Which of the following is NOT a prewriting strategy?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Organizing writing into paragraphs is a component of drafting, which occurs after prewriting. Prewriting involves generating ideas, organizing thoughts, and outlining content before beginning the actual writing process. Choices A, B, and C are all prewriting strategies. Brainstorming helps in generating ideas, visual mapping assists in organizing thoughts spatially, and asking questions helps in exploring different angles of the topic before structuring the content. Therefore, organizing writing into paragraphs is the only option that does not directly relate to prewriting.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this sentence, 'affect' is the correct verb meaning 'to influence,' and 'your' is the correct possessive pronoun. Therefore, the sentence should read, 'We cannot allow the budget cuts to affect the plans to improve education; the futures of your children are at stake.' Choice A is incorrect because 'effect' is a noun, not a verb, and 'your' is the correct possessive pronoun. Choice B is incorrect because 'you're' is a contraction for 'you are,' which does not make sense in this context. Choice D is incorrect because 'effect' should be 'affect' as the verb is needed to show influence.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Prewriting.' Prewriting is the initial stage of the writing process where ideas are brainstormed, organized, and outlined before starting the first draft. This step involves activities such as researching, outlining, and planning the structure and content of the writing. Revising (Choice B), conferencing (Choice C), and editing (Choice D) are all important stages in the writing process, but they come after the initial prewriting phase. Revising involves making changes to the content, structure, and organization of the draft; conferencing involves getting feedback from peers or instructors; and editing focuses on correcting grammar, punctuation, and formatting errors. Therefore, prewriting is crucial as it lays the foundation for a successful writing process.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. In this sentence, 'East' should not be capitalized because it is not part of a proper noun. Choices A, B, and D use capitalization correctly. In option A, 'South' and 'Mississippi' are capitalized as they are referring to specific regions. In option B, 'East Texas' and 'Piney Woods' are proper nouns and correctly capitalized. In option D, 'Susan' is a proper noun and capitalized appropriately.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct structure is 'whom to hold responsible' as 'whom' is the object of the verb 'to hold.' In choice A, 'who' should be 'whom' to indicate the object of the verb. Choice B is incorrect as 'whom' is incorrectly placed before 'was responsible.' Choice D is also incorrect due to the awkward phrasing and the use of 'on' which is unnecessary.