally regarded by adults and children. SC
Birbal is surely one of the most popular figures
NOUN PHRASES BASED ON THEIR
in Indian history equally regarded by adults STRUCTURES
and children. O of prep.
Exercise 8: Underline the noun phrases based on
Birbal is surely one of the most popular figures
their structure in each sentence and tell their
in Indian history equally regarded by adults function.
and children. O of prep.
Birbal is surely one of the most popular figures 1.
As an actor, I had appeared in innumerable
in Indian history equally regarded by adults
school broadcasts. O of prep., O of prep.
and children. O of prep. 2.
It was a humorous programme, but sometimes 14. Bi
rbal's duties in Akbar's court were mostly
it also managed to raise controversial issues.
administrative and military but he was a very SC, O of V
close friend of Akbar too, because Akbar 3. That week’s programme had a piece on the
loved his wisdom, wit and subtle humor. S of
impossibility of avoiding any mention of the V, SC, O of V war. S of V, O of V
Birbal's duties in Akbar's court were mostly
That week’s programme had a piece on the
administrative and military but he was a very
impossibility of avoiding any mention of the
close friend of Akbar too, because Akbar war. O of prep.
loved his wisdom, wit and subtle humor. O of
That week’s programme had a piece on the prep.
impossibility of avoiding any mention of the
15. He was a minister in the administration of war. O of V
Mogul Emperor Akbar and one of the
That week’s programme had a piece on the
members of inner council of nine advisors. SC
impossibility of avoiding any mention of the
He was a minister in the administration of war. O of prep.
Mogul Emperor Akbar and one of the 4.
I was filming The Paras at the time, and my
members of inner council of nine advisors. O
manager had to come down to Wales with the of prep., O of prep.
script. O of V, O of prep., S of V, O of prep., O
He was a minister in the administration of of prep.
Mogul Emperor Akbar and one of the
members of inner council of nine advisors. O
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises of prep., O of prep. 7. The dress was too small for her .
He was a minister in the administration of 8. She's not old enough to get married .
Mogul Emperor Akbar and one of the
members of inner council of nine advisors. O 9. You're too young to have grandchildren ! of prep. 10. The teacher was rather nice .
16. He was a poet and an author too. SC 11. Why are you so angry about it ?
17. It is believed that he was a son of poor
Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of 12. I was pleased with the present you gave me . River Yamuna. SC 13. I'm not ashamed of what I did .
It is believed that he was a son of poor
Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of 14. I'm not very good at repairing things .
River Yamuna. O of prep. 15. Florence is famous for its art treasures .
It is believed that he was a son of poor
Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of
16. Many courtiers were jealous with Birbal and River Yamuna.
often plotted for his downfall. O of prep.
It is believed that he was a son of poor
17. There are a couple of other stories too which
Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of
are of the same time and type and are as
River Yamuna. O of prep. interesting as Birbal's ones .
It is believed that he was a son of poor
Braahman of Trivikrampur on the banks of
18. It was cold, bleak, biting weather.
River Yamuna. O of prep.
19. The very small kitten jumped at the big dog.
18. According to a popular legend, he died on an
20. “Marge, you're as pretty as Princess
expedition to Afghanistan at the head of a Leia and as smart as Yoda."
large military force due to treachery. O of prep., O of prep.
According to a popular legend, he died on an
ADVERB PHRASES ACCORDING TO
expedition to Afghanistan at the head of a STRUCTURES
large military force due to treachery. O of prep.
Exercise 10: Underline the adverb phrases in the
According to a popular legend, he died on an
following sentences and circle the head word of
expedition to Afghanistan at the head of a the phrase.
large military force due to treachery. O of 1. He didn't work hard enough . prep. 2. He works too hard.
19. It is also said that when Birbal died, Akbar
mourned him for several months. O of prep. 3. He worked very quickly .
20. The exchanges between Akbar and Birbal have 4. The man drove really badly .
been recorded in many volumes. S of V, O of 5. I go to the movies quite frequently . prep.
The exchanges between Akbar and Birbal have 6. Very slowly , we edged down the mountain.
been recorded in many volumes. O of prep. 7. Somewhat reluctantly , she returned home a week early.
ADJECTIVE PHRASES BASED ON THEIR 8. People view things totally differently from STRUCTURES each other.
Exercise 9: Underline the adjective phrases in 9. The weather report is almost always right.
the following sentences and circle the head word 10. He talks extremely fast . of the phrase. 1. The water was extremely cold . 2. They are completely exhausted from the trip . VERB PHRASES 3. I am too tired to go out tonight .
Exercise 11: Underline the verb phrase in each 4. Is your coffee hot enough ? following sentence. 5. This coffee is too hot . 1.
Many sea otters do live off the coast of 6. She's not experienced enough for this job . California.
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 2.
Karen can almost always memorize anything.
13. My garden is dying, pesticides having been applied by mistake. 3.
Next month I will volunteer at Children's Hospital.
14. As the parole board met to decide the fates of
several people, the prisoner was hoping for 4.
By the end of Saturday's football game, our parole.
quarterback had completed six touchdown passes. 15. Legs
quivering , our old dog Gizmo dreamed of chasing squirrels. 5.
Drew might audition for a part in the school play. 16. Its leaves burned off by the fire , the dead tree fell. 6.
The swim team does not often practice for
more than an hour each morning.
17. We hurried to the game, our anticipation being high. 7.
My brother has forgotten his locker key again this week.
18. She returned to her bench, her face showing all
the unhappiness that had suddenly overtaken 8.
Sarah may be running in the relay race her. tomorrow.
19. The boy watched, his eyes bulging in the dark. 9.
My family has not invited John to the party.
20. About the bones, ants were ebbing away, their
10. The Kansas City Royals did win the 1985 pincers full of meat. World Series.
MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISES ON ABSOLUTE PHRASE
PHRASES BASED ON STRUCTURES
Exercise 12: Underline the absolute phrases in
Exercise 13: Write the name of the underline
the following sentences if any.
phrases and their functions on the lines. 1.
The girl with brown eyes is my sister. 1. Her suspicions confirmed , the police officer Name: prep. Phrase made the arrest.
Function: Adj modifies ‘girl’.................... 2.
Backing out of the driveway, I hit the mailbox. 2.
(a) For two years I worked (b) in Chicago. a. Name: Prep. Phr. 3.
They will take the daytime train, the landscape Function: inviting. Adv of sentence b. Name: prep. Phr. 4. My doubts relieved , I gained confidence as the
Function: Adv. Modifies the verb ‘worked’ game progressed. 3.
