Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[bj]

I am begging for your help!!

In your opinion are the following sentences - loose, periodic or balanced?

It is a pleasure to read good books.

She missed the step and sprained her ankle.

Badly frightened by the explosion, the boy rushed out of the laboratory.

The Wangs must have gone away for the summer holidays, for we have not seen them for two or three weeks.

[myprofe]

It is a pleasure to read good books. - loose

She missed the step and sprained her ankle. - balanced

Badly frightened by the explosion, the boy rushed out of the laboratory. - periodic

The Wangs must have gone away for the summer holidays, for we have not seen them for two or three weeks. - balanced


In loose sentences, the main subject and verb are at the beginning, and modifying participial phrases and subordinate clauses follow.

In periodic sentences, the main subject and verb come after an introductory subordinate clause or participial phrase.

Sentences which are balanced are characterized by parallel structure: two or more parts of the sentence have the same form.
_________________
I'm never going to learn if you don't correct my mistakes!

[bj]

Thanks so much for answering my questions.
You are officially on my 'Angel' list. Have a great weekend

Bel