Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A, Metaphor. A metaphor is a figure of speech that directly compares two unlike things by stating that one thing is another. In the phrase 'a heart of gold,' the good nature of a person is being directly compared to gold, indicating that the person is kind, valuable, and precious, much like gold. This comparison is not using 'like' or 'as,' which would make it a simile, but rather it is a direct assertion, making it a metaphor. Simile involves comparing two things using 'like' or 'as,' which is not present in this phrase. Hyperbole is an exaggeration, which is not the case here. Personification gives human qualities to non-human entities, which is also not occurring in 'a heart of gold.'

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: A verb is a word that expresses an action or state of being. In this sentence, 'chased' is the verb as it describes the action the dog is performing - chasing the fluffy squirrel. 'Around' is a preposition indicating location, 'squirrel' is a noun referring to the animal being chased, and 'the' is an article used to specify the squirrel. Therefore, the correct answer is 'chased.'

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When selecting a color palette for a presentation, the best approach is to choose complementary colors that create harmony and contrast. This selection ensures that the colors work well together, enhancing visual interest and clarity in your presentation slides. Complementary colors help in making your slides more appealing and engaging for the audience, as they provide a balanced and visually pleasing combination. Option A, utilizing as many vibrant colors as possible, can lead to a cluttered and distracting presentation. Option B, sticking to a monochrome palette, may lack the visual interest needed in a presentation. Option D, using the same colors as your company logo, may not always provide the necessary variety and contrast required for an effective presentation.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The underlined phrase 'with a mischievous grin' functions as an adverbial phrase in the sentence. It modifies the verb 'approached' by providing information on how he approached her, describing his manner. Adverbial phrases typically answer questions like 'how,' 'when,' 'where,' 'why,' or 'to what extent,' which this phrase does by indicating the manner in which he approached. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. The phrase does not serve as a subject (A), direct object (B), or appositive phrase (D) in the sentence. Instead, it functions to provide additional information about the action of approaching, making it an adverbial phrase.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'effected.' In this context, 'effected' means to produce a result or impression, which aligns with the emotional impact of the strangers' kindness. The other choices are incorrect: A) 'affected' might seem plausible, but 'effected' is a better fit as it implies a direct result. B) 'infected' is incorrect as it implies a negative or harmful impact, which is not the intended meaning. D) 'defected' means to abandon allegiance, which is not relevant in the given sentence.