The library located in the campus needs repair. 5.
Peering through a microscope, the scientist
Name: Past participial Phr. identified several microbes.
Function: Adj modifies the N ‘library’ 6. His dogs panting with exertion , Hagos took a 4. Keeping a budget requires great patience. break from his run. Name: Gerund Phr.
Function: Subject of V ‘requires’ 7.
Its shutters hanging limply in the wind , the
house looked abandoned and forlorn. 5. I am glad to see you. Name: Inf. Phr. 8. The car rusted and worthless , I left it at the
Function: Adv. modifies Adj ‘glad’ junkyard. 6.
He entered the room through the door on the 9.
Wearing a red plaid outfit, Lydia looked like a right. character in a novel. Name: Prep. Phr.
10. Everything planned in advance , the party went
Function: Adv. modifies the V ‘entered’.. like clockwork. Name: Prep. Phr.
Function: Adj. modifies the N ‘door’.......
11. We scrambled from the car, racing to the amusement park gates. 7. Paying one’s bill is sometimes difficult.
Name: Gerund Phr. ................................
12. Moving quickly, the lion cut off the fleeing
.................................................................. zebra.
Function: S of the V ‘is’ ..........................
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 8.
John wanted to become an engineer.
Exercise 2: For each sentence, underline the Name: Inf. Phr.
phrase(s) that function(s) as a Noun and tell
Function: O of the V ‘wanted’
their name based on structure and their
function in the sentence. 9. Playing handball is pleasant exercises. Name: Gerund Phr. 1.
Once upon a time, there was a peaceful
Function: S of the V ‘is’ kingdom. - N.P – S.C
10. The boy flying the kite was envied by other children. 2. The king
heard rumors that barbarians were
Name: Present. Part. Phr.
going to attack his castle soon.
Function: Adj. modifies the N ‘boy’.........
- N.P – S of V; N.P – O of V Name: Prep. Phr. 3.
So he called his two favorite pets - the huge
Function: Adv modifies the V ‘envied’.... grey goose and gander.
- N.P – O of V; N.P - appositive
C1, U2: NOUN PHRASES BASED ON 4. Our kingdom is in danger. FUNCTIONS
- N.P – S of V; Prep.P – S.C
Exercise 1: For each sentence, underline the 5.
“Take my daughter to a safe place on top of
phrase(s) that function(s) as a Noun and tell
the tallest hill,” said the king.
their name based on structure and their
my daughter: N.P – O of V; to a safe place …
function in the sentence.
hill: Prep.P – O.C; a safe place: N.P – O of
prep.; top of the tallest hill: N.P – O of prep.; 1. Georgie Porgie was a cheeky little boy.
the tallest hill: N.P – O of prep. N.P-S of V; N.P – S.C 6.
So the grey goose and gander flew the 2.
He liked to tease people especially little girls.
princess who sat in a red sheet to the top of - Inf.P – O of V
the tallest hill. - the grey goose and gander: 3.
One afternoon, he went to the park near his
N.P – S of V; the princess … sheet: N.P – O house.
of V; a red sheet: N.P – O of prep.; to the top - N.P – O of Prep.
… hill: Prep.P – O.C; the top of the tallest
hill: N.P – O of prep.; the tallest hill: N.P – O 4.
He found a little girl and tried to kiss her. of prep.
- N.P – O of V; Inf.P – O of V 7. Six months
had passed but the kingdom was 5. The girl
cried and sobbed because she did not not attacked. like Georgie.
- N.P – S of V; N.P – S of V - N.P – S of V 8. The king
regretted his decision and told the 6.
Then, some boys came to the park and saw
grey goose and gander to bring home his
Georgie chasing after the girl. daughter.
- N.P – S of V; N.P – O of Prep.; Present
- N.P – S of V; N.P – O of V; N.P – O of V; Part.P. – O.C Inf.P – O.C 7.
They shouted and laughed loudly at Georgie. 9.
Then the king understood that he had to be No NP based on function.
careful before taking actions based up the 8.
Georgie stopped chasing the girl and ran away
rumors which need not be true. feeling embarrassed.
- N.P – S of V; Gerund P – O of prep.; N.P – - Gerund P – O of V O of prep. 9.
Thereafter Georgie hesitated to play with his 10. The king
was aware of his discretion before friends taking any decision. - Inf.P – O of V
- N.P – S of V; N.P – O of prep.; Gerund P. –
because he remembered his embarrassment O of prep.
that he faced in front of his friends.
11. What is essential is to maintain a healthy diet.
- N.P – O of V; N.P – O of prep.
– Infinitive Phrase - SC 10. This incident prohibited him from chasing
What is essential is to maintain a healthy diet. girls thereafter.
– NP – O of V
- N.P – S of V; Gerund P – O of Prep. 12. The decision
was to extend the deadline by
three months. – NP – S of V
The decision was to extend the deadline by
three months. – Infinitive P – SC
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
The decision was to extend the deadline by its back. - Prep.P
three months. – NP – O of V
The donkey felt very happy about the
The decision was to extend the deadline by
reduction in the weight of the sack of salt on
three months. – NP – O of Prep. its back. - Prep.P
The donkey felt very happy about the 13. Being a student sometimes means spending
reduction in the weight of the sack of salt on
long hours in the library. – Gerund P –S of V its back. -
Being a student sometimes means spending Prep.P
long hours in the library. – Gerund P – SC 9.
From that day, it became a regular practice for
Being a student sometimes means spending
the donkey to slip and fall in the pond
long hours in the library. – NP – O of V
whenever they crossed the pond to the market.
Being a student sometimes means spending – Prep.P
long hours in the library. – NP – O of prep.
From that day, it became a regular practice for
the donkey to slip and fall in the pond 14. Your only responsibility is to babysit your
whenever they crossed the pond to the market.
younger siblings. – NP – S of V –
Your only responsibility is to babysit your Infinitive P
younger siblings. – Infinitive P – SC
10. That cruel snake eats all the eggs in the nest. –
Your only responsibility is to babysit your Prep.P
younger siblings. – NP - OC 15. My favorite hobby is gardening in the morning. –
Exercise 4: For each sentence, underline the NP – S of V
phrase(s) that function(s) as an Adjective and
My favorite hobby is gardening in the morning. –
tell their name based on their structure. Gerund P - SC 1. Watching this behind the tree , the swan and
the crab heaved a sigh of relief. – Present
ADJECTIVE PHRASES BASED ON
Participial Phrase; Prep.P FUNCTIONS 2.
