Which of the following is an example of a complex sentence?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. A complex sentence consists of an independent clause and at least one dependent clause. In this case, 'Tabitha tried rock climbing' is the independent clause, and 'despite having a fear of heights' is the dependent clause, making it a complex sentence. Choice A has been corrected to include a complete dependent clause, 'despite her fear of heights.' Choice B is incorrect because the semicolon does not appropriately connect the clauses. Choice C is incorrect as it combines two independent clauses without a dependent clause. Therefore, only choice D correctly forms a complex sentence with an independent and dependent clause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'A: Coordinate clause.' In the sentence 'I ate, and he drank,' 'I ate' and 'he drank' are coordinate clauses. They are both independent clauses that are joined by the coordinating conjunction 'and.' A coordinate clause is a type of independent clause that is equally important and balanced within a sentence. A dependent clause cannot stand alone as a complete sentence and relies on an independent clause. A subordinate clause is a type of dependent clause that functions within a sentence to provide additional information but does not express a complete thought. An independent clause, on the other hand, can stand alone as a complete sentence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct conjunction is 'Although.' In this sentence, there is a contrast being made between the difficulty of the class and Allison's success, indicating that despite the class being difficult, she excelled. 'If' implies a condition, 'Since' indicates a reason, and 'Because' shows causation, which do not fit the context of the sentence where a contrast is being expressed.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is 'I will be unable to come to your party.' This sentence uses formal language by avoiding contractions and employing a more polished wording. Choice A, 'I can't come to your party,' contains a contraction ('can't'), which makes it less formal. Choice C, 'I won't be able to go to your party,' though polite, still uses a contraction ('won't') and is not as formal as the correct answer. Choice D, 'I can't go to your party,' also includes a contraction and is less formal compared to the most formal choice, which is option B.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is writing a postcard (Choice B). A postcard is a casual form of communication, typically sent to friends or family, making it a suitable context for informal language. Using informal language in a seminar (Choice A) would be inappropriate as it is a formal setting where professional language is expected. Talking to your boss (Choice C) and participating in a professional conference (Choice D) also require formal language to maintain professionalism and respect for the workplace environment.