Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The sentence in option A is a correctly punctuated simple sentence with a compound predicate ('spent... smelling'). It consists of a subject 'Leah and Jerry' and a compound predicate 'spent... smelling,' making it a complete sentence. Option B contains a comma splice, joining two independent clauses incorrectly with just a comma. Option C is a complex sentence with a dependent clause ('Because it was now spring') and an independent clause, not a simple sentence. Option D is a complex sentence with a dependent clause ('As Leah jogged in the park') and an independent clause, not a simple sentence. Therefore, option A is the only choice that represents a correctly punctuated simple sentence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct use of quotation marks involves enclosing the exact words of a speaker, with punctuation placed inside the quotes. Choice A is the correct answer as it correctly uses quotation marks to enclose the spoken words 'Did you finish your homework?' with the appropriate punctuation inside the quotes. Choices B, C, and D incorrectly position the quotation marks or omit necessary punctuation, making them grammatically incorrect. In choice B, the closing quotation mark is missing. In choice C, the punctuation is placed outside the closing quotation mark, and in choice D, the quotation mark is incorrectly placed after 'homework,' disrupting the flow of the quoted speech.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Ibexes have adapted to life in the mountains' because it serves as a concluding sentence that summarizes the content of the paragraph. This statement encapsulates the information provided about ibexes living in the Alps and Asian mountains, climbing steep slopes, being sure-footed, and changing their coats in winter. Choice A is incorrect because the text does not specifically mention their agility. Choice B is incorrect as the text only mentions the Alps and Asian mountains, not lowlands. Choice C is also incorrect as the text mentions ibexes climbing steep slopes, not just liking to do so.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The complete predicate is 'explained that we would be the next to see the doctor.' In a sentence, the complete predicate includes the main verb (explained) and all the words that complete its meaning (that we would be the next to see the doctor). Choices B, C, and D do not constitute the complete predicate as they do not include the main verb 'explained' and all associated words that complete its meaning.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When writing the first draft of a research paper, it is crucial to include the complete structure, which consists of the introduction, body, and conclusion. This approach helps in organizing your thoughts and ideas cohesively, ensuring that your paper flows logically. Choice A is not directly related to the drafting process. Choice B suggests an incorrect sequence by proposing to write the conclusion first, which should actually be crafted after the body of the paper. Choice D is important but typically done during the editing and revision stages rather than in the initial draft.