The next day, the mongoose, looking for more
Exercise 3: For each sentence, underline the
fish, came upon the swan’s nest. - Present
phrase(s) that function(s) as an Adjective and Participial Phrase; NP
tell their name based on their structure. 3.
Many years ago, the members of the jungle did 1.
The lamp felt very proud of itself that it was
not have any King. – Prep.P
the brightest object in the universe. - Adj. P
The lamp felt very proud of itself that it was 4. The nearby motel offers cheap but comfortable rooms. –
the brightest object in the universe. - Adj.P Prep.P 2.
I am not very expert in this task. - 5. These are unbelievably expensive shoes. – Adj.P Adj.P 3.
There was a small puppy lying on an old rug
which my mother had put outside the door. 6. Sarah was fairly bored with you . – Adj.P - Present Participial P 7. The extremely tired lioness is losing patience 4.
There were questions in my mind. -
with her overly enthusiastic cub. – Adj.P Prep.P
The extremely tired lioness is losing patience 5.
Once, there lived a washer man named with her overly enthusiastic cub . – Prep.P
Bheema. - Past participial phrase
The extremely tired lioness is losing patience with her overly enthusiastic cub. 6.
One night, few thieves broke in the house of Adj.P
that washer man. - Prep.P 8. The dog covered in m ud looked pleased with himself. – 7.
The sack of salt on the donkey’s back fell into Past participial P
The dog covered in mud looked pleased with the water. - Prep.P himself. -
The sack of salt on the donkey’s back fell into Adj.P the water. - Prep.P 9. The frames beautifully carved by m onks are
worth more than the painting. – 8.
The donkey felt very happy about the Past
reduction in the weight of the sack of salt on participial Phrase
The frames beautifully carved by monks are its back. - Adj.P
worth more than the painting. –
The donkey felt very happy about the Adj.P
reduction in the weight of the sack of salt on
10. The woman on the boat is my aunt Carol. – its back. - Prep.P Prep.P
The donkey felt very happy about the
reduction in the weight of the sack of salt on
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
11. The fire has made the room much warmer. –
The next day morning, everyone in the family Adj.P
came to know about the unusual guest. – Inf.P
12. The tour guides announced the most dangerous 7.
He came to my room and sat near me. –
place to swim along the southern shore. – Prep.P Adj.P
He came to my room and sat near me. –
The tour guides announced the most dangerous Prep.P place to swim along the southern shore . – 8.
She quickly tied a bandage around his leg. – Infinitive P Prep.P
13. The reviewer named the most organized 9.
After this incident my relation with Spotty
classrooms in the English building. –Adj.P
The reviewer named the most organized
became more intense. – Prep.P
classrooms in the English building. – Prep.P 10. One
midnight we heard Spotty barking
14. I want you to leave now. – breathlessly. – NP Inf.P
One midnight we heard Spotty barking
15. I found him somewhat recovered. – Past breathlessly. – Adv participial P 11. In
a dense forest , there was lake. – Prep.P
12. It takes place every day. NP
ADVERBIAL PHRASES BASED ON
13. I'll do it in a minute. – Prep.P FUNCTIONS
14. You couldn't park anywhere near the place. –
Exercise 5: For each sentence, underline the Adv.P
phrase(s) that function(s) as an Adverb and tell
You couldn't park anywhere near the place. –
their name based on their structure in the sentence. Prep.P
15. Opera is when a guy gets stabbed in the 1.
I am suffering very much with pains. – Adv.P
back and, instead of bleeding, he sings. –
I am suffering very much with pains. – Prep.P Prep.P 2.
It was raining very heavily on the day we
Opera is when a guy gets stabbed in the shifted. – Adv.P
back and, instead of bleeding, he sings. –
It was raining very heavily on the day we Prep.P shifted. - Prep.P
16. He would always talk with a nationalistic tone. 3. In the midnight
I heard a loud thud outside the – Prep.P main door. – Prep.P
17. He sings in a low register.
In the midnight I heard a loud thud outside the Prep.P main door. – Prep.P
18. People who say they sleep like a baby usually don't have one. – 4.
It was difficult to see the little one. – Prep.P Inf.P
19. Dad spoke softly to calm her fears. – 5.
He was trying to get inside the curved rug to Adv.P Dad spoke softly . –
avoid the chilling air outside. - to calm her fears Inf.P Inf.P 20. With much consideration , he made his 6. The next day morning , everyone in the family decision. –
came to know about the unusual guest. - Prep.P NP
MISCELLANEOUS EXERCISES ON PHRASES
Exercise 6: Identify the underlined phrase and write the answer on the line.
(i) Name according to its
(ii) Name according to its (iii) Function structure function a. Subject of Verb a. Infinitive phrase a. Noun phrase b. Object of Verb b. Present participial phrase b. Adjective phrase c. Object of preposition c. Past participial phrase c. Adverb phrase d. Subjective Complement d. Gerund phrase e. Objective complement e. Prepositional phrase f. Appositive f. Noun phrase g. Modifier of Noun g. Adjective phrase h. Modifier of Verb h. Adverb phrase i. Modifier of Adverb j. Modifier of Adjective
k. Modifier of the whole sentence
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 1.
Steven's book, which made Oprah's Book
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
Club this month, is not in any stores.
- Name according to function: Adj.P
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
Function: modifier of the noun ‘chance’
- Name according to function: NP 9.
The dog that Sam chose from the litter seems
Function: Subjective Complement to be healthy. 2.
While preparing for the speech, Joe couldn't
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
help but worry about his entrance.
- Name according to function: Adv.P
- Name according to structure: Present
Function: Modifier of the verb ‘chose’ Participial P
10. Sam Smith, who recently spoke to the youth
- Name according to function: Adj.P
Function: Modifier of the S ‘Joe’
group, excels at motivating young people.
- Name according to structure: Gerund P 3.
Ahmad wants to visit Quebec, but he will
- Name according to function: N.P
need to wait for his next vacation.
Function: Object of the Prep. ‘at’
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
11. Pushed beyond endurance , the runner
- Name according to function: N.P dropped the baton.
Function: Object of the V ‘wants’
- Name according to structure: Past Par.P 4. Hoping for a miracle
, the doctors continued
- Name according to function: Adj.P the surgery.
Function: Modifier of the S ‘the runner’
- Name according to structure: Present
12. The shoes he saw in the catalogue are Par.P
available down the street.
- Name according to function: Adj.P Function:
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
modifier of the S ‘the doctors’
- Name according to function: Adv.P 5.
Our boss supports donating time to charity.
