Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Option A uses correct punctuation by correctly utilizing the semicolon to separate two closely related independent clauses. This punctuation choice effectively conveys the relationship between the two ideas presented in the sentence. Choice B is incorrect because it uses a comma without a coordinating conjunction to join two independent clauses. Choice C is incorrect as it lacks the coordinating conjunction 'and' after the comma to connect the two independent clauses. Choice D is incorrect because it lacks any punctuation or conjunction to properly separate the two independent clauses, leading to a run-on sentence.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the sentence, 'The realtor showed her and me a house on Wednesday afternoon,' the pronouns 'her' and 'me' are used as objects of the verb 'showed.' When choosing pronouns to fill in the blanks, it is important to use objective pronouns to maintain correct grammar and sentence structure. Choice A ('She, I') and Choice B ('She, me') are incorrect as 'I' and 'she' are subjective pronouns, not objective pronouns needed as objects in this sentence. Choice C ('Me, her') is also incorrect as the order and usage of pronouns are reversed from the correct form in the sentence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses connected by a coordinating conjunction (such as 'and,' 'but,' 'so,' etc.) or a semicolon. In this case, 'The baby was sick' and 'I decided to stay home from work' are two independent clauses connected by the coordinating conjunction 'so.' Choice A is a simple sentence with one independent clause. Choice B is a complex sentence with an independent clause 'Marissa last saw Elena' and a dependent clause 'and talked to her this morning.' Choice D is also a simple sentence with one independent clause.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Choice A, 'I disagree with the argument about contract workers having greater freedom,' is the correct answer. This sentence rephrases the original statement in a more formal and respectful tone, which is suitable for formal writing. Choice B is too direct and lacks formality. Choice C does not address the argument directly and poses a question instead of providing a formal statement. Choice D is dismissive and does not offer a formal rewrite of the original sentence.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The word 'graceless' in this context means lacking elegance or poise. Janine's nervousness caused her to act awkwardly and without the elegance one would typically expect on stage. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. 'Against fear,' 'Without religion,' and 'Full of caution' do not accurately capture the meaning of 'graceless' in the given sentence.