Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Choice A is the correct answer as it presents a correctly punctuated compound sentence. It consists of two independent clauses separated by a comma and the coordinating conjunction 'and.' This punctuation accurately connects the two related ideas. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks a comma before the coordinating conjunction 'and,' making it a run-on sentence. Choice C is incorrect due to the use of a semicolon before the coordinating conjunction 'but,' which is unnecessary in this context. Choice D is incorrect as it lacks a comma before the coordinating conjunction 'but,' resulting in a comma splice error.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The main purpose of a thesis statement is to clearly state the main idea or argument of the essay. It serves as a roadmap for the reader, outlining the central point that the essay will address. Choice A, 'To summarize the essay,' is incorrect because while a thesis statement does provide a concise summary of the main point, its primary function is to present the main idea, not summarize the entire essay. Choice C, 'To ask a question,' is incorrect as a thesis statement is a declarative statement that asserts a position or argument rather than posing a question. Choice D, 'To provide evidence,' is incorrect because a thesis statement does not offer evidence but rather sets the direction and focus for the evidence that will be presented in the essay.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Option D correctly punctuates the quotation with commas separating the dialogue from the tag and action.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The sentence 'Cooking requires a number of different skills that can be learned and practiced' effectively introduces the main idea of the paragraph, making it a strong topic sentence. Choice A is vague and does not clearly establish the central theme. Choice C focuses on a specific tool rather than the broader concept of cooking skills. Choice D is more about the process of learning a particular skill rather than encompassing the range of skills needed for cooking.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Dyskinesia.' By breaking down the word parts, 'dys-' means difficult or abnormal, and '-kinesia' refers to movement. Therefore, 'Dyskinesia' means an abnormality of movement. Choice B, 'Hyperkinesia,' is incorrect as 'hyper-' means excessive, not abnormal. Choice C, 'Akinesia,' is incorrect as 'a-' means without, not abnormal. Choice D, 'Hypokinesia,' is incorrect as 'hypo-' means deficient, not abnormal.