Function: modifier of the Adj ‘available’
- Name according to structure: Gerund P
13. The reporter crouched* behind that tree got
- Name according to function: N.P
the best picture of the arrest. Function: (Núp,né)
Object of the verb ‘supports’
- Name according to structure: Past Par.P 6.
Melanie hoped to find a cure for the disease,
- Name according to function: Adj.P
but she tried to be realistic.
Function: modifier of the N ‘reporter’
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
14. Keith tried supporting both teams, but his
- Name according to function: N.P Function: heart was with Oregon.
Object of the verb ‘hoped’
- Name according to structure: Gerund P 7. After the banquet
*, the cooks will take a
- Name according to function: N.P
well-deserved break. (Bữa tiệc lớn)
Function: Object of the verb ‘tried’
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
15. Katrina, who resented being left at home,
- Name according to function: Adverb P Function:
drew on the walls with her crayons.
modifier of the whole sent.
- Name according to structure: Prep.P 8.
Joey is hoping for a chance to play pool*
- Name according to function: Adv.P
with his uncle. (bida 16 viên)
Function: modifier of the verb ‘drew’
Exercise 7: Identify the underlined phrase and write the answer on the line.
(i) Name according to its
(ii) Name according to its (iii) Function structure function l. Subject of Verb i. Infinitive phrase d. Noun phrase m. Object of Verb j. Present participial phrase e. Adjective phrase n. Object of preposition k. Past participial phrase f. Adverb phrase o. Subjective Complement l. Gerund phrase p. Objective complement m. Prepositional phrase q. Appositive n. Noun phrase r. Modifier of Noun o. Adjective phrase s. Modifier of Verb p. Adverb phrase t. Modifier of Adverb u. Modifier of Adjective
v. Modifier of the whole sentence 1.
Arnold hoped to find an answer to the
- Name according to function: N.P funding shortfall.
Function: Object of the verb ‘hoped’
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 2. Pressed for time
, the agent ran the red light.
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
- Name according to structure: Past Par.P
- Name according to function: Adv.P
- Name according to function: Adj.P
Function: modifier of V
Function: modifier of the S ‘the agent’ 9.
A boy on the roof is singing a song. 3.
His uncle thinks that working for the
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
government is the key to stability.
- Name according to function: Adj.P
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
Function: modifier of N
- Name according to function: Adv.P
10. She is shouting in a loud voice.
Function: modifier of ‘working’
- Name according to structure: Prep.P 4.
Richard's chance to make his point slipped
- Name according to function: Adv.P away.
Function: modifier of V
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
- Name according to function:
11. He sat in a corner of the room. Adj.P
- Name according to structure: Function: Prep.P
modifier of ‘chance’
- Name according to function: Adv.P 5.
Is it possible that Joshua will compete*
Function: modifier of V
against that man? (Intransitive Verb)
12. He sat in a corner of the room.
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
- Name according to function:
- Name according to structure: Prep.P Adv.P
- Name according to function: Function: Adj.P
modifier of the verb ‘compete’
Function: modifier of N 6.
Disneyland and Hollywood are popular places 13. He likes to read books. to visit in California.
- Name according to structure:
- Name according to structure: Inf.P Infinitive P.
- Name according to function:
- Name according to function: NP Adj. P Function: Function: O of V
modifier of N ‘place’
14. He made a plan to buy a car. 7.
When buses are delayed, students are usually late for school.
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
- Name according to structure:
- Name according to function: Adj.P Adj. P Function:
- Name according to function: modifier of N N.P
Function: Subjective Complement
15. She started thinking about the problem.
- Name according to structure: 8.
He used his computer to make party Gerund P invitations.
- Name according to function: N.P Function: O of V
Exercise 8: Identify the underlined phrase and write the answer on the line.
(i) Name according to its
(ii) Name according to its (iii) Function structure function w. Subject of Verb q. Infinitive phrase g. Noun phrase x. Object of Verb r. Present participial phrase h. Adjective phrase y. Object of preposition s. Past participial phrase i. Adverb phrase z. Subjective Complement t. Gerund phrase aa. Objective complement u. Prepositional phrase bb. Appositive v. Noun phrase cc. Modifier of Noun w. Adjective phrase dd. Modifier of Verb x. Adverb phrase ee. Modifier of Adverb ff. Modifier of Adjective
gg. Modifier of the whole sentence 1. Sleeping late in night is not a good habit. 3. The crazy old lady in the park feeds the
- Name according to structure: Gerund P pigeons every day.
- Name according to function: N.P
- Name according to structure: N.P Function: S of V
- Name according to function: N.P Function: 2.
I received a letter mentioning about my exam. S of V
- Name according to structure: Present Participial P
- Name according to function: Adj.P
Function: modifier of N
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 4.
The crazy old lady in the park feeds the
10. Her plan to subsidize child care won wide pigeons every day.
acceptance among urban politicians.
- Name according to structure: N.P
- Name according to structure: NP
- Name according to function: Adv.P
- Name according to function: NP
Function: modifier of V
Function: O of prep............................................................ 5.
Tashonda's goal in life, to become an
11. Her plan to subsidize child care won wide
occupational therapist, is within her grasp this
acceptance among urban politicians. year, at last.
- Name according to structure: Prep.P
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
- Name according to function: Adj.P
- Name according to function: N.P
Function: modifier of N
Function: appositive 12. Her pl an to subsidize child care won wide 6.
Tashonda's goal in life, to become an
acceptance among urban politicians.
occupational therapist, is within her grasp this
- Name according to structure: N.P year, at last.
- Name according to function: NP
- Name according to structure: Prep.P Function: S of V
- Name according to function: N.P
13. To know her is to love her.
Function: Subjective complement
- Name according to structure: Inf.P 7. Tashonda's goal in life , to become an
- Name according to function: NP
occupational therapist, is within her grasp this Function: SC year, at last.
14. The best exercise, walking briskly, is also the
- Name according to structure: N.P
- Name according to function: least expensive, N.P
- Name according to structure: Function: Gerund P S of V
- Name according to function: NP 8.
Her plan to subsidize child care won wide
Function: appositive
acceptance among urban politicians. 15. Working
around the clock , the firefighters
- Name according to structure: Inf.P
finally put out the last of the California brush
- Name according to function: Adj.P fires.
Function: modifier of N
- Name according to structure: Present 9.
Her plan to subsidize child care won wide Part.P
acceptance among urban politicians.
- Name according to function: Adj.P
- Name according to structure: N.P
Function: modifier of N
- Name according to function: N.P Function: O of V CHAPTER 2: CLAUSES C2, U1: NOUN CLAUSES 9.
