Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

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In the context of sentence structure, what is meant by the natural order of a sentence?

Arranging sentences in alphabetical order
Arranging clauses randomly
Constructing a sentence with the subject before the predicate
Using inverted sentence structure for effect

The correct answer is: Constructing a sentence with the subject before the predicate

The natural order of a sentence refers to the conventional structuring of a sentence where the subject appears before the predicate. This aligns with standard English syntax, which typically follows a Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) format. For example, in the sentence "The cat (subject) chased (verb) the mouse (object)," the order reflects this natural progression, making the meaning clear and straightforward to the reader. This structure allows for a smooth flow of information, promoting clarity and comprehension. When writers adhere to the natural order, it becomes easier for readers to follow the narrative or argument being presented. While other constructions can be used for stylistic purposes, they may disrupt the reader's expectation, making understanding more challenging.