LONGMAN COMPLETE COURSE FOR THE TOEFL TEST SKILL 39: USE THE CORRECT SINGULAR OR PLURAL NOUN

LONGMAN COMPLETE COURSE FOR THE TOEFL TEST

STRUCTURE AND WRITTEN EXPRESSION

SKILL 39: USE THE CORRECT SINGULAR OR PLURAL NOUN

A problem that is common in written expression questions on the TOEFL test is a singular noun used where a plural noun is needed, or a plural noun used where a singular noun is needed

On the table there were many dish*.	many indicates that the plural dishes is needed
The lab assistant finished every tests*.	every indicates that the singular test is needed.

The following chart lists the key words that indicate to you whether a noun should be singular or plural:

 

EXERCISE 39: Each of the following sentences contains at least one key word to tell you if a noun should be singular or plural. Circle the key words. Draw arrows to the nouns they describe. Then indicate if the sentences are correct (C) or incorrect (I).

……………	3	The salesclerk demonstrated various additional way that the machine could be used.
……………	4	The woman found it difficult to believe that both of the piece of jewelry had disappeared.
……………	5	The unhappy man became more and more discouraged with each passing days.
……………	6	An extended cruise would be a nice way to spend a vacation one days.
……………	7	The manager was surprised that not a single worker was available on Tuesday.
……………	8	The housekeeper cleaned the room and took two of the occupant’s dress to the laundry.
……………	9	When the first bill was defeated, the Senate immediately began work on a different bills.
……………	10	There were several boxes in the cupboard, and each box contained a dozen glasses

ANSWER KEY

1	I	(part should be parts)
2	C
3	I	(way should be ways)
4	I	(piece should be pieces)
5	I	(days should be day)
6	I	(days should be day)
7	C
8	I	(dress should be dresses)
9	I	(bills should be bill)
10	C