The belief that the soul is immortal is almost universal.
Exercise 1: Find out the noun clauses in the
Appositive to the N ‘belief’
following sentences and tell their function.
10. It is certain that we will have to admit defeat. 1.
The king ordered that the traitor should be put Real subject to death. O of V
11. It was fortunate that he was present. Real 2. He said that he would not go. subject O of V
12. The report that only ten persons were killed in 3.
That he is not interested in the offer is known the riots is not true. to us.
Appositive to ‘report’ S of V 13. That he believes his own story is 4.
He said that he was not feeling well. O of V remarkable. S of V 5.
I cannot rely on what he says. O of Prep
14. He knows all about art, but he doesn't 6.
I don’t know where he has gone. O of V
know what he likes. O of V 7.
He asked whether the servant had polished his
15. My one regret in life is that I am not someone shoes. O of V else. SC 8.
The news that he is alive has been confirmed.
Appositive to the N ‘news’
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
Exercise 2: If the given words are questions, 7. Whom should I speak to?
insert a capital letter and a question mark. If the
- I would like to know whom I should speak
given words are a noun clause, write ‘I don’t to .
know’ and a final period. 8. Who wrote this paper?
Example: _____________W where is he?
- Can you tell me who wrote this paper ? I don’t know_ where he is. 9. Why did you buy it? 1.
_________I don’t know what he did.
- Please tell me why you bought it 2.
__________________W what did he do? . 3.
__________________H how old is he? 10. When are they leaving?
- Let’s ask them when they are leaving 4.
_________I don’t know how old he is. . 5.
__________________W where did he go? 11. Where does Mr Nam live? 6.
_________I don’t know where he went.
- Do you remember where Mr Nam live ? 7.
_________I don’t know why he said that. 12. Who is that man? 8.
__________________W why did he say that?
- I don’t know who that man is 9.
_________I don’t know who he is. 13. Why did she leave?
10. __________________W who is he?
- Do you know why she left
11. __________________W when will he arrive? 14. Where will he be?
- Let’s ask him where he will be
12. _________I don’t know when he will arrive. .
13. __________________W who is he talking to? 15. When did Tom return?
14. _________I don’t know which one he bought.
- Please tell me when Tom returned
15. _________I don’t know what his name is.
Exercise 4: Make a question from the given
sentence. The words in parentheses should be
Exercise 3: Finish the second sentence with a
the answer to the question you make. Then
noun clause based on the preceding direct
change the question to a noun clause. question. 1. That man is . (Mr. Robertson) Example: How do you say this?
Question: Who is that man?
- Can you tell me how you say this?
Noun clause: I want to know who that man is. 1. How much did it cost?
2. George lives in (Los Angeles).
- He doesn’t remember how much it cost
Question: [Where does he live?] .
Noun clause: I want to know . [where he lives] 2. How much does it cost?
3. Ann bought (a new dictionary).
- Ask the manager how much it costs .
Question: [What did Ann buy?]
Noun clause: Do you know [what Ann bought]. 3. Which do you prefer?
- Please tell the clerk which you prefer .
4. It is (350 miles) to Denver from here.
Question: [How far is it to Denver from here?]
Noun clause: I need to know [how far it is to 4. What cities did you visit? Denver from here].
- Please tell us what cities you visited .
5. Jack was late to class (because he missed the bus). 5. What country is he from?
Question: [Why was Jack late to class?]
- Let’s ask Bill what country he is from .
Noun clause: The teacher wants to know [why Jack was late to class]. 6. Whose book did he use? 6. That is pen. (Ann’s)
- I wonder whose book he used .
Question: [Whose pen is that?]
Noun clause: Tom wants to know [whose pen that is].
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
7. Alex saw (Ms. Frost) at the meeting.
why he didn’t lock it? Maybe he just forgot.
Question: [Who did Alex see at the meeting?] (he, lock, not)
Noun clause: I don’t know [who Alex saw at the meeting]. 7.
A: The Lee family are recent immigrant, aren’t
they? How long have they been in this
8. (Jack) saw Ms. Frost at the meeting. country? (they be)
Question: [Who saw Ms Frost at the meeting?]
B: I have no idea. Would you like me to ask
Noun clause: I don’t know [who saw Ms Frost
Mr. Lee how long he and his family have at the meeting].
lived here? I’ll be seeing him this afternoon. (he and his family, live)
9. Alice likes (this) book best, (not that one).
Question: [Which book does Alice like best?] 8.
A: I need a math tutor. Do you know who
Noun clause: I want to know [which book
John’s tutor is ? (John’s tutor, be) Alice likes best].
B: No. Let me ask Phil. Excuse me, Phil? Who
10. The plane is supposed to land
is John’s tutor ? Do you know? (John’a tutor, (at 7:14 p.m.). be)
Question: [What time is the plane supposed to land?] 9.
A: You’re a student here? I’m a student here,
Noun clause: Could you tell me [what time the
too. Tell me what classes you are taking plane is supposed to land].
this term. Maybe we’re in some of the same classes. (you, take)
Exercise 5: Use the words in parentheses to
B: Math 4, English 2, History 6, and
complete the sentences. Use any appropriate Chesmistry 101. What classes
verb tense. Some of the completions contain are you taking ? (you, take)
noun clauses and some contain questions.
10. A: Lucy, why didn’t you study for the Example:
exam? You could have done much better if
A: Where did Ruth go ? She’s not in her room.
you’ve been prepared. (you, study, not) (Ruth, go)
B: Well, Professor Morris, why I didn’t study
B: I don’t know. Ask Tina. She might know where
for the exam is a long story. I intended to, but Ruth went . (Ruth, go) … (I, study, not) 1.
A: John is searching every drawer. Do you
know what he is looking for ? (he, look for)
Exercise 6: Circle the best choice.
B: I have no ideas. Why don’t I just ask him?
John? What are you looking for ? (you, look
Example: He asked me where [B]. for)
A.did I live B. I lived C. do you live D .that I lived 2.
A: Oops! I made a mistake. Where is my 1. B 2. C 3. B 4. D 5. A
eraser ? Didn’t I lend it to you? (my eraser, 6. A 7. D 8. D 9. A 10. B be)
B: I don’t have it. Ask Sally where it is . I 11. B 12. A 13. D 14. D 15. D
think I saw her using it. (it, be) 16. B 17. C 18. C 19. A 20. B 3.
A: I heard that Sam changed his mind about
going on the picnic. Why did he decide to
stay home? Is something wrong? (he, decide)
Exercise 7: Circle the letter of the correct
B: I don’t know. Maybe Jane can tell us why answer.
he decided not to come with us. Let’s ask her.
