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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Part II: Chapter 9 The Lead and the Ending.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. What is another important characteristic of a writer?
(a) To be aware of the way words are spelled.
(b) To sound out simple syllables.
(c) To sound out simple sentences.
(d) To be aware of the rhythm and sound of words together.

2. How many people are in the American Heritage Dictionary Usage Panel?
(a) 104 writers, poets, editors, and teachers.
(b) 14 writers and poets.
(c) 1000 writers, poets, and editors.
(d) 10 writers.

3. How does Zinsser approach unusual words?
(a) He is modern when it comes to English, but would rather keep it simple.
(b) He is very welcoming of a transforming English language.
(c) He is very conservative and will never cross a proper word line.
(d) He accepts some, but not all.

4. What is an example of a time when bad writing HAS to be read?
(a) Online writing.
(b) In the newspaper.
(c) Corporate memos or technical writing.
(d) In English class.

5. Why does he recommend starting in the preferred tense?
(a) It causes writer's to think about the reader.
(b) It creates a teacher student relationship.
(c) It makes it easier for people to relate to.
(d) It brings out the natural voice.

Short Answer Questions

1. What does it convey when anyone says he can write a book if he wanted to?

2. What does Zissner use to highlight clutter in his students' writing?

3. What is the mood or voice in a piece?

4. What tense does Zissner recommend when starting a new piece?

5. What is a common problem writers have?

(see the answer key)

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