SAMPLE Dental Hygiene Entrance Exam Prep

Dental Hygiene Entrance Exam Preparation Study Guide

Chapter 2: English and Language Usage

Overview In this chapter we will discuss English language usage. We will pay special attention to spelling, punctuation, and grammar, formal and informal language. Additionally, we will focus on writing, how to form sentence structures, how to organize paragraphs, and the elements of the writing process. 2.1 Language Usage 2.1.1 Spelling It is important to note common spelling rules and be able to identify incorrectly spelled words. One should also be able to determine the correct selections of homophones based on context. Here is a brief review of common usage mistakes ofthe English language. ● May and might o ‘May’ can act as a principal verb, which can express permission or possibility. ▪ Examples: Let’s wait, the meeting may have started. -- May I begin now? o ‘May’ can act as an auxiliary verb, which expresses a purpose or wish ▪ Examples: May you f ind kindness in the sight of your employer. -- May your wishes come true. -- People go to school so that they may be educated. o ‘Might’ is the past tense of may. ▪ Example: I asked if I might begin o ‘Might’ signif ies a weak or slim possibility or polite suggestion. ▪ Examples: You might f ind him in his off ice, but I doubt it. -- You might o ff er to help if you want to. ● Lie and lay o The verb lay should always take an object. The three forms of the verb lay are: laid, lay, and laid. ▪ Examples: Lay on the bed. -- The tables were laid by the students. -- Let the little kid lie. -- The patient lay on the table. o The verb lie (recline) should not take any object. The three forms of the verb lie are: lay, lie, and lain. ▪ Example: The dog has lain there for 30 minutes. o Note: The verb lie can also mean “to tell a falsehood”. This verb can appear in three forms: lied, lie, and lied. This is di ff erent from the verb lie (recline) mentioned above. ▪ Examples: The accused is fond of telling lies. -- Did she lie?

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