I hope he’s okay. (he, decide) 1. A 2. C 3. A 4. D 5. C 4. A: Whose book 6. B 7. C 8. D 9. C 10. C is this ? (this, be)
B: It’s not mine. I don’t know whose book it is . (it, be)
Exercise 8: Write THAT or WHAT in the 5.
A: Did Jack get enough food when he went to blank.
the market? How much fish did he buy ? It 1. WHAT 2. THAT
takes a lot of fish to feed 12 people. (he, buy) 3. WHAT 4. THAT
B: Just relax. I don’t know exactly how much 5. WHAT 6. THAT
fish he bought , but I’m sure there’ll be 7. WHAT 8. WHAT
enough for dinner for all of us. (he, buy) 9. THAT 10 WHAT 6.
A: The door isn’t locked! Why didn’t Fred
lock it before he left? (Fred, lock, not)
B: Why ask me? How am I supposed to know
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
Exercise 9: Using a dictionary if necessary, 1.
It wasn’t my fault that the weather wasn’t very
complete each definition with a noun and that or nice.
what. Put brackets round (that) where it could be left out. 2.
It is absolutely disgraceful that nobody
stopped to help the old woman after the conception confession condidence accident. confirmation confusion contempt 3.
It can be hard to work out two months in
Example: Confidence is believing (that) you can
advance what you’re going to need on a trip.
be successful, or feeling (that) you are certain
OR It can be hard to work out what you’re about something.
going to need on a trip two months in 1. Confirmation
is a statement or letter telling
advance._____________________________________________
you (that) something is correct, or that an 4.
It remains a mystery to everyone how Adrian arrangement is definite. became so rich so fast. 2. Confession is a statement made by 5.
It doesn’t bother me whether he eats the fish
someone admitting (that) they are guilty of
or not, but he should eat something.
a crime, or that they are ashamed of something. 3. Contempt is feeling that somebody or
Exercise 12: Add it and that where appropriate
something is without value and deserves no to these sentences.
respect, or showing no concern for what 1.
They concluded in their report that it didn’t
might be against the rules or dangerous.
make any difference if the vehicles had air 4. Conception is the process of forming an bags or not.
idea or an understanding of what 2.
If you say (that) it is important that I should
something is, or what something should be.
attend the meeting, I can assure you (that) I’ll 5. Confusion
is a state of uncertainty about be there.
what is happening, or what something 3.
They notified everyone living near the means.
riverthat it was possible (that) the water was contaminated. 4. it that
Exercise 10: The original version of this
None of the staff likes now every
paragraph included the ten words listed here
Thursday is a late night. OR
introducing noun clauses. Put them back in
None of the staff likes it that now every
appropriate places in the paragraph.
Thursday is a late night. 5. That how that (x5) what where
she delivered a marvelous whether why
performance pleased her parents.
I had a strange experience when I got a summer job
as a temporary office assistant in a big company.
Exercise 13: Rewrite each sentence with a
On my first day, I didn’t know what I was supposed
meaning similar to the one above it.
to do and nobody seemed to care whether I was
doing anything or not. Since I didn’t understand
1. The boys considered it an honour that they’ve
how anything worked in the office, I just sat down
been chosen to play for their country.
at an empty desk and waited. When the office
2. People used to think it outrageous that women
manager walked in, she stared at me and asked why
I was sitting on her chair. I remember that I felt
were smoking in public. OR People think that it
really embarrassed and tried to explain that nobody used to was outrageous
had told me where I should sit. She announced
that women were smoking in public.
quite loudly that I wasn’t being paid to sit around
3. Won’t they see it as a sign of weakness that
and that I should go and find some work to do. So I we didn’t fight back?
tried to act as if I was busy and started cleaning out
all the wastebaskets. I only discovered later in the
4. No one regarded it at the time as an
morning that I had gone to the wrong office.
indication that anything was wrong. OR
No one regarded it as an indication that
anything was wrong at the time.
Exercise 11: Rewrite these sentences, beginning 5. with Many people it It.
regarded as a bad idea that
the police have started carrying guns
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
Exercise 14: Correct the ten mistakes in these 2.
Oblivion is an unconscious state in which you sentences.
have no knowledge of what is happening around you. 1.
That the audience stood up and applauded our
performance convinced us that we had a 3.
When you say or do something with successful show.
conviction, you have a strong belief that you are right. 2.
Whether you want to take one class or twenty
makes it no difference because you have to 4.
A precedent is an earlier action or decision
register first and the university doesn’t like it
used as a good example of what should be
that people have been attending classes
done in other similar situation. without being registered. 5.
An estimate is an appropriate idea or 3.
Mr. Trotter was trying to show how the
statement of/about what something will
equipment should be used, but they weren’t cost. listening.
Exercise 17: Correct the ten mistakes in these 4.
Didn’t you think it strange that nobody told sentences.
his car lights were left on all night? 1.
They discussed the fact that people were 5.
I tried to warn them that the trail was
getting into the country illegally and the issue
dangerous, but it didn’t surprise me that they
of whether those people would be able to went hiking anyway.
become legal citizens./ Or They discussed
people who were …./ Or They discussed how people were …. 2.
His theory is that cutting down the trees Noun with noun clauses
causes more flooding due to the fact
that/because there is nothing left on the hills
Exercise 15: Rewrite each pair of sentences as a
to hold the soil in place and absorb the rain.
single sentence using a noun derived from the
verb in the sentence above it, plus other 3.
Alfred tried to explain away the fact that/ how appropriate changes.
he had missed several meetings, but he had
nothing to say on the question of what had Example:
happened to his quarterly report.
They concluded that the child’s death was 4.
It seems to be that they didn’t have a lot of
an accident. It made a lot of people angry.
applicants so they overlooked the fact that I
- Their conclusion that the child’s death
didn’t have much experience and offered me
was an accident made a lot of people angry. the job. 1.
Manfred’s explanation that a friend’s dog had 5.
The German research team’s discovery, which
eaten his homework wasn’t very convincing.
that the addition of milk to a cup of tea 2.
Their expectation that everyone will just go
reduces its health benefits, seems to have been
along with their plans is unrealistic.
based on the assumption which that the only
benefit of hot tea is an improvement in the 3.
Her sudden realization that she was drifting
flow of blood which goes to the heart because
out to sea caused her to panic. that is all they measured. 4.
Our discussion of how we might solve the
proble went on for over three hours.
Adjective with noun clauses 5.
The belief that there are aliens from outer
space living among us. It’s quite widespread.
Exercise 18: Rewrite each pair of sentences as a
single sentence containing a noun clause.
Exercise 16: Using a dictionary if necessary,
complete each definition with a noun and that or 1.
It’s rather surprising that so many young
what plus a preposition where necessary.
people don’t know how to swim nowadays. belief example fear 2.
It seemed very strange that all the lights knowledge statement
were on, but nobody seemed to be at home. 1.
If you do something with apprehension, you 3.
You were lucky (that) nobody complained have a fear that something bad may
about all the noise you were making. happen. 4.
My friend will be disappointed that she has
to work and can’t go to the concert.
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 5.
I was angry (that) he made such a mess.
Exercise 19: Complete each sentence with an
adjective and that or what, with prepositions where necessary. Confident happy (x2) not sure sorry (x2) worried surprised
Example: My parents are happy that I do well at school. 1.
I’m not sure what ‘savoire faire’ means. 2.
We’re happy that none of the children got hurt in the accident. 3.
I made you cry. I’m sorry about/for what I said. I’m really I spoke that sorry that way. 4.
Aren’t you worried that you’ll fail the test
or are you really confident that you’re ready? 5. I’m he didn’t come. sorry that
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
Exercise 20: Complete each sentence using
Subjunctive in noun clauses
appropriate forms of one pair of words and
Exercise 23: Choose an ending (a-d) for each noun clauses.
beginning (1-4) and appropriate forms of these Afraid/have amazed/win
words, using the subjunctive or should where essential/wear certain/have appropriate. fortunate/not be Demand propose vital
Example: Were you frightened by the muggers? – wish be become
Yes, I was afraid that they had knives. resign stay 1.
Isn’t it astonishing that Rick finished first? – 1. At some point every a. that local clinics Yes, I’m the race. amazed that he won individual wishes (should) stay 2.
Are you sure that Stella took the car keys? – ( ) b opens.
Yes, I’m certain (that) she has them. 2. The planners have b. that he or she 3.
You’re lucky that you weren’t hurt. – Yes, it’s already proposed were/was richer. ( ) d
fortunate (that) I wasn’t near the front of the c. that the prime bus. 3.
It’s vital (a) for minister (should) rural comminities 4.
jacob doesn’t think safety glasses are resign
necessary. – Well, it is essential that he 4. The protest leaders d. that part of the (should) wear them.
are demanding (c) town centre (should) become a pedestrian area.
Exercise 21: Add that in five appropriate places in this paragraph.
The philosopher David Hume’s argument that
Exercise 24: Complete the sentence, using the
people cannot be certain about anything not directly
idea of the words in parentheses.
taken in through their senses was destined to lead
Example: (You should organize a camping trip.)
him to the idea that we cannot be certain about
The girls proposed that their scout
God. Hume also argued that our expectation that
leader organize a camping trip.
the future will be like the past (e.g. that the sun will
rise tomorrow morning) had no basis in reason. 1.
Ms. Hanson recommended that our class be divided into two sections. 2.
Dan’s parents insisted that he call home
Exercise 22: Complete each paragraph with one every week.
set of words (not necessarily in this order). 3.
It is essential that she be told the truth about if/that/that how/that/the fact that her illness. how/that/where 4.
The customs official demanded that all 1.
The claim that where you live can
passengers open their suitcases.
determine how healthy you feel seems rather obvious, doesn’t it? 5.
The counselor recommended that Ann take some art courses. 2.
Are you one of those people who leave the house and can’t remember 6.
It is vital that all parts of the motor be in if they
switched off the oven, or walk away from their proper working order.
parked car with the suspecion that they 7.
The director requests that all packages be
didn’t put the handbrake on, or even leave the mailed at the central office.
supermarket just hoping that they didn’t
forget to pick up all their bags? 8.
It is imperative that soldiers obey their officers. 3.
More people are taking pills containing
glucosamine for pain in their knees. 9.
It is important that the babysitter be given the
phone numbers to call in case of emergency.
fact that no one is quite sure how
this ‘medicine’ works doesn’t mean that
10. Don recommended that I join the party.
we should ignore its reputation for relieving pain and increasing mobility.
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
Noun clauses as subjects and objects 5.
The prosecutor showed the jury how the crime
Exercise 25: Rewrite these sentences in a less
could have been committed by Feldman, but
formal style beginning with it.
he didn’t convince them/the jury that Feldman was guilty. 1.
It doesn’t surprise me at all that they don’t Wish’ sentences have any money left.
Exercise 28: Cloe is on holiday in a foreign city.
She was so busy admiring the sights that she has 2.
It just astonishes me that children would
got lost. What does she wish? Write sentences
rather sit watching TV instead of playing
with ‘I wish’. outside. 1. 3. It I wish I had a map.
has never been explained why the
government didn’t act immediately to stop the 2.
I wish the streets didn’t all look the same.
movement of all animals. 3.
I wish I’d brought my mobile phone. 4.
It wasn’t clear whether Nicole’s father had 4.
I wish I could speak the language.
been for or against her marriage, but he did
participate in the wedding ceremony. 5.
I wish I’d bought a phrase book. 5.
It really helped us that the other team played 6.
I wish I wasn’t/weren’t hot and thirsty./ I wish badly. I had a drink. 7.
I wish I hadn’t come here alone./ I wish I’d
Exercise 26: Add one set of words to each
come here with someone else.
paragraph (not necessarily in this order). 8.
I wish someone would help me.
It/that/that it/that/what that/where/whether 9.
I wish I hadn’t come here.
A. He wanted to know (1) what we were doing, but (2)
10. I wish I was/were back in my hotel.
it was obvious (3) that he didn’t
really seem very interested in our answer.
B. Sometimes one of them will say (4) that Reported speech
he or she actually prefers (5) it (6) that
the other has separate interests.
Exercise 29: Complete each sentence, using
indirect speech, with a meaning similar to the
C. (7) Whether Robert’s new schedule will be an one above it.
improvement remains to be seen, but no one liked it (8)
Example: ‘It’s a strange story.’
that he just decided (9) where
the changes would be made without consulting
- They said that it was a strange story. anyone. 1.
He just blurted out that he was in love with
Exercise 27: Correct the mistakes in these my sist er and he wanted me t o tell her. sentences. 2.
One of them asked us where we were going 1.
That Mr Baker complained about the noise next and how we planned to get there.
was predictable, but we assured him (that) it 3.
The old woman said that she had lived/lived
wouldn’t happen again. OR there
before any of the old houses had/had - Mr Baker complained It was predictable that had
electricity or indoor plumbing.
about the noise, but we assured him (that) it wouldn’t happen again. 4.
Darren told me on Monday that he couldn’ t do the work then , or even the next day/ the 2.
The headmaster warned us during our following day , but he would try to do it later
meeting that some teachers wouldn’t like it in the week.
that/the fact that their classrooms had 5. Carolyn suddenly been changed. said (that) she was sorry. (OR Carolyn apologized .) She had been rather 3.
They told me about what Geoff had said in obsessed with herself and her own problems
the meeting, but I thought it strange (that) he recently. OR Carolyn apologized for
hadn’t mentioned money. being/having been rather obsessed with 4.
The police regarded it as suspicious that the herself and her own problems recently.
dead woman’s husband had recently taken out 6.
Peter told Elizabeth (that) he would give her
a life insurance policy in her name. £50 after he got paid
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises 7.
Jackie says (that) Emile is from Montreal and 2.
He asked to borrow my pencil./ OR He asked speaks French.
me to lend him a pencil. 8. Celine asked me what she should wear if she 3.
He He demanded to know my decision soon. was invited to di nner? 4.
He reminded me to go to the supermarket after 9. Fraser mentioned to Simon that he was work.
looking for a cheaper flat. 5.
He asked me to give him a lift to the station.
10. Mark assured Bridget (that) he would look OR
He asked to get a lift to the station. after h er . 6.
He warned me to stay away from him.
11. Malcolm invited Fiona to stay at h is place. 7.
He volunteered to drive me to the airport (if I
12. Andrew’s mother ordered h im to take off his
couldn’t find anyone else). dirty boots. 13. She warned me not to go t here after dark. OR
Exercise 32: Underline the correct verb. If either
me that I should not go there after dark.
is possible, underline them both.
14. Jason refused to pay for the tickets. 1. promised
15. Melvin suggested bu
ying a railpass. OR 2. suggested
(that) I should buy a rail pass. 3. promised/volunteered 4. demanded
Exercise 30: Complete this text with appropriate
forms of one pair of verbs in each space. 5. agreed ask/become be/remind 6. agreed encourage/give join/persuade
promise/provide volunteer/work 7. advised/proposed
A charity is an organization that helps people in 8. expected
need such as the poor, the homeless, children and 9. requested
refugees. Some people volunteer to work for a charity while others (1) 10. promised
promise to provide/promise
that they will provide_ support with money or other
Exercise 33: Write C (correct) or I (incorrect) on gifts. Many charities (2)_ _ well-known people, ask
the line before each sentence.
such as film stars, to become a representative for 1. C
their organization in the hope that they will (3) 2. I I
persuade others to join/ that they should join the (missing S- should…)
organization or (4) encourage them to give 3. I
money to the charity. Charities not only help people, they also (5) 4. C
remind those who have a
comfortable life to be/that they should be
5. I (missing V – it is going…)
generous to those who have much less. 6. C 7. I
Exercise 31: Complete the sentences to report
what was said using one of the verbs below and a 8. I (missing S)
to-infinitive phrase. You may need to use a verb 9. C
more than once. If necessary, add an
appropriate object after the verb. 10. I Ask demand invite 11. C remind threaten volunteer warn
12. I (extra S – omit it) Example: 13. C
‘Would you like to come on a picnic with us?’
14. I (missing V – who was )
- He invited me/us to come on a picnic with them. 15. I 1.
He threatened to resign (if I/we didn’t give him a pay rise). 16. C 17. C
BASIC ENGLISH GRAMMAR 2
Keys to Grammar Exercises
18. I (omit it) she had done/did nothing the day bef ore/the 19. C previous day . => I asked him (2) 20. I who broke/had broken the
(missing V – what was) window
21. I (it is doubtful)
and he mumbled (3) that he didn’ t know.
22. I (omit he)
=> When my sister told Paul during dinner last night (4) that
she had/has ten cats 23. C
his only comment was (5) that he 24. I
preferred/prefers dogs. 25. I
=> They wanted Stan’s wife to tell them (6) where
she thought he hid/had hiddens/hides his 26. C money
but her response was (7) that she didn’ t think he
27. I (which was) had/has any.
28. I (that she)
=> Mrs Hawkins asked (8) how I felt
and I had to tell her (9) ( that) I was angry. 29. C
=> She wanted to know (10) why I hadn’ t 30. C said/didn’ t say anything earlier
I explained to her (11) that she hadn’ t allowed/didn’
t allow anyone else to speak.
Exercise 34: Circle the best choice. 1. C
=> Then she apologized and asked (12) if/whether 2. C I could t ell her what was/is wrong 3. A
I told her (13) (that) she was ignoring a 4. B dangerous situation. 5. D
=> I then asked her (14) if/whether she had read 6. C my report or not. OR
whether or not she had read 7. D
my report. Her reply was (15) that she hadn’ t had 8. B time. 9. C 10. B
=> Jessica’s mother always tells (16) her not to
forget her umbrella./that she mustn’t forget her
Exercise 35: Correct the mistakes in these umbrella. sentences.
=> The traffic warden insisted (17) that I/we (had Example:
If you disagreed with what I was to) move my our car.
proposing, why didn’t you say me earlier that you
didn’t like it? … why didn’t you say/say to me/tell
=> Sebastian pleaded (18) pleaded with Beatrice me earlier … not to leave him. 1.
At first he argued (with me) that his answer
=> I asked (19) Jenny if I might/could borrow
was correct, but then I convinced him that..
borrow Jenny’s calculator. 2.
… reminded me that … she urged me not to give up
Exercise 37: Correct the eight mistakes in this 3.
He offered to pay …, but I suggested splitting text.
it/suggested (that) we should split it
On our way up the mountain we got lost and so we 4.
… recommended taking/recommended (that) asked an old man to tell us/ if he could tell us the I should take …
way to the waterfall. He was really nice. He didn’t
recommend driving/(that) we (should) drive any 5.
complaining about his problems/complaining
further on that road. He told us to go/that we had that he had problems
to/must go back about a mile to a bridge. He 6.
… deny being responsible/deny that they
suggested parking/(that) we (should) park just past were responsible
the bridge and to walk up the trail on the left. He
warned to be/(that) we must/had to/should be
careful crossing the streams and he advised us not
Exercise 36: Complete each sentence in indirect
to/us (that) we (should) not drink/us against speech.
drinking the water. That’s how we found the
=> Corinne was complaining that she had too much
waterfall. I thought (that) it was was really
work to do until her mother pointed out (1) that beautiful.